Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in regional New South Wales? Wagga Wagga, the largest inland city, is full of natural beauty, culture, and outdoor fun. It has everything from beautiful gold rush towns to stunning beaches and farm stays.
This place is perfect for anyone looking for new experiences. You can explore, relax, or dive into nature. There’s something for everyone in Wagga Wagga.
Key Takeaways
- Explore the best things to do in Wagga Wagga and the surrounding Riverina region
- Discover picturesque gold rush towns, iconic bush beaches, and delightful agri-tourism experiences
- Immerse yourself in nature at the The Rock Nature Reserve, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints
- Indulge in outdoor adventures such as wildlife watching, nature photography, and picnicking
- Unwind at luxurious farm stays and enjoy the region’s vibrant arts, culture, and events
Tumbarumba: A Picturesque Gold Rush Town
Tumbarumba is a charming gold rush town in the Snowy Valleys region. It offers a delightful look into the past. The town is a great stopover on the way to Wagga Wagga. It has a lively main street with lots of local cuisine and seasonal produce.
The Tumbarumba Caravan Park
The Tumbarumba Caravan Park is perfect for those wanting to relax. It’s near Tumbarumba Creek and close to the town center. This means you can easily check out the historic gold rush town sights.
Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail
The Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail is a great way to see Tumbarumba’s beauty. It’s a 22km trail that follows an old train line. Visitors can enjoy the stunning nature of the area.
The Nest Restaurant
For a tasty meal, try The Nest Restaurant. They use seasonal produce from around the area. It’s a great way to experience the local cuisine of the region.
“Tumbarumba is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of historic gold rush town charm and picturesque scenery that will captivate any visitor.”
Wagga Wagga Beach: An Iconic Bush Beach
The Wagga Wagga Beach sits by the Murrumbidgee River. It’s a true bush beach experience. It’s now in the top 20 beaches in Australia, making it a key spot for visitors to the Riverina region.
The beach has lush, grassy spots ideal for picnicking and chilling out. It also has lots of shade from tall trees. You can enjoy a calm day by the water or try out adventurous activities. Swimming, kayaking, and other river activities are great ways to have fun in the Murrumbidgee River.
“Wagga Wagga Beach is a truly unique and picturesque destination, offering the perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the top beaches in the country.”
This beach is famous for its natural beauty and many activities. It’s a top bush beach spot. Locals and visitors alike will find something to love here.
Bidgee Strawberries and Cream: Agri-tourism Delight
In the heart of Wagga Wagga, Bidgee Strawberries and Cream is a top spot for agri-tourism. This family farm lets you pick fresh, chemical-free strawberries yourself. You can also make your own strawberry treats at home.
Strawberry Picking and More
At Bidgee Strawberries and Cream, you can walk through the strawberry fields and pick your own berries. But there’s more fun to be had. They offer homemade strawberry ice cream, sorbet, and chocolate-dipped strawberries too.
There’s also a chance to learn about their farming methods and pest control. This adds to the farm’s agri-tourism charm.
Damara Sheep and Future Plans
Besides strawberries, the farm has Damara sheep. These sheep are special for their big tails that store fat for tough times. You can see these animals and learn how they fit into the farm’s ecosystem.
The farm owners have big plans ahead, like opening a café on site. Here, you can enjoy strawberry treats like milkshakes, smoothies, scones, and cakes. It will be a lovely spot to relax in the countryside.
Bidgee Strawberries and Cream is a highlight of Wagga Wagga’s agri-tourism. It offers fresh produce, hands-on activities, and learning opportunities. Whether you want to pick strawberries, learn about farming, or just enjoy the sweet flavors, this farm is a must-see.
Belisi Farm Stay: A Rural Sanctuary
The Belisi Farm Stay is in the Riverina region’s heart, offering a true rural escape. It’s known for luxury and peace, away from daily life’s noise.
Luxurious Accommodation and Horse Riding
The Belisi Farm Stay has amazing places to stay. You can pick from stylish shipping containers on a hill with great views. They mix old charm with modern comforts for a stay you won’t forget.
But it’s not just for relaxing. It’s also a place for horse lovers. Everyone, from experts to beginners, can ride through beautiful trails with expert guides.
There’s more than just luxury and riding here. The farm has wellness programs to help you relax and connect with nature. You can enjoy yoga or spa treatments to leave feeling new.
The Belisi Farm Stay is a beautiful spot in the Riverina region. It’s perfect for a romantic trip, a family outing, or a quiet break. This place will go beyond what you hope for.
Great Places to Eat in Wagga Wagga
Wagga Wagga is a bustling city in New South Wales known for its food and drink scene. It offers a wide range of dining options, from award-winning dishes to craft beer and all-day meals. This city has something for everyone.
Magpie's Nest Restaurant
The Magpie’s Nest Restaurant is in a stunning sandstone building. It’s a top spot for cuisine and wines. They use local ingredients to make their menu stand out.
Thirsty Crow Microbrewery
Thirsty Crow is Wagga’s first microbrewery. It’s perfect for craft beer lovers. They serve unique brews like the Vanilla Milk Stout. Plus, their pizzas are great with their beers.
Uneke Lounge
Uneke Lounge is great for breakfast or brunch. They have a big menu for all tastes. The place is lively and serves top-notch regional cuisine.
“Wagga Wagga’s food scene is a melting pot of regional flavors, innovative craft beer, and all-day dining experiences that cater to every taste bud.”
Arts, Culture, and Events
Wagga Wagga, in the Riverina region of New South Wales, has a lively arts and cultural scene. It draws in both locals and visitors with its charm. The city is known for the Laneway Murals and the famous Wagga Wagga Art Gallery.
Laneway Murals and Art Gallery
Walking through Wagga Wagga’s laneways, you’ll see beautiful murals on the walls. These Laneway Murals in Cadell Place feature works by local and national artists. Each mural shows off the city’s unique spirit and history.
The Wagga Wagga Art Gallery is a key spot for art lovers. It has a wide range of artworks by Riverina artists. The gallery also hosts art from around the country and the world. You can see the Margaret Carnegie Print Collection and the National Art Glass Collection there.
| Event | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Laneway Murals | Vibrant street art in Cadell Place | Permanent |
| Wagga Wagga Art Gallery Exhibitions | Showcasing local, national, and international art | Rotating schedule |
If you love art or just want to experience local culture, Wagga Wagga has something for you. Its arts and cultural scene is sure to inspire and captivate.
Wineries and Breweries
Wagga Wagga and the Riverina region are home to many wineries and breweries. They offer a chance to try locally made, award-winning drinks. You can visit family-owned estates and university vineyards for a wide range of craft drinks.
Borambola Wines is a family-run place with a cozy cellar door. Here, you can taste their red, white, and sparkling wines. They also have Tuckerbox Hoppy Lager Beer and Tuckerbox Apple Cider.
Cottontail Winery sits on 40 hectares of beautiful land. It lets visitors enjoy eight award-winning wines with views of the Wagga countryside.
At Boutique Wines by CSU, you can learn about winemaking. It’s on the Charles Sturt University campus, part of Australia’s top wine school. Enjoy tastings with cheese platters.
| Winery | Signature Offerings | Awards |
|---|---|---|
| Borambola Wines | Red, White, and Sparkling Wines, Tuckerbox Hoppy Lager Beer, Tuckerbox Apple Cider | Multiple Gold and Silver Medals |
| Cottontail Winery | 8 Award-Winning Wines | Numerous Regional and National Accolades |
| Boutique Wines by CSU | Wide Range of Wines, Cheese Platters | Part of Australia’s Leading Wine Science School |
If you love wine or craft beer, Wagga Wagga has something for you. Check out these local spots and taste the unique flavors. It’s a great place for wine lovers and beer fans.
Wagga Wagga, New South Wales: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Nature Reserves and Beaches
Wagga Wagga and its area are full of natural spots and outdoor fun. Begin your nature trip at the Marrambidya Wetland, a 20-hectare reserve full of plants and animals, close to the city. Close by, Livingstone National Park offers mountain biking, horse riding, four-wheel driving, and birdwatching. You’ll also see beautiful wildflowers in spring.
Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool
For something special, drive two hours from Wagga Wagga to Kosciuszko National Park. Then, swim in the Yarrangobilly Caves thermal pool, which is always 27 degrees. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy nature.
| Natural Attraction | Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| The Rock Nature Reserve | Near Wagga Wagga | Hiking trails, wildlife spotting, scenic views |
| Marrambidya Wetland | Wagga Wagga | Birdwatching, nature walks, diverse flora and fauna |
| Livingstone National Park | Near Wagga Wagga | Mountain biking, horse riding, four-wheel driving, birdwatching, wildflowers |
| Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens | Wagga Wagga | Extensive gardens, children’s play areas, café |
| Yarrangobilly Caves | Kosciuszko National Park | Thermal pool, cave tours, hiking trails |
Explore the natural beauty of Wagga Wagga and find the best outdoor activities. From wetlands and parks to thermal pools and caves, there’s something for every nature enthusiast.
Conclusion
Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, is a place full of different things to do for all kinds of travelers. It has the beautiful town of Tumbarumba and famous bush beaches. Outdoor lovers will find plenty to do here.
The area is also big on agri-tourism, with places like Bidgee Strawberries and Cream and Belisi Farm Stay. These spots let you see how farming works up close.
Food lovers and beer fans will enjoy the great food and drinks scene. Places like Magpie’s Nest Restaurant and Thirsty Crow Microbrewery are top picks. Wagga Wagga also has a lot of art and culture, with cool murals and an art gallery.
If you want adventures, farm tours, or to check out local art, Wagga Wagga is the place to go. It has a lot of cool things to see and do. This makes it a top spot for anyone wanting to see what regional Australia has to offer.