Things to do around Gulgong NSW go far beyond its gold rush roots. You’ll notice as you walk its streets, that it’s lined with incredibly well preserved heritage buildings that whisper stories of the 19th century gold rush. And you can browse galleries brimming with the local talent, and lose yourself in markets with fresh local produce and delicious handmade treats. You’ll sample regional cheeses and wines, and if you’re lucky, you’ll hear plenty of cultural stories of Gulgongs past and Indigenous culture.
Gulgong has a pace and personality that’s quite a unique corner of New South Wales.
Things to Do Around Gulgong NSW: Wellness and Pampering
- The Vintage Beauty Spot: Luxurious facials and massages.
- Gulgong Massage & Wellness Centre: Holistic therapies including aromatherapy and deep tissue massage.
- Harmony Hair & Body – Pampering for hair, nails, and skin using quality local products.
Explore & Discover Around Gulgong NSW
- Gulgong Historic Streets: Wander gold rush-era streets with heritage buildings, cafés, and charming shops.
- Visit the Hands on The Rock: Aboriginal sacred site with indigenous rock impressions showing the history and culture of the land around Gulgong.
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Gulgong Holtermann Museum: UNESCO listed Holtermann Collection of photographs with brilliant IT installations. Experience the 1870s Gulgong gold rush viewed through the lens of two talented wet plate photographers.
- Gulgong Pioneers Museum: Interactive displays and gold rush memorabilia; period homes and artefacts tell the town’s story.
- Art Galleries & Studios: Local galleries featuring permanent exhibitions in painting, sculpture, and mixed media. Highlights include The Gallery Gulgong, showcasing local artists.
- Gulgong’s Heritage Walk: Self-guided or guided tours around the gold-rush-era streets with signage about the history, architecture, and local legends.
- Prince of Wales Opera House: One of Australia’s oldest opera houses, still running shows and tours. Great for architecture buffs and history enthusiasts and those who love performance art.
- Henry Lawson Centre: 47 Mayne St, Gulgong NSW. Dedicated to the famous Australian poet and author who grew up nearby. Permanent exhibits include manuscripts, photos and historical memorabilia.
Culture, Local Events & Festivals:
- Gulgong Folk Festival celebrates folk, blues, and roots music at Gulgong’s musical traditions Great family entertainment.
- Gulgong Gold Discovery Festival: Marks the town’s gold rush heritage with parades, heritage tours, and community events. Usually around September.
- Gulgong Show: A classic country show with livestock, local produce, and entertainment, held annually in March.
Things to Do Around Gulgong NSW: Casual Dining & Cafes
- Silver Fox Cafe – delicious home cooked food (we loved the pumpkin soup) at 113 Mayne St, Gulgong
- Beryl’s Cafe at 112 Mayne Street, Gulgong. It’s a local favourite and owned by hospitality professional Olivia Probyn-Shingles. More than a cafe, it’s a community hub for locals and visitors where you’ll enjoy a hearty meal, coffee and a huge welcome.
- Larsens Restaurant (Phoebe’s @ Ten Dollar Town Motel) – Known for its diverse menu blending Italian and Indian cuisines.
- The Vault Woodfire Pizzas, Tapas and Wine Bar –delicious ood-fired pizzas, tapas, and a selection of wines.
- Haldi Indian Restaurant – Haldi has authentic Indian dishes and its a very popular spot.
- Gulgong Markets a the Bowlo: Seasonal markets with farm fresh produce, baked goods, and sweet treats.
- Thai to You @ Gulgong is a standout choice for Thai cuisine in Gulgong. With a 4.8/5 rating from over 190 reviews on TripAdvisor, it ranks as the #1 restaurant in Gulgong. Their signature dishes are the Crispy Chicken Cashew Nut, and the Green Curry.
Foodies: Things to do around Gulgong NSW for Gourmet Tastes
- Copper & Oak Bistro – A modern Australian bistro known for its fresh, local ingredients and contemporary dishes. While specific reviews are limited, the establishment is recognized for its quality cuisine.
- Gulgong Providores – A boutique store offering a selection of regional cheeses, preserves, and excellent charcuterie from local producers. It’s a great spot to pick up gourmet treats or picnic essentials.
- Cobb’s Bakery Cafe & Takeaway at 82 Herbert St, Gulgong. It offers a wide variety of goodies like pies, sausage rolls, cakes, plus café fare (fish & chips, coffee ,sandwiches, crispy chicken and burgers etc)
- Gobble & Go Bakery & Takeaway at 93 Herbert St, Gulgong, for sweet treats, bread, buns, cakes, pastries, plus coffee, burgers, toasted sandwiches, bacon & egg rolls, etc
- Nearby Farms & Berry Picking – Seasonal experiences at local strawberry or berry farms just outside town. Perfect for families or foodie travellers looking to enjoy fresh produce and the joy of picking their own berries.
Things to do around Gulgong NSW: Retail Escapes
- The Gallery, Gulgong – Fine art, photography, textiles, jams & honey.
- Bowerbird Cottage – Antique & collectables, children’s clothes, candles, bath bombs & premium regional food.
- Gulgong CWA Hall – Local branch of the Country Women’s Association at 80 Herbert St, Gulgong. Not a shopping store but great community presence and events asnd you may be lucky to try their ever popular scones! Located at 80 Herbert St, Gulgong.
- Local Markets with seasonal or weekend markets with local produce, handmade goods,Indigenous art and artisan foods.
- Now & Past Collectables – antiques, vintage & collectables in Gulgong.
- Karralika Studio – art studio in Gulgong offering classes, workshops, and original works.
Plan Your Gulgong Road Trip
Uncover this scenic drive through country towns, and local gems across Central West NSW in our Road Trip to Mudgee and Gulgong itinerary.
Looking for accommodation in this region?
If you think Gulgong sounds like a brilliant destination, check out our exceptional accommodation in the Central West NSW.
