In the Dubbo Region we love to be home town heroes! You can get involved and share the great treasure trove of local gems on offer – from the wide open spaces of Taronga Western Plains Zoo to the underground wonderland of the Wellington Caves, a wealth of adventure is waiting.
A number of attractions and activities are ready to reward you for being a home town ambassador and showcasing our region to your visiting friends and family by offering local residents free or discounted entry.
Take a walk on the wild side and explore Taronga Western Plains Zoo, home to hundreds of animals from around the world, with a 6km circuit that you can drive, cycle, run or walk through natural bushland and around large open style exhibits.
Discover an underground wonderland at the Wellington Caves and Phosphate Mine! You will be transported back millions of years in time as you journey through two limestone show caves and the beautifully preserved mine.
The history buffs among us love the Old Dubbo Gaol, a state heritage listed must see. This remarkably complete and intact gaol operated for 119 years from 1847 to 1966 and is still nestled in the main street of Dubbo.
You will love getting lost in the beauty of nature at Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum, which houses one of the largest collections of Australian plants in cultivation. Over 50,000 flowering plants, shrubs and trees from more than 2,000 species are growing on 164 hectares overlooking the beautiful Lake Burrendong. A favourite of many residents is the lush simulated rainforest known as Fern Gully.
Thrill seekers and leisure lovers alike flock to Lake Burrendong just outside of Mumbil. With a capacity three times that of Sydney Harbour this picturesque water playground is a haven for fishing, water sports, camping and relaxation year round.
Unleash your creative soul / Enjoy world-class touring and in-house exhibitions at the Western Plains Cultural Centre, the largest gallery space west of the Blue Mountains and one of the few regional galleries to regularly host the Archibald.
Wellington offers a passionate community and a thriving arts scene. The annual Arts and Sculpture Festival, Springfest and Music In Between Festival provide loads of opportunities to be involved in rich and diverse cultural pursuits.
Sit back and relax as you watch the latest international touring show in one of our theatres; or take in a local pub gig or warm up those pipes for one of the regions regular ‘muso’s nights’. Cultivate your own creative talents and join one of the region’s cultural organisations. There is a diverse range of hobby groups to suit all tastes including writers groups, theatre companies, dance troupes, arts and crafts societies, music bands and more.
Unearth our history / Explorer John Oxley passed through the region during his 1817 and 1818 expeditions and noted the rich potential for grazing and agriculture. You can almost step back through time in the Dubbo region, with many fine examples of heritage architecture including the National Trust’s Dundullimal Homestead, built in the early 1840s and believed to be Australia’s oldest timber slab homestead and Dubbo’s oldest building open to the public.
Where can I get mates rates?
A number of attractions and activities across the Region are ready to reward you for being a hometown ambassador and showcasing Dubbo, Wellington and the surrounding villages to your visiting friends and family. As a local resident you can access free or discounted entry at the following attractions (conditions apply):
Neighbouring the Wellington Caves, the garden is an ideal setting for a restful picnic before or after a tour of the caves or a round of golf. Offering a tranquil, retreat ideal for relaxation, a winding stream and reflection pool beneath a shaded pavilion. A facility of Dubbo Regional Council.
What can we do in the Region?
Grab your friends and family and tuck into a non-stop feast of discovery, adventure and entertainment. Scroll through our directory to create your own itinerary, or find inspiration in our ready-made itineraries:
What can we do for free?
Our Region has plenty of fantastic attractions and activities that don't cost a cent, if this is the tenth time you've hosted friends and family lately and you just want to go somewhere quiet where you can relax you may want to try:
- Coronation Drive, Dubbo NSW 2830
Enliven your senses and explore four distinctive garden spaces, including the Shoyoen authentic Japanese Garden, the Biodiversity Garden, the Sensory Garden and the cool surrounds of Oasis Valley.
A facility of Dubbo Regional Council.
- Dubbo Visitor Information Centre, Macquarie Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
The 13km 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 to Dundullimal Homestead and Taronga Western Plains Zoo. A facility of Dubbo Regional Council.
- Mount Arthur Reserve, Wellington NSW 2820
Situated on the doorstep of Wellington (NSW) the mountainous 2,123ha Mount Arthur Reserve offers scenic viewpoints as well as picnicking, bushwalking, horse riding and bike riding opportunities. The Reserve is managed by local volunteers.
- 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.
- Coronation Drive, Dubbo NSW 2830
Let your kids go wild at and explore around 40 play elements. Soar on the flying fox, speed down the giant slide and fly high on the basket swing! With BBQs, toilets and accessible elements including a wheelchair friendly Liberty Swing.
A facility of Dubbo Regional Council.
- Corner Macquarie Street and Newell Highway, Dubbo NSW 2830
Enjoy breakfast and coffee with friends and explore our Region’s fresh, seasonal produce. Buy direct from local producers with a range of fresh produce, herbs and plants, baked goods, local meats, award-winning olive oils, preserves, honey, wine, nuts and so much more available. First and third Saturdays of the month.
Where should we eat?
Need to replenish and recharge? Show off Dubbo's dining hot spots to your friends and family and let them sink their teeth into an array of local dishes that will leave their tastebuds reeling.
- Obley Road, Dubbo NSW 2830
Enjoy a wild dining experience at Taronga Western Plains Zoo! There are two unique cafes to choose from. The Zoo Cafe & Bar is located in the Zoo’s entry precinct overlooking the Savannah Lake and Primate Islands. The Waterhole is the Zoo’s newest precinct located halfway around the Zoo circuit.
- 174 Darling Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Breakfast, lunch or a ‘just because’ tasty treat, the selection at Amy’s has you covered. Tempt your tastebuds with our sweet selection of cupcakes, ice cream, shakes, cheesecake, signature sugar cookies and an ever-changing menu of weekly specials. Or savour a cup of our delicious locally sourced coffee.
- 91 - 93 Lee Street, Wellington NSW 2820
The Colonel delivers all of your Kentucky-fried favourites with local, friendly service. KFC Wellington is conveniently located on the Mitchell Highway. We offer a choice of sit down, take-away or drive-through meals and snacks, 7 days a week. Our store is a proud supporter of the Wellington Community.
- 110 Talbragar Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
We are a local, family-friendly Hotel featuring spacious dining areas and a first-class sports bar. We’ve got everyone covered, from a gorgeous dining area offering an extensive but affordable menu, an indoor air-conditioned playground for the kids, and impressive wine menu accompanied by a cocktail bar.
- 113 Darling Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
We're open from 6am for breakfast and barista made coffee. Pies are always a winner but if you're after a salad or baguette we have you covered. Discover 'Australia's Best' pies. Freshly baked treats and sourdoughs made daily. We are a fourth generation bakery operating since 1918. Open 7 days.
- 33-35 Warne Street, Wellington NSW 2820
Come in to enjoy delicious home style food, great coffee and an eclectic mix of gifts, home wares and regional produce in our unique 1930's Spanish Mission style building, all served up with a huge slice of country hospitality!
- 328 Fitzroy Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
A vibrant, family-friendly venue with affordable meals, $10 lunch and dinner specials! Bar, private function room and convenient drive-through bottle shop.
Call us for our free courtesy bus service.
- 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.
- 165 Whylandra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Our open fireplace sets the mood for a quiet drink at the cocktail bar before taking a seat in our intimate restaurant. We offer modern Australian cuisine shaped by fresh produce from our Region.
- 1 Nanima Crescent, Wellington NSW 2820
Take a step back in time with a retro inspired experience at Milky Daze! Enjoy classic burgers, shakes, sweets and more - there’s sure to be something to satisfy everyone. Dine in or grab a takeaway to enjoy on the go as you explore the Wellington area.
- 76 Percy Street, Wellington NSW 2820
Come and enjoy our specialty coffee, homemade fresh meals and sweet baked treats. Located at The Old Printery Wellness Centre just off the Mitchell Highway.
Open Monday to Saturday.
Where can they stay?
Dubbo has more than 70 accommodation providers and over 4,500 beds to suit every budget, ranging from 5 star B&B's through to pub-stay options.
- 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.
- 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.
- Caves Road, Wellington 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, a camp kitchen, amenities block, swimming pool (open Oct – Mar), laundry and is pet friendly.
- 95 Cobra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Awarded ‘Best of the Best’ and included in Tripadvisor’s Top 25 Hotels in Australia in 2021, the Orana Motel is the place to stay in Dubbo! Here you can expect comfort, style and 5-star service with a country smile.
- 230 Brisbane Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Listed by TripAdvisor in their top 25 properties in Australia for Families for 4 years in a row. • Affordable tariffs for short and long stays • Alfresco BBQ and pool setting • Short walk to restaurants and Dubbo CBD • Self-rated 4 star plus and supported by online reviews.
- Fashions Mount Road, Mumbil NSW 2820
Living the lakeside dream. In this beautiful bushland setting, the great lake sparkles, the stars shine bright at night and the abundant wildlife thrives in its natural environment. Here in the Reflections Lake Burrendong Park you have it all, yet you’re just an easy drive away from Dubbo, Wellington and Orange.
- Corner Macleay and Bourke Streets, Dubbo NSW 2830
One of Dubbo's favourite 4 star, boutique motels. Good old-fashioned service, renowned for superior comfort, cleanliness and country hospitality. Discounts for Seniors, Golden Chain and Auto Club members. Free Wi-Fi.
- 43 Cobbora Road, Dubbo NSW 2830
1-bedroom self-contained apartments including, Standard, Executive and Family Apartments, plus 2 x 3-bedroom Cottages. Located just 5 minutes from the CBD, directly opposite Dubbo Base Hospital and a short drive to Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
- 13R Narromine Road, Dubbo NSW 2830
Enjoy the magic of a country sunrise. Our parkland setting surrounds are perfect for that family camping holiday, or for that overnight stay on your dream adventure. Bring your furry friend as we're pet friendly. En-suite and standard cabins, grass and shaded sites, pool and playground.
- 31 Cobra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830
Location, location, location!
Luxurious king suites, family spa suites and 2 bedroom suites. Queen and twin rooms, accessible room. Fast, free Wi-Fi, Foxtel IQ with Chromecast, saltwater pool and BBQ area. Breakfast to rooms.
- 135 Lee Street, Wellington, NSW 2820
After undergoing extensive renovation all accommodation includes air conditioning with stylish refurbished private bathrooms and secure swipe card access at all hours. The Cow and Calf also features a guest lounge with library, internet access and Austar.
The family friendly bistro is open Monday - Saturday from 12pm-3pm for lunch and 6pm-9pm for dinner.
- Obley Road, Dubbo NSW 2830
At Taronga Western Plains Zoo there are three unique experiences to choose from. Zoofari Lodge, an African safari style experience overlooking the savannah. Billabong Camp, a family camping adventure and the Savannah Cabins, high quality self-contained accommodation, ideal for multi night stays.
What's on?
Check out our Region's events calendar and find our what's on these school holidays. Encourage your friends and family to join you at any one of the Region's unique events - from lantern parades, farmers markets, live music and street performers, to fun runs, river paddles and major spectator sports - they'll be spoilt for choice.
Visitor Information
You’re guaranteed a friendly smile and a wealth of information when you stop in and see the teams at one of our Region’s Visitor Information Centres. The friendly staff at Dubbo and Wellington are always happy to point you in the right direction, help plan your to-do list and even share some local secrets to ensure you have a holiday adventure you won’t soon forget.