Explore Central NSW
Visit Central New South Wales… explore the Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, sample exquisite food and wine in Orange, enjoy Cowra's Japanese Gardens and soar high in a hot air balloon in Canowindra. There is much to explore, but be sure to plan time to take in the many hidden secrets along your way.
Top Experiences Within An Hour's Drive of Parkes
Cowra Japanese Gardens
Opened in 1979, the multi-award-winning Cowra Japanese Garden is a "must see" at any time of the year. Take time to explore the five hectares of garden and enjoy its beauty and tranquillity.
Eugowra's Village Mural Trail
Eugowra Murals commenced in 2012 with the idea to bring Eugowra tourism back to life. A group of professional, traditional signwriters and artists from all over Australia attended three days in Eugowra to unleash their creative skills and talent to produce nostalgic hand painted murals and old fashioned advertisements.
Hot Air Ballooning & Age of Fishes Museum, Canowindra
Enjoy a Hot Air Balloon flight over some beautiful Australian countryside with one of a number of operatives in the Canowindra area. Whilst in Canowindra why not enjoy a visit to the Age of Fishes Museum with thousands of fossils providing a unique glimpse into the Devonian Period - the 'Age of Fishes'.
Food & Wine Experiences in Orange
Orange in Central NSW is a great place to discover some of the best produce, wines and dining experiences in the State. Taste the cool-climate wines that Orange is famous for at one of the region's 40-plus boutique wineries. Collect a cellar-door map from the local visitor information centre.
McFeeters Motor Museum, Forbes
Located on the Newell Highway at Forbes NSW is this stunning facility built for displaying a vast collection of meticulously restored motor cars. Cars range from veterans to custom cars, rare, common and just downright bizarre.
Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo
Located on Obley Road, Dubbo. At Taronga, you'll find yourself surrounded by wildlife in wide open plains. The Zoo is home to over 700 animals including giraffes, rhinos, elephants and big cats. Daily keeper activities and special tours deliver magical experiences you will never forget.
Wellington Caves
Around 1 hours drive from Parkes is the world-famous Wellington Caves. Here you can explore the magnificent Cathedral and Garden caves or take a tour of the Phosphate Mine and discover the workings of a World War 1 mine. An experience not to be missed.
