Things To Do
in Casino

Casino is a small town in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, perched along the Richmond River. It retains a rural charm with a strong agricultural heritage and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Historic streets, a compact CBD, and friendly pubs make it easy to explore on foot, while surrounding farmland and green hinterlands offer quick escapes.

Whether you’re here for a relaxed weekend or as a base to explore the Northern Rivers, Casino delivers easy access to nature, markets, and local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Casino
morning
:

Upon arrival in Casino, settle into your chosen accommodation and take a moment to unwind after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the warm atmosphere of this small town. Stroll through the picturesque streets, exploring charming shops and local art displays.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Casino Historical Museum to delve into the town's rich history and heritage. Take a guided tour or explore at your own pace, marveling at the fascinating artifacts. Later, relax in the tranquil surroundings of the local park, perfect for a casual picnic or a peaceful walk.

evening
:

As the sun sets, choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can savor some of the region's delicious cuisine. If you're up for it, visit the local theater for live performances or enjoy some live music at a nearby bar. Wind down the day by enjoying the tranquility of the countryside.

day 2
Exploring the Great Dividing Range
morning
:

Start your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive into the Great Dividing Range. Marvel at the natural landscapes as you make your way to nearby National Parks, ready to hike and explore the beautiful wilderness. Opt for a guided bushwalk to fully appreciate the flora and fauna unique to the region.

afternoon
:

After your morning adventure, have a packed lunch at one of the picnic spots amidst nature, allowing you to recharge while surrounded by stunning views. Continue your exploration with a visit to one of the waterfalls, where you can take in the beauty and serenity of the area. Capture photos and create lasting memories in this tranquil setting.

evening
:

Returning to Casino, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a local restaurant specializing in fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Spend the evening visiting the local art galleries, where you can appreciate the works of talented artisans. Conclude your day with a tranquil stroll along the riverbank under the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🍺Beer at pub$6-9
🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant$40-60
🏨One-night budget hotel$90-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed country town charm
  • Close access to nature and hinterlands
  • Friendly locals and easy getting around on foot
  • Good value for money compared with bigger cities
  • Limited nightlife and dining options compared with larger cities
  • Fewer direct international flight options
  • Smaller scale may feel limited for some travelers

Places to Visit in Casino

Visit one of these nice places.

Richmond River Foreshore

Early morning or late afternoon light along the river with reflections of the town’s trees and bridges.

Casino Heritage Buildings

Historic facades and ornate street corners offer characterful subjects for urban photography.

Lions Park and Riverside Walk

Green space with river views and seasonal blooms perfect for landscape and portrait shots.

Casino Clock Tower and Town Square

Classic town-centre landmarks with a sense of place and local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Casino

Casual dining and country hospitality define Casino’s food scene, with fresh produce, simple bistro fare, and classic pub meals featuring regional meat, dairy, and seasonal vegetables.

Casino Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish and chips (coastal influence)

Crispy battered fish with chips, a staple at many pubs and seaside towns.

Must-Try!

Grilled river fish

Often served with greens and lemon, highlighting fresh catches from nearby waterways.

Billy tea and damper

Traditional Aussie fare sometimes offered at local pubs—great for a quick bite.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Casino Local Market (Saturdays)

A small weekend market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts right in the town centre.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region experiences a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. Rainfall is more frequent in summer, with humidity and occasional heavy showers. Spring and autumn bring comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing

Australians value courtesy; queue patiently and wait your turn in lines.

Direct communication

Be polite, direct, and friendly in conversations; small talk is common in social settings.

Dress code

Casual to smart-casual in most venues; ask if uncertain for dining or events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Casual and friendly, but standard travel safety applies: keep valuables secure in public areas, stay aware of traffic near highways, and follow local advisories during flood or storm periods. Nighttime strolls along the waterfront are generally safe in well-lit areas.

Tipping in Casino

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect warm to hot days with humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for cooler mornings or evenings.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and clearer skies, perfect for outdoor exploring and photography; harvest season in nearby farmland adds color.

Winter

Cool, mild days with cool evenings; layers recommended as temperatures can dip after sunset.

Spring

Warming weather and blooming gardens; great for walking trails and markets reopening after winter.

Nightlife Guide

Casino at Night

Casino’s nightlife scene is low-key, with friendly pubs, a hotel bar, and occasional live music. It’s an easygoing place to enjoy a beer, watch a game, and chat with locals. Expect relaxed vibes rather than nightclub scenes, with most spots closing by around 11pm.

Hiking in Casino

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Richmond Range National Park – Forest Trails

A network of short to moderate trails through eucalyptus and rainforest with lookout points.

Border Ranges National Park Lookouts

Panoramic views over the border region with waterfalls and lush forest tracks.

Lamington National Park – Green Mountains (short section)

Accessible sections of the park offering rainforest scenery and creek crossings within a manageable day trip.

Airports

How to reach Casino by plane.

Lismore Regional Airport (LIS)

A regional airport about an hour’s drive from Casino with domestic flights and car hire, good for quick arrivals.

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport (BNK)

A larger regional airport near Ballina offering more flight options; a scenic drive to Casino via the coast and hinterland.

Gold Coast Airport (OOL)

Also known as Coolangatta, a major hub with frequent domestic and some international flights; about a 2-hour drive to Casino.

Getting Around

Walkability

Casino is compact and walkable in the town centre, with most attractions within a short stroll of the main street and riverfront. Some surrounding areas require a short drive to reach national parks or farmland, but traffic is light and sidewalks are generally good.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Strong presence of multi-generational families in residential neighborhoods.

Retirees

Quiet, slower-paced lifestyle attracts retirees and those seeking a relaxed environment.

Agricultural workers

A significant portion of the workforce is involved in farming and related industries.

New residents and tourists

A mix of locals, new residents from nearby towns, and visitors contributes to a welcoming culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby league

A popular winter sport with local clubs and social leagues.

Cricket

Common during the summer and school holidays with local games and community events.

Horse racing

Regional race days at nearby tracks are part of the local social calendar.

Fishing

River and estuary fishing is a favorite pastime for locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate; the town relies mainly on cars with relaxed driving conditions. Public transport is limited, so a car or scooter is convenient for day trips to nearby parks and towns. Some routes to national parks may be better with a GPS and a bit of patience during busy periods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Casino.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for vegetarian-friendly options at most cafes; ask for vegetable-forward dishes or sides. Most pubs can accommodate with salads, veggie burgers, or veggie plates.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Casino is served by the Casino District Memorial Hospital and local GP clinics; for major services, residents often travel to Lismore or the Gold Coast. Pharmacies are widely available in town. Carry travel insurance for peace of mind.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide