Meet a lion pride as you explore the savannah-like terrain of the iconic zoo, discover the history behind the sandstone walls of the old Dubbo Gaol, taste some country flavours at a classic country pub. Dubbo is full of unforgettable experiences.

A highlight of Dubbo is the iconic Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Situated on open country that feels like an African savannah, this zoo delivers zoofari experiences complete with resident elephants, hippos and giraffes. Visit the zoo’s Lion Pride Land, set within a replica of a Maasai African village, and see these regal creatures up close. Relax at The Waterhole, where you’ll find an outdoor cafe and water play for the kids. Ride or drive around the zoo or meet its residents up close on a tour.   

Step back in time at the heritage-listed Old Dubbo Gaol. From 1847 to 1966, this site operated as a prominent prison within its high red-brown walls and watchtower. Today you can explore the remarkably preserved cell blocks, and discover some of the prison’s surprising secrets. You can also see the original gallows as well as an interactive display that tells the story of the gaol’s colonial past.

 

Journey further into the region and its remarkable past at the Western Plains Cultural Centre. Home to a gallery, museum and community arts centre, this venue hosts outstanding exhibitions and displays, from photography to fine arts as well as touring domestic exhibitions. At The Royal Flying Doctor Experience, take a seat on the outback service that covers 7.69 million kilometres.

 

By the Macquarie River, Terramungamine Reserve is home to 150 historic Aborginal grinding grooves etched in stone. This site was used to shape spears and was a significant meeting point for the Tubbagah people. Only 45 minutes from Dubbo, the cavernous Wellington Caves are a spectacular phenomenon. Take a tour and see the bones of fossilised megafauna.

With traditional country pubs, gourmet bakeries and thriving cafes, Dubbo makes the most of its local produce. Located just past the entrance to Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Red Earth Estate Vineyard is a local vineyard that produces notable riesling, verdelho and grenache. Relax on the back verandah looking out over the vines, and enjoy a wine-tasting with a cheese platter.

 

Visit the heritage-listed Milestone Hotel for some historic charm and a hearty pub meal. This sandstone icon has been standing on the corner of Macquarie Street since 1881, and today serves a delicious range of cold beers as well as mouth-watering pub fare and meat from the grill.

Situated at the junction of the Newell, Mitchell and Golden Highways, it’s easy to enjoy a road trip to Dubbo. The drive from Sydney takes 4 hrs 50 mins, from Canberra its 4 hrs 40 mins, from Melbourne it takes about 9 hrs and Brisbane is 9 hrs 15 mins drive. There are also direct flights to Dubbo Airport from Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne, Ballina, Broken Hill, Bourke and Walgett.