From ocean baths and golden surf beaches to desert sculptures, outback adventures and scenic country tours, NSW’s long weekend destinations are packed with experiences no matter whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, time with the family or just some well deserved time-out. So get ready to pack the bags and hit the road for some of the best holiday locations NSW has to offer.
Newcastle
Enjoy a sunset walk along Nobby's Beach. Image from Destination NSW.
Legendary surf, golden beaches and coastal urban ‘cool’. Newcastle unrolls some of Australia’s best city coastal attractions, all just a two hour drive from Sydney. Start your weekend with a stroll along the Newcastle Memorial Walk, from the iconic Nobbys Lighthouse, along famous Nobby’s Beach to the historic Merewether Baths. Built in 1935, these are the largest ocean baths in the Southern Hemisphere and the perfect place for an afternoon dip.
As the sun sinks lower, usher in the evening with a cool cocktail at Coal and Cedar. Nestled in dim light and speakeasy ambience, Newcastle’s old-world cocktail bar was the recipient of the Best Regional bar award and has a cocktail and whiskey list to prove why. There are also private masterclasses to teach you how to free pour, shake and present cocktails like a professional.
Enjoy fine dining at Blanca, Honeysuckle, Newcastle. Image from Destination NSW.
If you’re hungry for a Mediterranean experience, Blanca Honeysuckle is ready to take you on a culinary journey through Greece, Sicily and Turkey. One of the best places to eat in Newcastle, this local fave has an exceptional menu that includes favourites such as saganaki and lamb moussaka, as well as seasonal dishes. a wine list designed by Newcastle’s favourite sommelier.
A great way to explore Newcastle’s rich and eclectic heritage is to follow the art trail through the heart of town. This Outdoor Art Gallery transforms local buildings into towering canvases, with large-scale portraits and murals bringing dynamic scenes to life. Held from June to August, the Newcastle Music Festival also brightens the town with local and international jazz, classical and world musicians.
Where to stay
Stay close to all the fun things to do in Newcastle at Terminus Apartment Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection offers beautifully designed, waterfront accommodation within walking distance to many of Newcastle’s most popular attractions.
Broken Hill
The Living Desert and Sculptures attraction in outback Broken Hill. Image from Destination NSW.
Australia’s first Heritage-listed city, Broken Hill combines stunning outback vistas with grand colonial architecture, thriving art galleries and palatial pubs and restaurants. A great way to connect with the region is to explore the Living Desert and Sculptures Broken Hill. Capturing the essence of this country, these sandstone sculptures stand against red earth and blue skies. Explore the trail and enjoy a vivid sunset.
If you think the local panoramas look familiar, you might be right. This area has been immortalised around the world in a number of movies, including the legendary Mad Max 2. The Mad Max 2 Museum in nearby Silverton isd home to a range of artefacts, props and memorabilia from the movie - including original and replica vehicles and costumes from the film.
From the outback of Broken Hill, you'll see clear views of the Milky Way galaxy and its hazy band. Image from Destination NSW.
Cast your sights in a different direction at Outback Astronomy. With no light pollution this region is one of the best places in Australia to stargaze as the sky opens up at night in a vivid canopy of stars. Visit the sky dome and learn about the constellations above. There are also regular programs, such as the ‘Discover the Moon’ event, where you can learn about the history of space explorations. You can also enjoy food and beverages.
You can also enjoy some more local culture by blowing the froth off a few. Broken Hill’s Old Brewery offers more than just cold drinks. One of the last original local breweries, established on an acre of land where high-quality water was found, the Broken Hill Brewery is home to a variety of events from drag shows to DJS and music. You’ll find plenty of delicious pub-style fare at the Brewery’s Tipsy Camel eatery.
Where to stay
The most centrally located of Broken Hill accommodation options, the Comfort Inn Crystal is close to plenty of things to do in Broken Hill. If you’re wondering where to eat in Broken Hill, you’ll also find some great pubs and diners nearby.
Tamworth
Nothing beats a music festival. Image from Tamworth Country Music Festival
Wonderful food, gorgeous rolling country and great music. Tamworth is packed with surprises. There’s a reason this picturesque and historic town is known as the home of Australian country music. Alongside the icon towering golden guitar you’ll find Australian Country Music Hall of Fame, home to memorabilia that tells the fascinating story of Australian country music - no long weekend away to Tamworth is complete without a visit.
Scenic panoramic views overlooking the city of Tamworth from the Oxley Scenic Lookout. Image from Destination NSW.
For stunning panoramic views of the region, head to the Oxley Scenic Lookout. Named after the explorer who passed through Tamworth in 1818, the wrap-around views stretch from the city and across the Peel River Valley. There is plenty of natural bushland surrounding the lookout, as well as the starting point for the Kamilaroi Walking Track, which winds its way through Oxley Park to the Botanic Garden.
Tucked into a gorgeous Art Deco heritage building in Peel Street, the DECO Wine Bar & Restaurant is perfect for an intimate dinner and cocktail. The Pig & Tinder Box is also home to seasonal delights. Nestled in a heritage bank building, and one of the first pubs in the New England Region, the menu here combines European and Asian cuisine, with an extensive wine and craft beer list.
Where to stay
There are great accommodation in Tamworth right in the heart of town and close to some of the best things to do in Tamworth and attractions that make this region a destination for some of the best long weekends in Australia.
Wagga Wagga
The Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens are set over 22 acres and feature lots of walking trails, beautiful gardens and a play area for kids. Image from Destination NSW.
Nestled on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, and located in the fertile Riverina wine country, Wagga Wagga is a relaxed town that is perfect for a long weekend away. A stroll through Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens - set over 22 acres with a mini zoo, aviary and rainforest section - is guaranteed to reset your vibe. Other attractions within the gardens include the Tree Chapel and Chinese Pavilion and Willans Hill Miniature Railway.
Attend the F.A.W.C! Kiwi as Long Lunch. Image from Kirsten Simcox.
For something a little different, art enthusiasts will love the National Art Glass Gallery, home to one of Australia’s most significant collections of contemporary glass. This gallery is home to a nationally significant collection of contemporary art glass, with 400 pieces on display. The gallery also hosts curated exhibitions throughout the year, which feature a number of well-known Australian and international glass artists.
For an excellent breakfast or lunch, make your way to Uneke Lounge. This fully licensed café has been serving locals for over 10 years. Set in a heritage-listed building known in the 1950s as a popular eatery called, today you. Enjoy a browse and grab a gift from the cafe’s namesake Crown Corner, a shop that specialises in boutique wares and body products.
Where to stay
Find comfortable accommodation close to things to do in Wagga and on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River.