Are you looking for a holiday destination that offers something for everyone? A place where you can enjoy the best of Australian culture, nature, food and wine, without the crowds and the hassle? A place where you can discover the secrets and surprises of a region that is rich in history, diversity and charm? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should visit Wagga Wagga, a hidden gem in the heart of Australia.
Wagga Wagga is the largest inland city in New South Wales, located on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, about halfway between Sydney and Melbourne. It is a vibrant and welcoming city, with a population of over 60,000 people, and a proud Aboriginal heritage. Wagga Wagga is also the gateway to the Riverina region, a fertile and scenic area that is home to some of the finest produce, wine and attractions in Australia.
In this article, we will show you why Wagga Wagga is a great holiday destination, and how you can plan and enjoy your trip to this amazing city.
Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, with your family or with your friends, you will find something to suit your taste and budget in Wagga Wagga. So, what are you waiting for? Read on and discover the wonders of Wagga Wagga!
Wagga Wagga’s Attractions and Activities
One of the best things about Wagga Wagga is that it has something for everyone, whether you are into art, history, nature or adventure. Here are some of the top attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Wagga Wagga:
The Wagga Wagga Art Gallery and the National Art Glass Collection: If you are an art lover, you will be amazed by the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, which is the largest regional gallery in New South Wales. It features a diverse and dynamic collection of contemporary art, as well as the stunning National Art Glass Collection, which showcases the works of over 200 Australian and international glass artists. You can also join a guided tour, attend a workshop or browse the gift shop at the gallery.
The Museum of the Riverina and the RAAF Wagga Heritage Centre: If you are interested in the history and heritage of Wagga Wagga and the Riverina region, you should visit the Museum of the Riverina and the RAAF Wagga Heritage Centre. The Museum of the Riverina has two sites, one at the historic Council Chambers and one at the Botanic Gardens. It tells the stories of the people, places and events that shaped the region, through exhibitions, displays and interactive activities. The RAAF Wagga Heritage Centre is located at the Wagga Wagga RAAF Base, and it showcases the history and role of the Royal Australian Air Force in Wagga Wagga and Australia, through memorabilia, aircraft and vehicles.
The Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens and the Wiradjuri Walking Track: If you are looking for a relaxing and scenic escape, you should visit the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens and the Wiradjuri Walking Track. The Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens are a beautiful and tranquil oasis, where you can admire the flora and fauna, enjoy a picnic or a barbecue, or explore the themed gardens, such as the Chinese Garden, the Australian Native Garden and the Mini Zoo. The Wiradjuri Walking Track is a 42-kilometre loop that follows the Murrumbidgee River and the Wollundry Lagoon, and passes by some of the most iconic landmarks and natural features of Wagga Wagga. You can walk, cycle or jog along the track, and learn about the culture and history of the Wiradjuri people, the traditional owners of the land.
The Wagga Wagga Beach and the Murrumbidgee River: If you are looking for some fun and adventure, you should visit the Wagga Wagga Beach and the Murrumbidgee River. The Wagga Wagga Beach is a sandy and shady spot, where you can swim, sunbathe, fish or play. It is also the venue for the annual Gumi Race, a quirky and colourful event where participants race down the river on inflatable rafts. The Murrumbidgee River is a majestic and mighty waterway, where you can enjoy a range of activities, such as kayaking, canoeing, rafting, boating or fishing. You can also join a river cruise, a guided tour or a fishing charter, and experience the beauty and diversity of the river and its surroundings.
The Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre and the Wagga Wagga Festival of Music: If you are looking for some entertainment and culture, you should visit the Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre and the Wagga Wagga Festival of Music. The Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre is a modern and elegant venue, where you can watch a variety of performances, such as theatre, comedy, music, dance, opera and ballet. It also hosts local and national events, such as the Wagga Wagga Comedy Festival, the Wagga Wagga Writers Festival and the Wagga Wagga Jazz Festival. The Wagga Wagga Festival of Music is a biennial event that celebrates the musical talent and diversity of Wagga Wagga and the Riverina region. It features concerts, workshops, masterclasses and competitions, covering genres such as classical, jazz, folk, rock and pop.
Wagga Wagga’s Food and Wine Scene
One of the highlights of visiting Wagga Wagga is indulging in its food and wine scene, which is diverse, delicious and delightful. Wagga Wagga has a range of places to eat and drink, from cosy cafes and pubs, to fine dining restaurants and wineries. Here are some of the best places to eat and drink in Wagga Wagga:
The Thirsty Crow Brewing Co. and the Borambola Wines:
If you are a beer or wine lover, you will love the Thirsty Crow Brewing Co. and the Borambola Wines, two of the most popular and award-winning producers in the region. The Thirsty Crow Brewing Co. is a microbrewery and pub, where you can taste and buy a variety of craft beers, such as the Vanilla Milk Stout, the Hoppy Ending Pale Ale and the Wagga Lager. You can also enjoy a meal, a snack or a pizza at the pub, or join a brewery tour or a tasting session. The Borambola Wines is a family-owned winery and cellar door, where you can sample and buy a range of wines, such as the Sparkling Cuvee, the Chardonnay and the Shiraz. You can also enjoy a cheese platter, a picnic or a barbecue at the winery, or join a wine tour or a tasting session.
The Blessed Bean and the Trail Street Coffee Shop:
If you are a coffee lover, you will be impressed by the Blessed Bean and the Trail Street Coffee Shop, two of the best cafes in Wagga Wagga. The Blessed Bean is a specialty coffee roaster and cafe, where you can savour and buy a variety of coffee beans, blends and brews, such as the Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, the Colombian Supremo and the Cold Drip. You can also enjoy a breakfast, a brunch or a lunch at the cafe, or join a coffee workshop or a cupping session. The Trail Street Coffee Shop is a trendy and friendly cafe, where you can sip and buy a range of coffee drinks, such as the Flat White, the Cappuccino and the Latte. You can also enjoy a pastry, a sandwich or a salad at the cafe, or join a coffee club or a loyalty program.
The Magpies Nest Restaurant and the Uneke Lounge:
If you are looking for a fine dining experience, you should visit the Magpies Nest Restaurant and the Uneke Lounge, two of the most elegant and exquisite restaurants in Wagga Wagga. The Magpies Nest Restaurant is a modern Australian restaurant, where you can enjoy a seasonal and regional menu, featuring dishes such as the Wagyu Beef Fillet, the Lamb Rump and the Duck Breast. You can also enjoy a wine, a cocktail or a beer at the restaurant, or join a degustation or a special event. The Uneke Lounge is a contemporary and chic restaurant, where you can enjoy a fusion and international menu, featuring dishes such as the Thai Beef Salad, the Moroccan Lamb and the Seafood Risotto. You can also enjoy a drink, a dessert or a cheese board at the restaurant, or join a live music or a trivia night.
The Bay85 and the Birdhouse Bar:
If you are looking for a fun and lively night out, you should visit the Bay85 and the Birdhouse Bar, two of the most popular and vibrant bars in Wagga Wagga. The Bay85 is a stylish and sophisticated bar, where you can enjoy a range of drinks, such as the Espresso Martini, the Mojito and the Sangria. You can also enjoy a tapas, a burger or a pizza at the bar, or join a karaoke or a comedy night. The Birdhouse Bar is a funky and eclectic bar, where you can enjoy a range of drinks, such as the Gin and Tonic, the Margarita and the Pimm’s. You can also enjoy a nibble, a taco or a nacho at the bar, or join a bingo or a quiz night.
The Knights Meats and Deli and the Wagga Wagga Farmers Market:
If you are looking for some fresh and local produce, you should visit the Knights Meats and Deli and the Wagga Wagga Farmers Market, two of the best places to shop and taste in Wagga Wagga. The Knights Meats and Deli is a family-owned butcher and delicatessen, where you can buy and sample a range of meats, cheeses, charcuterie and gourmet products, such as the Wagga Wagga Ham, the Riverina Blue Cheese and the Wagga Wagga Olive Oil. You can also enjoy a coffee, a sandwich or a pie at the deli, or join a cooking class or a tasting event. The Wagga Wagga Farmers Market is a monthly market, where you can buy and sample a range of fruits, vegetables, breads, cakes, jams, honey and other products, all grown or made in the Riverina region. You can also enjoy a breakfast, a snack or a drink at the market, or join a live music or a kids activity.
Where to Stay in Wagga Wagga
One of the advantages of visiting Wagga Wagga is that it has a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and motels, to cosy cottages and holiday parks. Whether you are looking for comfort, convenience, or affordability, you will find something to suit your taste and budget in Wagga Wagga. Here are some of the best places to stay in Wagga Wagga:
The International Hotel Wagga Wagga and the Mantra Pavilion Hotel:
If you are looking for a luxury and stylish stay, you should book a room at the International Hotel Wagga Wagga or the Mantra Pavilion Hotel, two of the most upscale and elegant hotels in Wagga Wagga. The International Hotel Wagga Wagga is a four-star hotel, where you can enjoy a spacious and modern room, with amenities such as a king-size bed, a flat-screen TV, a minibar and a balcony. You can also enjoy a restaurant, a bar, a gym and a pool at the hotel, or join a conference or a wedding. The Mantra Pavilion Hotel is a four-and-a-half-star hotel, where you can enjoy a contemporary and chic room, with amenities such as a queen-size bed, a kitchenette, a work desk and a spa bath. You can also enjoy a restaurant, a cafe, a lounge and a garden at the hotel, or join a meeting or a function.
The Quest Wagga Wagga and the Best Western Plus Charles Sturt Suites & Apartments:
If you are looking for a convenient and comfortable stay, you should book a room at the Quest Wagga Wagga or the Best Western Plus Charles Sturt Suites & Apartments, two of the most reliable and quality hotels in Wagga Wagga. The Quest Wagga Wagga is a serviced apartment hotel, where you can enjoy a fully-equipped and self-contained room, with amenities such as a king-size bed, a kitchen, a laundry and a living area. You can also enjoy a pool, a barbecue area, a business centre and a parking at the hotel, or join a corporate or a leisure stay. The Best Western Plus Charles Sturt Suites & Apartments is a boutique hotel, where you can enjoy a well-appointed and cosy room, with amenities such as a king-size bed, a microwave, a fridge and a sofa. You can also enjoy a restaurant, a bar, a breakfast and a wifi at the hotel, or join a family or a romantic stay.
The Wagga Wagga Country Cottages and the Big4 Wagga Wagga Holiday Park:
If you are looking for a relaxing and scenic stay, you should book a room at the Wagga Wagga Country Cottages or the Big4 Wagga Wagga Holiday Park, two of the most charming and peaceful places to stay in Wagga Wagga. The Wagga Wagga Country Cottages are a collection of rustic and romantic cottages, where you can enjoy a private and spacious room, with amenities such as a queen-size bed, a fireplace, a kitchen and a veranda. You can also enjoy a garden, a farm, a pond and a wildlife at the cottages, or join a honeymoon or a getaway. The Big4 Wagga Wagga Holiday Park is a family-friendly and fun-filled park, where you can enjoy a variety of accommodation options, such as cabins, villas, caravans and campsites. You can also enjoy a pool, a playground, a games room and a kiosk at the park, or join a holiday or a adventure.
The Wagga Wagga Beach Caravan Park and the Wagga Wagga Riverside Camping:
If you are looking for a budget and adventurous stay, you should book a room at the Wagga Wagga Beach Caravan Park or the Wagga Wagga Riverside Camping, two of the most affordable and exciting places to stay in Wagga Wagga. The Wagga Wagga Beach Caravan Park is a simple and friendly park, where you can enjoy a basic and clean room, with amenities such as a double bed, a fridge, a kettle and a fan. You can also enjoy a beach, a river, a laundry and a shop at the park, or join a fishing or a swimming. The Wagga Wagga Riverside Camping is a free and wild camping area, where you can enjoy a natural and authentic room, with amenities such as a tent, a sleeping bag, a fire and a view. You can also enjoy a river, a forest, a toilet and a picnic area at the camping, or join a kayaking or a hiking.
The Wagga Wagga Airbnb and the Wagga Wagga Couchsurfing:
If you are looking for a unique and personal stay, you should book a room at the Wagga Wagga Airbnb or the Wagga Wagga Couchsurfing, two of the most alternative and social places to stay in Wagga Wagga. The Wagga Wagga Airbnb is a platform where you can find and book a variety of accommodation options, from private rooms and apartments, to shared houses and studios. You can also enjoy a host, a local, a community and a review at the Airbnb, or join a experience or a guide. The Wagga Wagga Couchsurfing is a network where you can find and request a free couch, bed or floor, from generous and hospitable hosts. You can also enjoy a friend, a culture, a exchange and a feedback at the Couchsurfing, or join a event or a group.
What to Explore Around Wagga Wagga
One of the benefits of visiting Wagga Wagga is that it is close to many other interesting and beautiful places, that you can explore by taking a short drive from the city. Whether you are looking for more culture, nature, food or wine, you will find something to satisfy your curiosity and appetite in the surrounding regions of Wagga Wagga. Here are some of the best short drives and surrounding regions from Wagga Wagga:
The Junee and the Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory:
If you have a sweet tooth, you should take a 40-minute drive to Junee, a charming and historic town, where you can visit the Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory, a family-owned and operated factory, where you can see and taste how licorice and chocolate are made, using organic and natural ingredients. You can also enjoy a cafe, a shop, a museum and a playground at the factory, or join a tour or a workshop.
The Coolamon and the Coolamon Cheese Factory:
If you are a cheese lover, you should take a 30-minute drive to Coolamon, a picturesque and friendly town, where you can visit the Coolamon Cheese Factory, a artisan and award-winning cheese factory, where you can sample and buy a range of cheeses, such as the Blue Vein, the Brie and the Cheddar. You can also enjoy a restaurant, a bar, a gallery and a garden at the factory, or join a tasting or a class.
The Lockhart and the Lockhart Sculpture and Heritage Trail:
If you are an art and history lover, you should take a 50-minute drive to Lockhart, a quaint and heritage town, where you can follow the Lockhart Sculpture and Heritage Trail, a self-guided walk that showcases the sculptures, murals, buildings and stories that make up the town’s history and culture. You can also enjoy a museum, a park, a pub and a bakery at the town, or join a festival or a event.
The Tumut and the Yarrangobilly Caves:
If you are a nature and adventure lover, you should take a 90-minute drive to Tumut, a scenic and serene town, where you can visit the Yarrangobilly Caves, a spectacular and ancient cave system, where you can explore and admire the formations, such as the stalactites, stalagmites and helictites. You can also enjoy a thermal pool, a picnic area, a visitor centre and a accommodation at the caves, or join a guided tour or a adventure caving.
The Gundagai and the Dog on the Tuckerbox:
If you are looking for a classic and iconic Australian experience, you should take a 60-minute drive to Gundagai, a historic and legendary town, where you can visit the Dog on the Tuckerbox, a famous and beloved statue of a dog guarding a tuckerbox, which symbolises the loyalty and perseverance of the pioneers and settlers of the region. You can also enjoy a museum, a bridge, a cafe and a souvenir shop at the town, or join a poetry or a music night.
Wagga Wagga is a hidden gem in the heart of Australia, that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for culture, nature, food or wine, you will find it in Wagga Wagga. You will also find a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and motels, to cosy cottages and holiday parks. And you will also find many other interesting and beautiful places to explore around Wagga Wagga, by taking a short drive from the city.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Wagga Wagga today, and discover the wonders of this amazing city and region. You will not regret it, and you will have a memorable and enjoyable holiday in Wagga Wagga. Thank you for reading this article, and we hope you found it useful and informative.
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