Things To Do
in Cooma
Cooma is a charming town located in the Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales, Australia. It is known for its picturesque scenery, including beautiful lakes and mountains. Cooma has a rich history as a former gold rush town and played a significant role in the construction of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme.
The town offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Cooma Discovery Centre to learn about the region's history and culture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the morning atmosphere.
Take a scenic drive to the Snowy Mountains and stop at the picturesque Lake Jindabyne. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it by the water while surrounded by stunning views.
Return to Cooma and dine at a local restaurant, trying out some seasonal dishes. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll around town to admire the historic architecture.
Have breakfast at a cozy café before heading out for a morning walk at the Cooma Creek Walking Track. Enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of the area.
Visit the nearby Murrumbidgee River and spend some time fishing or simply enjoying the riverside ambiance. Grab a takeaway lunch and bask in the sunshine.
Head back to Cooma and visit a local pub for dinner, where you can enjoy live music. Finish the night by relaxing under the stars in the peaceful countryside.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities including skiing, hiking, and fishing.
- Close proximity to the Snowy Mountains, offering a range of adventure activities.
- A friendly, tight-knit community with a welcoming atmosphere.
- Rich local culture and history, with a variety of community events and festivals.
- Access to essential amenities and services, including schools and healthcare facilities.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Isolated location can make transportation and access to larger cities more challenging.
- Cold winters may not be appealing to everyone, with significant snowfall.
- Potential for limited entertainment options compared to larger urban areas.
- Higher cost of living in some areas due to tourism and demand for housing.
Best Activities in Cooma
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the thrill of winter sports at nearby ski resorts like Perisher and Thredbo, just a short drive from Cooma.
Explore scenic hiking trails in the Namadgi National Park, offering various levels of difficulty and stunning views of the Australian landscape.
Enjoy riding through the diverse terrains around Cooma, with trails suitable for both beginners and experienced mountain bikers.
Try your luck at fishing in the local rivers and lakes, where you can catch trout and other freshwater fish.
Set up camp in the great outdoors, with several campgrounds located near beautiful national parks and scenic spots.
Join guided horse riding tours through the picturesque countryside, exploring the stunning landscapes surrounding Cooma.
Take a day trip to observe native wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cooma with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cooma
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Cooma and the surrounding Snowy Mountains. It's a perfect spot for sunset photography.
An interesting backdrop of old trains and machinery set against the rural landscape, ideal for unique photos.
Features educational exhibits with artistic installations, providing ample opportunities for creative photography.
A scenic park that offers a picturesque landscape with trees and walking paths, great for family photos and nature shots.
Provides breathtaking views of the Snowy Mountains, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
A beautifully preserved heritage building, perfect for capturing Cooma's historical architecture.
Located just outside Cooma, this stunning lake offers opportunities for scenic shots and reflections, especially in the early morning.
Photographers can capture the impressive infrastructure of the hydro scheme against the backdrop of the mountains.
Food in Cooma
Cooma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A iconic savory pie filled with minced meat and gravy, best enjoyed at Billy T's Bakery.
Must-Try!
Fresh trout sourced from the nearby Snowy Mountains, usually served grilled or smoked at local eateries like The Lott.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cooma better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open every Friday, offering a variety of fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisanal food items.
A weekly event where food trucks gather to offer a diverse range of street food delicacies, located in Centennial Park.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Acknowledge and show respect for the Ngunnawal and Ngambri people, the traditional custodians of the land. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and participate in local ceremonies or initiatives that promote Indigenous culture.
A friendly greeting or a simple 'hello' goes a long way. Australians generally value politeness and a laid-back attitude. Try to engage in conversations and include others, fostering a sense of community.
Cooma is located in a beautiful natural environment, so it's important to respect local wildlife and the outdoors. Follow local regulations regarding conservation and waste disposal, and be considerate of others when enjoying outdoor spaces.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cooma with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cooma
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cooma, Australia, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected in most service industries such as restaurants and cafes. However, if a customer feels they have received exceptional service, they may choose to leave a small tip, typically rounding up the bill or leaving a few dollars as a token of appreciation.
Payment methods in Cooma are varied and flexible. Most establishments accept cash, credit, and debit cards, with many also offering contactless payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Some local businesses may prefer cash, particularly in more rural areas, but electronic payments are widely accepted in urban areas. It is common for businesses to provide receipts for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cooma.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Cooma (September to November) offers mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. This is a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and enjoying the vibrant landscape. Expect average daytime temperatures to range from 10°C to 20°C.
Summer (December to February) in Cooma can get quite warm, with average daytime temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. This is perfect for enjoying outdoor adventures, such as fishing and camping. The longer days allow for extended exploration of the beautiful surrounding areas.
Autumn (March to May) is a picturesque season in Cooma, with cool temperatures and stunning fall foliage. Daytime temperatures typically range from 5°C to 20°C. It's a great time for photography and visiting local festivals.
Winter (June to August) brings cold weather and occasional snowfall, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. Expect temperatures to be between -5°C and 10°C. This season is perfect for skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts.
Cooma at Night
Hiking in Cooma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area featuring diverse flora and fauna, perfect for a peaceful hiking experience.
Offers stunning trails through unique limestone caves and beautiful bushland.
Australia's highest peak that has well-maintained trails for both casual hikers and experienced trekkers, with breathtaking views.
A remote area with less foot traffic, offering a more rugged hiking experience among nature.
A gentle hike along the river, suitable for families, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cooma through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cooma by plane.
The closest major airport to Cooma, located approximately 115 kilometers away, offering both domestic and international flights.
Located about 90 kilometers from Cooma, this airport primarily serves regional flights but connects to major hubs for international travel.
Approximately 34 kilometers from Cooma, this airport handles regional flights, mainly during the ski season, and is a gateway to the Snowy Mountains region.
The largest and busiest airport in Australia, located around 485 kilometers from Cooma, offering extensive international and domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Cooma's population consists of residents born in Australia.
A notable demographic group with historical migration patterns from Italy.
Includes the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have inhabited the region.
A group that includes a number of residents originally from New Zealand.
Additional residents from various European countries contributed to the demographic mix.
Includes populations from various Asian countries increasingly settling in Cooma.
The Soul of Cooma
Discover the essence of Cooma through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A very popular sport in Cooma, with a rich local culture and several clubs participating in regional competitions.
Rugby has a strong following in Cooma, with local teams competing in various leagues across the region.
Netball is widely played by women in Cooma, with many local clubs providing opportunities for all age groups.
Cricket is a traditional sport in Cooma, with local competitions and a strong community support for the game.
Given its proximity to skiing regions, snow sports like skiing and snowboarding are popular among residents during winter.
Basketball has gained popularity in Cooma, with local leagues and programs for youth development.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cooma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Cooma offer vegetarian and vegan options, with dishes like falafel wraps, tofu stir-fries, and fresh salads.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating menus at various eateries, including gluten-free pizzas, pasta dishes, and desserts.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cooma with these cultural adventures.
