Must do
Fast facts
- At the cross-roads of regional NSW
- Dubbo is famous for Taronga Western Plains Zoo
- Five hours’ drive north-west of Sydney
Why go there
At Taronga Western Plains Zoo you can drive around in your car as if you’re on an African safari. The 300-hectare zoo houses 1,500 animals, including rare and endangered species – it's the only place in Australia where you can see African elephants.
You'll discover many fine historic buildings in Dubbo and be able to find out about Narromine's aviation heritage. An emerging wine industry in the Macquarie Valley provides delicious wine-tasting and spectacular Wellington Caves are nearby.
Things to do
Enjoy the tranquility of Shoyoen Sister City Garden, a traditional Japanese garden in Elizabeth Park, Wellington.
Sample wines at the emerging wineries in the region - watch out for the delicious red wine made from the petit verdot grape.
Take a heritage walk to admire Dubbo's historic buildings or visit the Western Plains Cultural Centre.
Learn all about gliding and the history of Australian aviation at Narromine.
Don’t miss
- A two-day trip to Taronga Western Plains Zoo, staying overnight under luxury canvas at Zoofari Lodge.
- Old Dubbo Gaol, which re-creates 19th-century prison life.
- A glider flight at Narromine.
- A guided tour of the Cathedral Cave in the Wellington Caves.
- Dundullimal homestead (1840s), the oldest standing timber slab house in Australia.
Events
- National Ultralight Fly-in in Narromine at Easter.
- Dubbo Show in May.
- Dubbo Antiques and Collectables Fair in July.
- Dubbo Jazz Festival in August.
- Aviation Festival in Narromine on October long weekend.
