14-Day Brisbane to Dubbo Road Trip

The best way to start a 14-day road trip from Brisbane to Dubbo is by travelling to the vibrant city of Ipswich. Centrally located in South East Queensland, Ipswich has a wealth of architectural, natural, and cultural heritage. There are over 6000 heritage-listed sites, 500 parks and many historical buildings that have been preserved throughout the city. Its oldest provincial city status adds to Ipswich’s rich history; each town within the western rural areas holds its own distinct claims of historical landmarks. By spending the first two days exploring this richly historical area, travellers can begin an unforgettable road trip adventure with an appreciation for its unique culture and must-see sites.

Sightseeing #1: Ipswich Nature Centre

The Ipswich Nature Centre is a highlight of the Queens Park region, offering visitors the chance to observe some of Australia’s native wildlife in their natural habitats. Here, you can participate in professional-led guided tours to learn interesting facts about these animals and find out more about conservation efforts. The centre also provides an array of activities suitable for all ages, such as educational programs and interactive exhibits. With great views of the park, various winding pathways, small lakes and cultivated plant life, there are plenty of opportunities to take in some stunning scenery while exploring the area. A visit to Ipswich Nature Centre promises a memorable adventure filled with knowledge and education.

Sightseeing #2: Nerima Gardens

Nerima Gardens is a symbol of Ipswich’s connection to the South East Queensland environment and bioregion. Designed to reflect a Japanese-style garden, this stunning sight uses local plants, including rare and endangered species. Visitors appreciate the tranquillity of its winding paths, elegantly designed ponds, and ersatz traditional teahouse. Offering both serenity and insight into nature, Nerima Gardens is a must for any travellers in Ipswich.

Located in less than 2 hours’ driving time from Ipswich, Toowoomba is an ideal stopover point during a road trip from Brisbane to Dubbo. As Queensland’s largest inland city, Toowoomba combines sophisticated charm with its country vibes, making it a great place for travellers who are interested in the exciting coffee culture, good food, and street art scenes. Furthermore, the city has gained a reputation for its many picturesque parks and gardens that make up its stunning landscape and attracts many visitors during the annual Carnival of Flowers spring celebration. Beyond sightseeing, Toowoomba’s plentiful farms have made it a productive food hub with plenty of restaurants, while lakes and national parks also offer boundless entertainment. Be sure to extend your stay to experience all that this inspiring city has to offer.

Sightseeing #1: Queens Park

Queens Park in Toowoomba is one of the region’s most popular sightseeing attractions due to its tremendous aesthetic appeal. An oasis of calm and tranquillity, the Park and Gardens spread across both formal and informal sections bursting with an array of colourful flora. Providing an atmosphere for every mood, these photogenic gardens rest under the shade of early and substantial trees. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll or just want to take a break from busy city life, Queens Park is worth exploring.

Sightseeing #2: Picnic Point Lookout

Picnic Point Lookout is an iconic public recreation place in the Toowoomba region, offering a panoramic view of the landscape. The Great Dividing Range towers over lush coastal plains surrounded by dramatic vistas, providing visitors with an awe-inspiring experience. Tourists from Australia and even beyond take advantage of this tranquil spot to enjoy its picturesque scenery and unwind from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As one of the most popular sights for sightseers, Picnic Point Lookout is a must-see for anyone visiting Toowoomba.

Spend days five and six of your Brisbane to Dubbo road trip touring Goondiwindi and taking in the sights. Located on Queensland’s southern border, Goondiwindi is an important centre for agriculture, producing a variety of crops, fibres and meats. Guests will be able to explore the Goondiwindi Botanic Gardens of the Western Woodlands, learn about Gunsynd The Goondiwindi Grey and visit both the Natural Heritage & Water Park and Goondiwindi Cotton. For those who enjoy being outside, a round of golf at the Goondiwindi Golf Course is highly recommended. Regardless of what you decide to do, you are sure to have an incredible time discovering everything that this charming town can offer.

Sightseeing #1: Goondiwindi Botanic Gardens of the Western Woodlands

Located near the MacIntyre River, the Goondiwindi Botanic Gardens of the Western Woodlands is an awe-inspiring spot to visit and take in all that nature has to offer. The parkland boasts over 25 hectares of natural woodlands, which transform into a delightful spectacle during wildflower season, showcasing a variety of native flowering species. Stroll through the woodland with ease thanks to chain walking trails taking visitors right up close to some of Australia’s most beautiful flora and fauna.

Sightseeing #2: Goondiwindi Natural Heritage & Water Park

Travellers to Goondiwindi seeking to spend quality time outdoors may find precisely what they’re looking for at the area’s Natural Heritage & Water Park. The park features a 3km purpose-built channel designed specifically for recreational water activities, such as waterskiing, wakeboarding, canoeing and boating. It is also great for nature enthusiasts wishing to observe abundant birdlife in their natural habitat or enjoy a leisurely picnic by the lake. Plus, it provides designated areas for swimming, ensuring that every family member has ample opportunity to enjoy the best that Goondiwindi has to offer.

A visit to Moree is a must-have on any road trip from Brisbane to Dubbo. Home to the Great Artesian Basin, this town draws travellers seeking healing spa waters and locals who take full advantage of all the town has to offer. From soaking in natural mineral springs at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre to exploring one of Australia’s biggest pecan farms and enjoying local paintings along banks – no one will be disappointed with what this laidback town has in store. For those looking for a truly unique experience, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the vast wetlands and birdwatch while taking in some local cuisine at the Moree on a Plate Festival or The Big Plane with Amaroo Tavern. With so much to see and do, Moree is sure to be an unforgettable stop on your road trip.

Sightseeing #1: Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre

Offering a wide range of activities in a complex recently renovated at the cost of 7 million Australian dollars, Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre provides travellers with both amazing recreational opportunities and possible health benefits thanks to its artesian water source. This iconic centre serves as an exciting part of Moree that draws both local tourism and international guests looking to experience the healing waters.

Sightseeing #2: Bank Art Museum Moree

The Bank Art Museum Moree is an amazing sight to behold. Featuring one of the largest collections of contemporary Aboriginal art in regional New South Wales, it has an incredible variety of artwork on display. Visitors can take advantage of staff-led guided tours to gain further knowledge and understanding; alternatively, Paint and Sip art classes can be tailored for groups of all sizes, with regular workshops held too. A thorough exploration of the website will ensure visitors are aware of all the details they need to experience this captivating museum.

Nestled in the Namoi Valley, this agricultural wonderland produces high-quality products such as wheat, lambs, beef and cotton. Narrabri is home to a variety of attractions, such as Sawn Rocks, the incredible Mount Kaputar National Park, the renowned Australia Telescope Compact Array, Pilliga Artesian Bore Bath, and the Narrabri Region Visitor Information Centre. Combine these with spectacular views, and you have a memorable two-day stop along your Brisbane to Dubbo road trip.

Sightseeing #1: Mount Kaputar National Park

Mount Kaputar National Park promises wildlife sightings, a variety of landscapes and unforgettable memories when sightseeing in Narrabri. Tucked away in the northwest corner of New South Wales’ massive Great Dividing Range region, travellers are always keen to explore the park’s 15,000 hectares of diverse habitats and ecosystems, ranging from woodlands to eucalypt forests. In addition to a diverse range of native birdlife, visitors can spot wallabies, quolls and even Australia’s unique red triangle slug, which appears after rainfall. Whether you plan on enjoying the serenity of bushwalking or sunbathing in some untouched natural beauty, Mount Kaputar National Park is an ideal spot for sightseeing in Narrabri.

Sightseeing #2: Pilliga Artesian Bore Bath

Located nearly 100km from Narrabri is the Pilliga Artesian Bore Bath, a stunning natural site renowned for its therapeutic and recreational properties. The artesian bore is fed by aquifers below that reach temperatures up to 37.1 degrees Celsius, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to relax away from the hustle and bustle of city life. An attraction in its own right, this site is popular for swimming, fishing and camping, with scenic vistas throughout the area. Whether you’re aiming for a peaceful picnic or an invigorating swim, the Pilliga Artesian Bore Bath has something to offer everyone; open 24 hours a day, it’s possible to take advantage of all that nature has to offer at any time of day or night.

Spending the 11th and 12th day of your Brisbane to Dubbo road trip in Coonabarabran is a fantastic way to take in all that this stargazing capital of Australia has to offer. The Warrumbungle National Park is a must-see, with official recognition as an International Dark Sky Park in 2016. Here, visitors can explore the iconic park or visit Siding Spring Observatory for a one-of-a-kind experience. Donna the Astronomer offers exclusive stargazing tours, while nature lovers can take head to the remarkable Sandstone Caves. It’s a journey you’ll never forget.

Sightseeing #1: Siding Spring Observatory

Located in the Warrumbungle Mountains of New South Wales, the Siding Spring Observatory (SSO) is a unique and must-visit sight for any visitor to Australia keen on experiencing the country’s rich astronomical history. As the largest optical observatory in Australia, it provides important research facilities for astronomy, astrophysics and space science and is offered to visitors during its public open hours between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm every day of the week. A visit here will offer a fascinating insight into Australia’s contribution to the greater scientific study of our universe.

Sightseeing #2: Crystal Kingdom

Crystal Kingdom is the perfect place to explore some of the world’s most fascinating minerals, featuring rare Zeolite crystal specimens found only in this particular area. Visit and gain insight into the scientific processes responsible for creating these stunning crystals and learn how two ancient volcanoes once stood in Coonabarabran. During your visit, you can even pick up expertly-captured photographs of these unusual rocks to take home with you; a unique souvenir from your trip!

For the much-anticipated web of the 14-day Brisbane to Dubbo road trip, travellers are pampered with a plethora of activities and attractions in Dubbo. You can experience an immersive African savanna wildlife adventure at the Western Plains Zoo, explore the haunted heritage-listed prison at Old Dubbo Gaol, stroll through the tranquil Shoyoen Japanese Garden, gain insight into the Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Experience, or have a night full of stargazing at Dubbo Observatory. With exciting attractions like these and more, this journey is bound to be an unforgettable memory.

Sightseeing #1: Taronga Western Plains Zoo

Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo is an amazing sightseeing destination for all. Opened on the 28th of February 1977, it was the first zoo to be constructed following the open range principle, as well as the first to be built in Australia in 60 years. With five kilometres of circuits that can be explored either on foot or by a rented bike or cart, you won’t run out of activities to do. See hundreds of rare and endangered animals, including giraffes, rhinos and elephants, in their natural habitats. Enjoy daily keeper activities, special tours that will give you unforgettable memories, and two consecutive days of access with every ticket purchase. So come explore Taronga Western Plains and experience the ultimate zoofari!

Sightseeing #2: Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Experience

Unlock the exciting world of medical aerial travel and experience the true work of a hero with the Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Experience in Dubbo. Immerse yourself in compelling stories that illustrate the efforts taken to ensure medical care reaches even the most far-flung regions of Australia – including an augmented reality tour of an aircraft, treating patients mid-flight. Get an up-close look at one of these aircraft’s controls, split fuselage, touchscreens and more – all while walking through the cabin that soars thousands of kilometres for lifesaving treatments.

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If you want to read more of our Brisbane adventures, come and explore the dedicated Brisbane Road Trips. Happy Exploring!