Things To Do
in Bathurst
Bathurst is a historic regional city in New South Wales’ Central West, famed for its grand colonial architecture and the famous Mount Panorama motor racing circuit. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it combines heritage precincts with a budding food and arts scene. The city sits at the foothills of the Macquarie Valley, offering comfortable four-season weather and easy access to nearby national parks and vineyards.
Visitors can expect a friendly small-city vibe, approachable cultural attractions, and plenty of outdoor activities within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, where you can admire local and regional artworks. As you stroll through the gallery, enjoy a morning coffee at the nearby café, soaking in the vibrant local culture. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the historic streets, marveling at the well-preserved architecture that dates back to the 19th century.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, where you can learn about the region's geological history. Spend some time exploring the exhibits, including a fascinating collection of fossils and rare minerals. A visit to the Bathurst Courthouse, an impressive heritage building, will round off your cultural experience.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Bathurst's charming restaurants that offer local cuisine. After your meal, take a scenic drive up to Mount Panorama to witness breathtaking views of the city and the famous racetrack. End your evening with a relaxing stroll around the picturesque streets, basking in the tranquil ambiance.
Kick off your day with a visit to Mount Panorama, where you can enjoy a scenic drive around the iconic race track. Stop at various lookout points to take in the stunning landscapes and capture some memorable photos. For the adventurous, consider a morning bike ride along the mountain trails, immersing yourself in nature.
After lunch, spend the afternoon at the Mount Panorama Circuit's visitor center, where you can learn about the history of motor racing in Bathurst. Join a guided tour of the track to gain insights into the famous races and see the pit area up close. If you're feeling energetic, try out the walking trails that offer more incredible views.
As evening approaches, head back to the city for dinner at a local pub that serves hearty Australian fare. You can also find live music venues where you can enjoy some local talent while sipping on a craft beer. Wrap up the night with a stroll along the banks of the Macquarie River, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🥖Bakery item | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch dish | $12-20 |
| 🧺Weekly groceries | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich heritage and well-preserved architecture
- Accessible outdoor activities and nearby nature
- Lower-key nightlife compared with big cities
- Limited public transport outside the CBD
Places to Visit in Bathurst
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic vantage points along the Mount Panorama circuit offer sweeping views over Bathurst and the surrounding countryside, especially striking at sunrise or golden hour.
A historic green space with elegant trees, fountains, and period bandstand—great for portraits and timeless city-scapes.
Gently sunlit sandstone facades and classic colonial architecture provide dramatic subjects in the late afternoon light.
Calm river reflections and parkland trails create serene landscape photography opportunities, particularly in the late afternoon.
Food in Bathurst
Bathurst Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Australian pie; try it fresh from a local bakery in Bathurst CBD for a comforting, savory bite.
Must-Try!
A traditional Sunday or midweek option at local pubs, featuring tender lamb with seasonal sides.
A simple, rustic bread often available at cafes and markets; great with a cup of coffee or tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market at the Bathurst Showground offering seasonal produce, baked goods, jams, and street-style bites from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common greetings are casual: 'G’day' or 'Hi there.' Use polite language and say please and thank you.
People typically queue patiently; keep a comfortable personal space in public settings.
Use a friendly, easygoing tone. When offering help or asking directions, a respectful approach is valued.
Safety
Tipping in Bathurst
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Australia is not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated but not expected. Many locals do not tip at casual cafes, but may tip at fine dining if service was exceptional.
Cash is accepted, but contactless and card payments (including EFTPOS and credit cards) are widely used. Mobile payments and tap-to-pay are common in shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms. Hydration is important when exploring outdoor sites and the Mount Panorama area. Evenings are comfortable; a light jacket is handy for cooler breezes near elevated viewpoints.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for city walks and photography around Machattie Park and the CBD. Layers are useful for cooler mornings and evenings.
Cool to chilly days; mornings can be crisp with potential frost on high ground. Warm layers and a rain jacket help for outdoor activities and cave visits.
Fresh greenery and blooming trees; pleasant temperatures for outdoor exploration and markets. Bring a light rain layer for occasional showers.
Bathurst at Night
Hiking in Bathurst
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking and nature trails through a rugged landscape with opportunities for scenic views and wildlife sightings.
Historic and scenic routes with easy to moderate walks offering expansive views of the Bathurst region.
Airports
How to reach Bathurst by plane.
Smaller airport with regional flights, primarily to Sydney; easy taxi or car transfer to Bathurst.
Major international hub about a 3.5–4 hour drive or train/air service from Bathurst; serves as the main gateway for international travel.
Nearby option in Orange with regional flights; a longer drive to Bathurst but an alternative entry point for some routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Charles Sturt University Bathurst campus brings a student population and related services to the city.
Several parks, schools, and community facilities support a family-friendly environment.
A substantial portion of residents are retirees who value a relaxed pace and cultural amenities.
Long-standing local Indigenous heritage shapes community events and cultural spaces.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Iconic racing circuit; public events and tours offer a chance to learn about Bathurst’s famous race culture.
Common in local grounds and parks during season; community clubs and friendly matches are a feature of weekends.
Seasonal fixtures and local clubs provide opportunities to watch or participate.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bathurst.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafes offer veggie burgers, salads, and vegetable mains. Ask for accommodations like cheese or egg substitutions, veggie or mushroom gravies, and sides to build a complete meat-free meal.