Where To Eat, Stay & Play In Wagga Wagga

It may be known as the land of many crows, but Wagga Wagga and surrounds are fast evolving into the land of boutique stays, quality coffee, gourmet restaurants, fine wines and rich cultural experiences.

Planted alongside the Murrumbidgee River near the Great Dividing Range in New South Wales’ Riverina region is Wagga Wagga. Translated as ‘the land of many crows’ from the Wiradjuri Aboriginal language, the inland city is emerging as one of the state’s most idyllic weekend escapes. We’ve uncovered the best places to eat, stay and play while you’re there.

Wagga Wagga restaurants

Dig into a selection of exquisite meals at these top restaurants and cafes in Wagga Wagga.

Larry’s

Larry’s, formerly known as 10BestSt, is located on one of the main streets in the centre of town and is one of the most popular cafes in Wagga Wagga. The specialty coffee roasters serve up excellent coffee alongside a well-rounded breakfast menu. You’ll find old favourites such as eggs benedict, smashed avocado, eggs your way and toasted muesli served with seasonal fruits and yoghurt, as well as a selection of tasty sides to build your own ideal dish.

Sit down for a hearty breakfast at Larry’s. (Image: Ash Smith)

Address: 10 Best Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW

Fitz Cafe

At first glance, Fitz Cafe looks like a tiny takeaway cafe with limited outdoor seating, but step inside through the door to the left and you’ll find the cafe’s cosy indoor seating area. Industrial-looking lights dangle from the jungle growth of greenery on the ceiling and chilled tunes play over the speakers. Sit and enjoy a coffee and one of the many treats from the cafe’s counter cabinet or choose from their extensive all-day breakfast menu. There are also salads, wraps and focaccias available to order for lunch. The cafe offers gluten-free and vegan options.

Address: 84-86 Fitzmaurice Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW

Trail Street Coffee Shop

The Trail Street Coffee Shop is a bit of an institution in Wagga. Established in 1999, the cafe grinds up specialty beans from Full Circle Coffee Roasters and serves one of the best coffees you’ll find in town.

It’s the kind of quirky, edgy cafe you’d expect to find in diverse Sydney suburbs like Marrickville, with lycra-clad cyclists sitting outside enjoying their coffee pit stop, early risers typing away on their laptops and groups of young and old who come for the food, coffee and company. Top it all off with a stellar breakfast and lunch menu and you can see why this is a local favourite.

a close-up shot of a brunch meal at Trail St Coffee Shop, Wagga Wagga

Stop by for brunch at Trail St Coffee Shop. (Image: Justine Brentenall)

Address: 34 Trail Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW

Cottontail Restaurant & Winery

While Wagga Wagga is filled with cosy pubs that have extensive wine lists, it’s worth heading out of town and checking out drops straight from the vine. This family-owned-and-run restaurant and vineyard is just 15 minutes from the centre of town. Ask for a seat on the deck so you can enjoy the view (they have ample heating, so don’t worry about the cold).

Cottontail’s menu offers a mix of real good comfort food and modern dining, so you can share a few wood-fired pizzas or go a bit fancier with crispy pork belly or the trio of lamb. Don’t skip dessert – the rice chocolate pave with salted caramel, toasted hazelnuts and ice-cream is not to be missed.

a close-up shot of food at Cottontail Restaurant & Winery, Wagga Wagga

Discover cheesy favourites at Cottontail Restaurant & Winery.

Address: 562 Pattersons Road, Eunanoreenya, NSW

The Artisan Baker

You can even find a little slice of France in Wagga at the Artisan Baker on Morgan Street in the town centre. The French-born owner and baker creates the most delectable French pastries, sweets and fresh, crunchy, soft-centred baguettes.

Address: 2/189 Morgan Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW

Wagga Wagga accommodation

Wagga Wagga is an RV-friendly town, but if you’re heading in sans caravan it’s worth considering some of the state’s most unique and luxurious accommodation options that can be found just outside of Wagga. You’ll leave feeling refreshed from a rural escape in the Riverina and energised from the peaceful surrounds of the Australian bush.

Kimo Estate

Nothing says cosy, country escape like a couple of nights in a wooden-and-glass eco hut on top of a hill, complete with a fireplace, expansive views of the night sky and nothing but rolling green hills to see in every direction.

A stay at one of Kimo Estate’s eco huts is luxury glamping at its absolute best. Linger under the rainfall shower and lather up the beautiful Leif body products, then sit by the fire with a glass or two of Gundagai’s own Borambola Wines shiraz.

a wood-fired hot tub outside the Sweeney's Eco Hut on Kimo Estate, Nangus near Gundagai.

Soak in a wood-fired hot tub outside your rustic eco hut. (Image: Destination NSW)

A gourmet dinner basket for two is available to order and delivered direct to your door ready to cook on the barbecue. Breakfast isn’t overlooked either. You’ll find homemade baked beans, eggs, bacon, cherry tomatoes in balsamic dressing and fresh sourdough bread in the bushman outdoor fridge.

Wake up to the countryside at Kimo Estate (image: Matt Beaver).

The eco hut has everything you need to unwind from the busyness of life and reconnect with nature. While it is closer to Gundagai than Wagga, as you’re sitting on the deck watching the sun drop behind the hills of Kimo and the sky change from hues of pink to purple and blue, you’ll agree it is more than worth the drive.

the scenic grounds of Kimo Estate, Nangus near Gundagai

Kimo Estate features luxury A-frame Eco hut cottages. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 1218 Nangus Road, Gundagai, NSW

Things to do in Wagga Wagga

There is plenty to experience in and around Wagga; you’ll find everything from foodie experiences and wineries to Aboriginal cultural tours.

Bundyi Aboriginal Cultural Tours

I can’t recommend the Bundyi Cultural Tours enough. Spending a couple of hours with Mark Saddler, a proud Wiradjuri man, will enrich your understanding of the local Aboriginal culture in significant ways. Not only do you get to learn about plants, animals, the Wiradjuri language, tool-making and bush tucker on a walking tour of central Wagga; but Mark encourages respectful discussion of the impact of what has been taken from his people and his vision for how we can work together towards a better future.

visitors admiring the scenery during a walking tour with Bundyi Cultural Tours

Soak up the history and majestic scenery in Wagga Wagga with Bundyi Cultural Tours. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 7/295 Copland St, Wagga Wagga NSW

Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory

Could there be a better combination than licorice and chocolate? Don’t pass up the opportunity to visit the Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory. Owner Neil Druce is as much of a town attraction as the restored flour mill that houses his factory. Back in 1998 he had the ingenious idea to use the wheat and spelt grown on his family’s Green Grove Organics farm in Ardlethan to make licorice. Today his products can be found in shops all around Australia and overseas.

Tours are open to the public daily and allow visitors to see the magic happen behind the scenes. You can also make your own giant chocolate freckle or rocky road, or if you’d rather just eat it all you can stock up on sweets at the shop at the end.

Stay for lunch at the Millroom restaurant and if you’re visiting on a weekend there is live music from 11 am to 3 pm.

Address: 45-61 Lord Street, Junee, NSW

Coolamon Cheese Tour and Tasting

Is cheese your love language? You’ll want to take a drive to Coolamon Cheese. Take a tour of the cheese factory, eat a cheese-inspired meal (can recommend the nachos) and top it all off with a tasting platter of the Coolamon Cheese range.

Its range of semi-hard cheeses uses native ingredients such as bush tomato, alpine pepper, lemon myrtle and river mint to create uniquely Australian flavours. It also makes an impressive range of blue, soft and hard cheeses. All its cheese is handmade onsite and developed under the guidance of international award-winning cheesemaker, Jenn Nestor.

Make sure you stock up on accompaniments for your selection of take-home cheeses, like vanilla figs and spiced pumpkin chutney – the shop’s selection of providores is highly curated, and all products are designed to complement the cheeses on offer.

Take your time choosing from many varieties at Coolamon Cheese Co.

Address: 87 Cowabbie Street, Coolamon, NSW

Borambola Wines cellar door tasting

Make time for a wine tasting at Borambola Wines. The owner-operator Tim McMullen is as much of a gifted storyteller as he is winemaker. There is a tale behind every wine you taste, from the time Prince Charles announced his “double joy" at tasting Tim’s wines to the bullet scars in the walls of the Old Borambola Homestead left behind after a visit from the notorious bushranger Captain Moonlite in the late 1800s.

Taste a selection of his red, white and sparkling wines, as well as his Tuckerbox ‘Hoppy Lager’ beer and apple cider; best enjoyed alongside a cheese platter. If you’re a red wine lover, you should definitely purchase a few bottles of the Hiraji’s Spell shiraz and Moonlight cabernet sauvignon.

The cellar door is open Thursday to Monday for tastings by appointment or book in a group tasting.

the exterior of Borambola Wines homestead

Head to Borambola Wines for a glass of chardonnay. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 1734 Sturt Highway, Borambola, NSW

Charles Sturt Winery

While you’re on the wine-tasting circuit, make another stop at Charles Sturt Wines cellar door on the university campus. You’ll find a selection of Charles Sturt’s boutique wine range to taste and buy.

After your tasting, we’d recommend ordering a cheese platter, a bottle of wine and sitting outside to enjoy the views of the countryside. The cellar door is open for tastings and sales from Wednesday to Sunday.

Wine and cheese board from CSU Winery in Wagga

Order a cheese platter, a bottle of wine and sit outside to enjoy the views of the countryside.

Address: Mambarra Drive, Charles Sturt University Campus, Wagga Wagga, NSW

Food I Am Cooking Class

If you’d call yourself a foodie and you love experimenting in the kitchen, you’ll want to treat yourself to this unique culinary experience. Set up high on a hill overlooking Wagga’s countryside, it’s easy to see why Food I Am’s site doubles as a popular wedding reception location.

The cooking school offers a range of masterclasses run by guest chefs. You’ll be introduced to numerous cooking techniques and cuisines from around the world – and get to eat everything that’s cooked on the day with regional wine and beer to drink. Classes usually run for around four hours. Find the latest available classes to book on its website.

Aerial shot of Food I Am cooking class eating on long table in Wagga Wagga

Don’t miss this cooking class when you’re in Wagga. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 29 Kunzea Place (Off Dunns Road), Springvale, Wagga Wagga, NSW

From boutique heritage-listed hotels perfect for two, to farm stays fit for outdoorsy families, these five Wagga Wagga accommodation options aim to please.

This Riverina city, halfway between Sydney and Melbourne, has plenty to keep visitors entertained. The largest inland city in NSW, Wagga promises a burgeoning food and drink scene and an array of tempting outdoor pursuits. And thankfully, there’s a slew of different hotels, holiday parks and farmstays for all kinds of travellers here too.

1. The Houston Wagga Wagga

Interconnecting rooms? Yep. Complimentary light breakfast? Absolutely. While this historic redbrick hotel happily accepts guests travelling with children, really it makes for a romantic couple’s getaway. Located on a tree-lined street just on the cusp of Wagga’s CBD, this four-star boutique property has just 11 suites, all featuring an understated look and sumptuous textures that ooze refined luxury.

The four-star boutique property has just 11 suites.

The heritage-listed neo-gothic style building, once known as Belmore House, has nine different suite styles to choose from. The Houston Suite is arguably the pick of the bunch and boasts a private balcony, a kitchen, and an antique dining setting. Relax in The Houston’s landscaped gardens with a good book or spend a lazy morning in your suite before hitting the road to go sightseeing.

Relax in the quiet outdoor courtyard with a good book.

Address: 44 Kincaid Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650

2. Quality Hotel Rules Club Wagga Wagga

Open since late 2016, the rooms at this four-star property are light, bright and airy, featuring a contemporary and minimalist design. Moreover, this understated address from the Quality Hotels chain meets a lot of different needs.

the property exterior of Quality Hotel Rules Club Wagga Wagga

Stay near the centre of town at Quality Hotel Rules Club Wagga Wagga.

If you’re in search of mid-range Wagga accommodation, the rooms here lead in from $149 a night. If you need accessible accommodation in Wagga, there are four accessible rooms on-site. And if you’re travelling to Wagga on business, the Rules Club offers conferencing options and lounge areas for relaxed working environments.

There are even multiple free-to-use electric car charging stations in the car park for those with electric vehicles. The only real downside to the Quality Hotel Rules Club is its location, slightly away from the thick of things, in Glenfield Park, from where it’s a 50-minute walk, or a 10-minute drive, into the centre of town.

a look inside the bedroom unit at Quality Hotel Rules Club Wagga Wagga

Lay back in your standard suite.

Address: 188 Fernleigh Road, Wagga Wagga, Nsw, 2650

3. Kimo Estate

While technically in Gundagai, Kimo Estate is just a 45-minute drive from Wagga Wagga and well worth the distance, as it’s one of the most unique accommodation options in NSW.

Kimo Estate features luxury A-frame Eco hut cottages. (Image: Destination NSW)

For couples, the Eco Huts are as romantic as it gets – off-grid but with fireplaces to keep you warm during the cooler months and situated to catch farm breezes through summer, each Eco Hut features a wood-fired hot tub with spectacular views of the property and beyond, plus its own slice of farm tranquillity, as each hut is positioned to ensure complete privacy from other guests staying at the property.

Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. (Image: Destination NSW)

Larger groups can choose between multi-bedroom cottages or the 12-person Shearer’s Quarters, which features three double and three twin bedrooms and has been designed to retain the essence of rural Australian living.

Think a slanted corrugated iron roof and rustic wooden sinks in the bathroom. You can also order BBQ packs featuring Riverina produce for your group, to really lean into the farm stay aspect.

Soak in a wood-fired hot tub outside your rustic eco hut. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 1218 Nangus Rd, Nangus, NSW, 2722

4. International Hotel Wagga Wagga

The expansive International Hotel Wagga Wagga is all about proximity – 10 minutes from the airport and a two minute drive from Wagga’s central district with its fine dining restaurants, the hotel offers a wide range of room options including an adaptable suite for those with disabilities and two-bedroom suites for families and groups.

The real drawcard, however, are the luxury pillow-top King-Koil mattresses. A great night’s sleep is practically guaranteed.

Address: Corner of Sturt Hwy &, Lake Albert Rd, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650

5. Mercure Wagga Wagga

The Mercure Wagga Wagga is a modern hotel that features 86 rooms with flexible bedding configurations, making it a great choice if travelling with friends or little ones.

a look inside one of the bedrooms at Mercure Wagga Wagga

The bedroom can fit couples and small families.

What we love about this hotel is its proximity to Bolton Park, which includes the Oasis swimming centre. The hotel offers free passes to the centre, which also encompasses a full gym for those who want to keep fit during their trip.

Dip in the pool.

It’s also a short walk to many of the best things to do in Wagga Wagga, like the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery and the beginning of Fitzmaurice Street with its boutiques and cafes.

a dining area inside Mercure Wagga Wagga

There’s a restaurant inside where you can dine.

The popular Wiradjuri trail is right at your doorstep, too – just a few minutes’ walk down Day Street will see you on the banks of the Murrumbidgee at a section of the walk that will be more peaceful than parts closer to the town centre.

the property exterior of Mercure Wagga Wagga

Book your stay at Mercure Wagga Wagga.

Address: 1 Morgan St, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

6. Mantra Pavilion Hotel Wagga Wagga

Being built around the largest six-sided canopy in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s hard to miss the Mantra Pavilion Hotel in Wagga Wagga. Located right in the central business district, it’s one of the best accommodation options for proximity to Wagga Wagga’s excellent fine dining and cafe culture.

Mantra Pavilion is also focused on catering to those visiting the city for work, with ample workspace provided in each room plus conference and business facilities in the wider hotel like free high-speed wi-fi access.

Address: 22-30 Kincaid St, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

7. Australian Homestead Motor Lodge

While this 3.5-star Wagga Wagga accommodation is a little more no-frills than some of the larger hotels in the region, the Australian Homestead Motor Lodge remains one of the top-rated options in the city and with prices starting from $120 per night, is also one of the most affordable, too.

The only downside is that you’ll have to drive into town. The property is located on the Sturt Highway, closer to Wagga Wagga airport in the suburb of Gumly Gumly. However, if you’ve brought along a four-legged friend, visitors to the motor lodge rave about its dog friendly policy. Reviews online praise the comfortable, clean accommodation, often not seen in dog friendly hotels and motels.

Address: 3791 Sturt Hwy, Gumly Gumly NSW 2652

8. Wagga Wagga Country Cottages

Set on five acres of land, Wagga Wagga Country Cottages grants you the best of both worlds: peaceful countryside accommodation and proximity to everything Wagga Wagga has to offer. However, with only three cottages available to book, you’ll need to plan ahead for a stay at this property.

All cottages feature spectacular views of the Riverina and plenty of privacy. They are designed to be a home away from home with lounge spaces and kitchenettes, plus a spa bath for soaking in (BYO gripping novel). While the decor is perhaps not as modern as some of the hotels in town, rates are competitive considering the self-contained aspect and size – prices start at $170 per night for up to two guests.

Address: 85 Hillary St, North Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

9. Quality Inn Carriage House

Outside of town and on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, you’ll find the tranquil Quality Inn Carriage House. This is the Wagga Wagga accommodation to pick if you prefer to be a little more away from the action and love the closeness of nature.

a bedroom with curtains that open up to scenic nature views at Quality Inn Carriage House

Wake up to scenic nature views.

The hotel’s grounds are spacious and well-kept, featuring a swimming pool that operates seasonally plus two tennis courts for anyone keen on a match. Having a less populated section of the Murrumbidgee and its Wiradjuri trail at your doorstep is also a benefit – you won’t be competing for space with as many joggers and bike riders as the hotel is further out of town. Even so, the town centre is just a five-minute drive away, so heading in for a bite to eat or to explore the Wagga Wagga attractions isn’t too difficult.

a look inside Quality Inn Carriage House

The Quality Inn Carriage House comes with plenty of seating areas.

Address: 7 Eunony Bridge Rd, East Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

10. Wagga RSL Motel

RSL’s and ‘quality accommodation’ aren’t usually considered synonymous, but Wagga RSL Motel is definitely an exception to the rule. It offers a variety of renovated rooms that range from self-contained apartments with full kitchens through to spa suites for those looking for a more indulgent stay.

a look inside the bedroom at Wagga RSL Motel

Settle in your cosy bed at Wagga RSL Motel.

Rates are surprisingly competitive considering the quality of accommodation. Prices start at $149/night, and if you book directly through the RSL website you’ll receive complimentary breakfast, a free room upgrade and a late checkout. Go for the executive spa suite with its jet-massage bathtub and spacious living area.

the living room interior at Wagga RSL Motel

Sit back and relax on the couch.

Address: 156 Kincaid Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

11. Astor Inn

Interested in affordable Wagga Wagga accommodation close to town? The Astor Inn’s ‘cosy’ rooms are smaller than most but offer a cheap price that will appeal to travellers on a budget, with the benefit of being a stone’s throw from cafes, restaurants and shopping centres.

Standard cosy rooms start at $129 per night and are designed for single occupancy, while standard queen rooms start at $149 per night for two-person occupancy. The hotel also offers free parking and a popular on-site restaurant – order from the ‘Mallee Smoke & Flame’ menu for juicy, charcoal-grilled meats.

Settle in your humble abode at Astor Inn.

Address: 104 Edward St, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

12. Quest Wagga Wagga

Quest apartment hotels are often the go-to for those visiting regional centres for work as they’re known for consistently premium, self-contained accommodation.

a well-lit property exterior at Quest Wagga Wagga

Pop in Quest Wagga Wagga on your next visit to the city.

Quest Wagga Wagga fits the bill – rooms are modern and comfortable, with options ranging from studios with smaller kitchenettes through to apartments with full kitchen facilities for longer stays.

a look inside the living area at Quest Wagga Wagga

Relax on the couch with a glass of wine in hand. (Image: Hayley K Photography)

Little touches like an on-site library and bbq area will have you feeling even more at home.

a spacious living and dining area at Quest Wagga Wagga

Quest Wagga Wagga is complete with dining and kitchen amenities. (Image: Hayley K Photography)

Address: 69 Gurwood St, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

13. Townhouse Hotel Wagga Wagga

Home to one of Wagga Wagga’s most highly rated restaurants, the Townhouse Hotel also harbours hotel rooms, and lies in a plum spot, right in the thick of the city. Go for one of the recently spruced up deluxe rooms or executive suites, which feature simple, clean lines and a modern look, plus all your standard amenities, of course. It’s perfect for a couple’s weekend getaway.

a modern suite at Townhouse Hotel Wagga Wagga

Sit back and relax in your modern suite at Townhouse Hotel Wagga Wagga.

Address: 70 Morgan St, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

Original article written by Chloe Cann with updates by Melissa Mason

Where to eat, stay and play in Wagga Wagga