Local Attractions

Giraffes at Taronga Western Plains Zoo

Taronga Western Plains Zoo

The Taronga Western Plains Zoo is Dubbo’s star attraction. Covering 300 hectares, the zoo has a huge selection of animals, ranging from the majestic Asian and African Elephants to the big cats including Lions, Tigers, Cheetahs and Leopards, to the wonderfully playful Otters and cheeky Meerkats and a huge variety in between. The entry ticket comes with a two-day pass and we find it best to try and spread your time at the zoo over two days. Spend time listening to the ranger talks and find out if the early morning walk is running when you are visiting. The zoo can be seen from your car, but the best way is to take in the sites by bike (can be hired at the zoo), walking or hiring one of the golf buggies.

For more information, go to https://taronga.org.au/taronga-western-plains-zoo

Old Dubbo Gaol

Old Dubbo Gaol

Located in the main street of Dubbo, the Old Dubbo Gaol provides an insight into some of Australia’s rather brutal penal history. The Gaol offers regular tours and a particularly eerie night tour in holiday periods.

For more information, go to http://www.olddubbogaol.com.au

Dundullimal Homestead

Dundullimal Homestead

Built in the 1840’s, Dundullimal Homestead is believed to be the oldest remaining slab house in Australia. The Homestead gives a great insight into early colonial life in the Dubbo region.

For more information, go to https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/dundullimal-homestead/

Dubbo Observatory

Dubbo Observatory

With the clear Western Plains skies, the Dubbo Observatory is the ideal way to view the stars, planets and galaxies. Highly regarded Astronomer Peter Starr is your host. Night sessions run on Friday and Saturday nights and every night during the school holidays.

For more information and to make a booking, head to http://www.tenbyobservatory.com/dubbo_observatory

Western Plains Cultural Centre

Western Plains Cultural Centre

The Western Plains Cultural Centre is a modern gallery with a fantastic ‘house’ collection of art with a strong connection to the Dubbo region. The gallery hosts regular exhibitions and workshops, particularly in the holiday periods.

For more information, go to http://www.westernplainsculturalcentre.org/

Western Plains Cultural Centre

Dubbo Regional Botanic Gardens

The Dubbo Regional Botanic Gardens is a diverse garden with the highlight being the Shoyoen Japanese Gardens. Regarded as one of the best examples of this type of garden in Australia, the Shoyoen Japanese Garden is a wonderful spot to slow down, take a stroll and sit by the beautiful water features and gardens.

For more information, go to http://www.drbg.com.au/

Red Earth Estate Winery

Red Earth Estate Winery

Looking for a break from all of the site seeing? How about sitting back and trying out some of Dubbo’s wine. Located out past the zoo, the Red Earth Estate Winery has a great range of white and red wines and tawny port.

For more information on the winery and tasting times, go to http://redearthestate.com.au

Dubbo Farmers Market

Dubbo Farmers Market

Held on the first and third Saturday of the month, the Dubbo Farmers Market offers fresh local produce, bread, pork, beef and lamb, olive oil, preserves and much more. The markets are held next to the Tourism Office in Macquarie Lions Park.

For more information, go to http://www.dubbofarmersmarket.org.au/

Wellington Caves Complex

Wellington Caves Complex

The Wellington Caves are a fascinating complex of caves located 8kms from Wellington. Regular guided tours are conducted, taking you through the phosphate mining history and showing off the prehistoric remains of animals such as marsupial lions, giant kangaroos and 7-metre long goannas.

For more information, go to http://www.wellingtoncaves.com.au/