12 Excellent Things to Do in Wagga - Australian Traveller

As one of Australia’s most populated inland cities and the heart of the Riverina region, Wagga Wagga has plenty to offer, whether you’re after fun with the kids or a cultural immersion.

Around five hours from Sydney and built along the banks of the Murrumbidgee river, Wagga Wagga has long been the thriving centre of the Riverina region. Surrounded by pastoral land and the untamed Australian bush means that the city will appeal to both nature lovers and those looking for the best restaurants to have a foodie escape. If you’ve picked out your accommodation and now want to plan your days, we’ve narrowed down the best things to do in Wagga Wagga for your next visit.

1. Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens

About 10 minutes out of the CBD, Wagga Wagga’s Botanic Gardens is a great place to take the kids. The miniature railway is a particular highlight, running around the park, through a tunnel and over a bridge. It’s in operation on the first and third Sunday of each month, so plan ahead.

autumn leaves covering the lawns across Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens — The Botanic Gardens are majestic in autumn. (Image: Destination NSW)

Even if you can’t make the train, Wagga’s Botanic Gardens has plenty to keep little ones occupied. The mini zoo and aviary, plus an expansive children’s playground will have them riveted – be sure to download the Wagga Botanic Gardens Adventure Tour, a guide disguised as a game where kids can search for rare plants and hidden treasures.

a mother and daughter enjoying a visit to the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens — Get your nature fix while walking the gardens. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Wagga Beach

You can’t visit Wagga Wagga without checking out Wagga Beach. Technically not an actual beach, this is a section of the Murrumbidgee River that’s been turned into a water paradise.

Set up your beach tent for the day on its sandy shoreline or take a kayak out for a cruise. It’s easily accessible for wheelchairs and prams, and the massive new playground will provide entertainment on days when swimming isn’t as appealing. If you do swim, be cautious of the river’s current and sunken objects.

two children enjoying a day at Riverside: Wagga Wagga Beach — Swim in the Murrumbidgee at Wagga Beach. (Image: Jack of Hearts Photography/ Visit Wagga Wagga)

3. Wiradjuri Trail

Right next to Wagga Beach you’ll find the Wiradjuri Trail. This 42-kilometre track is a bike rider’s fantasy, winding along the Murrumbidgee River and through the Birramal Conservation Area.

two women enjoying a day of cycling along the Wiradjuri Trail, Wagga Wagga — Cycle the Wiradjuri Trail to take in more of the sights than you’d see on foot. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography/ Visit Wagga Wagga)

Not into bike riding? It’s also a popular walking track, especially the Wollundry Loop, a 12-kilometre stroll that sticks to the river’s edge and circles the peaceful Wollundry Lagoon. The trail also winds past plenty of popular Wagga Wagga cafes, so take a break and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

two women admiring the scenery at the Wiradjuri Trail, Wagga Wagga — Make a stop at one of Wiradjuri Trail’s natural wonders. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography/ Visit Wagga Wagga)

4. Wagga Wagga Art Gallery

On the banks of the Wollundry Lagoon you’ll find Wagga Wagga Art Gallery , an architectural glass masterpiece that houses contemporary, Wiradjuri and First Nations art, sculpture and new media. The gallery regularly changes its exhibitions, which range from artist-focused to exploring themes and methods. It’s also home to the National Art Glass Gallery, a collection of 400 pieces of contemporary art glass.

Beyond the gallery itself, enjoy the serenity of Wollundry Lagoon, which has ample seating and space to enjoy the beautiful surrounds.

art pieces in the National Art Glass collecting held at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery inside the Wagga Wagga Civic Centre — Find a unique collection of 400 pieces of contemporary art glass inside the gallery. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Bundyi Cultural Tours

Gain a deeper understanding of the Wiradjuri history of the Wagga Wagga region via Bundyi Cultural Tours . Led by proud Wiradjuri guide Mark Saddler, you have various options you can select from.

visitors admiring the scenery during a walking tour with Bundyi Cultural Tours — Soak up the history and majestic scenery in Wagga Wagga. (Image: Destination NSW)

The two-hour walking tour is a great choice if you’re limited with time, but if you can, the full-day ‘Taste Of Wiradjuri’ experience is not to be missed – you’ll get to try bush tucker and immerse yourself in the ancient culture of the region.

visitors exploring the area with Bundyi Cultural Tours — Discover the vibrant Wiradjuri history of the Wagga Wagga region with Bundyi Cultural Tours. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Ruby Tuesday

Feel like a bit of retail therapy? Fitzmaurice Street is home to some of the best shopping in Wagga Wagga, with plenty of boutiques to wander through. Ruby Tuesday is a must-visit. The airy, light-filled store is home to a wide range of Australian designer labels like Christopher Esber, Spell, Matin and Sir.

a woman holding a wardrobe at Ruby Tuesday, Wagga — Try out Australian designer brands at Ruby Tuesday.

7. Texas Jane

After visiting Ruby Tuesday, head across the road to Texas Jane , another fashion boutique stocking well-loved Australian labels. Here, you’ll find brands like Camilla, Alias Mae, Palm Noosa and Shona Joy.

a display of jewellery at Texas Jane, Wagga Wagga — Shop fashionable jewellery at Texas Jane.

8. Ted And Olive

It’s also worth popping into Ted And Olive, another wonderful Wagga Wagga fashion boutique selling all your favourite labels. Here, you’ll find Agolde jeans, Kip & Co, BLANCA and Avenue The Label, among others.

an array of products at Ted And Olive boutique shop, Wagga Wagga — Swing by Ted And Olive for a memorable shopping haul. (Image: Ted And Olive)

9. Wagga Wagga Show

If you’re planning a visit in spring, align with the Wagga Wagga Show . Held every year at the beginning of September, it’s been in existence since 1864 and has grown into a significant celebration of both culture and agriculture in the region.

Wander through the exhibits and check out award winners across a multitude of fields, from cake making and crafts to sheep and cattle. Make sure to stay for the headline music artist, and of course enjoy the fair rides.

10. Wagga Wagga Markets

While the Wagga Wagga Show might be the main attraction when it comes to a day out with the family, there are two regular markets that happen in the city, year-round. Visit the Riverina Producers Market for locally grown vegetables and fruits, plus regional cheeses and preserves. They’re held every Thursday at the Wagga Showgrounds.

If crafts are more up your alley, the River & Wren Markets are held regularly throughout the year at the showgrounds – check the website for the next upcoming event.

11. Borambola Wines

All shopped out? Take a break at Borambola Wines , a 30-minute drive out of Wagga Wagga. Borambola Wines first began with a chardonnay vine in 1995, and now produces a wide range of wines, from sparkling through to shiraz.

the exterior of Borambola Wines homestead — The beautiful homestead at Borambola Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

Their cellar door offers wine tastings of three whites and three reds, plus you can sample the property’s Tuckerbox cider and beer, too.

a bartender arranging a stack of wine bottles at the bar counter of Borambola Wines — Sign up for wine tasting at Borambola Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

12. Museum of the Riverina

The Museum of the Riverina is where history buffs should head when visiting Wagga Wagga. With two sites – the Historic Council Chambers site and the recently redeveloped Botanic Gardens site – there is plenty to learn, from Wiradjuri history to the sports heroes of the region, plus don’t miss the gold Chico roll (the Australian fried delicacy was first created in Wagga Wagga).

indigenous art adorning the pavement outside the The Wagga Wagga Civic Centre and the Museum of the Riverina — Find Indigenous art adorning the pavement outside the Museum of The Riverina. (Image: Destination NSW)

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.

12 of the best things to do in Wagga Wagga