Located in the Orana Region of New South Wales, Dubbo offers more than just wide-open spaces. It’s a destination rich with wildlife encounters, Aboriginal heritage, cultural landmarks, and a laid-back rural charm that makes it both peaceful and exciting.

If you’re on a road trip through regional Australia or planning a weekend escape, here’s a curated list of the top things to do in Dubbo.

Things to Do in Dubbo

1. Visit Taronga Western Plains Zoo

 

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Dubbo’s most iconic attraction, Taronga Western Plains Zoo, is a must-visit. This open-range zoo houses over 4,000 animals from around the globe including rhinos, elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. You can explore it by bike, cart, or on foot.

Open daily – Bike & safari cart rentals available
Obley Road, Dubbo

Bonus: Stay overnight at the zoo’s Zoofari Lodge for a luxury African safari experience in the Aussie outback.

2. Step Back in Time at the Old Dubbo Gaol

Get a glimpse into 19th-century prison life at the Old Dubbo Gaol, a heritage-listed site that once held some of the colony’s most notorious inmates. The preserved cells, gallows, and solitary confinement blocks tell fascinating — and chilling — stories.

Tip: Go in the evening for the Twilight Tour, if you’re up for a spooky experience.

3. Explore the Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden

Home to themed gardens including a Japanese Shoyoen Garden, Biodiversity Garden, and Sensory Garden, this peaceful escape is perfect for a morning stroll or picnic.

4. Discover Indigenous Culture at the Terramungamine Reserve

The Terramungamine Rock Grooves, located just north of Dubbo, are sacred Aboriginal sites where the Wiradjuri people once sharpened tools on sandstone. There are over 150 grinding grooves, making it one of the most significant cultural landmarks in the area.

Combine it with a riverside walk or a picnic by the Macquarie River.

5. Walk or Cycle the Tracker Riley Cycleway

For those who love the outdoors, the Tracker Riley Cycleway is a 13 km trail that runs along the Macquarie River, offering scenic views and peaceful nature encounters. Perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling.

Family-friendly, flat terrain, and dog-friendly

6. Visit the Western Plains Cultural Centre

This center combines a gallery, museum, and café, celebrating Dubbo’s artistic and social history. It often hosts contemporary exhibitions and features permanent displays on regional culture and heritage.

Free entry | Art lovers will appreciate local and national works

7. Discover Dubbo Observatory

For night owls and space enthusiasts, the Dubbo Observatory offers night sky tours where you can view stars, planets, and galaxies through high-powered telescopes. It’s a unique way to explore the cosmos away from city lights.

Bookings essential | Family-friendly tours available

8. Enjoy Local Eats and Coffee Culture

 

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Dubbo has a surprisingly diverse café and restaurant scene. Top picks include:

• Press Café – for brunch and specialty coffee

• Veldt Restaurant – fine dining with local produce

• Short Street Store – casual, family-friendly eats

For wine lovers, the nearby Red Earth Estate is the only commercial vineyard in the Dubbo area — a great stop for a tasting.

9. Visit Dundullimal Homestead

 

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Just a short drive from the city center, Dundullimal Homestead is Australia’s oldest surviving slab hut built in the 1840s. Step back into colonial times and explore this unique example of pioneer life.

Run by the National Trust | Includes a tearoom and charming gardens

10. Take a Scenic Drive to Nearby Towns

It serves as a great base for exploring other regional towns:

• Narromine (30 mins) – aviation history and gliding experiences

• Wellington Caves & Phosphate Mine (40 mins) – fascinating limestone cave tours

• Geurie – quiet country village perfect for antique lovers

Frequently Asked Questions About Dubbo

1. Where is Dubbo located?

Dubbo is a city in the Orana Region of New South Wales, Australia, situated about 400 km northwest of Sydney. It serves as a major regional hub in inland NSW.

2. How do I get to Dubbo?

• By Car: Around 5–6 hours from Sydney via the Great Western Highway or Castlereagh Highway.

• By Train: NSW TrainLink offers daily services from Sydney.

• By Air: Dubbo City Regional Airport has regular flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Broken Hill.

3. What is The City famous for?

The City is best known for:

• The Taronga Western Plains Zoo

• The Old Dubbo Gaol

• Its open countryside and heritage sites

• A gateway to regional and outback NSW experiences

4. Is Dubbo a good place to visit with kids?

Yes, Dubbo is extremely family-friendly. The zoo, botanic gardens, observatory, and museums offer fun and educational activities for all ages.

5. What are the best times to visit Dubbo?

• Spring (Sep–Nov) and Autumn (Mar–May) offer mild, pleasant weather.

• Winter (Jun–Aug) is crisp and cool, perfect for outdoor exploring.

• Summer (Dec–Feb) can be hot — ideal for early-morning zoo trips and riverside relaxation.

6. Are there good places to eat?

Absolutely. Dubbo has a thriving food scene. Some popular places include:

• Press Café – Great for brunch and coffee

• Veldt Restaurant – Upscale dining with regional ingredients

Final Thoughts

If you’re traveling with kids, your partner, or solo, Dubbo offers a diverse mix of wildlife, history, culture, and relaxation. It’s a destination that delivers something for everyone, especially those looking to slow down and reconnect with the simpler joys of life.