There are some amazing experiences located just a short drive beyond the boundaries of Dubbo!
The towns of the Great Western Plains strike the perfect balance between blissful relaxation, heart pumping adrenaline and everything else in between. Get ready to cue the road trip music, buckle your seat belt and set the speed to cruise control to make your way to great big adventures!
1. Wellington 30 minute drive South-East of Dubbo
Adventure beckons at Lake Burrendong or ‘The Dam’ as it’s known to locals. Spike the adrenaline and try your hand at water skiing, wakeboarding and biscuiting, or there’s plenty to entertain the keen angler, with many different fish species to reel in.
You can discover a whole other world underground at the amazing Wellington Caves, with Cathedral Cave tours and hands on fossil finding sessions in the Discovery Lab. Take advantage of the cool temperatures underground during the warmer months!
2. Narromine 30 minute drive West of Dubbo
Experience nearly a century of aviation history at the Narromine Aviation Museum. Discover Australia’s oldest regional aero club’s collection of photographs, records, artefacts and aircraft from the days of ‘barnstormers’ to today.
Explore the local Wiradjuri culture and traditions through the collection of artefacts on display at the Wungunja Cultural Centre in nearby Trangie. You can also browse a showcase of items created by talented local artists, with some available for sale.
3. Warren 1 hour 15 minute drive North-West of Dubbo
Relax with a coffee and snack from the kiosk while you enjoy the art gallery and information on the Region’s environment, culture and heritage at the Window on the Wetlands Centre.
Break up your journey with a stop at Nevertire or Collie Hotels for a refreshing drink, delicious meal and some quality country hospitality.
4. Gilgandra 40 minute drive North of Dubbo
Follow in the footsteps of the famous 1915 Coo-ee March, or delight in some local Aboriginal culture, produce or art at the Coo-ee Heritage Centre. Embark on a journey into Australia’s past through the Gilgandra Rural Museum’s collection of inventions and memorabilia.
Enjoy a charming selection of eateries, retail stores and sightseeing right in the CBD of Gilgandra. Wander amongst 1930s buildings, street art murals and stop by the bronze Coo-ee sculpture. You will find that the heart of Gilgandra is soaked in military history, art, culture and a relaxed way of life.
5. Coonamble 1 hour 50 minute drive North of Dubbo
Take time to call in and visit Outback Arts, a not-for-profit arts and cultural development organisation working with individuals, community and government to generate, promote and advocate for the arts. They also operate a gallery and creative arts centre that hosts a full exhibition program, locally made wares, permanent collections, workshops and events.
A series of community arts projects have transformed the charming town of Gulargambone into a quirky and interesting destination, including various sculptures, a street art trail and a series of artist installations on the colourful main street.
6. Coonabarabran 1 hour 50 minute drive North-East of Dubbo
Enjoy endless skies in the star gazing capital of Australia and don’t miss a visit to Siding Spring Observatory and the AAT – Australia’s largest optical telescope, for the total astronomy immersion. Learn about Dark Energy, the nature of Space Time and the importance of a Dark Sky, or pick up a treat at the Dome Cafe and gift shop.
Visit Pilliga Pottery and watch artisans at work creating unique terracotta pottery with stained glass effects featuring Australian wildflowers and fauna. Try your hand at pottery under the guidance of talented artists.
Find more inspiration for your next road trip adventure in the Great Western Plains.
We encourage anyone travelling to our Region to maintain social distancing practices and stay home if you are feeling unwell.