Things to do in New South Wales

Taronga Dubbo Zoo – Australia’s Ultimate Safari Experience
Go on safari without leaving the country! Taronga Dubbo Zoo offers unforgettable wildlife encounters in the heart of NSW, perfect for families, photographers, and animal lovers alike.
Things to Do in New South Wales: Top Attractions and Experiences
From iconic coastlines to rugged mountain ranges and vast inland plains, New South Wales is a state of remarkable diversity. Whether you’re exploring the beaches of the South Coast, hiking through the Blue Mountains, sipping wine in the Hunter Valley, or uncovering ancient stories in Outback NSW, there’s something for every kind of traveller. Discover top attractions, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences across all corners of NSW.
Top Attractions - Sydney & Surrounds
Australia’s most famous city, Sydney is packed with bucket-list landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods, pristine beaches, and unique wildlife experiences. Explore iconic coastlines, dine harbourside, and discover world-class events and festivals.
Top Attractions in the Hunter Valley Wine Region
Renowned globally for its award-winning vineyards, gourmet food experiences, and scenic countryside, the Hunter Valley Wine Region offers a perfect escape just north of Sydney. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, hot air balloon rides, and explore charming cellar doors and boutique towns.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Chocolate & Cheese Factories | Artisan tastings of locally made delights | Pokolbin |
Hunter Valley Gardens | Themed floral displays and seasonal festivals | Pokolbin |
Hunter Valley Vineyards | Over 150 wineries producing Semillon, Shiraz, and more | Pokolbin & surrounds |
Hot Air Ballooning | Sunrise flights with champagne breakfasts | Pokolbin |
Horse Riding through Vineyards | Scenic horseback rides through vineyards | Pokolbin area |
Pokolbin | Central hub of wine country with cellar doors | Pokolbin |
Wine & Sculpture Trail | Outdoor art trail through vineyards | Pokolbin & surrounds |
Top Attractions on the Central Coast NSW
The Central Coast region combines beautiful beaches, national parks, and vibrant coastal towns within easy reach of Sydney. From peaceful lake cruises to coastal walks and wildlife sanctuaries, the area offers diverse attractions for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Australian Reptile Park | Interactive wildlife park featuring native reptiles and mammals | Somersby |
Bouddi National Park | Coastal walks, secluded beaches, and Aboriginal heritage sites | Bouddi Peninsula |
Gosford Regional Gallery | Art exhibitions showcasing local and national artists | Gosford |
Pelican Feeding at The Entrance | Daily pelican feeding spectacle and family-friendly park | The Entrance |
Tuggerah Lake | Popular for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnic spots | Tuggerah |
Wamberal Beach | Surf beach with nearby cafes and walking trails | Wamberal |
Top Attractions in the Illawarra & Wollongong
Nestled between the escarpment and the sea, Illawarra & Wollongong combine dramatic coastal views, adventure sports, and vibrant seaside culture. Just south of Sydney, the region is known for surfing beaches, rainforest hikes, and one of Australia’s most scenic coastal drives.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Austinmer Beach | Popular surf beach with rock pools and grassy picnic areas | Austinmer |
Bald Hill Lookout | Famous hang-gliding site with sweeping views over Sea Cliff Bridge | Stanwell Tops |
Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk | Elevated rainforest walkway and zipline experience | Knights Hill |
Kiama Blowhole | Natural sea geyser and dramatic coastal rock formations | Kiama |
Nan Tien Temple | Largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere | Berkeley (Wollongong) |
Sea Cliff Bridge | Iconic winding bridge over the ocean, part of Grand Pacific Drive | Clifton |
Wollongong Art Gallery | Regional gallery with Australian and Aboriginal art exhibitions | Wollongong |
Wollongong Head Lighthouse | Historic lighthouse with coastal views and picnic spots | Flagstaff Hill, Wollongong |
Top Attractions in the Blue Mountains National Park
Just a short drive from Sydney, Blue Mountains National Park offers rugged sandstone cliffs, ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and quaint mountain towns. It’s a top spot for hiking, photography, and experiencing Australia’s natural heritage.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mt Tomah | Cool-climate gardens with panoramic mountain views | Mt Tomah |
Echo Point Lookout | Panoramic views overlooking the Three Sisters sandstone formation | Katoomba |
Grand Canyon Walking Track | Scenic hiking trail through lush valleys and waterfalls | Blackheath |
Jenolan Caves | Extensive limestone cave network with guided tours | Jenolan |
Leura Village | Boutique shops, cafes, and gardens in a charming town | Leura |
Scenic World | Cableway, railway, and skyway rides through rainforest | Katoomba |
Three Sisters | Iconic sandstone rock formation steeped in Aboriginal legend | Katoomba |
Wentworth Falls | Waterfalls and walking tracks with lookouts | Wentworth Falls |
Top Attractions in the Northern Rivers NSW
The Northern Rivers region is a lush, subtropical area rich with rainforests, surf beaches, and vibrant towns. It’s a hotspot for alternative lifestyles, arts, and nature-based activities, offering something for every kind of traveler.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Bangalow | Stylish hinterland village with boutique shopping | Bangalow |
Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk | Sunrise views at Australia’s easternmost point | Byron Bay |
Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens | Spiritual gardens with giant crystals and tranquil walks | Mullumbimby |
Minyon Falls | Dramatic waterfall in Nightcap National Park | Nightcap National Park |
Mt Warning (Wollumbin) | Challenging pre-dawn hike with panoramic sunrise views | Near Murwillumbah |
Nimbin | Famous alternative lifestyle town with colorful arts | Nimbin |
Surfing at Byron Bay & Yamba | Popular surf beaches for all levels | Byron Bay, Yamba |
Yamba | Relaxed coastal town with beaches and fishing | Yamba |
Top Attractions in the Mid North Coast NSW
Stretching along the central coast of NSW, the Mid North Coast is known for its golden beaches, national parks, and friendly towns. It’s an ideal destination for beach lovers, hikers, and families looking for a relaxed coastal vibe.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Booti Booti National Park | Coastal rainforest walks and secluded beaches | Near Forster |
Crowdy Head Lighthouse | Scenic lighthouse with coastal views | Crowdy Head |
Dorrigo National Park | World Heritage rainforest and waterfalls | Dorrigo |
Hastings River | Popular for fishing, kayaking, and boating | Port Macquarie |
Kooloonbung Creek Nature Reserve | Wetlands and walking trails in urban Port Macquarie | Port Macquarie |
Tacking Point Lighthouse | Iconic lighthouse overlooking Pacific Ocean | Lighthouse Beach |
Top Attractions in the Southern Highlands NSW
Known for its cool climate, historic villages, and stunning gardens, the Southern Highlands offers a picturesque retreat with gourmet food, wineries, and outdoor adventures just a couple of hours from Sydney.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Berrima | Historic village with boutique shops and cafes | Berrima |
Fitzroy Falls | Dramatic waterfalls in Morton National Park | Morton National Park |
Hampden Bridge | Historic sandstone bridge and local picnic spot | Kangaroo Valley |
Morton National Park | Rainforest walks, waterfalls, and wildlife | Southern Highlands |
Southern Highlands Botanic Garden | Gardens showcasing native and exotic plants | Bowral |
Wingecarribee River | Scenic river for walking and picnicking | Various locations |
Top Attractions in the Riverina NSW
The Riverina region is a rich agricultural heartland known for its wide open plains, historic towns, and vibrant food and wine culture. It offers heritage trails, nature reserves, and relaxed country charm.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Barellan | Home to the Big Tennis Racquet landmark | Barellan |
Charles Sturt University Art Gallery | Regional art exhibitions and cultural events | Wagga Wagga |
Lake Talbot | Recreational lake with swimming and picnic areas | Wagga Wagga |
Murrumbidgee River | River activities including fishing and kayaking | Various locations |
National Art Glass Collection | Unique collection of Australian glass art | Wagga Wagga |
Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens | Gardens and walking trails | Wagga Wagga |
Top Attractions in the South Coast NSW (Jervis Bay, Batemans Bay)
The South Coast is famous for its pristine beaches, marine life, and charming towns. It’s perfect for whale watching, dolphin cruises, and exploring national parks dotted along the coastline.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Berry | Historic town known for markets and local food | Berry |
Booderee National Park | Aboriginal-owned park with beaches and botanic gardens | Jervis Bay |
Eden Whale Festival (Oct–Nov) | Celebration of humpback whale migration | Eden |
Hyams Beach | White sand beach in Jervis Bay | Jervis Bay |
Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruises | Year-round dolphin watching boat tours | Jervis Bay |
Kiama Blowhole | Natural sea geyser with coastal walking tracks | Kiama |
Murramarang National Park | Beaches, kangaroos on sand, and rainforest walks | Murramarang |
Paperbark Camp | Eco-glamping in bushland near pristine waters | Near Jervis Bay |
Sea Cliff Bridge | Ocean-hugging bridge perfect for drives and photos | Near Wollongong / South Coast |
Wild Kangroos on the beach at Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort, South Durras
Top Attractions in the New England High Country
Known for its cool climate, historic towns, and elevated plateaus, New England High Country is a rugged and scenic region offering hiking, heritage sites, and vibrant local culture in northern inland NSW.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Armidale Historic Sites | Colonial architecture and cultural heritage | Armidale |
Cathedral Rock National Park | Rugged sandstone formations and walking trails | Near Armidale |
Glen Innes Severn National Park | Bushwalking and scenic lookouts | Glen Innes |
New England National Park | Wilderness area with waterfalls and wildlife |
Top Attractions in the Outback NSW / Western NSW
Vast red landscapes, star-filled skies, and deep cultural heritage define Outback NSW. From heritage towns to lunar-like national parks, this remote and rugged region invites adventurers, photographers, and those seeking to connect with Australia’s ancient land and stories.
Attraction | Description | Location/Suburb |
---|---|---|
Broken Hill | Australia’s first heritage-listed city, rich in mining history and art | Broken Hill |
Kinchega National Park | Historic woolshed, wetlands, and red sandscapes near Menindee Lakes | Near Menindee |
Lightning Ridge | Quirky opal-mining town famous for rare black opals and eccentric art | Lightning Ridge |
Mungo National Park | World Heritage site with ancient Aboriginal history and lunette landscapes | Willandra Lakes Region |
Mutawintji National Park | Rock art, gorges, and sacred Aboriginal cultural sites | Near Broken Hill |
Paroo-Darling National Park | Birdwatching haven with semi-arid wetlands and cultural heritage | Wilcannia region |
Silverton | Historic mining town turned art hub, film location for Mad Max | Near Broken Hill |
White Cliffs | Unique underground homes in a remote opal town | White Cliffs |
Plan Your New South Wales Adventure
Whether you’re exploring the ancient footsteps of the Mungo people, marvelling at starlit skies over Broken Hill, or uncovering opal secrets in Lightning Ridge, Outback NSW / Western NSW offers a journey like no other. It’s a place where time slows down, the land tells powerful stories, and the adventure is as vast as the horizon.
New South Wales Travel Inspiration & Stories
Taronga Dubbo Zoo – Australia’s Ultimate Safari Experience
Go on safari without leaving the country! Taronga Dubbo Zoo offers unforgettable wildlife encounters in the heart of NSW, perfect for families, photographers, and animal lovers alike.
Visit Jervis Bay, NSW
Visit Jervis Bay NSW for a perfect weekend getaway! Jervis Bay is known for its beautiful beaches, national parks and wildlife.
Whale watching in Sydney Harbour
Every year Humpback Whales travel from Antarctica to the warmer waters of QLD to calve. If you are staying in Sydney, make sure you go whale watching in Sydney Harbour.
Surfing in Yamba
Although there are many seaside places for surfers along the Australian coastline, one destination that stands out is to go surfing in Yamba.
Hiking in the Blue Mountains
Hiking in the Blue Mountains is an incredibly beautiful experience. With endless viewpoints and over 1,000 canyons, it’s a unique area full of flora and fauna including koala and kookaburra.
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