TOP Things to Do in Bathurst, NSW

The beautiful Bathurst is known for its rich history, architecture and racing! Keep reading to find out our list of the best things to do in Bathurst that will keep the whole family busy.

New South Wales is known for beautiful beaches and humbling regional towns, including the popular Bathurst set high in the Central Tablelands.

The exciting regional city of Bathurst can be found a three hour drive north west from Sydney.

Traveling to Bathurst NSW can even be a fun trip down from the Gold Coast. While the drive would be approximately 10 hours, but can be broken up for some exceptional sight seeing opportunities. Read our Road trip of Port Macquarie’s coastline for stop over ideas!

Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a great holiday trip to take the kids, Bathurst really knows how to put on a show. The regional town typically has events on all year round, from Bathurst Winter Festival to the The Bathurst 1000 — there seriously is never a dull moment.

We have put together a list of attractions in Bathurst everyone can enjoy, including some family fun-focused things to do with the kids. Keep reading to find out the best things to do in Bathurst NSW.

10 Must-Dos & Attractions in Bathurst

Bathurst is the doorway to the Central West region of New South Wales, making the area an ideal landmark when adventuring into the wider region.

Famed for its motor racing history, architectural buildings and being know for the first gold discovery in New South Wales, the Bathurst region has turned into a popular tourist destination, with the below being just 10 of our favourites.

1. Abercrombie House

Where: 311 Ophir Rd, Bathurst NSW 2795

The popular Abercrombie House in Bathurst has recently just celebrated its 50th year of tourism.

Built in the 1870s by the Stewart family, the house was later bought by the Morgan family, who have spent the last 50 years restoring and maintaining the building.

These days, you can visit the home and one of Australia’s famous architectural buildings to enjoy a tour, event, Friday jazz night or even high tea.

2. Jenolan Caves

Where: 4655 Jenolan Caves Rd, Jenolan NSW 2790

Jenolan Caves are one of Australia’s best-known Limestone caves and is definitely a must-do when visiting Bathurst. The Caves have been open for more than 150 years and are believed to have been first explored by European settlers in 1838.

There are several different types of tours through Jenolan Caves you can choose from such as spooky ghost tours to self-guided tours with audio.

However, the cave is not the only attraction there. Six Foot is a walking track from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves, which is a challenging 46km walking track, taking around 3 days.

3. Bathurst Regional Art Gallery

Where: 70/78 Keppel St, Bathurst NSW 2795

The Bathurst Regional Art Gallery (BRAG) showcases exciting touring exhibitions plus pieces from local artists with the Hill End Artists in Residence program. BRAG also plays host to plenty of events, which are worth a look up before you decide to head into the gallery.

With workshops and guided tours on offer, there is always something fun to do at the gallery in Bathurst. Make sure to check out the shop for locally made products and great souvenirs.

4. Bathurst Farmer’s Market 

Where: 1 Kendall Avenue, Bathurst NSW 2795

The Bathurst Farmers Markets are typically held the fourth Saturday of each month from January to November and on the third Saturday of December.

Visiting Bathurst’s iconic market is a great opportunity to get a real feel for the area and check out local produce. When visiting the markets you will be able to find fruit, veg, meats, cakes, plants and more!

5. Mount Panorama Racing Circuit

Where: Mountain Straight, Mount Panorama NSW 2795

Check out the world famous Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit. Mount Panorama hosts popular events such as the Bathurst 1000, Mount Panorama 500, Bathurst Autofest, Supercheap Auto Bathurst International and more.

Whether you are a fan of motor racing or not, you can’t miss the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere and check out the famous race track.

6. Church Bar + Wood-Fired Pizza

Where: Ribbon Gang Ln, Bathurst NSW 2795

If you are looking for a place to dine and enjoy some craft beer than look no further than Church Bar. The former Anglican Church School House wows customers with its vintage charm and history.

When visiting, you can expect to enjoy good food and drink, good music and a good time thanks to the friendly staff. Make sure you check the place out!

You may also like: Bars in Bathurst

7. Bathurst Courthouse

Where: Russell St, Bathurst NSW 2795

Now don’t get us wrong, visiting a courthouse is not typically on the top of list of things to do. However, the stunning architecture of the historic Bathurst Courthouse is definitely worth a sticky beak.

The Bathurst Courthouse is a Heritage-Listed building designed by Colonial architect, James Barnet. Built in 1880, the courthouse proudly represents Bathurst’s history on Russell Street.

8. Bathurst Grange Distillery

Where: 3249 O’Connell Rd, Brewongle NSW 2795

Head down O’Connell Road and you will find yourself at the Bathurst Grange Distillery. With rich history that dates back more than 100 years, the distillery has become known for their premium gin in modern times. The Bathurst Grange Distillery is located in a picturesque landscape creating a perfect outing to enjoy Bathurst NSW.

9. Abercrombie Caves

Where: Abercrombie River, NSW 2795

Another one of the best things to do in Bathurst is visit the Abercrombie Caves.

The Caves largest feature ‘the Archway‘ is a must see as it is the biggest natural limestone bridge in the Southern Hemisphere. What’s there to do at some old caves you ask? Well, with a creek to swim, a wildlife sanctuary and plenty of photo opportunities, you could say there is a lot to do!

10. Blue Mountains

Where: Bracey Lookout, Lithgow NSW 2790

If you are wanting to explore the surrounding regions, make sure that you add visiting the Blue Mountains to your list of things to do near Bathurst. With an area of 11,400 km², you can find the Blue Mountains near Sydney in Australia’s New South Wales.

Known for its dramatic scenery, it provides plenty of opportunity to find look outs, walking tracks and enjoy nature whilst in Bathurst. Head east from Bathurst to visit stunning lookouts such as Bracey Lookout to see a stunning view this beautiful area.

10 Best Things To Do With Kids in Bathurst

1. National Motor Racing Museum

Where: 400 Panorama Ave, Bathurst NSW 2795

Visit the National Motor Racing Museum to learn and celebrate the history of Mount Panorama and the Bathurst 1000.

There are plenty of vintage race cars at the museum for the kiddies (and adults) to view and learn about. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop on the way out so the kids can take home a memorable toy of there experience.

2. Adventure Park

Where: Durham St & Hope Street, Bathurst NSW 2795

Your kids will be begging to check out the dinosaur-themed Adventure Playground in Victoria Park on the corner of Durham and Hope Street.

This adventure park can be enjoyed by all as it is inclusive for children with disabilities. Attractions at the park includes a flying fox, cubby house, climbing, rock wall, mazes and more!

The park is open 24 hours, seven days a week, so there are no excuses not to visit the Adventure Playground in Bathurst.

3. Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum

Where: 224 Howick St, Bathurst NSW 2795

Everybody loves dinosaur fossils, right? Visiting the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum is one of the top things to do in Bathurst, with or without kids.

With a huge collection of 2000 rare Australian fossils and Australian minerals, crystals from more than 100 Australian mine sites and a complete T-Rex skeleton, this place sounds like paradise!

Learn about Warren Somerville, the man that allowed the museum come together and enjoy an exciting experience with the family at the museum.

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4. Bathurst Rail Museum

Where: 126 Havannah St, Bathurst NSW 2795

The award-winning Bathurst Rail Museum provides insight of the social history of the railway. Learn stories about the locals and how the railway became a huge part of their lives.

The Railway Institute building was built in 1909, however, it has been a space for several social activities over time, from tennis court games and a space to listen to bands.

Even young kids are encouraged by the museum, with plenty of kid’s activities and a kid’s central space.

5. District Historical Society Museum

Where: 162 Russell St, Bathurst NSW 2795

Did you know Bathurst is Australia’s oldest inland settlement? Bathurst’s historic city centre with many ornate buildings remaining from the gold rush days were roaring during the mid-to-late 19th century.

The Bathurst District Historical Society Museum is one of Bathurst’s historic sites located in the East Wing of the Heritage-Listed Bathurst Courthouse. At the museum, you’ll even learn all about the Hill End gold discovery, which was the world’s largest single mass gold find in 1872.

 

6. Machattie Park

Where: William St & Keppel St, Bathurst NSW 2795

The beautiful Machattie Park is known for its picturesque Munro drinking fountain, Lake Spencer, Band Rotunda and Crago Fountain.

The park has been open for more than 100 years while still being a favourite spot for events and gatherings in Bathurst. This spot is a perfect rest place to have a picnic, enjoy time with the family and have a walk around.

7. Barcoos Farmstay

Where: 1080 Trunkey Rd, Perthville NSW 2795

For an incredible family experience, make sure to add visiting the Barcoos Farmstay to your list of things to do in Bathurst. If you are needing a place to stay, there is the The Valley View Unit, The Hillview Unit and the Wardell Farmhouse on offer.

The Farmstay also supplies a light breakfast to get you ready for the fun day ahead. With activities that include collecting eggs, pony rides, farm tours and feeding the animals, the kids won’t want to leave.

8. Bathurst Goldfields

Where: 428 Conrod Straight, Mount Panorama NSW 2795

Enjoy the Bathurst Goldfields excursion centre’s public tours as a great family outing. The venue host several events itself, however the two hour public tours seems like a must for a kid friendly activity.

The Bathurst Goldfields showcases a gold tour and panning while an opportunity to walk through the museum displays of fossicking, mining tools, an underground mine and blacksmith shop.

9. Ash’s Speedway Museum

Where: 2/10 Bradwardine Rd, Robin Hill NSW 2795

Ash’s Speedway Museum is home to the largest collection of speedway memorabilia in the Southern Hemisphere.

This huge space provides an opportunity to have a walk around and look at cool vintage items and epic motor sport vehicles. It’s definitely one for the kiddies to enjoy.

10. Mayfield Garden

Where: 530 Mayfield Rd, Oberon NSW 2787

The last on our list of things to do in Bathurst NSW includes visiting the stunning Mayfield Garden. Located 35 minutes from Bathurst, the garden spreads across 16-hectares. With unique landscapes in the divided sections, there is plenty to see at the garden.

There is plenty of space for the kids to run around and great family photo opportunities, making the MayField Gardens is a must see in Bathurst.

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