12 of the best things to do in Wagga Wagga

Melissa Mason Melissa Mason
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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)

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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)

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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)
Melissa Mason
Melissa Mason is a freelance journalist who loves road tripping and car snacks. Previously holding Editor roles at ELLE, marie claire, Broadsheet and Pedestrian.TV, she now writes travel and lifestyle content for a wealth of Australian titles like SMH, Mamamia and Urban List, as well as copywriting for international brands. Outside of writing, she loves walks with her dog Ted, a great Sunday afternoon with friends, and op shopping. If she could be anywhere right now it would be lounging on a hammock at a tropical resort with a great romantic fantasy book.
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The tastiest new players on Newcastle’s dining scene you need to try

    Carla Grossetti Carla Grossetti
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    Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

    When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

    aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw
    Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

    Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

    1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

    pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle
    Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

    Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB,  the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

    Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

    Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

    2. Destination dining

    Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw
    Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

    One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

    Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

    3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

    people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths
    Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

    What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

    Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

    Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

    You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

    Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

    4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

    couple eating at Flotilla newcastle
    Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

    In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

    Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

    Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

    5. Newcastle nightlife

    Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw
    Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

    As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

    If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

    Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.