Best Things To Do In Armidale, Australia

1. Enjoy the beauty of nature in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

Oxley Wild Rivers National Park is home to a world heritage listed dry rainforest, huge waterfalls and impressive historic sites. The flora and fauna is rich and abundant and scenic rivers invite for kayaking, fishing or swimming. The Threlfall Picnic Area is the perfect place to rest and take in your surroundings. Other than that, you can go for extensive hikes or walks, camp, or watch birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Oxley Wild Rivers National Park is only a 30 minute drive away from Armidale, and is a fantastic day out or overnight trip.

Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

Website:Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

2. Visit one of the many museums: Railway, Armidale Folk and Aboriginal Cultural Centre

Armidale’s first railway station was built in 1882 and now serves as a Railway Museum. Here the men who built the Great Northern Railway are commemorated. Take a look at the beautiful ornamental chimneys and moldings that were typical for that period, or visit the stationmaster’s residence. In the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place you will be able to learn about indigenous art, history and culture. Also the Armidale Folk Museum is worth a visit. Changing exhibitions show the everyday life and routines from the past and many old items can be viewed here. The New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) is the public regional gallery where you can see significant works from many local and international artists. Whichever you choose, you will receive some great insight into history!

Railway Museum

Website:Railway Museum

Armidale Folk Museum

Website:Armidale Folk Museum

Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place

Website:Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place

3. Go on adventures in the World Heritage New England National Park

Also this national park is a must see when you spend a few days in Armidale. This 52,000 hectares park is famous for its rainforest, great walking and hiking routes and stunning views. You can also find accommodation and camping options in the park. The national park is home to pristine wilderness. More than 100 species of birds have been recorded here and apart from that you are likely to see kangaroos, wallabies and possums.

One of the places you shouldn’t miss is Point Lookout, located 1,564 meters (5,131 feet) above sea level. Enjoy spectacular views of the deep valley and the Pacific Ocean, or come here for sunrise. Visitors will spend an unforgettable time in this peaceful and beautiful national park and many interesting walking routes are available. You can find guidebooks at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and also picnic areas are easily accessible throughout the park.

New England National Park

Website:New England National Park

4. Take breathtaking pictures of the Woolpack Rocks

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @darklindtchocolate

One of Armidale’s favorite tourist attractions is the regions famous Woolpack Rocks. This landmark consists of huge rock formations that are more than 270 million years old - they are a real geological wonder!

You will be able to go on birdwatching walks, access the picnic area or enjoy spectacular views of the Northern Tablelands. Several waterfalls are nearby, such as the Dangar’s Falls and Wollomombi Falls. The Wollomombi Falls are the highest waterfalls in New South Wales and they are very impressive, especially after some decent rain. The rocks are easy to visit from the Native Dog campground. They are gigantic, and you will spot them quickly from the distance.

Woolpack Rocks

Website:Woolpack Rocks

5. Visit the city by bus on Armidale's Heritage Tour

Experience Armidale by taking part in a 2.5 hour bus tour around the city. This historical journey is a great way to visit most places in Armidale, especially with children. The bus stops at four locations. The first stop is the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place in Kentucky Street, followed by The New England Regional Art Museum and the Armidale Railway Museum and Station. The last stop of the tour is the University of New England and the heritage listed homestead “Booloominbah”. The impressive house is full of rich and interesting histories about the White family.

Throughout the drive, you will be accompanied by a tour guide and you will be given descriptions and history of the many old and pretty buildings of Armidale. You will drive past churches, cathedrals, monuments and memorials. It is a great way to soak in a lot of amazing history in one go!

Armidale's Heritage Tour

Website:Armidale’s Heritage Tour

6. Enjoy stunning views of the Ebor Falls

Ebor Falls is another must see waterfall, located just outside of Armidale. The Guy Fawkes River plunges 100 meters (328 ft) over these waterfalls. You can enjoy spectacular views of the two impressive waterfalls from three different spots with lookout platforms that are all linked by a walking track. The rugged gorge country gives amazing photograph opportunities! Often eagles are sited in this area above the falls and during spring, summer and autumn, you can search for the area’s Golden Everlasting Daisies or rare ground orchids.

Ebor Falls

Website: Ebor Falls

Armidale - a small place with many attractions

Armidale is an inviting little town in New South Wales. Surrounded by many national parks it provides uncountable opportunities for hiking, walking, bird-watching, wilderness trips and much more. Armidale is a great place for the whole family as most attractions are easily accessible and the national parks have routes with different levels of difficulty. So start planning your next trip now!