Grab a delicious lunch from one of the town’s bakeries or cafes (such as the amazing Milbrey Kitchen & Store), and enjoy a picnic at the Reef Reserve at Lake Oberon (free entry), a serene spot only five minutes from the town centre (note there is a section of dirt road).
If the kids like fishing and you don’t have rods and gear, drop by Oberon Outdoor and Electronics – they have some cheap kits for kids.
If there’s still time, visit the Oberon Commons (opposite the tourist information centre), where there are two great playgrounds and a skatepark.
Check into the Highlands Motor Inn and enjoy a complimentary cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate!
Drive to Mayfield Garden (entry fees apply), one of the largest privately owned cool-climate gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. The kids will love exploring the stunning landscapes and seeing the water garden, maze, cottage garden, flying fox, chicken coops, etc. You can grab a coffee or a bite to eat in their lovely café (bookings are recommended in peak season).
If you love animals, be sure to book a tour of Kenzell Farm (costs apply), a 250-acre multigenerational working farm. You can get up close and personal with alpacas, llamas, miniature goats, miniature donkeys, and chickens.
Or head to High Country Trail Rides for horse riding, Polaris Driving, horse-drawn buggies, and farm animals. Costs apply.
The Art Deco Malachi Gilmore Hall has been recently restored and sometimes has kid-friendly events, including an amazing Lego display! Be sure to visit their website for upcoming event information.
Sadly, Jenolan Caves (costs apply) are temporarily closed, so you can’t take a guided tour through the magnificent limestone caves, such as the Lucas Cave or the Chifley Cave, and marvel at the impressive formations. Note that when the caves reopen, the road has been washed out and the alternate route can take longer than you think. Pre-booking tickets is strongly advised. Check with the team at Jenolan Caves for access details.
In the meantime, why not try your hand at fossicking? Oberon Tourist Information Centre has fossicking kits available for hire ($30 a day), a display case with the kinds of gemstones you may find, and they can provide maps of where best to go.
If the kids are fans of trains, the Oberon to Tarana Heritage Railway is being restored by volunteers. They will have open days, working bees, and eventually train rides!
If you’re driving back to Sydney, you could also detour via the recently restored Zig Zag Railway for an unforgettable ride.
Enjoy a leisurely drive (20 minutes) to our well-kept local secret: Kanangra-Boyd National Park. This little-known park has spectacular rugged cliffs, deep gorges, and panoramic views. Take a walk or go mountain biking through the stunning surroundings.
If you have any queries, contact Oberon Tourist Information at (02) 6329 8210.
For accommodation bookings, call reception at the Highlands Motor Inn on (02) 6336 1866 or book directly for the best rates available.
There’s more than you think to do in and around Oberon!
Check out our suggested itineraries for ideas of what to do in Oberon, or mix and match to make your own amazing visit to this beautiful area.
