Weekend in Dubbo

Paved path running along the Macquarie River through town. Connects several parks and has benches for resting. Easy flat walk suitable for all fitness levels.

Tip: Start at the River Street bridge and head south — you'll hit the weir and wetland boardwalk in 20 minutes, which is the most scenic section.

Contemporary art gallery and museum covering local history, natural science and indigenous culture. Regularly changing exhibitions and a children's discovery area.

Tip: Check the website before visiting – they often run free workshops on weekends for kids and families.

20-hectare gardens with themed sections including a dry climate garden, Japanese garden and native rainforest. Well-maintained walking paths and a duck pond.

Tip: The Shoyoen Japanese Garden is best in spring when the cherry blossoms are out. Bring bread for the ducks, but skip the pond area if you're afraid of geese.

Unsealed lookout on a hill south of the city giving a 180-degree view over Dubbo and the Macquarie River floodplain. Bench seating and a small shelter.

Tip: Go at sunset for the best light – the city lights come on and you can see the zoo's elephant house in the distance. It's a short, steep gravel climb so don't try it in a low sedan after rain.

Sprawling 30-hectare garden with distinct sections: a Japanese garden, arid zone, and sensory garden. Good for a quiet afternoon walk or picnic.

Tip: Visit the Sensory Garden at dawn for birdwatching — fewer people and more active birdlife.

The open-range zoo has a free public picnic area with playgrounds, walking tracks and a cafe. You can see some enclosures from outside the paid entrance.

Tip: Arrive early morning to spot kangaroos and wallabies grazing near the fence line on the free walking path along the Obley Road side.

Restored 1840s prison with original cells, gallows and grim artefacts. Audio guide included in the low entry fee. The tour is self-guided and fairly quick – about 45 minutes.

Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid school groups. The entry is under $15 for adults and includes a solid chunk of local convict history.

Heritage-listed gaol from 1847 with guided tours and prisoner stories. Entry is about $25 for adults but worthwhile for history buffs.

Tip: Their self-guided audio tour is decent value — you can take your time. Allow 1.5 hours max.

Public observatory with telescope tours of the southern night sky. Low-cost evening sessions ($20–25 per person) with knowledgeable guides.

Tip: Book ahead for new moon phases — darker skies show more stars. They do kids' sessions too.

Major open-range zoo with free-roaming animals. Entry costs around $50 for adults but offers a whole day out. Consider the basic footpath entry — it's cheaper than the safari optio

Tip: Bring your own bike to cycle the 6km loop; bike hire on-site is pricey. Weekday mornings are quietest.