The Dubbo Region is the perfect family holiday destination, with room to roam and activities to entertain kids of all ages - and plenty for the parents to enjoy too! Check out our other family friendly blogs for more inspiration.
Exploring with your littlest ones in tow can be overwhelming, but we've got a few great suggestions for activities that will offer enjoyable stimulation for babies and kids under 5 at an easy pace - and maybe even some opportunities for naps on the go built in! Check out our other family friendly blogs: Kids and Teenagers for more inspiration.
Victoria Park Playground - Your toddler will love the opportunity to explore this expansive and fenced playground featuring a junior play space with elements catering to toddlers and preschool children. There are in-ground mini trampolines and plenty of soft fall surfaces for the daredevil tots, and the duo swing allows an adult and toddler to sit face-to-face for a fun and safe experience. The grassy surrounds and generous tree canopies create a cool atmosphere to spread out the picnic blanket for your littlest babes to relax and watch the world go by while their older siblings enjoy the playground. Conveniently located next to the Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre pool deck cafe, mum and dad can even enjoy a coffee or refreshment while watching the kids play.
The Pool Deck Cafe is open during pool season and operating hours - you can check opening hours on the Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre's website. Victoria Park Playground is open year round.
Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden - If you want to embark on an easy stroll with a pram in tow, the Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden offers tidy paths and a feast for all five senses as you explore. The Sensory Garden is particularly good for toddlers, with a rich range of sensory experiences provided by the clever design and carefully selected plants, as well as playful water features, a striking sculpture of the Barking Gecko and the enticing stepping stones. The Shoyoen Japanese Garden is the perfect picnic spot, with hungry ducks and koi fish your little ones will be delighted to feed the supplied food.
You can explore most of the garden precincts with a pram including; Shoyoen Japanese Garden, Oasis Valley Garden, Sensory Garden, Wiradjuri Garden and the Adventure Playground. Please note the Biodiversity Garden features a boardwalk that is not accessible to prams or wheelchairs.
Opening times for the Dubbo Regional Botanic Gardens vary throughout the year, you can check the opening times on the dedicated website. The Gardens are closed on Christmas Day, New Years Day and Good Friday.
Tracker Riley Cycleway and Walking Path - The 15km cycleway loop is named after Dubbo's famous Alec 'Tracker' Riley, the first Aboriginal tracker to reach the rank of Sergeant. Extending from the CBD all the way to Dundullimal Homestead and Taronga Western Plains Zoo if you want a nice long walk with the pram - perhaps while your little one enjoys a nap in the fresh air? Or you can just enjoy one of the shorter paths along the banks of the mighty Macquarie River.
The shared pathway is perfect for a walk or if your little one has their bike and helmet on hand there are smooth paths perfect for testing out the training wheels! You can find a map of this and other local cycleways online.
Macquarie Regional Library - If you want a baby and toddler friendly indoor activity to do, make sure you stop in and see the friendly team at the local library. With an extensive range of picture and board books available you can take a break in the cool atmosphere to enjoy some quiet time to break up your days adventures. Your little ones will love the free programs available each week during School Terms, including Storytime, Rhyme Time and Wriggle & Rhyme. The Library website has more details and session times available.
During School Holidays the Library runs a fabulous range of activites catering to different ages, keep an eye on their website for more information on the free activities that are coming up next School Holidays!
Royal Bubs and Tots - Don't miss a visit to the most delightful baby and children's boutique in town! Royal Bubs and Tots is your one-stop baby shop with a huge range of everything from nursery furniture to prams, car seats, clothes, shoes and gifts. Pick up a special outfit so your little one is dressed to impress, or take home a very special memento from your adventure holiday in the Dubbo Region!
- 113A Darling Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Savour the timeless flavours of Village Bakehouse, a must-visit destination. Step inside and be captivated by the irresistible aroma that fills the air, enticing you to taste our delicious creations.
- 15 Church Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Discover CSC, where foodie dreams come true and fun is always on the menu! We’re your ultimate destination for incredible snacking experiences in town. Our talented chefs are culinary wizards, with creations that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
- 11 Short Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
At Short Street Store we are the epitome of good coffee, good vibes and good times! Our cafe is nestled in the heart of Dubbo and we are open from 6.00am weekdays.
- 124 Brisbane Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
We are a family-owned, Asian fusion cafe aiming to bring a unique and new culinary journey to Dubbo.
See you at You.
- 174 Darling Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Poppyseed Cafe has a wide range of dinning options with great breakfast, light and full lunches and store baked goods. There are great indoor and outdoor spaces, we are family friendly and cater for groups.
- 45 Whylandra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Cravings is a family friendly venue with a relaxed dining room and kids play area. We offer gluten and dairy free options and our friendly staff can always help with any allergy questions. Open 7 days a week.
- Obley Road, Dubbo NSW 2830
Enjoy a wild dining experience at Taronga Western Plains Zoo! There are two unique cafes to choose from. Cafe Wild is located in the Zoo’s entry precinct overlooking the Savannah Lake and Primate Islands. The Waterhole offers a dining experience in the heart of the Zoo.
- 10A Commercial Avenue, Dubbo NSW 2830
Enjoy a casual dining experience. Our brewpub can accommodate groups large and small, with seating outside, upstairs, ground and our taproom for the beer lovers. Open for breakfast (weekends), lunch, dinner and takeaway coffee.
- 56 Lee Street (Mitchell Highway), Wellington NSW 2820
Located at Wellington, Jespresso is open 7 days a week stocking a range of brewing equipment, coffee beans and more.
Offering blends created by local Jess Gough. The cafe has all day breakfast and lunch menus, a range of fresh juices and smoothies.
Come in and relax.
- 8 Whylandra Street (Newell Highway), Dubbo NSW 2830
The Cattleman’s Country Motor Inn and Serviced Apartments is proudly Dubbo’s largest and busiest accommodation complex, with over 14 different room types from motel style to serviced apartments. Facilities include 1 indoor heated pool, 2 outdoor pools, a gymnasium, a daily buffet breakfast and an award-winning a la carte restaurant and bar.
- 230 Brisbane Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Listed by TripAdvisor in their top 25 properties in Australia for families for 4 years in a row. 2-bedroom ground floor apartments and cottages. Family spa duplexes with loft second bedroom. Alfresco BBQ and pool setting. Affordable tariffs for short and long stays. Short walk to restaurants and CBD
- 14L Camp Road, Dubbo NSW 2830
The Rhino Lodge offers a glamping experience where you can relax on the outdoor patio and enjoy the clear night skies.
To enhance your stay, we have a fully licensed restaurant offering an extensive menu which includes share platters, wood fired pizza and creative meals by our talented chefs.
- Corner Brisbane and Wingewarra Streets, Dubbo NSW 2830
We make you feel good! Absolutely everything you would expect from a luxury 4 star inner city establishment. Quiet, off-highway location opposite Dubbo’s largest Club. Located in the heart of the CBD.
- Caves Road, Apsley NSW 2820
The roaming nomad or family adventurer will find everything they need at the Wellington Caves Holiday Park. With suites overlooking the Wellington Golf Course to family friendly cabins, there is something for everyone. Drive through sites, camp kitchen, amenities, swimming pool, laundry.
- 133 - 135 Whylandra Street (Newell Highway), Dubbo NSW 2830
Opposite Club Dubbo, 1.5km from Taronga Western Plains Zoo, moments from the CBD and local attractions. Abel Tasman offers 38 immaculate deluxe units including free wireless internet, off-street parking and an in-ground pool.
- 85 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
BNB Made Easy professionally manages short-term rental accommodation across the Central West, allowing you to book confidently and stay comfortably.
- 5-13 Lee Street, Wellington NSW 2820
Relax and unwind in our spectacular grounds on the banks of the Macquarie River. Affordable accommodation including basic rooms with double beds, standard queen rooms and family rooms. 3 star self-rated.
- 31 Cobra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
• Location, location, location • Luxurious king suites • Family suites • 2-bedroom suites • Queen and twin rooms • Accessible room • Fast, free Wi-Fi • Saltwater pool and BBQ area • Breakfast to rooms • Foxtel IQ with Chromecast • EV Charger
- 86 Cobra Street, Dubbo
Country Leisure in Dubbo has 2 outdoor swimming pools in a relaxed garden enclosure including BBQ facilities with table and chairs. Guests can enjoy an outdoor BBQ, or dine at one of the several restaurants located within 2 minutes’ drive from the property. Each room has its own rich personality.
- 13R Narromine Road, Dubbo NSW 2830
Enjoy the magic of a country sunrise at Westview Caravan Park. Our parkland setting surrounds are perfect for that great big dream adventure holiday or a much needed family holiday, you can even
bring your fur babies as we are pet friendly!
- 78 Whylandra Street (Newell Highway), Dubbo NSW 2830
19 spacious ground floor units, including 2 x 2-bedroom units. All air-conditioned with tea, coffee, toasters, microwave and free Wi-Fi, Foxtel and pool. 2 minutes from the Zoo and conveniently located next to Club Dubbo. 3.5 star self-rated.
Entertain the kids on the go
Need an activity to fill in some time? Have your mini artists create their very own Dubbo rhino artwork - don't forget to send the completed masterpiece to us so we can share on our socials!
Discover our Visitor Guide
Start planning your adventure to the Dubbo Region! Settle in and explore Dubbo, Wellington, our surrounding villages and the Great Western Plains through the pages of our Visitor Guide.