This bite sized itinerary is the perfect starting place to plan a couple's Dubbo Region adventure! Find inspiration to fill your days (and nights) as you explore everything there is to see and do.
Are you looking for inspiration for activities, adventures and evening hotspots to check out during your next visit to the Dubbo Region? We've got a mini-itinerary and some optional add on ideas prepared to get you started! These activities are best suited to adults travelling in a couple, group or even solo.
Rest your head
Enjoy a totally wild Dubbo Region experience when you choose to wake up with the animals at Taronga Western Plains Zoo! The Zoo has three spectacular on-site accommodation options, ideal for travellers wanting to design their own holiday adventure.
Zoofari Lodge offers two styles of accommodation with the luxurious Animal View Lodges overlooking a vast savannah where giraffes, zebras and rhinos roam and the nearby Bushland Lodges nestled in the sights and sounds of the Aussie bush just a short distance from the savannah viewing area. From sunrise to sunset, you can relax in comfort and style and watch giraffes, rhinos, zebra and antelope gently roam and graze the expansive savannah. The accommodation package for Zoofari guests includes 2-day zoo admission, exclusive guided tours, dinner and breakfast, 1 day bicycle hire and a 10% discount at the Zoo Shop and Cafe.
The self-contained Savannah Cabins are a great option situated in sprawling grasslands surrounded by the wild sounds of the Zoo's inhabitants. The cabins provide flexibility for you to come and go as you please, with included kitchen facilities so you can make your own meals or venture out into the City to try out some local culinary delights.
Or choose to get back to nature at Billabong Camp, situated on the Zoo circuit within roaring distance of the Lion Pride Lands! You can fully immerse in the secret, after hours life of the Zoo with the help of the friendly Zoo Hosts. Billabong Camp packages include an Australian barbecue dinner, continental breakfast and 2-day entry to the Zoo plus guided animal encounters and tours.
Accommodation at the Zoo can be booked online.
Wine and dine
Discover Down the Lane - Dubbo’s hidden gem and your ultimate dining destination nestled in the heart of town. With live music every weekend and a menu that packs a punch - the vibes at Down the Lane never disappoint!
Enjoy a meal and carefully crafted cocktails in the eclectic atmosphere, where modern Italian cuisine is complimented by friendly staff and a unique venue perfect to be shared with your nearest and dearest.
Something extra?
Have you ever wanted to meet a meerkat, help bath an elephant or stand tall with a giraffe? Make the most of your Zoo experience by adding on an extra special animal encounter!
Giants of Africa Walk - Giraffe, eland, zebra and rhinos – you’ll see them all on this fun and informative behind-the-scenes walk. Available Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Tiger Encounter - Venture behind the scenes with a Keeper to meet a Sumatran Tiger. Available Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
Hippo Encounter - Come face to face with one of the Zoo's resident Hippos during a Hippo Encounter. Available daily.
Giraffe Encounter - Encounter the world's tallest land animal! During this experience you’ll have the opportunity to feed these gentle giants from the Zoo's Giraffe Boardwalk. Available daily.
Meerkat Encounter - Step inside the Meerkat habitat with a Zoo Keeper, and let the curious residents get a close look at you. Available daily (excluding Wednesdays outside of school holidays).
Elephant Encounter - Watch as Zoo Keepers bath one of the Elephants and learn about this remarkable species and the bond between Keepers and the Elephants in our care. Available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Animal encounters need to be booked in addition to your Zoo admission.
After dark
As night falls the fun doesn't have to stop in the Dubbo Region! Don't miss a sneaky nightcap at our hidden gem The Establishment Bar Dubbo - a moody 1930s inspired boutique bar tucked away in the heart of the Dubbo CBD. Select from crafted cocktails, classic tipples and fine drams in the bar's intimate speakeasy atmosphere. The bar is open Thursday to Saturday 5pm til late. Sneak away from reality in this jazzy little lounge where walk-ins are encouraged and the good times are guaranteed.
You will find The Establishment in the alley leading to the iconic Old Dubbo Gaol.
- Newell Highway, Dubbo NSW 2830
An inland oasis, the Dubbo Golf Club sports a lush 27 hole championship golf course and 11 waterways in a natural setting with an abundance of native flora and wildlife. The complete package for social golfer and a fully licensed clubhouse with the best Chinese cuisine in Dubbo.
- 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.
- 21 Judy Jakins Drive, Dubbo NSW 2830
Immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Explore our unforgettable exhibition full of exciting, interactive displays, augmented reality, and state of the art equipment. Fully accessible and appropriate for all ages.
- 95 Tara Road, Mumbil NSW 2820
Explore over 164 hectares dedicated to the conservation of Australia's unique and incredibly diverse flora, overlooking the majestic Lake Burrendong. Open from sunrise to sunset every day.
- 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.
- 90 Macquarie Street, Dubbo NSW
Head behind the bars and experience 19th century prison life at Old Dubbo Gaol. A State Heritage listed site which remains intact and restored, creating a pocket in time and unearthing powerful moments in Australian prison history. Guided tours available, visit the website for more details.
- 155 Darling Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Dubbo’s award-winning performing arts centre features a kaleidoscope of entertainment throughout the year. Local, national and international touring shows stud the stage of this 500-seat, fully air-conditioned, tiered theatre.
A facility of Dubbo Regional Council
- 141-147 Cobra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
At Okami, we offer an authentic Japanese all you can eat dining experience, plating up over 30 Japanese dishes with the highest-quality ingredients and the finest service. Everything on menu is made fresh to order and served direct to table, so just enjoy the bottomless deal during your sitting.
- 76 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
The Western Plains Cultural Centre is home to the Region’s gallery, museum and Community Art Centre. Whether your visit to the Region is a holiday, excursion, group tour, event or pursuing a family link our team here at the WPCC can make your visit unique. Free admission and open daily 10am - 4pm.
- 29R Old Dubbo Road, Dubbo NSW 2830
Lazy River Estate is the Region’s premier event venue. We believe that every event is unique, so our approach to planning your special occasion is tailored to your needs. Each year we host a wide range
of events including our ‘Travel the World’ dinners, markets, Stock Route Music Festival and more.
- 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.