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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Your guide to what’s new and exciting this summer on the Central Coast

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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    From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

    Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

    Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

    1. Gosford’s glow up

    room at voco gosford
    Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

    Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

    Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

    Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG). Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery, the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

    Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

    2. Newcomers to the dining scene

    table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal
    Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

    The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

    Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

    Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

    Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

    3. New Central Coast experiences

    winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery
    Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

    It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

    Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

    Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast, which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

    For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

    4. Central Coast accommodation

    view from a cottage at Noonaweena
    Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

    There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

    Allawah, a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

    In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

    To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort. This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

    5. Shopping on the Central Coast

    Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast
    Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

    For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

    Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets, where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

    Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

    Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics, or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

    For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co. This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

    Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com.