What makes the Wagga Wagga region so unique is the way each town and village brings something different to the table, from wide open spaces to rich history, tasty eats and that classic country pace.
We’ve gone up, down, in and out to discover what each location has to offer.
Here are our highlights and some of our favourite things to do in each spot.
Coolamon
Coolamon serves pure country charm with its heritage streets, open spaces, and easygoing atmosphere. It’s got that dream mix of history, fresh air, and all the little joys of rural life.
Cowabbie Street is the heart of it all, a State Heritage Listed Precinct that’s straight-up wholesome. The downtown parks and gardens are fab for a little break, and the country-style stores are great for a browse.
The whole village is wonderful for wandering, taking in the local scene, and making the most of the great outdoors on treks like the Coolamon Urban Trail.
It’s also part of the iconic Canola Trail, as well as Junee and Temora, so is a total hot spot for admiring all that yellow glory during the season.
THE FOLD LOVES // Stocking up on dairy goodness at Coolamon Cheese Co.
Caption: Photo :: Australian Tourism Data Warehouse
Gundagai
We love the slow pace of life in Gundagai.
We also love that the Murrumbidgee River runs through the town, adding some gorge natural beauty.
The town also has plenty of character, with landmarks like the ICONIC Dog on the Tuckerbox and the sculpture of Wiradjuri heroes, Yarri and Jacky Jacky, bringing a bit of local history into everyday life.
Though it’s a small town, there’s still plenty to do. The Old Gundagai Gaol and the Gundagai Museum offer a peek into the past [+ a chance for ghost hunting- wooooo], and there are cafes, pubs, galleries, walking trails and more.
And although it’s been decades since Slim Dusty sang about it, Gundagai still lives up to the hype.
THE FOLD LOVES // Stretching our legs along the Gundagai River Walk
Caption: Photo :: Visit Wagga Wagga
Junee
Junee’s packed with history, personality and a bunch of fun things to check out.
It’s known for its strong railway roots, with the largest working roundhouse in the Southern Hemisphere still open for a visit, so cool.
The streets are full of old-school architecture, classic pubs, and excellent museums.
Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory is a must-see [and a must-taste hehe]. Outside town, there’s space to camp, walk, explore, hit up the Canola Trail and just enjoy the countryside.
It’s a laidback kind of town, but there’s still plenty going on like the locally adored Junee Show.
Junee has cafes, schools, sporting clubs and all the services that make everyday life easy.
There’s a real sense of community, and locals are friendly and proud of their patch.
THE FOLD LOVES // Getting a sugar rush at Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory
Caption: Photo :: Australian Tourism Data Warehouse
Lockhart
It’s all about those wide open spaces and big country skies in Lockhart.
The town has cute little shops and streets brimming with heritage beauty. It’s also a great place for peeping kangaroos and koalas, plus staying up late to catch a sky full of stars.
There are huge water tower murals to lay eyes on, plus breathtaking nature spots like Galore Hill and The Rock Nature Reserve. These are perfect for walking, exploring, and soaking up views of green paddocks and bright yellow canola fields.
Lockhart also has loads of art and history, like the Greens Gunyah Museum and the Doris Golder Wool Art Gallery. The Sculpture and Heritage Trails are fun to explore too. And if the night is clear, The Rock Observatory is the place to try spotting a shooting star.
THE FOLD LOVES // Snapping a selfie in front of the Lockhart Water Tower Mural
Caption: Photo :: Australian Tourism Data Warehouse
Temora
Temora is a super welcoming town with a close-knit feel. Life here is easygoing but never boring.
It’s so much fun exploring the famous Temora Aviation Museum, getting amongst the Bundawarrah Centre and its collection of Aussie treasures, including Sir Donald Bradman’s cottage and relaxing by Lake Centenary for a swim or fishing.
It’s a top choice for families with outdoor activities galore, a friendly atmosphere, and peeps who really care about looking out for one another.
THE FOLD LOVES // Popping over to Ariah Park for a mosy and a meal at the Ariah Park Hotel
Caption: Photo :: Visit Temora
Wagga Wagga
The main hub of our region, Wagga Wagga is one mighty fine place to live, work and play.
It’s a growing city that’s easy to get around and full of good times. What’s really special is that Wagga Wagga gives you that big-city feel, being the largest inland city in NSW, but without all the extra hustle and bustle.
There are galleries and exhibitions for the arty crowd, sporting grounds and events for the sporty types, delish cafes and eateries for the foodies, and gardens and nature walks for the outdoor adventurers.
There’s loads of culture too, with museums, festivals, live shows and a jolly-good nightlife scene to round things out.
THE FOLD LOVES // Catching a gig at Jungle Duke Hotel
Caption: Photo :: Visit Wagga Wagga