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, hear f plenty of cultural stories of Gulgongs past.
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 Folk 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 regional artists.
- Walking Tours: 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.
- Gulgong Pioneer Museum: Showcases the gold rush-era artifacts and local history. Includes historic streetscapes that are amazing to see.
- Henry Lawson Centre: Dedicated to the famous Australian poet and author who grew up nearby. Permanent exhibits include manuscripts, photos, and 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: Good Eats & Cafes
Casual Dining at Gulgong NSW
- The Royal Hotel Café: A classic pub meals with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. They serve hearty meals
- Butcher’s Shop Cafe
- Centennial Hotel: A historic pub offering modern Australian cuisine.
- Main Street Cafe: This place offers a mix of Australian and Asian-inspired dishes. It’s a great spot for brunch or a casual lunch, with friendly service.
- Lucky Star Bistro
- Larsen’s Restaurant
- The Vault Woodfire Pizzas, Tapas And Wine Bar
- Golden Spoon Café: Fresh pastries, artisan coffee, and light meals.
- Gulgong Markets a the Bowlo: Seasonal markets with farm fresh produce, baked goods, and sweet treats.
- Larsens Restaurant (Phoebe’s @ Ten Dollar Town Motel): Known for its diverse menu that blends Italian and Indian flavours.
- Haldi Indian Restaurant
- Thai to You @ Gulgong: A local favourite for authentic Thai cuisine.
Foodies: Gourmet Tastes & Providores
- The Royal Hotel Café: A classic pub meals with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. They serve hearty meals.
- Golden Spoon Café: Fresh pastries, artisan coffee, and light meals.
- Gulgong Providores: Lovely regional cheeses, preserves, and excellent charcuterie from local producers.
- Copper & Oak Bistro: Modern Australian cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.
- Bakery Lane: Whips up artisan breads, pastries, and desserts daily from regional produce.
- Nearby Farms & Berry Picking: Seasonal experiences at local strawberry or berry farms just outside town. Perfect for families or foodie travellers.
Retail Escapes in Gulgong NSW
- Gulgong Providores: Lovely regional cheeses, preserves, and excellent charcuterie from local producers.
- The Gallery Gulgong: Fine art, photography, textiles, locally made jams and honey.
- Bowerbird Cottage: Australian sourced ladies wear, locally made children’s clothes, candles, bath bombs and more.
- Local Markets with seasonal or weekend markets with local produce, handmade goods, and artisan foods. Perfect for foodie or craft enthusiasts.
- Antique & Curiosity Shops: Beyond the main retail streets, there are small antique shops hiding unusual finds like vintage mining tools, historic postcards, and kitsch treasures.
- Copper & Oak Bistro: Modern Australian cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.
- Shirley’s Boutique: Fashion, homewares, and unique small-town finds.
- Local Art Studios: Selling handmade pottery, artworks, and one-of-a-kind creations.
- The Gulgong Country Women’s Association (CWA) Branch is an active part of the community. Established in late 1926, the CWA established a Baby Health Centre in Gulgong and continues to serve the local community through various initiatives and events.
If you think Gulgong sounds like a brilliant destination, check out our exceptional stays with a WOW.
