places to visit in nsw in october

The most beautiful NSW bucket list: 31 dreamy places to visit in New South Wales

By ling and jace.

‘New South Wales’ is on Aboriginal land. We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Traditional Owners.

home / back to australia

We’ve always known that you don’t have to go too far to find beautiful views and things to do in NSW. After exploring the state from the coast to the most remote inland corners, we’ve put together a bucket list of the 31 most incredible places to visit in NSW.

If you like these photos or want to chat about your trip, find us on Instagram @ling.and.jace

Planning a NSW itinerary

Getting around nsw.

NSW is covers a large area and unfortunately it isn’t always well connected by public transport. Many of the places we’ve included can only be reached by car. When take a road trip, we use Rentalcars to compare prices across different hire car companies .

If you’re mostly staying in Sydney on your trip, we’ve mentioned below whether each destination can be reached comfortably in a day trip from the city. We’ve also thoroughly researched every single tour that might help you get around. While you’re in the city itself, this bus route can help you easily get to the main attractions .

Where to stay in NSW

For places that can’t be reached in a day trip from Sydney, we’ve included recommendations for the best accommodation in the area. In general, we’ve found the biggest range of accommodation options on Booking.com and Agoda , especially in the more remote areas.

31 DREAMY PLACES TO VISIT IN NEW SOUTH WALES

Beaches and coasts

Cathedral Rocks, Kiama

Bombo Headland, Kiama

Hyam’s Beach, Jervis Bay

Bullimah Beach, Bouddi National Park

Zenith Beach, Port Stephens

Wattamolla Beach, Royal National Park

Stockton Sand Dunes

Iluka Beach, Jervis Bay

The Entrance, Central Coast

Curracurrong Falls, Royal National Park

Fingal Bay, Port Stephens

Gordon’s Bay, Sydney

Rocky Point Island, Balmoral Beach

Garie Beach, Royal National Park

Resolute Beach, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Sydney Harbour

Caves Beach

Sea Cliff Bridge

Mountains and forests

Wentworth Falls, Blue Mountains

Gap Creek Falls, Watagans National Park

Cahill’s Lookout, Blue Mountains

Lockley’s Pylon, Blue Mountains

Hawkesbury River, Cattai National Park

Govett’s Leap Lookout, Blue Mountains

Mungo Brush, Myall Lakes National Park

The Kangaroo Valley

Snowy Mountains, Kosciuszko National Park

Mount Annan, Australian Botanic Garden

Outback and desert

Mudgee, Central West NSW

Lake Mungo, Mungo National Park

Broken Hill, Outback NSW

1. CATHEDRAL ROCKS, KIAMA

Wodi Wodi land

There’s something so beautiful about the coast around Kiama. While we were there, we went out to see it again and again—first for sunrise at Cathedral Rocks, and then for the Milky Way over the sea at night.

The landscape here has been shaped out of volcanic rock, through years of erosion from the wind and waves. While the tide is low, you can make it right around the cliffs—just be careful to check the tide times before you go. We arrived at around 6-7am when the water was at its lowest for the day.

Cathedral Rocks is the top place on our NSW bucket list. To get to the best view of Cathedral Rocks on the shore, drive to this carpark , walk down onto the sand, and then follow the beach to the right for around ten minutes until you get to the rocks at the very end.

To see this coastline in a unique way, we’d recommend taking this eco scenic cruise, which follows the cliffs along Cathedral Rocks, Bushrangers Bay and Kiama from the water .

Sunrise at Cathedral Rock, Kiama

2. BOMBO HEADLAND, KIAMA

For one of the dreamiest please to visit in NSW at night, we’d recommend going to Bombo Headland in Kiama.

In particular, Bombo Headland Quarry Geological Site is one of the most unique backdrops for sunrise, sunset and stargazing in the area, as there are huge basalt columns by the ocean. To get there, park at Bombo Headland Parking and follow the path around the headland. After you pass the water treatment facility, there will be a right turn to go down the steps and towards the water. If you’re visiting at night, don’t forget to take torches as there are no lights. We’d also recommend downloading offline maps as reception can be limited.

Stargazing at Bombo Quarry, Kiama

Early morning at Bombo Quarry, Kiama

3. HYAMS BEACH, JERVIS BAY

We’re going to ignore the fact that Jervis Bay is technically a separate territory for a moment, because it makes for one of the most beautiful weekend trips for anyone living in or travelling through NSW.

Hyams Beach is one of the dreamiest places that we visited while in Jervis Bay, with clear water, and the whitest sand in the world. It’s high on everybody’s NSW bucket list, so it can get quite crowded during the day. We’d recommend heading out a bit earlier and catching the sunrise.

If you only have a short trip to NSW, it is possible to reach Jervis Bay as a day trip from Sydney but we wouldn’t recommend driving there yourself as it is quite a long route. If you want to see the highlights, this day trip from Sydney includes all transportation, a scenic cruise to see dolphins, and time at Hyams Beach .

Sunrise at Hyams Beach

4. WENTWORTH FALLS, BLUE MOUNTAINS

Country of the Dharug and Gundungurra people

Whenever we get the chance, we head to the Blue Mountains. It’s easily our favourite place to visit in NSW and quite rightly makes it on to everyone’s NSW bucket list. One morning, we took in all of the sunrise colours on a hike down into the valley. We decided to get out early to avoid the crowds, and made it just in time for this red glow.

The Wentworth Falls track is one of the most well-known walks in the Blue Mountains, and we’d recommend it to anyone visiting for the first time. It’s only 1.4km return and takes about an hour in total. The descent itself is one of the most scenic parts, but the main attraction is a natural pool at the base of the 100m tall Wentworth Falls.

This hike is the perfect day trip from Sydney because it is short but very rewarding. We’d recommend joining this tour to Wentworth Falls that includes transport to and from a central place in the city, a picnic lunch, and some of the best view points in the Blue Mountains on the way .

If you’re planning more time in the Blue Mountains, we’ve put up a full guide of things to do here .

Wentworth Falls valley track

5. BULLIMAH BEACH, BOUDDI NATIONAL PARK

Darkinjung land

Our ideal afternoon is hitting the road with a car full of snacks and hiking until we find a cove that we don’t want to leave. The 8km Coastal Walk in Bouddi National Park is one of our favourite places to visit in NSW for this, especially as a short day-trip out of Sydney.

We can’t get enough of the textures along the coast, where the wind and water has shaped the shoreline. For a scenic one-day hike, follow the a 3km section (one way) that runs from Putty Beach to Maitland Bay.

Bullimah beach is a short distance into the trail—perhaps only 500m, if that—but it’s usually quiet and secluded because most people are walking the whole track around the coast to Maitland Bay without stopping there.

Sunset on the Bouddi National Park Coast Track

Bullimah Beach in Bouddi National Park

6. ZENITH BEACH, PORT STEPHENS

Country of the Worimi Nation

Zenith Beach is one of the most beautiful places to visit in NSW, set at the base of Tomaree Head. The sun breaks the horizon over the sea on this part of the coast, and we’ve always caught the most spectacular colours at sunrise.

There is a small carpark nearby with a short path leading to the sand. Parking spaces can fill up quickly during the day, especially on weekends and public holidays, as this is also parking for the start of the popular Tomaree Head coastal walk.

We saw so much on just a short, three-day trip to Port Stephens, and have put up a post with things to do in the area here .

Sunrise at Zenith Beach, Port Stephens

7. LAKE MUNGO, MUNGO NATIONAL PARK

Paakantji, Ngyiampaa and Mutthi Mutthi land

When we first started travelling together, we quickly realised that our favourite places to visit were surreal natural landscapes. We started seeking them out and our routes became more and more remote.

Mungo National Park is 1000km from Sydney. It took three days to drive there, but we knew we had to experience it for ourselves. The trip was filled with red roads, surreal landscapes and sunset warmth. It was one of the most surreal times of our lives, and it’s very high up on our NSW bucket list.

For our long road trip into outback NSW, we hired a car here on Rentalcars . The platform lets you compare prices across different rental companies, and we were able to find a vehicle with a bit more suspension than our small car for the dirt roads. We’ve put up a full post with everything you need to know about an outback road trip to Mungo National Park here .

Sunset on the lunettes, Mungo National Park

8. CURRACURRONG FALLS, ROYAL NATIONAL PARK

Lands of the Dharawal people

Apparently there are less than 40 major waterfalls in the world that run directly into the ocean. We’ll never forget the first time that we saw one on the Isle of Skye and couldn’t wait to explore this one closer to home.

The Royal National Park has over 100km of trails, and Curracurrong Falls can be reached on one-day hikes from either Garie Beach or Wattamolla Beach. This day tour is the perfect way to see the highlights of the Royal National Park and hike to Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls .

We’ve put up a full post with everything you need to know about hiking 4km from Wattamolla to Curracurrong Falls here .

Eagle Rock, Royal National Park

9. WATTAMOLLA BEACH, ROYAL NATIONAL PARK

The waterfall that runs onto Wattamolla Beach makes it one the most unique places to visit in NSW. To get there, park at Wattamolla Parking, and then it’s a short walk to get down to the water, across the stream and onto the beach.

Wattamolla Beach is also the perfect starting point for the Royal National Park’s Coast Track—we’d really recommend walking the 4km track to Curracurrong Falls, which run over the cliffs and into the sea. This day tour is the perfect way to see the highlights of the Royal National Park , which includes the hike to Curacurrong Falls and time to swim at Wattamolla beach.

Wattamolla Falls on Wattamolla Beach, Royal National Park

Coast Track, Royal National Park

10. STOCKTON SAND DUNES, WORIMI CONSERVATION LAND

We’ve made the two-hour trip from Sydney to the Stockton sand dunes so many times—it’s simply a staple on many NSW bucket lists, and for good reason. No matter how many times we visit, there are always new views across the slopes.

This spectacular stretch of the coast is one of the main places that we recommend to anyone visiting NSW. The sand dunes at the Worimi Conservation Land are the largest moving dunes in the Southern Hemisphere—they stretch for 32 kilometres, and it has taken us a number of trips to find access to the most scenic areas.

One of the most flexible and affordable ways of accessing deep areas in the dunes is to book a sand boarding and 4WD sand dune tour , which runs a shuttle bus every 15 minutes so you can stay on the dunes for as long as you want. It is also one of the best places for quad-biking or driving with a 4WD . If you are travelling to Port Stephens from Sydney, this full day tour is the perfect one-day trip which includes transfer from Sydney, whale watching, a 4WD tour to the highest sand dunes, and sand boarding.

Now that we’ve found the best locations, we’ve put up everything that you need to know about visiting the Stockton sand dunes here .

Aerial view of Stockton Sand Dunes

11. GAP CREEK FALLS, WATAGANS NATIONAL PARK

Awabakal and Darkinjung land

While we were on the Central Coast, days of heavy rain meant that nearby waterfalls were overflowing. So when the skies cleared, we drove through muddy roads and hiked down to Gap Creek Falls.

Compared to some of the more popular falls on the Central Coast, the Gap Creek Falls walking track is usually much quieter and lesser-known. The trail is around 1.5km (return), winding through the lush rainforest of Watagans National Park. You may even catch (or join) some more daring adventurers abseiling down the waterfall walls.

12. CAHILL'S LOOKOUT, BLUE MOUNTAINS

Every time we’re in the mountains, we spend the afternoon on rock edges until the sun goes down. One of our favourite sunsets spots in NSW is from Cahill’s Lookout, where a golden glow fills the Megalong Valley. Cahill’s Lookout is a short drive away from Katoomba’s town centre. The lookout itself is a short walkway toward the valley, and there’s a picnic area right next to the carpark.

Right next to Cahill’s Lookout is Boar’s Head Climbing Area , which is the perfect place to watch the sunset away from the crowds.

Cahill’s lookout is somewhere that we always go back to on a day trip from Sydney. There is no need to hike to the viewpoint so it is very easy to reach and gives one of the most spectacular sunset views. To get there, we’d recommend joining this half day tour from Sydney which takes you to Cahill’s lookout at the perfect time of day .

Sunset at Cahill’s lookout

13. ILUKA BEACH, JERVIS BAY

Iluka Beach (near Green Patch camping ground) is one of the most beautiful places to visit in NSW because it has the whitest sand, is surrounded by stunning bushland, and is also the perfect spot to see kangaroos.

The best time of day to find kangaroos on the beach is in the late afternoon, just before sunset, when they start to come out of the national park and onto the sand. Drive to the Green Patch camping ground for access to the most scenic part of the beach.

14. THE ENTRANCE, CENTRAL COAST

Land of the Darkinjung people

The Entrance is one of the calmest parts of the NSW coastline, and only around 1.5 hours’ drive from Sydney. One evening, we waited for the storm to clear and walked out across the wharf at Long Jetty. It’s the perfect place to catch the sunset as the light reflects off Tuggerah Lake.

Long Jetty Wharf, the Entrance

15. MUDGEE, CENTRAL WEST NSW

Country of the Wiradjuri Nation

Our impressions of Mudgee are up in the Milky Way. When we arrived at night, we caught the clearest line of stars, stretching over our accommodation and across the field.

Mudgee is well-known as one of NSW’s best wine regions, so in the morning, we went to check out the local vineyards and had lunch at one of the estates. Mudgee is also a great place to stop on any longer road trip across NSW. We did this during our road trip into the outback, and have put up full details of the route here .

Milky Way from Mudgee with 17mm, 13s exposure, f/2.8, 5000 ISO

16. LOCKLEYS PYLON, BLUE MOUNTAINS

For one of our favourite afternoons in the Blue Mountains, we went off onto a dirt road, hoping our tiny car would make it. We then followed a 7km walking track out to Lockleys Pylon. It’s one of the few trails that doesn’t descend into the valleys—instead it follows the top of the mountains to a spectacular peak.

There’s a steep drop at the end of the trail, with high, 360° views across the eucalyptus forests of the Grose Valley and the orange sandstone cliffs of Mount Hay and Mount Banks. We’d recommend going in the late afternoon and taking some time at the peak to enjoy the scenery in golden light. You’ll see why Lockleys Pylon is on our NSW bucket list.

The start of the trail to Lockleys Pylon is only accessible by car. Once you get there, you can park anywhere on the side of the road near the entrance to the trail .

Lockleys Pylon, Blue Mountains

Rare black cockatoo in the Blue Mountains

17. HAWKESBURY RIVER, CATTAI NATIONAL PARK

Land of the Darug people

Our ideal place for a picnic is at sunset on the river, surrounded by kangaroos. Cattai National Park is one of the best spots—it’s quiet, fairly hidden and not too far from the city.

If you visit in the late afternoon, there are always kangaroos out in the fields near the main entrance. At the end of the road through the national park, there is a picnic area and parking next to a wharf at the riverfront.

Wharf in Cattai National Park

18. GOVETTS LEAP LOOKOUT, BLUE MOUNTAINS

For one of the most accessible, beautiful views in the Blue Mountains, we always go back to Govetts Leap. During the day, there’s a stunning view of Mount Banks and Mount Hay, and at night, the skies can be clear enough to make out the Milky Way. We’ve caught the super moon rise and lunar eclipse from here, too.

Govetts Leap Lookout is also an access point for several walks in the Blue Mountains. We’ve listed them all in our full Blue Mountains guide here.

Sunset view from Govetts Leap, Blue Mountains

Stars and moon rising from Govetts Leap, Blue Mountains

Moon rise over the mountains at Govetts Leap, Blue Mountains

19. FINGAL BAY, PORT STEPHENS

Fingal Bay is no secret, which makes it all the more surprising that we always find it completely empty.

Like Zenith beach, the sun rises over the sea line here, so the colours in the morning are absolutely beautiful. A 20 minute walk down the beach leads you to the Fingal Bay Spit , a small peninsula which you can walk across to get to Fingal Island and Port Stephens Lighthouse at low tide. We’ll always remember Fingal Bay as one of the dreamiest places to visit in NSW.

Port Stephens is one of the best places in Australia to go whale watching and to see dolphins. If you’re in the area, we’d recommend looking into a dolphin watching cruise (some also have the option to swim) . If you are travelling to Port Stephens from Sydney, this full day tour is the perfect one-day trip which includes transfer from Sydney, whale watching, a 4WD tour to the highest sand dunes, and sand boarding.

Sunrise on Fingal Bay, Port Stephens

20. MUNGO BRUSH, MYALL LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Every weekend we try to get further out into the open. On this one, we pitched tents close to the water and fell asleep to dingos running by.

We camped at Mungo Brush in Myall Lakes National Park, surrounded by NSW’s largest coastal lake systems. The park is just under 3 hours’ drive north of Sydney, and is one of our favourite getaways for camping, bushwalking, kayaking and off-roading across sand dunes to the beach.

We’ve put up a full post with everything you need to know about camping in Mungo Brush here .

Rainforest in Mungo National Park

White Tree Bay near Mungo Brush campground

21. RESOLUTE BEACH, KU-RING-GAI CHASE NATIONAL PARK

Country of the Dharug people

Our favourite walk in NSW leads to a hidden gem called Resolute Beach, a serene and lesser-known cove at the base of the hills in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. It’s by far one of the most beautiful places in NSW, and can be reached through a short 6km circuit called the Resolute Loop Trail.

To get there from Sydney, drive towards West Head. There is a car park near the entrance to the walk—search for “Resolute Picnic Area” on Google Maps to find it. It will be a turn off on the right hand side, before you get to West Head lookout.

If you have more time in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, we’ve put up a post with more walks here, including a trail that leads to seals at the right time of the year.

The hike down to Resolute Beach

Resolute Beach, NSW

22. SYDNEY HARBOUR, SYDNEY

Gadigal land

After spending so long in Sydney’s CBD, we sometimes take this view for granted. But it’s safe to say that you can’t go wrong with Sydney Harbour on a clear day, especially if you’re planning to visit NSW for the first time. Sydney Harbour is probably the most popular destination on any NSW bucket list. While you’re in the city itself, this bus route can help you easily get to the main attractions around Sydney .

For an iconic harbour backdrop, the Royal Botanic Garden is the best place to head for views of the Opera House or Harbour Bridge. The entire garden along the waterfront is beautiful, and Bennelong Lawn has some of the best park views. If you continue walking around to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, you’ll reach the best vantage point of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House together.

We’d also recommend going out onto the harbour itself, which is beautiful in the late afternoon and at sunset. There are a few harbour cruise options you could look into, depending on whether you’d like to go during the day, at sunset, or for dinner.

If you want an even more unique experience, we took this scenic helicopter flight over the harbour and it was one of the most unforgettable experiences . It also flies over some of the most iconic beaches.

Aerial view of the Opera House, Sydney

View of Sydney Harbour taken from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

Sydney Opera House, sails lit up by First Nations artists

Sydney Harbour Bridge at sunset

Picnic in front of the Sydney Opera House, taken from the Royal Botanical Gardens

23. ROCKY POINT ISLAND, BALMORAL BEACH

Land of the Borogegal tribe

When things were starting to warm up, we went out to a tiny island to watch the colours shift over the sea. It always feels like a proper Australian summer sunset from Balmoral Beach—the heat still in the air, planning road trips with friends, hearing cicadas again.

There is paid street parking in the area and it’s a very short walk onto Rocky Point Island from the beach itself.

Sunset picnic on Rocky Point Island

24. MOUNT ANNAN, AUSTRALIAN BOTANIC GARDEN

Lands of the Dharawal and Gundungurra people

The Australian Botanic Garden at Mount Annan is a good place to visit in NSW for a picnic by the gardens. The best time to visit is from late September to early October when paper daisies are in bloom. We found these areas just by driving around the garden, away from the crowds at the main centre.

Lakeside view on Mount Annan

Paper daisies on Mount Annan in September

25. KANGAROO VALLEY

Wodi-Wodi land

The Kangaroo Valley is one of the most relaxing places for a nature escape in NSW. We booked a short trip to an A-frame for our anniversary, and it was so peaceful to wake up between the mountains. At all times of the day and night, everything was quiet except for the waterfalls surrounding the valley.

We spent a few rainy days in the nearby national parks. When the clouds finally lifted there were views of so many impressive waterfalls (like Belmore Falls, Fitzroy Falls and Minnamurra Falls), and all of the creeks and valleys that they flow into. The Kangaroo Valley is the perfect place to slow down and reconnect with nature in NSW.

Belmore Falls, Kangaroo Valley

The Aframe, Kangaroo Valley

26. GARIE BEACH, ROYAL NATIONAL PARK

Sometimes when we stop to meditate, it can take a bit of time to completely slip into it. But on other days, we’re so deeply present that every single experience feels meditative. At Garie Beach, this came so naturally from hiking under an early moonrise, feeling ocean mist on our skin, boiling ramen at sunset and seeing black cockatoos, then freezing for hours to catch Geminid meteors across the night sky.

Garie Beach is another beautiful part of the coast in NSW that we can’t recommend enough. It’s the perfect place to start day hikes in the Royal National Park. We’d recommend stopping at Governor Game Lookout for a wide ocean view (especially at sunset or during a meteor shower), and parking at Garie Beach carpark to access the beach itself.

Dusk light at Garie Beach, Royal National Park

Sunset at Governor Game Lookout, Royal National Park

27. GORDON'S BAY, SYDNEY

Bidjigal and Gadigal peoples of the Eora nation

Gordon’s Bay is one of the most secluded and quiet beaches in the east of Sydney. The bay is filled with clear blue water, and tucked away on part of the 6km coastal walk that runs from Bondi to Coogee. It’s usually less busy than the surrounding beaches as it can only be reached by walking. We’d recommend the free parking at Clovelley Beach, which is only a 10-15 minute walk away from Gordon’s Bay.

Gordon’s Bay, NSW

Beach at Gordon’s Bay

28. SNOWY MOUNTAINS, KOSCIUSZKO NATIONAL PARK

Ngarigo Country

Kosciuszko National Park is such a contrast from the other places that we’ve visited in NSW. This snowfall was just one week after our summery coastal walks at Bouddi National Park.

There’s a reason that Kosciuszko National Park is a constant on NSW bucket lists. There is so much to do in the area, especially during winter—skiing at Thredbo or Perisher, hiking, camping, exploring the caves in Yarrangobilly or following the Snowy River.

Thredbo Alpine Hotel

River view in Thredbo

29. BROKEN HILL, OUTBACK NSW

Wilyakali land

Outback NSW is so expansive that even after days of driving, nothing seemed to change. Hours and hours of red. But all the best things came up in between—our camera was covered in dust, we pulled over more times than we could count, and we knew that we were travelling toward something spectacular.

Eventually, we made it to Broken Hill, a unique town at the furthest corner of NSW. We spent a few days seeing all of its art galleries, a mix of architecture, and iconic movie sets. While we were there, we also drove a bit further to Silverton—seeing the sunset from the Mundi Mundi Lookout ended up being one of the dreamiest places we’ve visited in NSW.

Red road on the way to Broken Hill, outback NSW

Silverton, outback NSW

30. CAVES BEACH

Awabakal land

We waited for the tide to go out so that we could get into sea caves, then walked through to a hidden cove on the other side. There is a wide network of caves that run through the cliffs at the end of Caves Beach in Swansea, north of Newcastle. To get there, we’d recommend checking the tide times to make sure that it’s safe to go through, which should be in the early morning or late afternoon.

There is a carpark at Caves Beach Lookout for the closest access to the sea caves, which are located just below the lookout.

Inside sea caves at Caves Beach, NSW

Caves Beach, NSW

Cove at Caves Beach, NSW

31. Sea Cliff Bridge, Illawarra

One of the best day trips from Sydney is a road trip along the South Coast, stopping at the Royal National Park and Stanwell Tops. The best lookouts on the way are at Bald Hill Lookout, Otford and Sea Cliff Bridge. We decided to park on one end of Sea Cliff Bridge and walk across is—at sunset we could see dolphins in the water below.

If you don’t have a car, this day tour is the perfect way to get to Sea Cliff Bridge, and includes time in the Royal National Park and all of the best lookouts.

It’s also possible to climb up to a hill that looks out over the bridge, but we wouldn’t recommend doing it if it has rained recently because it is extremely muddy and slippery. To get there, park at the south end of the bridge (there are small designated carparks). There is a sign for ‘Sea Cliff Bridge’ and near it you can find a very small clearing in the bushes where the path starts. It is an unofficial path uphill and some sections have ropes to help with the climb. At the viewpoint above, the ground is very loose so always keep several metres away from the cliff edge (people have fallen here before).

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26 Things To Do This October Long Weekend In Sydney & NSW 2024 Guide

Need to find things to do this October long weekend in Sydney, but unsure where to start? Look no further!

Public holidays are the best, especially in Australia when we have so much to explore and discover. But with so much to do, sometimes we forget to plan and before we know it the October long weekend will be here. If you are in that situation then don’t worry, we have collated all the things you can do on the NSW public holidays.

In this guide, you’ll find some unique things to do this October long weekend in Sydney and the surrounding areas. Expect a David Bowie festival, dance parties and so much more in this guide so you’ll have a memorable Sydney long weekend! Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Best Weekend Getaways From Sydney guide.

Table of Contents

26 Things to do this October long weekend in Sydney

1. dance at a david bowie festival in carinda.

Who doesn’t love David Bowie enough to dedicate their national holidays to him? Carinda Hotel featured in his legendary ‘Let’s Dance’ music video and has since started a 3 day Lets Dance Carinda Festival in tribute of the late-great himself.

Book a glamping tent, take part in Bowie trivia, watch a tribute band reenact the iconic music video and dance the weekend away to a full program of live music.

Be prepared though – Carinda is located out near Lightning Ridge which is a road trip in itself. Make sure you check out our Lightning Ridge Guide as well so you can make the most of your long weekend getaway.

2. Hope for a win at the NRL Grand Final, Sydney Olympic Park

Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, there is nothing like being immersed in the passion and energy of a home game. The NRL Grand Final will be a spectacular event for enthusiasts and one-timers, the teams will have trained and played for months just to make it to this one final match. What a great way to spend the national holidays, an iconic October long weekend in Sydney must do!

3. Relax on labour day with a hike

Yes, that’s right, hiking can be relaxing! You don’t have to storm it up hills and beat the personal best on Strava; you can have a leisurely hike in nature. With so many National Parks to explore in NSW alone, national public holidays seem made for ticking off these Best Hikes In Sydney .

4. Catch a Whale Watching tour in Sydney whilst it’s still the season

Whale watching in Sydney is awesome from June-November when the humpback whales migrate to warmer waters to give birth. There are eco boat tours running daily from Sydney harbour and tracking the whales along the coastline. If you are lucky to see them breech the water and flip, you will be very happy you took the time to book.

5. Check out a star festival in Coonabarabran

Starfest runs every October public holiday in Coonabarabran and it is the only day in the year that Siding Spring Observatory opens its telescope to the public. Situated on a mountain top, the observatory is Australia’s largest optical astronomy site and has presentations by internationally-acclaimed astronomers on labour day. What an out-of-this-world experience!

It’s also the perfect place to go and do the famous Warrumbungles walks which is a bucket list in Australia! The drive out here is far from Sydney, perfect for the October long weekend.

6. Go For A Drive Down To Wollongong

Think it’s a small town too far out of Sydney? Think again! Our Wollongong guide covers beaches, temples, food markets, waterfalls, and wildlife parks, need I go on? With highlights to see on the drive down too, you would be happy to spend the annual public holiday in Wollongong.

7. Or continue further down to Batemans Bay

Ah I just love Batemans Bay! This underrated coastal town is so beautiful, the 3h30m drive is just about long enough to endure for the long weekend. Bring your tent and camp at one of the stunning campgrounds next to the beach. My top pick is the campground at Depot Beach – it’s just beautiful!

Check out our in-depth guide for the Best Things To Do In Batemans Bay including the gorgeous Mossy Point, plenty of stunning kayaking spots and much more. If you fancy a swim, make sure you check out our 12 Best Beaches In Batemans Bay guide as well, as I personally think it’s got some of the best beaches in New South Wales.

8. Spend your weekend at an old-school festival in Barellan

Travel back in time at the  Good Old Days Festival  and relive the pioneer history of Australia. Camp under the stars, drink beer at the Furphy festival, see working draught animals, camel races and rides, get involved in cow milking or butter churning and see live music. Celebrate the labourers and Australian heritage at the same time.

9. Take an epic road trip to Broken Hill

Granted, you may need to take an extra day or two holidays for this trip but it is so worth it, check out one of our 3 routes to Broken Hill . Jam pack your weekend with stargazing tours, Mad Max museum, heritage tours and the Priscilla Palace hotel and many more awesome things to do in Broken Hill .

10. See a concert under the stars at Night at the Barracks, Manly

Night at the Barracks  is a schedule of Australia’s best talent you can enjoy under the stars. The Barracks is situated at North Head Sanctuary in Manly, a stunning area to see a concert. All events will have local food and drink stalls so you can really make a night of it.

11. Have an epic movie weekend

Sydney is home to some amazing heritage and modern cinemas, each giving a unique cinematic experience. Spend your public holidays ticking off some of the best cinemas in Sydney , sounds like a perfect weekend to me.

12. Pair your movie weekend with food experiences

A weekend and public holiday is not complete without incredible food. If you are back home, a three day weekend means booking a cheap European city break only an hour plane ride away.

Well luckily for us, we can sample food from Germany, Czech Republic, France, Italy, Greece and many more right here in Sydney. Why not spend your weekend ticking off some places on our best European restaurants in Sydney guide ?

13. Escape the grind with a romantic getaway

If you are missing your European weekends away, you’ll be happy to know you can escape to an Italian chateau 2 hours away from Sydney, how cool is that? Our romantic getaways from Sydney guide features even more gems such as a yacht BnB, a cottage that reminds us of the cottage in The Holiday Christmas film, a ski lodge and spa getaways. You are welcome.

14. Drive up to a ‘Ute Muster’ country music fest

What exactly is a ute muster I hear you thinking. The town of Deniliquin took the title of ‘Ute capital of the world’ after creating a the Deni Ute Muster where you can bring and camp in your ute, showcase your ute, and even visit a ute museum.

Don’t worry, it’s not all about utes and you can camp without a ute. The program includes huge country music acts, bull riding, lantern making, camel riding, fairground rides, wood chopping and bogan bingo. What a g’day!

15. Head to a garden festival in Leura, Blue Mountains

For a quieter festival, head to Leura Gardens Festival in the Blue Mountains. For the long weekend, the first Monday in October, you can join group tours, listen to live choirs and jazz, admire the stunning Leura gardens and buy plants. I couldn’t think of a more peaceful and wholesome way to spend the NSW public holidays.

16. Make a weekend of it in the Blue Mountains

If you are heading to the gardens festival then why not stay the whole weekend and explore the stunning national park? With 43 amazing things to do in the Blue Mountains , you will be very happy this labour day.

17. Celebrate the whole month with wine

Orange Wine Month starts on October long weekend and lasts the whole month, why not extend your public holiday into a vacation to the NSW breathtaking natural landscapes? With a full schedule of events, there is more than just wine to explore. Think art exhibitions, cooking classes, music sessions and markets, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

18. Kayak your way through the weekend

Sydney is full of incredible places to Kayak including a tour under the Sydney harbour bridge! You could hire a kayak, and explore wildlife and private beaches with stunning views. Pack a picnic and a beer and your NSW public holidays would be hard to beat!

19. Just keep swimming

By the first Monday in October, we are over the winter chill and swimming doesn’t feel like a cold therapy challenge. Why not pack your swimmers, have a picnic and explore one of our best 19 swimming holes and waterfalls ? The annual public holiday celebrates our work-life balance so what better way to celebrate this than relax in stunning swimming holes?

20. Explore Sydney at Night

The national holidays calls for a good lie-in so you can afford to get out at night and see our beautiful city lit up! With 27 things to do in Sydney at night , such as a secret pub crawl, Sydney harbour bridge climb, crime tour and a Jazz and board game bar, you will be glad you got dressed and hit up Sydney’s unique nightlife.

21. Take your chance to see Breenhold Gardens, Mount Wilson

Open for only two weeks in Spring, Breenhold Gardens in Mount Wilson is only a two hours drive from Sydney. With 45 acres of secret walled gardens, forest walking trails, wildlife and national park lookouts to explore, it really is a beautiful way to spend your public holidays.

Check out our Things To Do In Sydney In Spring guide to find more places to discover during this time of the year!

22. Go on a popular Whale Watching boat tour in Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay is an excellent place to whale watch as the bay is protected from the choppy sea waters making the humpbacks easier to spot. Read our honest review of whale watching with Jervis Bay Wild Cruises and I’m sure you will be jumping to book your ticket for a chance to get your favourite image of the humpbacks.

23. Stay and explore Jervis Bay

Boasted as the area with the whitest sand beaches in the world, Jervis Bay is an absolute must-visit for anyone living in Sydney. With not only beaches. explore, you can pack your weekend with national park hikes, cute heritage bakeries and cinemas and secret tunnels to find.

24. Get tickets to Listen Out Festival, Centennial Park

On Saturday 30th September, you can watch headliners at  Listen Out Festival  in Centennial Parklands. An over 18s-only event, the festival is awesome if you want to spend your public holiday listening to music, dancing with friends and having a drink.

25. Fill your weekend with Japanese Culture at Paddington Town Hall

Sake Festival  at Carriageworks is bringing together both Australian and Japanese Sake distilleries for tastings, talks by industry professionals, live sushi and sashimi making and a Japanese drum performance. Cheers to this!

26. Spend the weekend in Southern Highlands

Escape the city and get back to nature at some of our favourite getaways in the Southern Highlands. Explore the best waterfalls in Kangaroo Valley , check out the antique shops and beautiful places to eat in Bowral and enjoy the fresh country air – easy to get to on the train as well!

Check out our Southern Highlands video for more inspiration below!

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14 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in New South Wales (NSW)

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Sep 24, 2021

New South Wales (NSW) is the oldest state in Australia and one of its most diverse. Sydney shines as the state capital, with famous tourist attractions like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as well as top-notch restaurants, galleries, and museums. Venture beyond this beautiful harbor city, and you'll find a state full of surprises, with six of Australia's World Heritage Areas.

Topographically, New South Wales reflects the diverse landscapes of the country as a whole. The Great Dividing Range cuts through the center of the state, carving it into an eastern coastal strip, rimmed by dazzling beaches, while the stark desert beauty of the Outback sprawls to the west.

Exploring New South Wales is easy, and you'll find plenty of rewarding things to do. Climb or ski the rugged peaks of the Snowy Mountains, hunt for opals in red-earthed Outback towns, hike through World Heritage-listed rainforests, dive the coral reefs of Lord Howe island, and step back in time at Norfolk Island's World Heritage historic sites.

Learn more about this dynamic state with our list of the top attractions and best places to visit in New South Wales.

2. The Blue Mountains

3. lord howe island, 4. byron bay, 5. the south coast's beaches, 6. the hunter valley, 7. coffs harbour, 8. norfolk island, 9. port stephens, 10. the snowy mountains, 11. kangaroo valley, 12. outback nsw, 13. armidale, 14. canberra, map of attractions & places to visit in new south wales (nsw).

Sydney, the capital of NSW, is one of the world's most alluring cities. Graced by the iconic Sydney Opera House and harbor bridge, the sparkling blue harbor is the city's crown jewel. Hop aboard a ferry or harbor cruise to really appreciate these top Sydney attractions and the city's stunning waterfront location.

In addition to world-class restaurants, festivals, galleries, and museums, you'll find plenty of things to do in Sydney . Stroll along the cobblestone streets of the historic Rocks area; wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens ; or climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can also explore the shops, restaurants, and tourist sites at Darling Harbor , one of the top New South Wales attractions for families.

Sydney is known for its excellent beaches . You can bask on famous Bondi Beach , learn to surf at Manly, or paddle the calm waters at Balmoral.

You'll also find plenty of attractions near Sydney. Stretching northwest from the city, the picturesque Hawkesbury River and surrounding national parks are great day trip destinations, with excellent opportunities for bushwalking, birding, and boating.

The Blue Mountains are one of the most scenic places to visit in New South Wales. For more than a hundred years, this region has been a favorite getaway for nature lovers.

About 65 kilometers west of the city, the mountains rise steeply out of the coastal plain, combining magnificent gorges, waterfalls, rock formations, and sacred Aboriginal sites with excellent tourist facilities. Named for the blue haze created by the many eucalyptus trees, the region forms one of the state's magnificent World Heritage Sites .

Popular things to do in the Blue Mountains include hiking, rock climbing, abseiling, mountain biking, and photographing the spectacular beauty. Save time to see all the top attractions. Highlights include Wentworth Falls , the towering sandstone rock formations called the Three Sisters , and the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah .

At Jenolan Caves , the world's oldest known open cave system, you can view glittering stalactites and stalagmites. The Blue Mountains also host some of Australia's best hiking trails .

Wondering about the best way to see some of the top natural attractions with limited time? Sign up for the adventures offered by Scenic World. These include a Skyway, cableway, an elevated walkway, and one of the world's steepest railways. Better still, book a combination of these adventures to see the park from different perspectives.

Blue Mountains National Park is one of the top places to visit near Sydney by car, but you can also catch a train or join a guided day trip tour.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in the Blue Mountains

World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island is a haven for serenity-seekers and nature lovers. Surrounded by the world's most southerly coral reef , this spectacular island, about 660 kilometers off the New South Wales north coast, only allows a maximum of 400 guests at a time.

Lord Howe encompasses a number of islets, which are part of a former volcano. Dramatic cliffs rise along the rugged coast, and other island highlights include white-sand beaches, pristine native forests of pandanus and kentia palms, and spectacular views from atop 875-meter-high Mt. Gower .

Almost two-thirds of Lord Howe is protected, and the island is home to a diversity of flora and fauna. Birding is excellent, with more than 130 permanent and migratory species. Offshore, the Lord Howe Island Marine Park protects coral reefs, and offers superb diving and snorkeling.

Other popular things to do on Lord Howe Island include fishing, surfing, kayaking, and hiking along the many walking trails. Bikes are the best way to explore the island - they are also the island's main mode of transport.

Looking to disconnect from the stress of daily life? You're in luck. You won't find any cell phone reception here, which helps to preserve the peaceful ambience.

Lord Howe Island lies less than a two-hour-flight away from Sydney or Brisbane, and although it's not technically a tropical island, it still ranks as one of the most beautiful islands in the South Pacific .

On the north coast, Byron Bay is a hot spot for surfers and New Age nature buffs. A wide stretch of golden beach fronts the ocean here, and a lovely hike along the Cape Byron Track leads to the most easterly point on the Australian continent and its famous lighthouse. Dolphins and whales frolic in the waters, and water sports abound.

In the hinterland, you can explore World Heritage-listed Wollumbin National Park (formerly Mount Warning National Park) with tranquil rainforests and waterfalls. Byron is also known for its colorful markets, as well as its health and yoga retreats, spa resorts, and luxury boutique hotels.

Lately, celebrity spotting has become a favorite pastime. Chris Hemsworth is a famous resident, and several other high profile Hollywood stars have spent time here between movie shoots.

To soak up the soul of old Byron Bay, venture about an hour inland to the tiny town of Nimbin , a hippie hub and hotbed for counterculture and alternative lifestyles.

If you love beaches, bucolic landscapes, and charming small towns, you'll love the South Coast of New South Wales. Stretching from the southern fringe of Sydney to the Victorian border, this region is home to some of the state's most beautiful white-sand beaches set against the dark summits of the Great Dividing Range . Rolling green hills, lakes, inlets, and forests fringe the coast, and the climate is mild throughout the year.

Strung along the coast are a series of small holiday resorts. Many offer fantastic opportunities for water sports from their beaches, including swimming, fishing, snorkeling, and surfing. Kiama is home to the world's largest blowhole , and Jervis Bay is a standout with its radiant powder-soft sands. Nearby, the dazzling Hyams Beach, reputedly with the world's whitest sand, is one of Australia's best beaches . Batemans Bay is also home to alluring shores, as well as the Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail.

If you're looking for some of the most beautiful hidden places in New South Wales, you'll find them along the South Coast. Merimbula and its sister village Pambula on the Sapphire Coast are hidden gems, with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear lakes, and fantastic opportunities for water sports.

One of the most southerly places on the coast is the old fishing village of Eden , once a prosperous whaling station. North and south of town lies the Ben Boyd National Park with magnificent views of reddish sandstone cliffs from Boyd's Tower, a former lighthouse.

The picturesque Hunter Valley, about a two-hour drive north of Sydney, is one of Australia's most famous grape-growing regions. It's also a popular weekend escape from Sydney - especially for foodies, who come here for the delicious farm-fresh produce, cooking schools, and gourmet restaurants with chef's tasting menus.

Highlights of the Hunter Valley region include the beautiful Hunter Valley Gardens , several excellent art galleries, and vast stretches of unspoiled bushland.

At World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park, you can hike through ancient rain forest and see impressive waterfalls and a diversity of wildlife.

Also in the region, Wollemi National Park is one of the largest national parks in New South Wales. It's home to the famous Wollemi pine and offers excellent bushwalking, rock climbing, and canoeing.

Newcastle is one of the largest towns in the region, and it's a great place to visit if you want an urban buzz after your country getaway. It's one of the biggest New South Wales' cities after Sydney, with museums, galleries, excellent cafés and restaurants, and a lively entertainment scene. Save time to stroll along the Bathers Way coastal walk while you're here. It's one of Newcastle's most popular attractions.

Accommodations in the Hunter region range from luxury spa resorts and boutique hotels to rustic cabins.

Blessed with beautiful beaches and a mild, subtropical climate, Coffs Harbour is a favorite holiday destination for families. The town is famous for its Big Banana , an homage to the local banana-growing industry, with interesting displays, sweet banana-inspired treats, and kid-friendly attractions.

Favorite Coffs Harbour activities revolve mostly around the water. Along the coast, you can bask on uncrowded beaches, fish, surf, dive, kayak, and visit the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve .

About 50 kilometers west of Coffs Harbour, nature lovers can explore the rainforest and waterfalls of Dorrigo National Park, a World Heritage Area. To the north lies a string of pretty beaches (Emerald Beach is a favorite), and the town of Grafton . Famous for its jacaranda trees, Grafton has six large national parks within easy reach, including the World Heritage Areas of Gibraltar Range National Park (Glen Innes) and Washpool National Park .

Once a brutal convict colony, Norfolk Island is now a charming holiday resort with World Heritage-listed historic sites . Although the island is an external territory, it remains part of the Commonwealth of Australia and is home to the Pitcairn Island descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers.

Today, you can tour ruins of the old settlements and learn about the island's Polynesian heritage and colonial past at its excellent museums. A third of this emerald island consists of national parks and reserves, with scenic hiking and biking trails, excellent birding, and sweeping green landscapes dotted with native Norfolk Island pines.

Water sports are a highlight. Diving, swimming, and snorkeling are all popular things to do on Norfolk Island, and beach lovers will find a few secluded coves carved into the rugged and rocky coast. Coral reefs lie offshore, and the fishing is superb in these remote waters.

One of the most unusual places to visit in New South Wales, Norfolk Island is about a 2.5-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane.

About an hour's drive north of Newcastle, Port Stephens is a large and beautiful blue-water bay enclosed by two volcanic headlands. Natural bushland fringes many of the 26 white-sand beaches here, and whales and dolphins are often spotted in the bay.

Despite the many vacationers who come here in the summer, you can still find a quiet stretch of beach. This is also one of the top fishing destinations in Australia, especially for big game fishing. Other popular water sports include swimming, surfing, kayaking, and boating.

To see panoramic views of the Port Stephens coastline, take the Tomaree Head summit walk. Another popular activity here is quad biking or sledding on the Southern Hemisphere's largest sand dunes.

The main holiday resorts are Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay, but you can also stay at Soldiers Point, Fingal Bay, and Lemon Tree Passage. Nearby, Myall Lakes National Park encompasses one of the state's largest lake systems and is another great destination for fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

Forming part of the Great Dividing Range , the Snowy Mountains are home to the continent's highest mountains, including 2,228-meter Mount Kosciuszko , Australia's highest peak.

One of the top attractions in the Snowy Mountains is Kosciuszko National Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a popular recreational area year-round. Snowy winters lure skiers, and in the summer, the easily accessible alpine terrain of snow gum forests and glacial lakes attracts hordes of bush walkers, climbers, anglers, horseback riders, mountain bikers, and water sports enthusiasts.

Wondering where to stay in the Snowy Mountains? Famous for its excellent trout fishing, Jindabyne is a great base for alpine adventures.

The Snowy Mountains are also home to some of Australia's best ski resorts . Perisher Blue Ski Resort incorporates the popular Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Guthega, and Mount Blue Cow. Thredbo Village, at the foot of the Crackenback Range, boasts a year-round chair lift. Near the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Charlotte Pass is a great base for ski tours to the highest peaks in the Australian Alps.

With all these snowcapped peaks, it's not surprising the Snowy Mountains are one of the most popular places to visit in New South Wales in winter.

Gorgeously green, the Kangaroo Valley is a quintessential Aussie country town. Surrounded by lushly cloaked escarpments and rolling pastures, it lies about a two-hour drive southwest of Sydney in the scenic Shoalhaven Region.

Perhaps the town's most distinctive landmark is the handsome, historic Hampden Bridge spanning the Kangaroo River, Australia's only remaining wooden suspension bridge. Driving across its single-lane between the soaring sandstone pillars sets the tone for a relaxed visit here, encouraging visitors to slow down and smile at passing drivers.

You'll find plenty of things to do in the picturesque Kangaroo Valley. Horseback riding, hiking, golfing, kayaking along the rivers and creeks, and absorbing some local history at the Pioneer Village Museum are all popular activities.

Nature is also a highlight. Don't miss the impressive Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park, and while you're in the valley, keep an eye out for the namesake marsupials, as well as wallabies, especially at Tallowa Dam , where you can also kayak and fish. Beautiful Bendeela Camping and Picnic area is one of the best spots to see wombats in the wild .

The Kangaroo Valley is also earning a reputation as a foodie destination, with its abundance of fresh produce, cute tea rooms, and farmers market. Try to squeeze in a cooking class , and don't miss the fresh-baked pies at Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop in Barrengarry Old Store .

Outback New South Wales is a land of sacred Aboriginal sites, harsh deserts, and haunting beauty. Mungo National Park in the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area holds records of Aboriginal life dating back some 40,000 to 60,000 years.

At Warrumbungle National Park , in the zone of transition between the arid areas to the west and the rainy east, spectacular rock buttresses and domes are the result of volcanic activity. Snow gums crown the surrounding hills, and deep spring-fed gorges lie in the valleys. You can explore this park on an excellent network of hiking trails and see colorful displays of wildflowers in the spring.

In addition to exploring the rugged national parks, the country towns in the Outback are some of the most unique places in New South Wales, with plenty of unusual things to do. You can hunt for opals at the mining towns of White Cliffs and Lightning Ridge, visit the Living Desert Sculptures of Broken Hill , and ride a bike around Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo.

In the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales, the elegant university town of Armidale is a city of four seasons. Just shy of 1,000 meters in altitude, it's the state's highest town, with relatively mild summers, riotous spring blooms, fiery fall foliage, and even a sprinkling of snow during winter.

Highlights of a visit here include heritage tours of the town's lovely old buildings, which were funded by the region's rich agricultural wealth, as well as visiting the excellent galleries, gardens, and museums. Saints Mary & Joseph Catholic Cathedral is a famous landmark, and the University of New England adds a youthful buzz to this stately town.

Pristine wilderness areas surround the city, with attractions for families and nature lovers, as well as plenty of outdoor adventures on tap. Trout fishing, mountain biking, canyoning, hiking, and bird-watching are just some of the popular things to do.

If you're driving to Armidale, don't miss Waterfall Way. This 185-kilometer scenic drive connects the coastal town of Coffs Harbour with Armidale, revealing beautiful scenery around almost every bend, from river-carved valleys and World Heritage-listed rainforest to picturesque cascades. Ebor Falls is a highlight.

The road also passes through five national parks, including Dorrigo National Park ; the Wollomombi Gorge and Falls, with one of Australia's highest waterfalls; and New England and Oxley Wild Rivers national parks .

Brimming with cultural treasures, the Australian capital city of Canberra lies about 280 kilometers southwest of Sydney. It's technically in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) a 2,400-square-kilometer self-governing federal district, rather than the state of New South Wales, but it is entirely surrounded by New South Wales and is an easy weekend getaway from Sydney.

Besides the city's excellent museums and memorials, it's also known for its fun family-friendly festivals - in particular, the Floriade festival, usually held in September to October, which celebrates the city's many spring blooms.

Canberra was carefully planned. Its streets are laid out on a generous scale, with many of them flanked by colorful flower gardens and thousands of trees with glorious autumn colors. A central feature is sparkling Lake Burley Griffin , a long artificial lake surrounded by parks, picnic areas, a walking trail, and many of Canberra's top attractions .

Canberra's principal buildings lie within the Parliamentary Triangle and include the National Gallery of Australia, with three levels of exhibitions and a sculpture garden; the National Library of Australia ; Old Parliament House , now a museum depicting the story of Australian democracy; and New Parliament House .

Don't miss the poignant Australian War Memorial , and make sure you save time to stroll around the impressive collection of native plants at the Australian National Botanic Gardens .

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Whats on in Sydney in October

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The definitive guide to visiting Sydney in October

Things to do in Sydney Sydney Travel Guide Best time to visit Sydney Sydney in October

Home of the picture-perfect Opera House, Sydney in Australia is a global city flocked by tourists from around the globe. With the breath-taking Sydney Harbour Bridge, sandy beaches, lively weather, Sydney has it all to tempt the traveller in you. With a rich aboriginal past slowly peeking from oblivion, Sydney unravels a unique cultural experience that is both global and local at the same time. Visiting Sydney in October means you're in the company of blooming Blue Jacaranda trees. Spring is one of the most favourable times to visit Harbour City as you can enjoy the best of the sub-tropical climate.

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate the Guide

What makes sydney in october special, sydney in october : weather.

• Sydney in October : Top Experiences

Sydney in October : Events to Look Out For

Sydney in october : essentials, sydney in october : seasonal delicacies, tips for visiting sydney in october.

Spring falls in Sydney from September to November. With the cool air, pleasant sunshine, October is the ideal month to visit the city. It's also the time Australia's famous Blue Jacaranda bloom, baby Kangaroos and Koalas leave their pouches for the first time.

October also invites more tourists to Sydney beaches as the month experiences balmy temperatures. It doesn't mean that October invites unbearable crowds. The city is a bit laid-back and private in October as it'd be preparing for the peak season - December to February; this allows tourists to take advantage of the mildly warm days and crisp sunsets. It is the best month to immerse in the spring festivals, visit the gorgeous gardens in the Blue Mountains, and try your hand at sand sculptures. Spring being an off-season has its advantage as you can enjoy Sydney up-close without the callousness of the regular crowd on a cheaper ticket.

In October, the days are sunny, and the nights are always cold. However, the temperatures rarely drop below 13.1 degrees. As spring is the driest among all seasons, it's the best time to walk around and see more colours. And, of course, spring is the perfect time to have a beach vacation.

Sydney in October: Top Experiences

Lunch cruise on the pirate ship mandurah.

Hop on the famous pirate ship of Mandurah for a 1.5 hour-long voyage through the beautiful waterways. This trip will take you to Mandurah Marina, where you'll see a lot of boats waiting to greet you! The pirate boat will then take you through the canals, where you can spot Bottlenose Dolphins. And the awesome part - you all are getting Fish & Chips Lunch on board.

12th October - 15th December, 2023 Timings Wednesday/Thursday/ Friday - From 12:00 PM

26 Mandurah Terrace, Mandurah WA 6210 Australia Getting There ›

The Koala Park Sanctuary

A prominent attraction in the West Pennant Hills suburb of Sydney, Koala Park Sanctuary is home to the unique wildlife of Australia. The sanctuary, planned like a rainforest, houses koalas, kangaroos, dingos, among other animals native to Australia. The park runs petting shows, presentations of various animals. One can learn traditional Australian sheep rearing and how to make Billy Tea.

October Timings 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

84 Castle Hill Rd, West Pennant Hills NSW 2125 Australia Getting There ›

The OZ Jet Boating

The OZ Jet Boating is where you meet Sydney in its adventure, touristy face. A 30-minute fun ride through Circular Quay harbor, the thrill ride is a mix of sightseeing and adrenaline-pumping spins and slides. The exhilarating trip in the unique Red Shark boats would take tourists through Opera House, Taronga Zoo, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

October Timings 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Sydney NSW 2000 Australia Getting There ›

SEA Life Sydney Aquarium

SEA Life Aquarium in Sydney is a prime attraction inviting hundreds of thousands of people each year. The public aquarium hosts a very unique and vast collection of aquatic life. The aquarium houses the largest group of Australian marine life in the world, aross the 14 themed segments, it hosts sharks and dugongs, among other creatures.

October Timings 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM

1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Getting There ›

Take a Day Trip From Sydney to Hunter Valley

Experience a trail of gastronomical delight, take a trip from Sydney to Hunter Valley , Australia's wine country. In this quiet and laid-back town, you will find some of the world's most famous wineries and restaurants serving local produce. Dotted with vineyards and surrounded by an idyllic countryside-like environment, Hunter Valley is an exquisite experience for those who want to escape the chaos and indulge in fine luxury, courtesy of nature. If this doesn't sound like something you'd like to do, there are still plenty of day drips from Sydney to choose from!

Region of New South Wales, Australia Getting There ›

Sydney Tower Eye

The Sydney Tower Eye is the observation deck of Sydney Tower, the tallest point of Sydney. The 305-meter tower gives a panoramic 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings. To take the experience a notch further, Sydney Tower Eye is offering a 4D experience at its observational deck. It'll take a maximum of 2 hrs to climb the 19-story structure to enjoy the view.

October Timings 10:00AM to 08:00 PM [Last entry at 7:00 PM]

100 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Getting There ›

Australian National Maritime Museum

What could be described as a complete guide to Australia's maritime history, Australian National Maritime Museum is more than a tourist attraction. With six galleries, 3D Cinema, and a frequently changing catalog, the Museum is a fun place to spend a few hours. The Museum also offers a rare glimpse into some of the best-preserved vessels from yesteryears.

October Timings 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM NSW School Holidays: 09:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Darling Harbour, (the Pyrmont side) at 2 Murray St, Sydney Australia Getting There ›

Oktoberfest in the Gardens

28 October 2023 Pumping music, traditional games, and massive steins floating around, the Oktoberfest in the Gardens is where you should be. Indulge your taste buds in a range of German beers, wines, cider accompanied with all your local favourites.

20 September - 21 October 2023 Thrills, kills and chills, this engrossing tale of revenge from award-winning US playwrighter Aleshea Harris, is a must-watch if you are in Sydney this October. The play tells the vivid and violent story of twin sisters Racine and Anaia and their cross-country journey of revenge.

Sculpture by the Sea

20 October - 6 November 2023 Bear witness to the coming alive of the coastal walkway between the Southern part of the Bondi beach and Tamarama with a captivating collection of scuptures. Now in its 25th year, Sculpture by the Sea is an immersive and interactive three week experience, with an attendance of up to half a million people.

The Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival

27 - 29 October 2023 Featuring Australia's finest traditional and acoustic music, the Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival will run between 27-29 October 2023. From its inception in 2002, the festival remains a marquee event in the country music scene in all of Australia. Ensure you buy a ticket to Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival if you want to unwind and listen to poetry.

Seven Bridges Walk

22 October 2023 Experience Sydney like never before with the greatest walk of all time. Walk aeound the harbour and across 7 iconic bridges, covering a total distance of 28 km. If you're in Sydney this October, be a part of this great walk for a cancer-free future.

Language English

Time zone GMT+11

Country Code +61

Socket Type I

Currency Australian Dollar

Weather in Sydney in October

October falls in Sydney when the country is slowly moving to the second month of spring. You'll experience a cool climate throughout the month; days are pleasant while evenings will be chilly. Temperatures will be between 22 degrees Celsius and 14 degrees celsius. With very little rain, it's also a dry season in Australia.

Where to stay in Sydney in October

As a global city, In Sydney, you have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to accommodation. There are luxury hotels, moderate ones, and of course, budget options.

• Luxury – Hilton Sydney , Park Hyatt Sydney , Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay .
• Moderate – Sydney Harbour YHA , Sydney Boutique Hotel , Sydney Central YHA .
• Budget – Ibis Budget Sydney , High Cross Randwick by Sydney Lodges , The Bayswater Sydney .

What to pack for Sydney in October

Spring in Australia is a pleasant experience. However, you must be ready to bear the sunrays. Opt for light-weight apparel like t-shirts, shorts, and tank tops. Wear jeans and a light jacket in the evenings as temperatures could drop to 12 degrees at night. For the beach, you should be flip-flop-ready. Don't forget your running sneakers and sunscreen.

Getting around in Sydney in October

Sydney is well connected. You can travel by bus, train, light rail, and ferry. To travel with ease, you need to buy an Opal contactless card. It's available to purchase in supermarkets and convenience stores. You have to load money, and you're good to go. There are kiosks to top up the card if you're running low on balance. If you want to navigate through the business district, catch a train. Trains are the easiest way to reach Bondi Beach and the Blue Mountains. If Chinatown is your destination, board the light rail L1. For the tourist experience, the bus you should be hailing is the Big Bus Tour; it would take you to 33 destinations.

They say the oyster in Sydney is unique. Perhaps, the popularity of the dish is a testament to this statement. The oyster in the region is endemic to Australia and New Zealand, which means you've to pay a good deal to have seafood in Sydney. The best time for harvest is between September and March.

No, Barramundi is not exclusive to Sydney. It's like a national fish for the Australians. Barramundi is particularly common in Sydney, and you're bound to try it. The fish is always served as a steak or pan-fried. Or you can try the popular recipe - Barramundi barbecued and served with lemon, butter dressing.

Lamington cake is a crowd-pleaser. A moist, sweet square sponge cake dipped in chocolate and decorated with coconut flakes. You will find the same recipe in different avatars as restaurants are doing mashups of the classic recipe to stand out in the competition. This cake is often described as The National Cake of Australia.

Dubbed "The World's Most Instagrammed Cake" by The New York Times, The Strawberry Watermelon cake was invented by Black Star Pastry in Sydney, Australia. After the cake became popular, over a million slices have been served every year from the outlets. Since the restaurant has become famous, it's not easy to walk in and dine. Be prepared for takeaway.

Avocado on toast is has become a normal choice in Australia these days; It's cheap, and almost every cafe serves it. It even It was even caused a controversy in Australia when a politician used Avocado on toast as an analogy for the younger generation's financial mismanagement. If you're to try one, ask for smashed avocados with poached eggs..

• With milder temperatures in October, Sydney could be great if you choose to walk around the city.
• October and spring months, in general, are considered off-season, but school vacations and weekends could see crowds.
• Sydney wakes up early; You should too. It will save you time while roaming around the city later in the day.
• Always check the forecast before you head out. The sub-tropical climate in Australia is often unpredictable.
• Don't drink in public places; Australians don't appreciate it.

Is October a good time to visit Sydney?

Yes! In fact, October is one of the best times to visit Sydney. October weather is sunny and comfortable, and the city has plenty of holiday crowds.

What season is it in October in Sydney, Australia?

How hot is sydney in october.

Daily high temperatures increase by 2°F, rarely falling below 63°F. Daily low temperatures increase by 4°F, from 56°F to 60°F, rarely falling below 49°F or exceeding 65°F.

Is October a good time for whale watching?

The whale migration occurs between May and November. The best time is ideally June and July, but spotting whales in October, though rare, is not impossible.

Can you swim in Sydney in October?

Not really. Temperatures would not only be still quite cold in the southern waters but, northern waters' rise in temperatures draw stinging jellyfish that are best avoided.

Month-By-Month Guide To Visiting Sydney

Amulya Chintaluri

Amulya's love for travelling was a natural consequence of her moving around so much as a child. Throw in her love for writing into the mix, and there's no better way to spend her time. A person who collects hobbies like Infinity Stones, she loves reading, sketching, drawing, painting, dry pressing flowers, music, cooking, eating cake, watching TV and sleeping.

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What’s on in Sydney in October 2024

Spring is in full bloom in Sydney in October, and the weather is lovely and warm, but not hot. Daylight saving beginning on 6 October in 2024, makes the days longer, giving you more time to get out and explore.

The first Monday in October is a public holiday, Labour Day, which honours the mid-19th-century fight for an 8-hour working day. The School Holidays continue until 14 October. These events combined see an increase in both prices and activity at the beginning of the month. Book accommodation and tours in advance if you are visiting Sydney in early October.

Average Temperatures:  22-14°C (72-57°F) While each year varies we had nine days of rain in October 2023

We update this page as new events are made available to us. If you would like to have your event added, please send us an email .

Major October Events in Sydney

Festivals, fairs and community events, musicals, opera and drama.

• Film Festivals

Music, Comedy and Dance

Museums & galleries / art and exhibitions, events for foodies, sports and outdoor events, nsw regional events in october.

This page contains affiliate links. You can find our full disclosure policy here .

Sculpture by the Sea

With 100 artworks by Australian and international sculptors, the world’s largest free-to-the-public outdoor sculpture exhibition will surprise and delight for its 26 th  year, with approximately 450,000 visitors expected to attend the free three-week exhibition.

When : 18 October to 4 November 2024 Where: Bondi to Tamarama Coastal Walk Cost: Free, get our tips for visiting here .

Parramatta Lanes

Explore new tastes, sounds, and artwork over four fun filler nights as Parramatta morphs into a labyrinth of free after-dark entertainment for Parramatta Lanes .

Sample new flavours from bars and food trucks, get your groove on to the beat of eclectic musical performances, and check out striking art displays tucked away within the alleys.

This year’s event is loaded with more than 120 music performers, exceeding 40 food stalls and three massive pieces of art. There is so much to take in that a single night may not be enough so take advantage of reduced prices from nearby hotels and immerse yourself in the full experience.

When: 2024 dates TBC Where : Parramatta Square and surrounding laneways Cost:  Free

The North Sydney Living Futures Sustainability Festival

An event not to be missed! This is a day for inspiration and information, entertainment, fun, networking and socialising. Stage entertainment, workshops, stalls, kids’ activities, guided walks and tours are just a few of the things that will be on offer for a great day out at one of Sydney’s most iconic harbourside sites.

When : dates TBC Where: The Coal Loader, 2 Balls Head Dr, Waverton Full guide here

Granny Smith Festival

Back in 1868, Ryde resident Maria Ann Smith grew the first crop of shiny green apples. Now known as Granny Smith’s, these crispy, crunchy apples are sold all over the world.

The Granny Smith Festival celebrates the woman, the apple and is just a fun day out for the whole family.

When : 2024 dates TBC Where: Eastwood Plaza and surrouning streets Cost : Free, more information on the website

Way Out West Festival

A festival for children, young people, and their families in Liverpool and beyond. Expect immersive and engaging family fun with a wide range of arts, cultural events and activities suitable for children, young people, and families of all ages and all abilities.

When : 2024 TBC Where: Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre Cost: Free, for more updates, visit their website

Sydney Streets on Stanley Street

Expect festival vibes along the street with plenty of live music, entertainers and alfresco dining. There’ll be lots of alfresco wining and dining from all of your Stanley Street favourites.

When : Saturday 21 October 11am-10pm Where: Stanley St. Darlinghurst  Cost: Free, more information on the event site

evening noises and dimming gas lamps in her sitting room trouble her deeply. But is her relationship with her partner, Jack, as loving as it seems?

Patrick Hamilton’s 1938 play, which coined the term “gaslighting,” describes this form of psychological manipulation. The 2022 Shaw Festival saw the world premiere of a liberating adaptation by Johnna Wright and Patty Jamieson. This version is a thrilling, reimagined suspense story filled with doubt and bravery. The play questions whether Bella will succumb to the gaslighting or find her inner strength.

When : 21 August to 15 September 2024 Where : Roslyn Packer Theatre More details here

Film Festival s

Irish film festival australia.

The Irish Film Festival showcases the best dramas, most compelling documentaries and of course, the famous Irish sense of humour.

Among the highlights this year is the opening night premiere,  Lakelands , an exploration of masculinity, loneliness and the role of sport in rural communities.

When : 2024 TBC Where : Dendy Cinema, Newtown More details on the event site

Japanese Film Festival

Experience the rich tapestry of Japanese storytelling at the 28th Japanese Film Festival (JFF) in Australia. the festival theme revolves around the enduring link between the past and the present. Whether it’s a young fishmonger suddenly catapulted into nobility or the journey of scientists unravelling shamanic mysteries, JFF underscores the significance of history in shaping our current narratives.

When : 2024 TBC Where: Palace Norton Street More details on the website

Drag N’ Dine

Want a quiet burger on the side while sashaying to a live drag show? Now you can! It’s an elevated local dining experience, spiced up with the grandeur of live, riveting performances. Indulge in our delectable $15 Burger Specials every Wednesday and savour the taste of $15 Pasta on Thursdays! It’s a culinary delight!

Please be aware that all individuals under the legal drinking age must be accompanied by a responsible adult and, all minors must have left the premises by 9pm.

When : Wednesday – Sunday for dinner from 4-10pm Where: Imperial Hotel Erskinville Booking and reservations here

Feel The Magic: Magic Men Live

Get ready to experience the ultimate night out with Australia’s rated #1 male revue show! Magic Men’s “FEEL THE MAGIC” features the hottest hunks bringing the heat to town with their sizzling performances.

When : Every Saturdays 6pm-9:30pm Where: Home the venue Cost: $50 Secure tickets here

Nights at the Museum

Enjoy live music and a drink at the pop-up bar as Sydney’s favourite FREE after-hours culture fix is back! Explore our incredible galleries and exhibitions and be inspired by our natural history and cultural collections.

When : Every Wednesday in November 5pm – 9pm Where : Australian Museum Cost : Free, More info on the official site .

Les Sculptures Refusées

Les Sculptures Refusées (LSR) presents a show of sculptures born out of this grand tradition. This initial rejection forced artists of the calibre of Courbet and Manet to create opportunities of their own – defying the academy.

When : 2024 dates TBC Where : 1 North Head Scenic Drive, Manly More details are here

Hidden Rookwood Sculptures

Rookwood is the oldest, largest and most multicultural cemetery in Australia. Hidden Rookwood sees 36 sculptures set in place through the oldest part of the cemetery. Join photo tours, heritage tours and art-making sessions most for free.

When: 2024 dates TBC Where : Rookwood Cemetery Cost : free

Oktoberfest In the Rocks

It’s an atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else: pumping music, traditional games, and MASSIVE steins flowing the whole time! Oktoberfest is known for traditional Bavarian food, music, and beers, and we’re bringing all of that and more to this year’s blowout!

When: Dates TBC Where: The Rocks. Book here

Oktoberfest in the Gardens

Gather your mates, grab your tickets, and dust off your lederhosen for an action-packed day of fun, delicious beers, authentic German delights, and more at Australia’s biggest Oktoberfest celebration! 

When: 2024 TBC Where: The Domain Cost: $79.90 Full guide here

Pinot Palooza

For wine lovers, this is for you! Join the Pinot Palooza Community and get loads of perks including hard-to-get ‘drops’, event tickets, merch, free shipping and more.

When : 2024 dates TBD Where: Carriageworks – Bay 22 & 24 Cost: $65 More information about tickets and the venue, check their website

18th Annual Aussie Hotel Beer Festival

Over the Labour Day Long weekend, The Australian Heritage Hotel will celebrate the 18th Annual Craft Beer and Food Festival with over 30 different craft breweries showcasing the best beer and cider our country has to offer.

When : 2024 TBD Where : 100 Cumberland Street, The Rocks Tickets : Free, full details h ere

Our first sport-related event this week is fundraising for incredibly worthwhile causes. Why not get outdoors, get some exercise and do some good this month?

Seven Bridges Walk

The Seven Bridges Walk will challenge you to cover 28km as you walk around the spectacular harbour and across 7 iconic bridges.

A major fundraiser for the Cancer Council, the Seven Bridges Walk, is a fantastic event that, along with providing a great challenge for walkers and a source of funds for the Cancer Council, is just a brilliant walking route for anyone to take. The walk is long, 28km in total, but there is plenty of fun along the way with entertainment set up at Pyrmont, Rozelle, Hunters Hill, Lane Cove, Wollstonecraft and Milsons Point. Buses will be available for transport along the route if needed.

When : Sunday 22 October 2023 Where : Starts and ends in Milsons Point Cost : $70 early bird or $90 after Sept 30

Yoga in the Park

Get fit and flexible every Sunday morning with FREE Yoga in The Park! The focus on breathing, the concentration required to find balance in certain poses, the flow of the movements – it’s all an active meditation that can help clear the mind, quieten anxieties and strengthen your body.

When : 9:30 am, every Sunday (All Year) Where: Corner of Lower Fort St. and George St. at Dawes Point Park, right under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Tickets : Free, more Info here  

Sydney Harbour Hike

Secure your VIP entry in The Fred Hollows Foundation Sydney Harbour Hike! Hike from Bondi and enjoy an incredible scenic walk through some of Sydney’s most beautiful coastlines.

When : Sunday 13 October 2024 Where: North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club Cnr Ramsgate Ave &, Campbell Parade Sign up here

Rugby World Cup Live and Loud

Get ready for the Rugby World Cup!

We’ve partnered with our mates from Asahi to bring you all the action live & loud from France. You can expect the best footy atmosphere in the Eastern Suburbs with our giant screens and stadium-like sounds – the perfect place to see the Wallabies bring the trophy home for the first time since 1999!

When : 14-28 October Where: 253 Coogee Bay Rd Coogee

Grafton Jacaranda Festival

If you are heading north, schedule a stop in Grafton for one of the most colourful festivals in the country. With the streets full of purple blooms, the markets, exhibitions, concerts and parade will play second fiddle.

When : 27 October-5 November 2023 Where: Across Grafton  Check the festival website

Leura Gardens Festival

Leura is the prettiest village in the Blue Mountains and every October for the last 55 years, their gardens festival has attracted visitors keen to check them out in full bloom.

This year, eight gardens are open to the public. Highlights include stunning displays of azaleas, tulips, bluebells, rhododendrons and my favourite peonies. There is a festival bus to ferry visitors between the properties and art and music events to complement the garden displays.

When : 29 September-2 October 2023 Where : Leura, Blue Mountains All details here

Griffith Spring Fest

See Griffith burst into bloom at this colourful festival with jaw-dropping citrus sculptures, incredible open gardens and an entertaining launch party featuring live music, local food and kids’ activities.

When : 13 – 27 October 2024 Where : Corner Banna & Jondaryan Avenue More details on the website

Bowral Classic

Hop on your bike and sign up for this year’s Bowral Classic cycling Gran Fondo. With three road cycling courses and The Criterium Race to choose from, all showcasing the most beautiful Southern Highlands scenery you can experience on two wheels, there’s a ride for everybody.

You can conveniently park at the intersection of Moss Vale Road and Eridge Park Road. Additionally, there will be parking spaces at Chevalier College, accessible from Moss Vale Road across from Riversdale Ave. Look out for the signs indicating parking areas.

When : 19-20 October 2024 – Register Where : Southern Highlands in New South Wales

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Sydney

36 BEST Places to Visit in Sydney (Must-See Highlights in 2024)

Ahh, beautiful Sydney: the one true capital city of Australia. That’s right, Melbourne – shots fired. Canberra? More like  Bland- berra!

Sydney is a gorgeous place to visit. It’s expensive, bustling, and the public transport can step on a lego, but it’s also clean and vibrant and sucks you in (every damn time). Sydney’s famous landmarks present beautiful colonial-era architecture merging with the urban neo-jungle of Australia’s economic centre. The city is ringed by bushland, interlaced by waterways, and somehow, even in a city of 6 million+, you always seem to find the same communities throughout.

HOWEVER, even though Sydney’s attractions are so deliciously pretty that I audibly sigh looking at the Harbour Bridge every time I return, it IS still a stinky bum. It’s a sprawling metropolis (with public transport of the stanky posterior variety) and unless you know where you’re going, you’ll likely end up falling into the tourist traps and missing out on what Sydney’s BEST places. ( Protip!  There are  much better beaches in Sydney than Bondi.)

Luckily, you have a legit insider guide! I’ve been fostering my love-hate relationship with this city for the better part of a decade now and I’m here to tell you that there are some EPIC places to visit in Sydney.

Think; flying through the air at Luna Park, exploring the lesser known Cockatoo Island, delving into Australian culture, wandering around the Royal Botanic Gardens and shopping till you drop at the Queen Victoria Building… Ok, enough spoilers!

Arts, fancy dining, low-key adventures, HIGH-key adventures, and vastly overlooked  poppin’ local music scene – lemme tell you where to go in Sydney.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Sydney, New South Wales:

These are the best places to visit in sydney, new south wales, faq on the best places to visit in sydney, new south wales.

Sydney CBD (Central Business District)

Centrally located and the easiest area to explore Sydney from. The Sydney CBD is an excellent choice for anyone looking to see the big sights and explore the city on foot.

• See the Sydney Opera House, one of the most iconic 20th-century buildings in the world.
• Wander through the impressive (and free!) Royal Botanic Garden and its outstanding collection of plants from Australia and around the world.
• Enjoy one of Australia’s foremost cultural institutions, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, home to an impressive collection of Australian art.

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Wait just a second there! Before you dive into all the excitement, check out the best places to stay in Syndey and get your accommodation sorted near your favourite attractions. That way, you’ll be able to save on transportation costs and spend that money having a blast seeing all the amazing Sydney tourist attractions!

#1 – Bondi Beach – A must-visit beach in Sydney!

• One of the most popular beaches in Australia for good reason.
• The perfect place to get some sun, surf or people watch.
• It has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that people rave about.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re used to small beaches with pebbles then you’ll be stunned by Bondi Beach. Australia is an island after all, which means that the beaches stretch forever. Bondi Beach is one of the most popular places in Sydney because it has reliable waves, miles of white sand, and is surrounded by cafes and restaurants. So if you love beaches or just want to soak in the beach culture, Bondi Beach is the destination for you. There are heaps of affordable hostels nearby so you’ll meet other backpackers too.

What to do there : Bondi Beach can get crowded, so get there early and stake out your spot, ideally not on Sydney’s busy weekends . And remember that the waters around Australia are rougher and more unpredictable than you’ll find at other beach locations. Listen to the lifeguards, obey the warning signs, and stay close to the shore if you aren’t a strong swimmer. Otherwise, just enjoy the sun and sand and grab a VB when it gets hot – it’s an Australian tradition!

If you want the ultimate Aussie experience then you can also take a surfing lesson on Bondi Beach too! With a low instructor-to-student ratio, you’ll be a pro in no time. You don’t even have to know how to swim in this beginner-friendly class!

Insider tip: Contrary to popular belief, Australia does have a winter and though it’s nothing like the European winter, it will probably be too cold to swim without a wetsuit. On the other hand, Bondi is a lot quieter at this time of year!

#2 – The Sydney Cricket Ground – If you’re into that sort of thing.

• Not just for cricket lovers, this is the place for lovers of all types of sports!
• Australians love their sports, so put on a hat and some sunscreen and join in.

Why it’s so awesome : The Sydney Cricket Grounds are one of the most famous sporting arenas in the country and were first built in the mid-1800s. And even if it isn’t cricket season, the venue also hosts a range of other sports like Rugby and AFL. So if you’re curious about Australian football, which is different from anywhere else in the world, then you can learn more about it at this location.

What to do there: Just be a part of the action! Australians take their sport very seriously and yet there’s an air of comradery during the games that always makes them friendly and convivial. So find out what’s on while you’re in the city and be a part of the action.

No games on? Take a stadium tour instead and see what the SCG is like behind the scenes.

#3 – Bondi Iceberg Pool – A nice place to go in Sydney for a more gentle swim.

• A famous pool where you can get an  iconic photograph of the city .
• The perfect place to sunbathe.

Why it’s so awesome : The Bondi Iceberg pool is the most photographed ocean pool in Australia. It’s a 50-meter saltwater pool that’s a popular spot for sunbathers and swimmers set right next to the crashing ocean. So if you want to enjoy the beach but you’re a little wary of the unpredictable waters, this is a good compromise.

What to do there : These baths have been one of Bondi’s most popular landmarks for 100 years and are home to one of Bondi’s most popular swimming clubs. But you don’t have to be a member to use the facilities: you can pay a small fee for entry and have access to the pool, gym, and sauna. They also run yoga classes by the ocean in the summer months, so take advantage of the sun and the warmth to get a little fitter while you’re on holiday!

#4 – Sydney Harbour Bridge – Potentially the most famous place to visit in Sydney.

• One of the most iconic sites in the city.
• A great place to take photographs.
• You’ll not only get to see the bridge up close but the entire bay as well.
• Easy to reach from Sydney CBD

Why it’s so awesome : Sydney Harbour Bridge is a famous coathanger that’s shown on almost every postcard and image of Australia and every backpacking Sydney travel guide . It has a stunning view across the bay, particularly at dawn and dust, and you can take in the whole experience while climbing to the top of this iconic landmark. If you’re sightseeing Sydney’s most famous places, well, Bob’s your uncle!

What to do there : You can actually climb this bridge and it’s well worth doing because you’ll get to see the whole of Sydney Harbour as it was meant to be seen. There are different climbs of varying difficulty, but the express climb is the most popular. It’s shorter and takes you up the inside arc, which feels a little more stable.

Make sure you pack your sunscreen and hat for the climb, the sun can be punishing, and once you’re up there, take plenty of pictures. If you really want to see something spectacular, try to get on a climb at dusk or dawn. Watching the sunrise or setting over the water is an experience that no one should miss.

If you really feel like stepping your trip up a notch, you can charter a yacht to take you and your friends around Sydney Harbour in style. Split between six to eight people and it doesn’t have to break the bank either.

Insider Tip: Head up to the Pylon Lookout (one of the legs) for epic views of the harbour at a really reasonable price.

With a Sydney City Pass , you can experience the best of Sydney at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#5 – Sydney Opera House – The other stupidly famous landmark in Sydney to see.

• The most recognisable building in Sydney.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• If you’re looking to take that iconic picture of Sydney, you’ll get it at the Opera House.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve ever seen pictures of Australia then chances are that you’ve seen pictures of the iconic Sydney Opera House. The unique shape of the building, like sails against the water, is instantly recognisable. The Sydney Opera House is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are numerous places around it where you can have your photo taken with the building in the background.

What to do there : If you want to learn more about this iconic building, then take one of the walking tours . Or better yet, book tickets for a show! It’s the bloody Opera House, mate! Obviously, you’re also gonna want to take a selfie with what is probably the most recognisable of all the tourist attractions in Sydney!

#6 – Dharawal National Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Sydney.

• Stunning natural scenery.
• Entrance to the park was once restricted but you can now take guided tours.
• An indigenous guide will lead you through the landscape and share local knowledge.

Why it’s so awesome : Australia’s natural landscape is like nowhere else on earth and thankfully there’s some not too far from the Sydney CBD! It’s home to plants and animals that aren’t found anywhere else and is a strikingly stark, harsh, and unforgiving wilderness. A good way to experience this is by touring the Dharawal National Park, which only recently opened to visitors. It will allow you to see and experience a side of Australia that you just won’t get in a city of cement and glass.

What to do there : Guided tours are held every second Saturday of the month, so make sure you’re there at the right time. The tours are led by an Aboriginal Ranger who will share stories of the Dreamtime and local knowledge about the animals and plants around you. Also, if you get the chance, make sure that you stop for a picnic at Minerva Pool, which is a sacred women’s place for the area’s tribe. Just remember that only women and children may enter the pool, men aren’t allowed.

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#7 – White Rabbit – A must-see gallery in Sydney.

• A state of the art four-floor gallery exhibiting contemporary Chinese art.
• Changing exhibitions through the year.
• Free entry.

Why it’s so awesome : The White Rabbit might seem like just another gallery, but the name should give you a clue. This gallery is known for its bold and confronting exhibitions , so expect to be surprised. Also, make sure that you find out about the current exhibitions before you take children there because a lot of the exhibitions have very adult themes. It’s also right in the heart of the Sydney CBD so it’s easy to reach.

What to do there : If you want to see another side of Australia then you need to experience all the influences that made it what it is today. Australia may be closely tied to England, but it’s technically within Asia and is strongly influenced by the culture, art, and food of this region. So explore this side of Australia through the White Rabbit artwork. Afterwards, have a plate of dumplings at their in-house tea room to complete the experience.

#8 – The Imperial Hotel

• A safe space for the LGBTQ community.
• Loud music with singers like Cher, Whitney and Madonna at the forefront.

Why it’s so awesome: The Imperial Hotel has been a safe place for the LGBTQ community since the 80s and it’s a place that celebrates this culture in every way possible. You can expect loud music, costumes and an intentionally daggy disco along with regular parties hosted by some of Sydney’s best including Heaps Gap, Girlthing and Honcho Disko. This is one of the top places to visit in Sydney to just get loose for a night!

What to do there : This is a place to celebrate all the differences that keep people apart and bring them together in a loud and colourful style. Every night of the week you’ll enjoy a good meal while you watch Sydney’s best drag kings and queens strut their stuff. So prepare for a rib-achingly good time and just enjoy the spectacle!

#9 – Carriageworks – Quite the quirky place to go in Sydney!

• Even if the art within wasn’t amazing, you’d want to visit this site for the space alone.
• Some of Sydney’s best art, dance and plays are held here.
• The bathrooms are awesome. No, seriously.

Why it’s so awesome: Carriageworks is held within the Eveleigh Rail Yards, which were built in the 1880s, so the space is huge, cavernous, and incredible. And as if that wasn’t enough, they hold all types of theatre, dance, and art in this space, from experimental theatre to cultural festivals and art installations. Basically, this is a quirky and always exciting place to spend some time!

What to do there : Basically, just show up. Find out what events are on while you’re in the city and go and see them regardless of whether you’ve heard of them before. This theatre loves to shock and surprise, so be prepared to see something amazing. And while you’re there, visit the bathroom even if you don’t need to go, because they’re worth the trip on their own.

#10 – Wendy’s Secret Garden – One of the more unique places to visit in Sydney!

• A remarkable homage to a life.
• A place to escape the busy city and enjoy nature.
• Make sure you get a picture of Sydney Harbour surrounded by native plants!

Why it’s so awesome : Before 1992, this area was overgrown and filled with rubbish. It’s part private and part public land at the food of the artist Brett Whiteley. When he died in 1992, his wife transformed in, channelling her grief into making something beautiful. It’s now an enchanted garden where locals can enjoy nature away from the crowds.

What to do there : This is a quiet area and not appropriate for sports or lots of noise. Instead, it’s a place to sit and eat a picnic in a private oasis so get your snacks together and do just that. Enjoy the view of Sydney Harbour from a unique angle. And take a picture of it that includes the trees and shrubs that are part of this peaceful place away from Sydney’s craziness.

#11 – Inner West – One of the most underrated areas in Sydney.

• The centre of street art in Sydney.
• You’ll see works by famous local artists such as Lister, Skulk, and Numbskull.
• You’ll have lots of chances to take some amazing photos.

Why it’s so awesome : Street art is alive and well in the Inner West of Sydney, particularly in Newtown and Enmore suburbs! There are a lot of famous street artists in Sydney and their work can be found everywhere. Whether it’s the dancing ballerinas on the Hub building or the displays aimed at raising awareness about the dying coral reefs, these images are well worth exploring and you’ll find lots of examples of this art form.

What to do there : Wander around this cool place and soak in the vibe and the art. It’s a very friendly and vibrant area in Sydney with buskers , art, and things to see around every corner. If you’re backpacking in Sydney, you’ll definitely want to visit Newtown because it’s a hub for inner-city hippies, students, and the endearing alt weirdos.

#12 – Royal National Park – An unmissable must-visit place in Sydney and Australia.

• 26 kilometres of stunning national park.
• There are coastline walks, beaches and incredible rock formations here.
• Take the chance to get out of the city and see a glimpse of Australia’s natural landscape.

Why it’s so awesome : Australia’s natural landscape is unique, hard, and forbidding and it’s often a surprise to people who are used to softer lands. But it’s also one of the most interesting things to see when you’re visiting the country. The Royal National Park gives you the chance to experience this alien landscape close up and in enough variety that you’ll start to get a sense of just how different this crazy island really is.

What to do there: This park is the perfect place to swim at secluded beaches, picnic near natural rock pools, bike ride the twisting trails or just hike through the area and take photos. Basically, whatever you like to do outdoors you can probably do it in this park. And between May and November, remember to keep your eyes on the sea during your visit. This is the whale watching season and the Royal National Park is one of the best places in Sydney to see these majestic creatures as they pass by close to the shore.

Not sure how to get there, no worries! Take an organised tour from the city!

#13 – Museum of Contemporary Art – Another touch of cultural sightseeing in Sydney, New South Wales.

• The best place for cutting edge art in the city.
• Often hosts contemporary art  exhibitions by big names like Yoko Ono and Grayson Perry.

Why it’s so awesome : The harbourside Museum Of Contemporary Art is important on a local and an international scale and as such usually plays host to the best exhibitions in the city. It also has an amazing rooftop café so after you’re done looking at the art you can relax and get a superb view of the bay.

What to do there : Before you go, check out what exhibitions they have on during your stay and spend some time exploring the artwork. You’ll see incredible pieces of contemporary art done by huge international artists, photographers and sculptures. Afterwards, go upstairs for a coffee and a snack overlooking the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and Circular Quay.

#14 – Cockatoo Island – A super cool and often overlooked Sydney point of interest.

• A historical gem just outside the city.
• Cockatoo Island is largest island in Sydney’s Bay.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a small island with a lot of history. It’s been a film set, a shipping harbour, a house for convicts in the 1800s, and it was originally an Aboriginal fishing spot. Now it’s held by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and there are a number of different tours run on the island. It’s also probably one of the lesser-known Sydney tourist attractions.

What to do there : Cockatoo Island has a varied history and the tours that are run there are designed to let you see glimpses of that history. If you want to stay longer or just spend the night in a quiet area away from the city, there are campsites, glamping packages and Airbnbs where you can stay and soak in the island at night.

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#15 – Hermitage Foreshore Walk – A nice and chill walk.

• A short walk where you’ll get the absolute best views of the harbour.
• Get fit while you take photographs!

Why it’s so awesome : The Hermitage Foreshore Walk is only 1.8 kilometres and along the way, you’ll get views of Shark Island, the Opera, and the Harbour Bridge. You’ll also get the chance to see Strickland house, a heritage-listed mansion built in the 1850s.

What to do there: Put on your walking shoes, take your camera, and complete the walk. Just a little tip: it’s probably better to do it early in the morning or late in the evening so you can avoid the hot midday sun. Make sure you take your swimmers along with you too because there are a number of lovely beaches along this path, so if it gets too hot then you want to be able to duck into the water to cool off.

#16 – Enmore Theater – An absolute hub of activity in Sydney – and the Inner West’s – nightlife scene.

• An art Deco landmark.
• Home to some of the best and most innovative shows in the city.
• You can see everything from rock bands to comedians at the Enmore Theatre.

Why it’s so awesome : The Enmore Theater is a landmark building that can hold 1,600 people and it welcomes all different types of music. You’re just as likely to see some of the biggest names in the business in this theatre as you are to see a classical composition, and the combination of genres is what makes this place amazing!

What to do there : Check out what’s on while you’re in the city and reserve your seat. There are also a lot of fabulous restaurants in the area, so after the show make sure you wander around and try something that smells amazing.

#17 – Centennial Parklands – One of Sydney’s many awesome parks.

• Great walking and cycling trails.
• There are also riding schools in the area so you can hire a horse and see the park on horseback!

Why it’s so awesome: Horseback riding has always been a part of Centennial Park, which is why it has a 3.6km horse trail that loops around the park. There are more than 200 stables on site that are open 365 days a year, so you won’t have any trouble at all finding a horse that suits your riding ability!

What to do there : If you aren’t a professional rider, then you can take a one-hour circuit of the park with an instructor. They’ll help you find the right path and make sure that you’re safe and secure on horseback. While you’re in the park, you should also take advantage of the other facilities. Go cycling or walk the path if you’re feeling energetic. And if you’re not then just take a picnic and enjoy the views.

#18 – The Royal Botanic Gardens – One of the most beautiful places in Sydney to visit.

• A lovely natural space where you can enjoy the Australian bushland.
• Australia’s oldest botanic garden
• The perfect place to get away from the rush of the city.

Why it’s so awesome : The Royal Botanic Gardens are a great way to learn more about the Australian bushland. So much of Australia is still wild and unpopulated and this place will show you a glimpse of what those long stretches of land look like. At the Royal Botanic Gardens, you’ll also get the chance to learn more about the indigenous culture and how they survived in such a harsh and unforgiving landscape.

What to do there : Taking a tour through the gardens is definitely worth the time and effort, particularly because you’ll get to try traditional bush tucker and learn about the indigenous history of the land. You’ll taste Davidson plums, see stingless bees, and learn about the deep connection between plants and animals. For example, did you know that the whale migration season lines up exactly with the blooming of wattles, an instantly recognizable and very famous Australian flower?

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#19 – Strand Arcade – A great place for shopping in Sydney, New South Wales!

• One of the best places to pick up some Australian brands.
• A beautiful thoroughfare.

Why it’s so awesome : This thoroughfare opened in 1892 and was the absolute latest in shopping centre architecture. Obviously, the world has moved on since then, but this is still a lovely place to explore Australian brands and goods and maybe take something unique!

What to do there : Shop! This is the perfect place to explore Australian brands like Jac+Jack, jewellery from Dinosaur Designs, and natural beauty products at Aesop. There’s also a shop called Strand Hatters where you can buy an Akubra or Panama to keep the hot sun from baking you!

#20 – The Sydney Tower Eye – Best place to visit in Sydney for a scenic view.

• The Sydney Tower is the tallest building in the city.
• You’ll get the best views of the city on the observation decks of the Sydney Tower.
• Get some bargains in the busy shopping mall at the base of the Sydney Tower.

Why it’s so awesome : There’s nothing better than getting a great view of an ocean side city and the Sydney Tower Eye will give you the best view possible. It’s 309 meters high, it’s is the tallest building in the city and an iconic feature of the Sydney skyline. But you don’t have to just sit on the observation deck and look. There is also revolving restaurants at the top of the Sydney Tower and a café where you can enjoy a bite and take in the stunning views.

What to do there: Take the express elevator to the observation deck at the top of the Sydney Tower or to the Skywalk, a glass floor viewing platform. Just make sure that you have a strong stomach if you take the latter option! The views are stunning, and you can have a meal at the restaurant or café or watch a 4D movie about the city’s most popular sites.

Lines can get pretty long as it’s one of the most popular Sydney attractions, so pre-book a ticket here and skip the hassle!

#21 – The Rocks – One of Sydney’s coolest historical sites!

• Once home to the Gadigal aboriginal people, this was the country’s first European settlement.
• There are more than 100 heritage sites and buildings in this location.
• The area includes Sydney’s oldest surviving house, Cadman’s Cottage.

Why it’s so awesome: The Rocks was named after the rocky coast on the west side of Sydney Cove, where convicts once pitched their tents. This was the site of the first European settlement and is now a heritage site, where old buildings jostle for a place in the crowded streets. There’s also a museum where you can learn more about this famous Sydney site as well as souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and markets. Basically, you could spend a whole day in this area just taking in the sites and the experiences.

What to do there : While you’re at the Rocks, make sure you visit the Rocks Discovery Museum to learn more about its transformation from traditional lands to convict slums to the tourist centre of the city. You can also take a guided tour of the area. Try the Aboriginal Heritage Walk to learn more about Australia’s first people. This area is one of the most historic of all the tourist attractions in Sydney.

Take a walking tour of the Rocks to learn more about the area.

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#22 – Darling Harbour – There’s always something happening in Darling Harbour.

• The city’s tourist hub.
• Packed with every type of restaurant and entertainment option you could ever want.

Why it’s so awesome : Darling Harbour itself is beautiful. Set against the deep blue ocean it’s the ideal place to spend a day just wandering around and enjoying the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Sydney. To make it even better, this is the tourist hub of the city which is why it’s packed with museums, cafes, restaurants, exhibitions, and entertainment venues. No matter what you’re interested in doing, you’re bound to find something that will interest you in this area.

What to do there : Make sure you eat. Australia has some of the best seafood in the world and because Sydney is so close to the water, the seafood is amazing. Once you’re done with the food, just follow your interests. The Powerhouse Museum is particularly popular but you may also be interested in the Australian National Maritime Museum too. You can also take a harbour jet boat ride, a racing car adventure, or spend some time in a flight simulator if you’re looking for something that gets your adrenalin pumping! It’s one of the most diverse tourist attractions in Sydney for sure.

#23 – The Queen Victoria Building – A great place to see in Sydney if you love architecture.

• A building with stunning architecture created in the Romanesque style.
• Inside is an underground arcade with great shopping.

Why it’s so awesome : If you enjoy older styles of architecture then you’ll love the Queen Victoria Building. It was originally built in 1893 and is topped by a central dome surrounded by 20 smaller ones. For a long time, it was left to ruin, but in the 1980s the building was returned to its original splendour so you can enjoy it today. It’s got to be one of the most beautiful Sydney attractions.

What to do there : This is primarily a shopping area, with more than 200 high-end shops in light-filled galleries inside of the building. Even if you don’t like to shop, the stained glass windows and mosaic floors are absolutely stunning and well worth making the trip to see. And if you want to get the full experience, make sure you check out the Tea Room QVB, which hosts a high tea under the crystal chandeliers that dot the inside of the Queen Victoria Building.

Also, the statue outside of Victoria’s dog talks sometimes. It’s really weird.

#24 – Chinatown – A must-visit for foodies!

• If you like Asian food of all descriptions, you’ll find an amazing variety in this area!
• There are also shops that sell goods that are popular in Asia as well as souvenirs.
• During the Chinese festivals the whole area turns into a giant celebration!

Why it’s so awesome : If you enjoy Chinese food, you can find all of it and more in Sydney’s Chinatown. Located in the Sydney suburb of Haymarket, this is a vibrant and bustling area that showcases just how influential Asia has been to Australian culture! The best part is, it’s cheap! (In the underground food court.)

What to do there : Try the food. There are a number of amazing eateries in the area. But if you get confused at all the variety, there are food tours you can take which will help you find options that you will love. If you’re in the area at night, make sure you stick around for the night market where you’ll be sure to snap up a bargain!

#25 – Blue Mountains – An awesome day trip from Sydney and a must-see.

• Amazing scenery not too far from the centre of the city.
• If you want to see some of the most dramatic views in the country, then you’ll find them in the Blue Mountains.

Why it’s so awesome : Just outside of Sydney and to the west are the Blue Mountains, an area of rugged, dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, quaint towns, and eucalyptus forests. This is where people come to have an outdoor adventure, and maybe even see a spider or snake or two! So if you want to learn what Australia looks like outside of the urban jungle you can see in any city, you need to get to the Blue Mountains.

What to do there : Outdoor activities in this area are extremely popular so you can do everything from hiking to camping and walking trails. The Blue Mountains is also a world-famous climbing destination. If you have the time, make sure you visit Katoomba, a very popular town which is close to the famous Three Sisters site. It’s a completely different vibe to Sydney well-worth the visit.

Take an organised Blue Mountains Tour from the city to be sure you see all the highlights.

#26 – Hyde Park – Another of Sydney’s gorgeous parks.

• The park where the locals go to relax.
• A prime people-watching spot.
• The park contains a number of historical monuments that commemorate Australia’s history.

Why it’s so awesome : Most of the parks in the city are for the tourists, but this is one for the locals. Set right in the middle of the CBD, Hyde park includes lots of lawns, fountains, picnic spots, and flowers; it’s where people working in the offices around the park come to relax, have lunch, and get away from their cubicles. There’s more to this park than lawns, however. It also contains monuments that are interesting and sometimes sobering reminders of the darkest parts of Australian history .

What to do there: When you first get to Hyde Park, make sure you wander around for a while. There are quite a few historical monuments in this park that will teach you more about the city and its past. For example, the Archibald Fountain, built-in 1932, commemorates Australia’s alliance with France in WWI. In the south of the park, there’s the Anzac War Memorial from 1934. It’s one of the best Sydney attractions if you need to take a little time out from the busy streets!

#27 – King’s Cross – Sydney’s deliciously seedy nightlife lives on

• Sydney’s red-light district.
• It can be a little seedy at night, but during the day it’s a popular area for backpackers, shopping, and cafes.
• This area has an intriguing, bohemian past.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re interested in seeing Sydney at night then King’s Cross is where to do it (although, this is one of Sydney’s more dangerous areas so be sure to take necessary precautions and stay safe while exploring ). This area was an artistic quarter until the 50s when it changed into an area for beatniks and hippies. After that, it started to have problems with crime and other issues because of the influx of sailors on leave who came into the harbour looking for a good time.

What to do there: During the day, this is a trendy area with cafes and boutiques everywhere. People come here to shop, to try the best restaurants in the city, and the area also contains a large number of hostels. At night, the darker side of this area comes out, and it becomes filled with adult clubs. If you do want to explore this area, make sure you stay in a group and don’t drink too much for your own safety.

#28 – Camp Cove – Away from Sydney’s tourist spots.

• Enjoy the beach without the crowds.
• One of the lesser known tourist attractions in Sydney
• A gorgeous sandy beach where families and topless sunbathers like to spend their time.

Why it’s so awesome: Bondi is exciting, but the crowds and the competitive vibe of the beach can get to be a bit much sometimes. If you’re looking for somewhere quieter – somewhere the locals go – try Camp Cove. It’s a small swimming area just north of Watson’s Bay, and it’s the perfect place for you to have some lazy beach time.

What to do there : This is the type of beach where you just need to sit back and relax. It’s too small for most water sports, and there are too many children around to make it safe anyway, so forget about getting your adrenalin pumping. Instead, pack a good book, a towel, and some sunscreen and soak up the sun and the relaxed vibe. If you’re looking for off the beaten track Sydney attractions, this is heaps good mate!

#29 – Art Gallery of New South Wales – A perfect place to visit in Sydney if you are on a budget!

• If you’re interested in Aboriginal art, you’ll find a permanent exhibit of it in this gallery.
• It’s the perfect place to take kids because it has a range of activities designed for them.
• And it’s free!

Why it’s so awesome: Sydney can be an expensive place to visit which is why you’ll probably need outings that will take up a bit of time without taking up all of your money. The Art Gallery of NSW is the perfect place for that. The architecture of the building is neoclassical Greek and stunning and the gallery plays host to a lot of international exhibitions. It also has permanent displays of Australian art, including Aboriginal art. It’s great for those looking for some more cultured Sydney attractions!

What to do there: There’s always something going on at this museum from tours to lectures, concerts, screenings and movies, so check the schedule before you go to see what’s on. The guided tours are free and they’re in various languages, so if you struggle with English then inquire at the desk about tours in your native language.

#30 – Luna Park – Awesome place to visit in Sydney with kids!

• Kids will love Luna Park!
• Forget about your waistline and indulge in traditional theme park food.

Why it’s so awesome : Luna Park is perfect if you’re in the mood for some old-fashioned fun. Entrance into this park is free, but you will have to pay a fee to go on the rides. From the moment you enter through the chip-toothed clown face at the front gates, you’ll feel like you’re back in the 1930s. And indeed, a lot of the features in Luna Park date back to this time, making it feel delightfully retro in the best way possible.

What to do there : Enjoy the rides of course. Make sure you explore the older parts of the park such as the Coney Island funhouse, carousel, and rollercoaster. If you’re planning to go on lots of rides, go online beforehand to buy a multi-ride pass, as they’re usually the cheapest way to enjoy Luna Park’s best attractions.

#31 – Shelly Beach – A really chill place to relax in Sydney

• A protected marine park with the best snorkelling close to the shore.
• The beach itself is beautiful, with clean white sand and dark blue water.
• If you want to get a photograph of an amazing beach scene, you’ll probably get it at Shelly beach.

Why it’s so awesome : Located in the suburb of Manly, this beach is part of a protected marine reserve and has a maximum depth of around 12 meters. That makes it the perfect place for snorkelling and scuba diving because the huge variety of marine life can be viewed at a relatively shallow depth. Forget Bondi, this is one of the best tourist attractions in Sydney if you’re looking to hit the beach!

What to do there : Make sure you go snorkelling or scuba diving while you’re at this beach. Australian waters have some of the most beautiful and unusual marine creatures in the world, so you shouldn’t miss the chance to see them up close. If you get tired of the water, take a walk around the bush track. It curls around the headland and offers spectacular views of Northern head and other beaches. There are plenty of amenities at this site including bathrooms, shower, and kiosks where you can enjoy some snacks.

Combine a visit to Shelly Beach with the nearby Manly Beach on a Snorkeling Tour .

#32 – Paddington Markets – Some semi-BoHo market shopping in Sydney!

• The best place for bargain hunters!
• A relaxed, casual area that includes lots of restaurants and eateries.

Why it’s so awesome : The Paddington Markets first opened in the 1970s and were a dedicated hippie haunt, but they’ve become considerably more mainstream since then. They’re also the best place to pick up new or vintage clothing, jewellery, and crafts, so bring your wallet and come looking for a bargain.

What to do there : These markets are incredibly popular amongst tourists and locals alike so expect a crowd when you get there. But that’s all part of the fun too because the whole point of markets is to thread through the crowds, looking for that bargain item that was made just for you!

#33 – The Powerhouse Museum – For some really cool things to see in Sydney

• Great for kids and anyone interested in science.
• Contains a range of exhibits from Star Wars displays to Asian art collections.

Why it’s so awesome : The Powerhouse Museum is otherwise known as the Museum of Applied Arts and Science and this is why it includes such a wide range of exhibits. Whether you’re interested in art history, contemporary movies, or quirky historical displays, you’ll find it all at this location.

What to do there : Before you go, make sure you check out the website to see what displays they have on during your visit. And take the kids with you, because children under 16 are free and the museum has a lot of exhibits and displays that are designed to keep your family occupied for hours. Check out the space and EcoLogic exhibits if you really want to have your mind blown by how quickly science is moving forward in the modern world.

#34 – The Sydney Fish Market – A great place to visit in Sydney for… fish.

• If you love seafood, this is where you should spend some time.
• The freshest food at the best prices in the city.

Why it’s so awesome : Sydney is a beach city which is why it has so much amazing seafood. And if you love to eat seafood, then the best place to go is at the Sydney Fish Market. At this location, you’ll find everything from the freshest lobster you’ve ever tasted to fish straight off the boat.

What to do there: You’ll be spoiled for choice at this location when it comes to seafood and it isn’t all raw either. You can buy trays of cooked prawns and oysters to take to the beach and park for a picnic or take a behind-the-scenes tour. And the location supports and promotes sustainable fishing, so you don’t have to worry about damaging the planet while you’re eating your fish.

#35 – The Fortune of War – A classically Australian place to eat in Sydney.

• The oldest pub in Sydney.
• The perfect place for some bevvies with da boiz.

Why it’s so awesome : This pub was established in 1828 by Samuel Terry, a convict who was sent to Australia for stealing 400 pairs of stockings. The bar has managed to hold onto its history and has retained all its cosy charm while still managing to build a great reputation for food and service amongst tourists and locals alike.

What to do there : Have a ‘schooner’ (i.e. regular beer in Australia) and enjoy the ambience. The bar also services typical but good bar food like burgers and steak and there’s a kid’s menu if you’re there with the family. Basically, it’s a nice, local place to have a good meal and a drink in a friendly atmosphere.

#36 – The Opera Bar – Cool place to see in Sydney with friends!

• You’ll find some of the best views of the city at this bar.
• Enjoy fresh seafood and champagne in the open air.

Why it’s so awesome: This bar is sometimes described as the best beer garden in the world and there’s a good reason for that. It serves beer, champagne, and delicious food and often has live entertainment as well. But the best part is the views. The bar is right next to the Sydney Opera House, so you’ll get to enjoy that iconic building while you sip your drinks.

What to do there : Take a few friends with you and enjoy a relaxed afternoon with a drink and a meal. There’s a private bar indoors for groups but the main attraction is the Harbour Bar, which is outside and surrounded by spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and the bay. It’s the perfect place to relax with some friends, enjoy the warm sun, and have a few drinks on a lazy afternoon!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Sydney

Where do tourists go in Sydney?

These are the overall best and most popular places to visit in Sydney: – Bondi Beach – Sydney Opera House – Sydney Harbour Bridge

Which places in Sydney are great to visit for families?

Families will absolutely love these places to visit in Sydney: – Bondi Beach – Camp Cove – Luna Park

Which are the coolest places to visit in Sydney?

Check out these really cool places to visit in Sydney: – Bondi Iceberg Pool – Dharawal National Park – Carriageworks

Which places in Sydney are great to visit when it’s raining?

For some indoor fun, check out these epic places in Sydney: – White Rabbit – The Imperial Hotel – Enmore Theater

Sydney is a busy, modern, and friendly city and people spend time there about the food, beach, and the sun. In fact, beaches in Australia are amongst the best in the world, so if you enjoy the water and the sun then Sydney is a must-visit.

But there’s more to this city than blue water, piercing sun, and white sand. Sydney is surrounded by gorgeous and rugged natural attractions in all directions (don’t miss the Blues and the Royal). There are tonnes of underrated areas in Sydney that tourists don’t give enough time to (Newtown). And we didn’t even cover the rough yet quintessentially Australian Western Sydney areas (yay – bogans)! Coming up with a Sydney itinerary is going to make your stay a lot better too.

With our list, you’ll have the best chances of finding the top places to visit in Sydney so that you have the trip of a lifetime when you’re backpacking Australia .

So, where to next? How about checking out where to stay in the Blue Mountains , it’s a great place to escape the city.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alexandria Zboyovski

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15 Best Places to Visit in New South Wales, Australia

Growing up outside Sydney, I thought I had seen all the best places to visit in NSW. But that was a bit premature because we’d only ever really visited Sydney and the North Coast.

After we spent 18 months road-tripping around Australia, we covered more of NSW and finally visited the South Coast NSW , the Hinterland , and Country NSW .

I now realize that NSW is not just about east coast beach towns and Sydney. There are so many more places to visit in New South Wales that are off the beaten path, that are just as beautiful, if not more beautiful, than the places I knew growing up.

New South Wales has some of the best beaches in Australia, the highest mountain, the most relaxed beach towns, and one of the best cities in the world.

If you’re planning a trip around New South Wales and want some incredible places to add to your itinerary, then keep reading for some inspiration…

15. Mungo National Park

Tours of new south wales, the best places to visit in nsw.

Whether you want to visit country towns, wine regions, mountain areas, and of course beach towns, you will find all this and more in our favourite places to visit in NSW below…

1. Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay is magical. Definitely the highlight of our visit down the South Coast and a place we’d like to explore more.

The beaches in this region are as good as anywhere in NSW, if not Australia. Hyams Beach has the Guinness World Record for the whitest sand in the world, and there is a thriving coral reef not too far from the shoreline.

The only downside is they don’t offer the surfing opportunities you’ll find on the north coast , and the water temperature is cooler.

But the great thing about Jervis Bay is it’s not overdeveloped with high rises and tourist gimmicks, the sand is white and pure, and they aren’t heavily populated like Sydney and the north coast beaches.

Jervis Bay is also a popular spot for whale watching, kayaking, canoeing, and walks.

For tips on Jervis Bay check out these posts:

• What a Day at Famous Hyams Beach looks like
• The Sensational White Sands Walk
• The Amazing “Scottish Rocks” in Booderee National Park

2. The Snowy Mountains & Mount Kosciuszko

On our road trip was the first time Caz and I had visited the Snowy Mountains in Kosciuszko National Park.

We’ve never been into skiing, and have only done it once in the States, but visiting the Snowies in the summer months really opened up our eyes to how much there is to do there.

From driving the Alpine Way, to exploring Yarrangobilly Caves and Jenolan Caves, to climbing part of Australia’s highest peak (Mount Kosciusko), to seeing wild brumbies and bike riding the trails – all this got us excited to return for a winter at the Thredbo ski fields.

If you’re looking for a place to hike, this is the ideal place to visit in NSW.

Check out these other guides to the Snowy Mountains:

• Things to See on a Snowy Mountain Drive
• Thredbo YHA Hostel – Budget Accommodation in the Snowy’s

How good is Mudgee? Damn good!

We still can’t believe we grew up only 4 hours from this town and have never visited. It’s our new favourite country town in NSW .

If you’re a lover of wine, Mudgee is a great alternative to the famous Hunter Valley . We loved how you could cycle between the wineries, and it doesn’t have the tourist buses like the Hunter, yet.

And you’ll fall in love with its heritage buildings, wide streets, parks and country charm. I know it’s a cliche, but Mudgee is a hidden gem, only 3.5 hours drive from Sydney .

Read more: Things to Do in Mudgee

4. Kangaroo Valley

When we asked you guys for suggestions on where to go in Southern NSW, so many of you suggested Kangaroo Valley so we just couldn’t ignore it.

And we’re glad you did.

If you haven’t been to Kangaroo Valley yet, you should. The valley is as green as Ireland with Australian bush escarpments and wildlife (they have plenty of wombats).

Throw in a charming town centre, historic bridges, waterfalls, nature walks, and country pubs, and Kangaroo Valley makes for a great detour from the coastlines.

For more inspiration, read this guide on things to do in Kangaroo Valley.

5. The Blue Mountains

Caz had never visited the Blue Mountains, and it’s been 30 years since I last visited, and we both wondered what all this fuss was about as a must-see day trip from Sydney?

Turns out, the Blue Mountains is more than just the Three Sisters and you should stay longer than one day!

The Blue Mountains have a depth greater than the infamous Three Sisters. We snapped our I was here photo and then went down, 900 steps into the valley below into a forested fern bower

Go hiking down amongst the rainforest-covered valleys into the valley below and you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away.

A local friend Dave told us about the ‘ Blue Mountains Chocolate Cafe ’ on Lurline St, where to find the best beer ( Carrington Hotel ) and to have a long lunch at the Ambermere Rose Inn – the signature dish “rabbit pie” was a hit for me!

There is relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation in the Blue Mountains, and we were impressed by the unbelievably good local produce, cafes, cosy pubs, and restaurants. It’s a foodie’s paradise.

6. Byron Bay

Our favourite place in Northern NSW, Byron Bay is that legendary beach town that has been attracting thousands of surfers from around the world for years.

But it’s not just for surfers.

All types of people come for the National Parks, the arts and culture, the markets, the festivals, the food, the shopping, the health retreats, to hang with hippies, to be seen, and the vibe.

And you will see the most spectacular sunsets and sunrises. Byron Bay has a lot going for it. So many people come, and many never leave.

Check out these other guides for more inspiration on visiting Byron Bay:

• The Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk
• 11 Byron Bay Beaches You Must Set Foot On
• 12 Reasons to visit Byron Bay with kids

7. The Hunter Valley

It’s hard not to relax and enjoy yourself in this infamous wine region only a two hours drive north of Sydney.

The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s most famous wine-growing regions and a place we have visited many times.

But it’s not just about the wineries. There’s fine dining, gourmet chocolate, adventures like hot air ballooning, and relaxing spa treatments and massages.

Don’t miss the Lovedale Road Trail, it’s   quiet and unhurried with many boutique wineries, the chocolate factory, and fine restaurants.

And believe it or not, there is also something in the Hunter Valley for families – mini golf, playgrounds, beautiful gardens, and family singing time driving through the vineyards.

So taste some wine and take a drive.

I recommend the Mountain View Trail , driving up to Bimbadeen Lookout for spectacular views of the valley and the Brokenback Range.

For more tips on visiting the Hunter Valley, check out this guide on wine tasting tours in Hunter Valley .

8. Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is roughly half-way along the Sydney to Brisbane road trip route and a popular stop for road trippers.

For us, the town of Coffs doesn’t do much for us (unless you want to take a selfie with a Big Banana), but what we do really like is the surrounding region. So when we talk of Coffs, we’re thinking about the Coffs Coast Region!

The nearby beaches are great, especially Red Rocks Beach to the north, and the town of Sawtell is charming and where we choose to base ourselves.

Dorrigo National Park makes for a great day trip (visit Dangar Falls on the way up), then once in the park enjoy the rainforest and tree-top canopy walks.

If you can time your visit right, don’t miss the Bellingen Markets held every third Saturday of the month in the lovely town of Bellingen.

For more tips check out this guide: Best Things to Do in Coffs Harbour

9. Armidale

There’s something about University towns, as we discovered living in the USA, and the University town of Armidale located in the picturesque New England region is my kind of town.

We only had two days to explore, our stay was kind of cut short due to Kalyra breaking her arm in the playground, but we really enjoyed the history, the heritage buildings, the tree-lined streets, and the nearby waterfalls and gorges.

Armidale is also a lovely place to visit for its reputation for good food and wine, and we can see ourselves returning for another stay.

Read this guide to learn how to spend 2 Days in Armidale – Things to See and Do

10. Newcastle

Newcastle is Australia’s 7th biggest city and has undergone a transformation in recent years, especially the CBD.

Whilst it has always been a great beach town with lively pubs and a big University, it has moved on from its primary industry of steel and has implemented a few creative programs to bring back the culture and arts to the city, plus a lively cafe and restaurant scene, particularly along the waterfront.

It’s not just about pubs and industry anymore. There is richness, and a relaxed vibe, and it is exciting to see Newcastle offering much more for travellers these days.

Just under an hour away is the sand dunes of Port Stephens which are excellent for sand boarding on.

Learn more tips from this guide: Things to Do in Newcastle

11. Kingscliff

The town of Kingscliff is high up on the NSW North Coast (you’re almost in Queensland) and it’s one of those great beachy towns with a relaxed vibe that’s just enough off the beaten track that it doesn’t lose its appeal.

It’s a very liveable kinda place with a nice beach and cafe strip, friendly locals, and the pretty Cudgen Creek is a top spot for the kids to enjoy some water activities.

If Byron is too much for you, consider staying here to explore the rest of the North Coast region, and just down the road you have Cabaritta Beach and Fingal Head.

Read more : Things to do in Kingscliff a coastal town in NSW

Last, but certainly not least, is the big smoke. Sydney sits high on any international destination hit list, let alone being the draw card and gateway to NSW.

If you are going to visit Australia , then you can’t miss Sydney.

It has something for everyone: stunning harbour side location, the iconic beaches (such as the famous Bondi Beach), excellent restaurants, fantastic cafes and pubs, world heritage sites, terrific shopping, incredible festivals, a multicultural population, and good year-round weather.

Not to mention the most iconic attractions in the country, the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Rocks District near the Circular Quay is one of our favorite destinations in Sydney to explore because it’s not only historic but has a chilled vibe.

But don’t just use Sydney as a gateway to NSW and Oz, give it at least 3 days.

For our best tips on Sydney, check out these guides:

• The Ultimate Guide to Sydney – Things to See & Do
• 15 things to do in Sydney with kids

13. Lord Howe Island Marine Park

Take a ferry over to Lord Howe Island which is famous for its natural beauty, incredible beaches, and thriving wildlife.

It’s one of the most untouched and unspoiled places in New South Wales, but because it’s 600km off the mainland of New South Wales, not many people visit here.

This makes it a remarkable hidden gem.

It’s most famous for its Seven Peaks walk, which takes you past places known for featuring in David Attenborough documentaries.

The trail is long but it’s not extremely tough but takes several days to complete. It’s one of the best multi-day walks in Australia.

14. Broken Hill Outback

Broken Hill is an old mining town that has a history dating back to the 1880s, making it Australia’s oldest mining town.

As well as being a place to discover precious metals, it’s also an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Being in the outback, you can find expanses of vast desert plains that shimmer in the sunlight. There is also the Living Desert State Park where you will find impressive rock formations and sculptures.

If you’re looking for places to visit in NSW where you can switch off and enjoy being in seclusion and solitude, this is the place to be.

Another popular place to see the NSW outback is Mungo National Park, which is famous for its prehistoric history.

This is where archaeologists found the remains of a Mungo Man and Woman that date over 40,000 years old. This makes it the oldest known area where humans have inhabited, in the entire southern hemisphere.

It also has amazing rock formations.

Before You Go to New South Wales

There you have it, those are our favourite places to visit in New South Wales for any visitor to Australia.

Whether you’re looking for some of the most popular destinations or hidden gems, you will find something for everyone on this list.

I hope that this list gave you some inspiration for places to add to your NSW itinerary and helped you plan your Aussie trip.

More NSW Travel Tips

Are you looking for more inspiration for visiting NSW? Then you may find the below resources useful…

• 10 day trips from Sydney (or weekend getaways)
• 22 Things to Do in Port Macquarie
• 14 Awesome Things to Do in Bathurst, NSW with kids
• 11 of the Best NSW Beaches to visit
• North Coast NSW Road Trip – Lennox Head to Gold Coast
• Things to do in Wollongong – the Gong gets us into the groove!
• Things to do on the Central Coast of NSW
• Yamba NSW: Is this Australia’s best kept secret?
• South West Rocks NSW and the Big 4 Caravan Park
• Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip Highlights
• Weekend Getaway in a Historic Lighthouse Cottage – Seal Rocks, NSW

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What are your favourite places in NSW? Share in the comments.

About The Author

Craig makepeace.

Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

20 Best Places to Visit on the South Coast, NSW

The South Coast of New South Wales has been my home the past two autumns. As I explored this stunning stretch of Australia’s coast from Eden to Wollongong in my van, I discovered beautiful beaches, friendly towns, incredible lookouts, and secluded camping spots.

While it’s certainly a popular place to visit, I found that it had a wonderfully laidback vibe after the busy summer months had past. The coastal communities on the South Coast were very welcoming and it had me thinking that it would be a pretty nice place to live.

In this post, I’m rounding up the best places to visit on the South Coast. Whether you’re heading off on a Melbourne to Sydney road trip or looking for a weekend escape from the city, these spots will definitely have you slipping into the slow pace of life on the coast.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Best Time to Visit the South Coast, NSW

The South Coast really is a haven at any time of the year. Of course, like most of the east coast, it get’s incredibly crowded, busy and expensive in summer, especially over the Christmas holidays.

However, for the rest of the year, it’s a beautiful place to hit the beach, go camping, walk in nature, and surf the breaks. I’ve spent the previous two autumns on the South Coast, and I have to say it’s probably my favourite time of the year.

The ocean is still warm enough to swim until May, plus you can get some beautiful sunrises and sunsets with relatively clear weather. Most of the towns are quiet by February, so you can easily explore the beaches and campgrounds without booking too far ahead.

Best Places to Visit on the South Coast

Whether you’re planning a road trip up the South Coast or looking for a getaway from Sydney for the weekend, here’s my pick of the 20 best places to visit on the South Coast. From coastal towns to national parks, don’t miss any of these spots if you want to see the best parts of this stunning coastline.

Royal National Park

As Australia’s first official national park, Royal National Park has been a favourite outdoor escape for generations. Just on the southern outskirts of Sydney, it’s known for some incredible bushwalking, bird watching, whale watching and camping.

Some of the coastal views are pretty spectacular, but if you visit on a weekend expect some very busy trails and campgrounds. Otherwise, during the week, you’ll be able to explore the waterfalls, coastal viewpoints, natural swimming spots, rainforest and camps without the crowds.

Some of the best walks include:

• Figure 8 Pools
• Wattamolla to Eagle Rock
• Karloo Pools
• The Coast Track (multi-day)

Read next: What to Pack for a Day Hike

Wollongong is a sprawling town that has really become a small city. Just south of Sydney, it’s one of the largest towns in New South Wales. While not as attractive as the other coastal towns further south, there are some very popular surf breaks and beautiful viewpoints not far from Wollongong.

As you drive south of Wollongong, the coastal views really open up along the famous stretch of the Grand Pacific Drive backed by the Illawarra Escarpment. Some of the best things to do in Wollongong include:

• Sea Cliff Bridge on Grand Pacific Drive
• Surfing at Wollongong North Beach, Wollongong City Beach, Coledale Beach and Bulli Beach
• Mount Kembla Summit Track
• Wollongong Botanic Garden

Stay | Urban Retreat

Kiama has become one of the most popular weekend coastal getaways from Sydney. The attractive town is built over the rolling cliffs of Illawarra, with rock pools, natural blow holes, and stunning viewpoints surrounding the town.

The main street is filled with cafes and boutique shops, but it’s the surrounding sights that makes Kiama one of my favourite spots on the South Coast. You could easily spend days in Kiama; taking time to explore the town’s attractions like the rock pools and lighthouse and then venturing further afield to nearby Minnamurra, Gerringong and Killalea Reserve. Or, you could take this small group, day trip to Kiama from Sydney seeing all the highlights in a day.

My favourite things to do in Kiama include:

• Kiama rock pool
• Kiama Coast Walk
• Bombo Headland Quarry
• Minnamurra Lookout
• Killalea Surfing Reserve

Stay | Kiama Shores

Read next: 18 Best Things to Do in Kiama

Kangaroo Valley

A slight detour off the South Coast, Kangaroo Valley is the perfect place if you want to swap waves for waterfalls. As one of the only closed valleys in the world, Kangaroo Valley is a stunning slice of bush paradise just 45km inland from Kiama.

While a long, steep drive up over the escarpment and hills behind the coast, the quaint town, lush green forest, tumbling waterfalls and variety of walking trails makes it all worthwhile.

Kangaroo Valley town itself is filled with boutique stays and farm to table restaurants, while the surrounding landscapes are best explored on foot or by water with kayaking and canoeing very popular activities.

Some of the best things to do in Kangaroo Valley include:

• Red Rock Trig walking track
• 19th century Hampden Bridge
• Drawing Room Rocks walk
• Kayak down the Kangaroo River
• Kangaroo Valley Farmers Market

Stay | Wildes Hotel Kangaroo Valley

Shoalhaven Heads

Located on the southern end of Seven Mile Beach, the small community of Shoalhaven Heads is a peaceful spot tucked away from the bustling towns of Kiama and Nowra. You can easily kick back for a few days, indulging in surfing, kite-surfing, horse riding and fishing.

It also makes for a good base for exploring other towns like Berry, Gerroa and Gerringong.

Stay | Lorsens on the River

Down on the Beecroft Peninsula, Currarong is a popular holiday destination. The small town is filled with holiday houses, and it’s not hard to see why. There are some incredible beaches, rock pools and hidden coves to explore around the peninsula, meaning there’s plenty to keep you busy for a weekend or longer.

Close to Currarong, head off on foot in the Abrahams Bosom Reserve to secluded beaches like Wilsons Beach and Lobster Bay and to the famous Gosangs Tunnel, a unique rock tunnel with views of the rugged coastline.

The rest of the peninsula is controlled by the navy, but it opens on weekends and in holidays for exploring more of the coast, including Honeymoon Bay and Point Perpendicular Lighthouse.

Stay | Claras Coastal Cottage

Read more: How to Get to Gosangs Tunnel

Huskisson and Hyams Beach

At the heart of the stunning Jervis Bay region, Huskisson is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the South Coast. While the town itself is small, it heaves with tourists all summer long. But don’t be put off, because you can find some of Australia’s best beaches just a short drive away from town.

Just south of Huskisson, you’ll find Hyams Beach. Home to some of the whitest sand in the country, it’s definitely an ideal place to throw down a towel and take a dip in the clear water in between reading a book.

In Huskisson, you can also hit the surf breaks, go whale watching and hire stand-up paddle boards to explore the surrounding coastline.

Stay | The Beach Studio (Huskisson) or Minke Whalers Cottage (Hyams Beach)

Jervis Bay (Booderee National Park)

Arguably one of Australia’s most beautiful national parks, Booderee, or in the local Dhurga language, Walawaani Njindiwan Njin Booderee , covers most of the Jervis Bay Territory. Home to white sand beaches, crystal clear water, high coastal cliffs, and native wildlife, it feels more like a tropical island paradise than a peninsula off the South Coast.

To explore the park in the best way, stay at one of the campgrounds, such as Green Patch or Cave Beach, and spend your days beach hopping from one cove to the next.

It’s worth noting that there’s a separate Parks Pass required for Boodereee National Park, not included in the regular NSW Parks Pass.

Known for its great surf breaks, Mollymook is the more upscale town just north of Ulladulla. With expensive holiday mansions lining the coastal cliffs, and a long sandy beach stretching around the bay, it’s one of the more picturesque towns on the South Coast.

Together with Ulladulla, I found that Mollymook has a great laidback vibe with a friendly community from holiday home owners to vanlifers. I’ve revisited several times, often staying longer than planned.

Collers Beach is a popular local surf break, with a beautiful swimming spot just around towards the golf course. This is also the best place to watch the sunrise in the morning.

Stay | Motel Molly – Boutique Hotel

A pretty port town, Ulladulla is one of my favourite places to visit on the South Coast. While it’s not blessed with its own beach, you can find Mollymook just a couple of kilometres to the north and Burrill Beach to the south.

Still, the town has some great cafes, shops and a very laidback vibe outside of summer (I know, I keep saying that!). Some of my favourite things to do in Ulladulla include:

• Swim laps in the Ulladulla Sea Pool
• Buy organic local produce at Empower Wholefoods
• Visit Warden Head Lighthouse
• Surf at Dolphin Point

Stay | Harbour View Apartments

Murramarang National Park

One of the South Coast’s gems, Murramarang National Park is a natural haven spanning over 40km of coastline from Bawley Point down to Batemans Bay. With the dense forest running right up to the edge of the sandy beaches, you can switch off and feel a world away from the trendy coastal towns.

Walking, fishing, swimming, surfing and camping are just some of the popular activities you can do in the park. Depot Beach Campground and Pebbly Beach Campground are my two favourites but there’s several other spots that you can enjoy some pretty nice camping facilities surrounded by the bush and crashing waves.

The new 3-day Murramarang Coastal Walk is also a new highlight that I’ll have to go back and complete one day.

Batemans Bay

An old favourite amongst families and holiday makers, Batemans Bay is a major town on the South Coast. While I wouldn’t say the town itself is anything special compared to other smaller towns like Ulladulla or Bermagui, there’s plenty to do around Batemans Bay that makes it a nice base to explore the coast.

The Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail includes bays around the town with its reefs and native fish, while fishing enthusiasts can head to Clyde River National Park. Otherwise, I quite liked driving the coastal route from Batemans Bay down to Moruya, stopping at Batehaven, Lilli Pilli, Malua Bay, Mossy Point and Broulee.

Stay | The Isla

Narooma (and Dalmeny)

Narooma and surrounds is definitely up there when it comes to the best places to visit on the South Coast. With the Wagonga Inlet, coastal lakes and rugged coastline, the natural beauty of Narooma is what instantly astounded me.

It has some of the bluest and clearest waters on the South Coast, appearing like a tapestry of glistening turquoise. This means you’ll see divers and stand-up paddle boarders out on the inlet exploring the water. The resident seals are a real highlight too, you can see them around the inlet and also near Australia Rock and Seal Rocks.

It’s also becoming a popular foodie destination thanks to the oyster industry, which is booming in town. Whether you stay in Narooma or Dalmeny or somewhere in between, you’ll be able to appreciate the incredibly beautiful town and surrounding coastline.

Don’t miss when visiting Narooma:

• Australia Rock
• Cycling from Dalmeny to Narooma (check out this 2-hour e-bike rental here )
• Swimming area in Wagonga Beach
• Seals at Seal Rocks
• Glasshouse Rocks

Stay | The Beach Shack at Dalmeny

Mystery Bay

The small coastal community on Mystery Bay just south of Narooma is one of the best kept secrets on the South Coast. Home to one of the last budget campgrounds, you can camp right on the coast with just the sound of birds and crashing waves waking you in the morning.

While there’s not a whole lot of town there, it’s the best place to explore the hidden beaches around the coast to the south. It’s also a popular fishing spot for locals.

Stay | Spotted Gum Retreat

Bermagui is an absolute gem of a town. As one of the best places to visit on the South Coast, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to spend at least a night there. With some great waterfront cafes (try Boneless Vegetarian Cafe or Gulaga Wholefoods), the main beach right in front for swimming, and some incredible vantage points around town, it’s a pretty spot to go for a weekend.

Home to one of the most beautiful ocean pools, known as Bermagui Blue Pool, you can spot whales, dolphins and seals as you swim in the protected rock pool. Just north of town past Wallaga Lake, I also highly recommend you check out the walk to Camel Rock and Horse Head Rock.

Stay | Bermagui Beach Hotel

The small town of Tathra on the Sapphire Coast is a pretty spot not far from Merimbula and Bega. Surrounded by national parks, it’s a popular summer getaway for families looking to soak up the sun.

Tathra Beach is a long sandy bay perfect for swimming, surfing and relaxing on the sand. At sunset time (or sunrise if you’re keen), head up to Chamberlain Lookout for a beautiful view.

But the small town is also a great base for exploring Mimosa Rocks National Park to the north and Bournda National Park to the south. Both national parks also have great campgrounds if you want to escape into nature for a night.

Stay | Kianinny Bush Cottages

On a coastline known for holiday resort towns, Merimbula has been a long standing favourite. With Merimbula Lake and Merimbula Bay, you’ve got a little bit of everything around town. From popular surf breaks to calm waters for SUP-ing, the water activities are endless.

Plus the town is filled with some of the best food options on the South Coast, from trendy coffee shops open early in the morning to waterfront fine dining. There’s plenty of walking trails, boardwalks and footpaths to explore the town on, which was my favourite thing to do in Merimbula. Otherwise, pick from one of the many beaches to spend the day, Bar Beach, Middle Beach, Short Point Beach, and Merimbula Main Beach.

Stay | Beach Cabins Merimbula

Pambula Beach

While close to Merimbula, Pambula has more of a chill vibe and smaller yet welcoming community. The small town offers some nice cafes (try Toast Cafe), but head to the coast for Pambula Beach, which is the real highlight, with surf breaks, walking trails and fishing in Pambula River.

Stay | Riversong & Sea Dreaming Holiday Houses

A sleepy fishing town, Eden seems to get a bit forgotten compared to the flashier towns further up the coast. But, located on Twofold Bay and surrounded by national parks, you’ll find some of the most pristine coastal landscapes around Eden.

There’s actually plenty to keep you busy around town, especially if you enjoy swimming, whale watching and walking. In winter, it’s one of the best places on the South Coast for catching a glimpse of the migrating whales. Other things to do in Eden, include:

• Aslings Beach Rock Pool
• Eden Killer Whale Museum
• Cocora Beach
• Eden Lookout Point

Stay | Eden Motel

Beowa National Park (formerly Ben Boyd National Park)

Surrounding the small coastal town of Eden, Beowa National Park is a must visit. Separated into two areas, one north of Eden and another south of Eden, it’s filled with surf beaches, fishing spots, walking trails, and unique geological formations.

The most iconic attraction of the park is The Pinnacles. You’ve likely seen an image of the spectacular erosion feature on social media. Consisting of soft white and red clay cliffs, the layers are millions of years old. You can reach it by a short walk from the carpark, but I also recommend heading down to Pinnacles Beach for a secluded, long sandy bay.

More Travel Guides for the South Coast

• 10 Best Campgrounds on the South Coast
• Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary for a Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip
• Best Things to Do in Kiama

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How to Get to Gosangs Tunnel on NSW South Coast

Hiking and Camping in Hat Head National Park

Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip: The Ultimate 2 Week Itinerary (Coastal Route)

Camping and Walking in Bald Rock National Park, NSW

[…] is one of my favourite drives. It allows you to explore the Gippsland area of Victoria and the South Coast of New South Wales; two regions that I’ve spent a lot of time over the last two […]

[…] Read next: 20 Best Places to Visit on the South Coast […]

Where would the quietest spot be Christmas Holidays South coast nsw

Honestly, no where will be quiet at that time. I’d probably look at somewhere near Eden or Tathra but they’ll still be very busy and crowded

[…] try to have time to take this coastal route. While it’s not as common as a road trip up the NSW South Coast, the variety in coastal landscapes makes the trip between these two cities a worthwhile drive to […]

[…] extension: Continue over the border into NSW and explore the South Coast or on your way back to Melbourne head up to the High Country on the Great Alpine Road from […]

[…] into New South Wales just after Easter. I travelled very slowly and simply revisited my favourite places on the South Coast of NSW from the previous year. I got up for sunrise almost every single day, watched the surfers, took […]

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28 Best Places to Visit in October in USA (You’ll Love)

Posted on Published: August 23, 2023  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

There’s nothing quite like a fall vacation. The hustle and bustle of the summer is gone. Most tourist destinations are like sleepy ghost towns waiting for the rush of holiday travelers. So if you’ve ever wondered where’s the best places to visit in October in the USA – here’s your list.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Traveling in the fall, and more specifically, October cannot be beat. It’s the shoulder season for many destinations across the states. That means less crowds and affordable prices. And bonus – beautiful fall colors across much of the USA!

Traveling in the fall is one of the best times to take a vacation. But not every spot is equally as great. That’s why this list of the best fall vacations in the US is highlighting cool spots you’ve seen before, and even better destinations you haven’t heard of. 

And by the way…I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list . However, I haven’t been everywhere yet (working on it!) so I enlisted some travel blogger friends for help creating this epic list. 

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best fall vacations in the US

This list is covering a lot of the country! From the west coast to the east coast and some spots in between, this map shows a visual, which can be useful when planning your fall getaway.

Best places to visit in October in USA

October is a fabulous time to travel, and these are some of the most ideal spots in these gorgeous United States to see. From popular fall foliage spots to destinations you’ve never heard of, let’s dive into the list!

1. The Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia

Average temp:  high 62, low 41

Stretching 469 miles from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the entrance to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia (where it turns into the equally scenic Skyline Drive), the Blue Ridge Parkway is widely regarded as one of America’s most scenic roads.

More than 15 million people using the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) each year, making it the most visited of all the national park units in the United States. So it’s also arguably the most popular!

The BRP’s origins date back to 1935, when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt made the historic initiative part of his New Deal. It was designed to improve American infrastructure and create jobs as a means to accelerate the nation’s economic recovery after the Great Depression.

It took until 1966 to construct the majority of the road, and another 21 years to finish the picturesque stretch from the Linn Cove Viaduct to Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. 

The result is an epic and iconic road trip that dazzles with spectacular colors in the fall, when the leaves turn to sun-speckled gems in red, orange, and golden hues. It’s by far one of the most scenic fall drives in the US!!

An autumn drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway takes you through the Jefferson, George Washington, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests; numerous impressive state parks (including NC’s Mount Mitchell State Park, the highest peak east of the Mississippi); and countless hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and streams. 

There are also some 200 breathtaking BRP overlooks as well as charming mountain towns such as Banner Elk, Boone, and  Little Switzerland . 

The best of the parkway’s landmarks include Grandfather Mountain State Park, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, Looking Glass Rock, and Julian Price Memorial Park. Each offers opportunities to savor the splendor of America’s wilderness at its most pristine, preserved by FDR for future generations.

Recommended by Bret Love and Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

2. Bend, Oregon (one of the most underrated and best places to visit in October USA)

Average temp:  high 62, low 33

While Bend, Oregon is a fantastic destination year-round, the fall is a great time to visit this Central Oregon town. You’ll find far fewer crowds than in the summer months and the crisp autumn air is perfect for many outdoor adventures.

Bend is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, and October is a great time to experience Oregon’s high desert. Cooler autumn temperatures make it the perfect time of year to hit the nearby trails.

There are a variety of  hikes in Bend, Oregon  for all skill levels and in a diverse range of settings, from pine forests to snowcapped peaks to juniper and sage dotted deserts. You can also get out onto the water on a SUP or kayak or cruise through some of the famed Bend mountain biking trails.

A fun fall activity is to head to nearby Smith Rock State Park for beautiful views and a lovely riverside walk. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the ranch just outside the park that has a large pumpkin patch, food trucks and festive games for all ages.

October is the perfect time of year to hop around the different breweries around town to sample the local brews. If you’re a real craft beer enthusiast, you may want to participate in the Bend Ale Trail, which is run by the local tourism board. Collect stamps at each brewery you visit for a prize!

Recommended by Katie Diederichs of Go Wander Wild

3. Mammoth Lakes, California

Average temp:  high 60, low 30

One of the best places to visit in October in USA is  Mammoth Lakes . It’s located in Eastern California and is one of the most underrated places to visit in the USA in the fall. The beautiful colorful trees with the mountains in the background make this a wonderful place to stay in October. 

June Lake Loop is one of the best spots to experience the fall colors. There are many lakes to explore on the loop like Silver Lake, June Lake, Gull Lake, and Grant Lake.

The whole loop is filled with stunning yellow Aspen trees, and there are many spots to explore with these beautiful trees. Make sure to stop by Silver Lake Cafe for lunch and watch the stunning views of Silver Lake while you eat.

Another great spot to see fall colors is Convict Lake which is located southeast of Mammoth Lakes . The yellow Aspens are situated at the mountain base, so it is best to walk the whole loop.

You can also visit many of the lakes that are located in Mammoth Lakes Basin. They include lakes like Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie, Horseshoe Lake, Lake Mary and Lake George. It’s a magical area to explore in the early cool fall morning. 

There are so many yellow colors in Mammoth Lakes. It is probably one of the most underrated areas to experience fall foliage, and one of the best places to visit in the US in October!

Recommended by Michelle of The Wandering Queen

4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (one of the best October vacation destinations)

Average temp:  high 46, low 29

Colorado’s Rocky Mountain is one of the most beautiful (and popular) national parks in the country.

Located about 2 hours away from Denver, this park takes time ans effort to explore with countless trails, waterfalls and even one of Colorado’s most popular “fourteeners” Longs Peak. 

Rocky Mountain National Park is pure magic during fall, when the incredible golden colors come out in full display. The best time to see them is from mid-September through early October. 

Another thing you should know about visiting RMNP during the fall is that weekends still might be busy, as more people come to take pictures and see thousands of amazing golden-hue Aspen trees. Crowds begin to dissipate in the fall, and if you want the ultimate experience, try to plan your visit for weekday. 

To see the fall colors in their full glory, take a drive along the Trail Ridge Road that is open from Memorial Day until late October. The alpine highway is a perfect way to enjoy the the fall scenery at RMNP without getting out of the car. In fact, the Trail Ridge Road is one of the top Colorado bucket list activity!

Still, try to explore some trails. Take a hike or two to enjoy the fall colors , and if you plan on doing a more challenging trail at a higher altitude, make sure to bring some layers . Temperatures begin to drop in the fall, and it’s a good idea to bring a jacket with you, especially if you plan on camping here. 

Note: through most of October, the park requires a timed entry permit. Plan your trip in advance and grab your permit here .

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

5. Door County, Wisconsin

Average temp:  high 56, low 41

Door County, Wisconsin likely isn’t the first spot to come to mind when thinking of amazing fall colors in the United States. However, the colors here are breathtaking , and there are many wonderful activities to enjoy in Door County during fall! 

The colors begin changing during the end of September, and visitors hoping to see the leaves during their peak color should plan to visit the area in mid-October. 

To see some of the best fall colors in Door County, try hiking in Peninsula State Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park, Cave Point County Park and The Ridges Sanctuary, just to name a few spots.

For those looking for a less active leaf-peeping experience, be sure to take a drive along Highway 42. You can also see the leaves from above at viewing platforms, such as the newly constructed Sturgeon Bay Maritime Museum Lighthouse Tower. 

Fall is also a great time to visit the apple orchards in Door County. Be sure to stop by Wood Orchard Market, where you can get awesome seasonal products such as their special apple cider donuts! 

With the cooler fall temperatures, cozying up to a fire during a traditional Door County fish boil is one of the best  things to do in Wisconsin  at this time of year. Fish Boils are fun to watch and delicious. Each boil master makes theirs a little differently but, you can count on all recipes using white fish and various vegetables and spices boiled in a large kettle over an open fire.

Door County is an underrated destination, and definitely one of the best places to visit in October USA!

Recommended by Lindsey of Have Clothes, Will Travel

6. San Diego, California

Average temp:  high 74, low 61

Listen, San Diego has amazing temperatures most of the year, so there’s not really a ‘bad’ time to go. However, as someone who’s traveled to San Diego many times in the fall, I can truly say that October is a fantastic time to visit this amazing city!

Less tourists visit San Diego in the fall, so there’s not as many limitations to amazing activities because of overcrowding. For instance, the San Diego Zoo is a fantastic spot to explore. It’s really enjoyable in the fall when you can see what you’re there to see, instead of waiting all the time.

An amazing activity in the San Diego area is kayaking in La Jolla Cove in October. Other top things to do include Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego and Coronado Island.

By the way, here’s an idea of how to spend a weekend in San Diego if it’s on your short list!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

7. Oahu, Hawaii (top of the list for warm places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 84, low 69

The island of Oahu has beautiful weather throughout the year but fall is one of the best times to visit. At this time of year, you can expect fewer crowds around the island, plenty of days with clear blue skies and the island is still really warm so you can spend your time lying on the beach.

While it may be hotter in the summer months, the fall actually offers a more enjoyable temperature so you can get out and explore the island. 

One of the highlights of any visit to Oahu is exploring the many beaches dotted around the island. The most beautiful beach on Oahu is Lanikai Beach , which is a palm tree lined stretch of brilliant white sand and crystal-clear blue water.

As it’s on the east side of the island the water is usually quite calm so it is ideal for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. If you are feeling energetic you can kayak out to the Mokalua Islands which are just a few hundred metres from shore. 

Another great activity is to explore Kualoa Regional Park, which is where scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed. You can explore the park on foot or take a quad bike tour. The mountains here are unique with their deep ridges and tropical green coverings.

During a visit to Oahu you can also snorkel, surf, hike, visit local farms to try fresh fruit and so much more. It’s an amazing island and the weather in particular makes this a perfect fall getaway.

Recommended by Luke of Wild About BC

8. Acadia National Park, Maine (a top choice on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 55, low 38

Acadia is among a very small group of US national parks with two genuine ‘peak’ seasons. Summer is naturally congested in Acadia, but fall is equally as busy and because of the spectacularly beautiful Autumnal foliage lighting up the park.

But striking colors aren’t everything and the fall season is loaded with other benefits in Acadia National Park. 

Hiking conditions are cooler in September and October, which comes in particularly handy when climbing both of Acadia’s adrenaline pumping hikes – Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail.

Beehive and Precipice are the two outstanding hikes but there are a dozen other trails without ladder climbing elements. All of which summit with remarkable views over the Gulf of Maine, gorgeous lakes, tiny islands and of course mountain sides covered in vibrant orange, yellow, red and green trees.

Epic sunrises are one of Acadia’s greatest assets and from the summit of ultra-popular Cadillac Mountain, you can be among the first people in the US to see the sun rise over the eastern horizon. In fall, sunrise is over an hour later than in summer, which means a slightly less agonizing alarm time.

To see the richest and most vivid colors, simply get stuck into all of the  best things to do in Acadia National Park , including hikes, lakes and carriage roads.

Pro tip: Be sure to book Bar Harbor accommodation a long way in advance to avoid missing out and always be out in the park early, parking spaces are limited and fill quickly each day.

Without a doubt, Acadia National Park is one of the best places to visit in October in USA.

Recommended by Mark and Kristen of Where Are Those Morgans?

9. Moab, Utah

Average temp:  high 74, low 41

Moab, Utah is an adventure city in the Southwest USA. With countless national parks, state parks and recreation areas surrounding Moab, it’s truly an amazing place to vacation.

It makes this list of the best places to visit in October in the USA because the weather usually hasn’t turned too wintry yet to enjoy the outdoors. And in the summer, Moab is packed with tourism!

If you love hiking, October is the perfect time to explore Arches National Park by foot or hike Canyonlands National Park . There’s also white water rafting, canyoneering, wineries and breweries and so much more.

Visitors should still book accommodations as far out as possible to get the best pricing. And be sure to book any tours in advance since Moab is a hot spot!

Related: 30 Cool Things to Do in Moab, Utah

Best October vacation destinations

Some amazing spots have already been covered, but some of the best fall foliage in USA continues…

10. Asheville, North Carolina

Average temp:  high 68, low 46

Asheville, North Carolina is one of the best places in the US to experience fall.  The mountains are blazing with red, orange, and yellow leaves, the weather is perfect and the orchards are open. 

While it may be the busiest time of year, it’s well worth the visit, but try to time it for a weekday visit instead of the weekends.

Be sure to spend some time walking around downtown Asheville and wandering the shops of the hip West Asheville area.  Visiting the Biltmore Estate is also a must-do. 

There are so many amazing places to eat in Asheville, you’ll be able to try new, delicious food for every meal. Tupelo Honey and Gan Shan West are great options.

One of the best things to do in Asheville is driving part of the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway and the best time to  drive the Blue Ridge Parkway is fall . There are tons of hikes to waterfalls nearby like Linville Falls, Looking Glass Falls, or Moore Cove Falls. 

Visiting Asheville in the fall makes all of these things even better than they normally are because you get to see them surrounded by stunning fall foliage, and who doesn’t love that?  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

11. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington (a PNW fave on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 47, low 33

Within the Pacific Northwest, Mount Rainier National Park boasts vibrant autumnal colors not only on the leaves of its famously grand trees, but also from the wildflowers, succulents, and other fauna carpeting the park’s rolling valleys.

If you’re looking for some of the best spots to see the fall colors, head to the Skyline Trail Mount Rainier, a 5.5 mile hike that takes you up close-and-personal with Mount Rainier and meanders through meadows aflame with autumnal foliage, from the vibrant red of scarlet paintbrush to the flaming orange of elderberries. 

Alternatively, check out Naches Peak Loop, a part of the Pacific Crest Trail that traverses colorful subalpine valleys bursting with autumnal colors while snowy Mount Rainier looms overhead.

For a lower impact way to enjoy the fall foliage, take a scenic drive through the Chinook Scenic Byway. It’s a 107 mile road that will take you through both Mount Rainier National Park and Mount Baker – Snoqualmie National Forest.

This drive provides a gorgeous tour of rushing waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and of course, panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains’ beautiful fall colors.

With stunning autumnal foliage, world-class hiking, and a variety of activities for all types of travelers, Mount Rainier in the fall is a fantastic place to explore. 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

12. Boston, Massachusetts

Average temp:  high 62, low 47

Fall is the ultimate time to visit New England. From “leaf-peeping” in parks to crisp weather and apple-picking, it’s no wonder that visitors flock to the region from all over the world. If you’re seeking a combination of a city break and a fantastic fall destination, consider Boston.

Boston is teeming with history, green spaces, restaurants, and quaint neighborhoods to charm any visitor. Known as the “Cradle of the American Revolution,” don’t miss the Freedom Trail .

It’s a 2-mile, largely flat walking path that traces various sites of historical importance, such as the site of the Boston Massacre, the beginning of Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, and the Battle of Bunker Hill in Charlestown.

The Trail kicks off at the beautiful Boston Common, the oldest city park in the U.S., dating back to 1634! As you walk, you will also discover other lovely fall destinations, such as the Beacon Hill neighborhood, with its cobbled streets and romantic buildings. Be sure to stop at Acorn Street, said to be the most-photographed street in the U.S .

For some Victorian splendor, visit Copley Square and the Back Bay, gazing up at its two beautiful churches and the Boston Public Library – certainly one of the city’s most picturesque places. In particular, the Library’s Bates Room, with its glowing lamps and vintage books, will give you major “back-to-school season” vibes.

Nearby, the Commonwealth Avenue Mall has gorgeous trees in blazing fall colors – one of the best places to check out fall foliage in town . There are also a variety of parks to discover if foliage is what you seek, including the Fens, the Emerald Necklace parks system and the Public Garden. 

Boston is certainly one of the best places to travel in October in USA, especially if you love history!

Recommended by Tegan and Alex of Why Not Walk Travel Guides

13. Napa Valley, California (a favorite of these fall vacation ideas)

Average temp:  high 77, low 47

It’s without question that the beautiful  Napa Valley  region in California is one of the most beautiful fall travel destinations in the USA. The normally vibrant green of the grapevines turns to shades of yellow, gold and orange in Napa Valley. And as the weather cools, the leaves start to fall, leaving a carpet of orangey gold underfoot.  

Napa Valley is actually a region featuring a collection of towns in between the vineyards and rolling hills. The area is a really easy drive from the best things to do in San Francisco , and will take around 1.5 hours. Having a car is a great idea in Napa Valley so that you are able to hop between wine tastings and towns at your leisure.  

For a spectacular view, Artesa Wines is a great choice for a wine tasting as the large-windowed cellar door sits stop a hill providing great panoramic views of the surrounding valley.  

Auburn James, just outside St Helena, is also a beautiful winery to stop in at, with a gorgeous tasting room. It is worth noting that booking in advance for your tastings is always a good idea and usually involves a small payment.  

Once you’ve finished your wine tastings, head into the township of St Helena for dinner at the Farmstead – a stellar farm to plate restaurant pairing local wines with delicious food.  

Recommended by Emma of Emma Jane Explores

14. Chicago, Illinois

Average temp:  high 62, low 50

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in October USA, look no further than Chicago!  This fun city is vibrant and full of fall foliage! Plus, there’s a ton of things to do, indoor and out.

While you could spend a week in the city, a Chicago 3 day itinerary would be just about perfect. 

A must-see is Millennium Park and the world-famous “Bean.” October is the  perfect time to witness the ever changing colors of autumn against the Chicago skyline.  The Bean is sort of like the cherry on top of that whole experience!

If you’re into museums, Chicago has so many options to choose from. The Art Institute of Chicago is located downtown within walking distance of many other main attractions. Enjoy works by Picasso, Vincent van Gogh and so many others!

You can  visit the Willis Tower Skydeck , where you can walk out on a ledge over 100 stories up (indoor, don’t worry!) and see the city below.  Another perfect activity is the Navy Pier,  where you can walk, dine and even join in on fun activities like a mirror maze or giant Ferris wheel!

With typically mild weather conditions in Chicago, it’s one of the best US cities to visit in October! Daytime averages in the 60s and nightly about 50 degrees, layers will be your friend!

Pro tip : stay near downtown or within a short metro ride to the city center. It’s a relatively walkable city so be prepared with your cute walking shoes !

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

15. Kauai, Hawaii (another favorite on this list of best places to visit in the US in October)

Average temp:  high 76, low 60

It sounds cliché, but Hawaii is such a gorgeous destination that it’s always worth the visit! However, as someone who has been to this beautiful island chain many times, visiting in the fall is one of my very favorite times to go.

Kauai is one of the best places to visit in October in the USA because it’s the shoulder season so it’s more affordable. Hiking trails and parking lots are generally less full, making it a great time to vacation on this island.

Highlights in Kauai in October

• See the Waimea Canyon and NaPali Coast. It’s absolutely stunning! 
• Helicopter tour of the island . Since 80% of it isn’t drivable, this is the best way to see this gorgeous place.
• Hike the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail . You’ll have to get advanced reservations to enter the park, but it’s a breathtaking experience!
• Hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail in southern Kauai near Poipu. This is and easy walk and offers ocean views nearly the entire way.
• Snorkel on Anini Beach. It’s one of the most calm spots on the island and a great spot to see sea turtles! (Just be sure to respect Hawaiian culture, keeping your distance from sea turtles and not walk on the coral.)

For the best places to eat in Kauai, it’s easier to get reservations for restaurants (which is recommended for Kauai since it’s a smaller island) in October.

Hands down, Hawaii is one of the very best states to visit in October, and Kauai is phenomenal!

16. Lutsen, Minnesota (an underrated and absolute best fall vacations in the US)

Average temp:  high 52, low 34

A fabulous, unknown place to many for enjoying fall leaf color and waterfalls can be found on the North Shore along Lake Superior in Minnesota. The North Shore is a special place and is only 2 hours north of Minneapolis-St Paul airport.

Duluth is where the journey begins, but for the full experience continue northward two more hours to Lutsen, Minnesota.  It’s truly one of the best places to visit in October in USA!

Let’s go! Start the adventure in Canal Park in Duluth, MN with the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge in the backdrop, while you explore the lighthouse pier and the newly renovated Lakewalk. Your drive will continue with must-see stops at Gooseberry Falls, Splitrock Lighthouse and Temperance River State Park.

Great accommodations can be found in Lutsen or Grand Marais, which are centralized for hiking and lots of activities in the area. An aerial gondola ride over the Poplar River and up the Moose Mountain is an experience not to miss to see the best fall leaf colors !

The window for peak fall color on the north shore varies anywhere from mid-September to early-October. However, the fall colors continue to be stunning in different types of forests at times beyond that window.

If you haven’t yet experienced the North Shore of Minnesota in the fall it’s one to add to your list! There are so many things to do and places to stay, it’s easy to find hotels on the North Shore MN as well.

Recommended by Michelle of Almost There Adventures

17. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Average temp:  high 58, low 46

Welcome to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the town National Geographic Travel has crowned “America’s Greatest Small Town.”

Portsmouth is the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s Seacoast and is perfectly situated within an hour from the White Mountains and an hour from Boston. Its location makes it the perfect New England destination for leaf peeping .

Downtown historical Portsmouth is very unique as it has colonial homes dating back to the 17th century. The most famous historical portion of the city is located in the south end. Strawbery Banke, an outdoor history museum, is New Hampshire’s oldest neighborhood to be settled by Europeans.

When visiting Portsmouth, be sure to check out all the small businesses downtown in an area of the city known as Market Square.

Portsmouth has more restaurants per capita than any other small town in the United States and is also home to dozens of charming boutiques. These boutiques come to life during the autumn with their seasonal decor and gift offerings.

Be sure to swing by Cup of Joe cafe for a cozy cup of salted caramel hot chocolate or their signature pumpkin spice latte. Lastly, the best thing about Portsmouth, NH is it’s a very walkable town, meaning no car is needed to explore this charming downtown this upcoming autumn season !

Recommended by Nicole of The Abroad Blog

18. Eastern Sierra, California

Average temp:  high 62, low 38 (varies)

The Eastern Sierra of California is a fabulous fall getaway destination in the USA. Fall color here is considered second only to New England , so you know you are in for a visual treat if you visit when the colors are at their peak!

From Lake Tahoe in the north to Bishop and Lone Pine in the south, the region is ablaze with foliage colors in the fall. You’ll be mesmerized by the show of yellow, oranges, and reds put on by aspens, willows and cottonwoods. 

Taking a  Highway 395 road trip  is a great way to enjoy fall in the Eastern Sierra. If you prefer to have a base, Mammoth Lakes and Bishop are the largest towns in the area, and make for good bases from which to explore the beauty of the fall foliage all around you.

Doing scenic drives to enjoy the colors is the top thing to do in the fall. There are numerous paved and dirt roads you can drive. Both Inyo and Mono Counties offer the most beautiful drives. If you plan to drive the dirt roads, bring an appropriate vehicle.

The region is also known for its numerous spectacular lakes, so get out onto the water to enjoy the colors on the banks. Boating or kayaking is offered at many lakes. You can also go hiking, to view the colors up close: there are many legendary Eastern Sierra hikes from which to choose.

The Eastern Sierras are certainly one of the beset October vacations USA for lakes, mountains and hiking.

Recommended by Dhara of Roadtripping California

19. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (another underrated destination on this list of beset places to travel in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 58, low 39

You’ll hit gold if you visit Shenandoah National Park during the autumn . . . plus orange, red and burgundy.

Shenandoah’s trees shed their green attire. Autumn’s palette paints the forest rusty orange, reddish yellow, and burgundy. Woodland creatures abound, including black bears, deer, wild turkeys and bats.

Located less than two hours from Washington DC, Shenandoah National Park attracts hikers and drivers. It’s also a favorite for singles and families to spend a weekend. But book your reservations early for either the park campgrounds or the Skyland Resorts and Big Meadows hotels, as they routinely sell out for the weekend.

The best time to visit is Monday through Thursday as the 105-mile Skyline Drive can turn into a traffic jam in October at peak foliage times. Skyline Drive weaves its way across western Virginia. Speed limit is 35 mph.

Your best bet is to enter the enter at the Front Royal Entrance, stop at the Dickey Ridge Visitors Center to get a panoramic family portrait and then head down the road. Stop at a convenient parking lot so you can hike through forests, scale rocky ledges, explore Appalachian Trail stops and watch waterfalls.

Or you can spend 3 hours traveling the entire length of the park on Skyline Drive. It ends at Rockfish Gap Entrance Station, which is also the northern entrance to the  Blue Ridge Parkway .  Shenandoah National Park features 200,000 acres of protected land. Stony Man and Hawksbill peaks exceed 4,000 feet.

This beautiful fall destination is the perfect getaway for families, couples, solos or even a friends’ trip!

Recommended by By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Fall vacation ideas

From big cities to wide open spaces, there’s still plenty more places to see on this mega list of the best place to visit in October in the US!

20. Austin, Texas

Average temp:  high 82, low 60

What a perfect city for a fall getaway! As someone who’s visited Austin a few times, I can honestly say October was my favorite! The weather is way better (i.e. way less hot) than during peak travel season.

Visiting Austin in the fall is the perfect time for outdoor adventures. There’s so much hiking in Austin, plus fall festivals, outdoor drive-in movies, pumpkin patches and more.

If you love being on the water, Lady Bird Lake is a great spot for kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. For easy hiking in Austin , consider McKinney Falls State Park, Barton Creek Greenbelt or the popular Mount Bonnell.

Of course there’s live music all over Austin, and let’s not forget the mural hunting, either. Whether you’re going for Insta-worthy shots or just happen to walk by them on your way to get epic cone at Amy’s Ice Cream, you’re bound to find some fun artwork in the downtown area.

October is the perfect time of year to spend a weekend in Austin .

21. Newport, Rhode Island

Average temp:  high 62, low 53

One of the best fall vacations in the US is definitely Newport, Rhode Island. The area has peak fall foliage throughout October.

It’s a small town located on Aquidneck Island and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and sea cliffs. During the fall, you can walk around and enjoy outdoor activities without the crowds.

The majority of people drive to Newport from somewhere on the east coast. If you’re visiting from further away, you can fly into Providence, Rhode Island, only 45 minutes away. 

One of the best  things to do in Newport  is see the history of the area on the Cliff Walk. You can walk 3.5 miles past the Breakers, one of the Newport mansions, around sea cliffs, and past a few beaches.

Newport’s mansions are renowned for their architecture and history. Some of the mansions were constructed in the early 19th century. Walk around the Wharves (Bannister’s and Bowen’s) in the evening for a variety of food and shopping. 

Newport has lots of delicious places to eat. For breakfast, head to Cru Cafe near the Audobain Museum – a great way to start the day is with their blueberry stuffed French toast!

Your New England vacation wouldn’t be complete without some seafood. At the Lobster Shack, you can find fresh seafood. You can stay at the Marriott Newport if you want to stay in the heart of Newport. The hotel is within walking distance of the wharves. 

Recommended by Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

22. Aspen, Colorado (a top choice for best places to visit in October in the US)

Average temp:  high 58, low 31

Perhaps one of the most beautiful fall foliage settings is in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. The town of Aspen is perfect for a fall getaway because it’s surrounded by mountains and gorgeous aspen trees. I’m convinced it’s the among the best places to visit in October in USA.

Unlike some other destinations on this list which get vibrant reds and oranges during the fall, aspen trees turn a gorgeous yellow color. And when you get a mountainside full of them, it’s like eye candy!

A gorgeous day trip from Aspen is Maroon Bells Park. The feature is the mountain peak of Maroon Bells, which are surrounded by a lake and gorgeous aspen trees in the fall.

You could spend the day hiking the trails near the Maroon Bells if you love hiking and exploring the outdoors on foot. Note: you’ll want to plan ahead for this one, as reservations are now required to visit. Get your Maroon Bells reservations here .

Other things to do in Aspen include the Silver Queen Gondola, drive Independence Pass, visit the Ashcroft Ghost Town, and of course, shopping and dining in Aspen.

So whether you’re making the fall foliage in Aspen the focus of your trip or you’re combining it with an epic Colorado road trip , Aspen will surely be a highlight for a fall vacation!

23. New York City, New York

Average temp:  high 64, low 50

New York City is amongst the best places to spend fall in the United States. The city is known for its beautiful fall colors and even a bit of Indian summer if you’re lucky.

New York can get very hot during the summer so the fall is the perfect time to enjoy the city without the heat. Fall is a lot more comfortable for sightseeing and you’ll love the views of the city. 

If you’re traveling with older kids, this New York weekend itinerary with teens is the perfect mix of activities.

Head to the Highline Park which is a former elevated railroad track that has been converted into a walkway. It’s the perfect way to see the city without having to deal with the traffic and busy streets! 

For an even better view of the city, you need to go all the way to the top of the One World Trade Center . This modern skyscraper is a must-see and truly the best place to take pictures of the city.

Afterward, head to the river for an evening cruise. There are tourist boats that will take you around the Hudson and East River.

However, for a more affordable option just take the ferry to Jersey or Staten Island. The ride won’t be as long but tickets only cost a few dollars and you’ll get to avoid the tourist crowds.

A trip to New York City is one of the best October vacations USA and one you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Recommended by Victoria of Guide Your Travel

24. Zion National Park, Utah (another favorite on this list of best places to travel in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 66, low 39

Zion National Park is simply stunning any time of year. However, it’s especially amazing to visit this national park in the fall.  With dwindled crowds and less intense weather to worry about, Zion is a great idea for a fall vacatio n!

If you want to hike the infamous Angels Landing, advanced planning is required, as the permit application process is during the summer. But, if you happen to get a permit for the hike, October is a phenomenal time to do it!

Of course, there are many things to do in Zion without hiking this challenging trail.  The much easier and yet equally rewarding Canyon Overlook Trail is a fun one, and can be completed for most fitness levels . At just a mile, this trail offers absolutely incredible views of the park!

A place for all ages, this park is magnificent for those young and old. An itinerary for Zion with kids includes other simple hikes like the Riverside Walk. Go further into the canyon by hiking The Narrows!

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in October, the Zion Mt. Carmel Highway Scenic Drive is incredible.  You won’t get the traditional vivid colors like some of the other destinations on this list of the best places to visit in October in US, but instead you’ll get amazing desert landscape and massive canyon views. So fun!

Be sure to pack plenty of water, layers for varying weather, hiking snacks and hiking gear like grippy hiking shoes , trekking poles and a hiking backpack .

Zion is absolutely one of the best places to go in October in USA, and a spot you’ll love!

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

25. Las Vegas, Nevada

Average temp:  high 83, low 46

Las Vegas is the perfect destination to visit all year round but fall is a great time to visit. Temperatures begin to cool after the summer and so do the crowds. Plus, visiting mid-week will get you cheaper hotel rates, too. 

Because temperatures are cooler, it means you can take advantage of some of the best outdoor attractions in the city, perfect for those visiting  Las Vegas for the first time .

Enjoy a Gondola ride at The Venetian, watch the Bellagio fountains or watch the volcano erupt outside The Mirage.

Rent a car or join a tour to visit the nearby national parks; Grand Canyon is the most popular day trip option from Las Vegas but October is a fantastic time to visit Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon and Bryce Canyon.

Alternatively, head to the unusual Magic Mountains or explore ‘The Neon Museum’ , a gallery of old signage from Vegas hotels of the past. 

In the Bellagio hotel, you’ll find the gorgeous Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This is one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas and a great indoor activity to enjoy.

Each season, the gardens get transformed and the fall display is the most breathtaking. Expect oversized pumpkins, woodland creatures and tall, entertaining trees. 

For more natural fall colours, head to one of the nearby parks ; Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs, Paseo Verde Park and Gilcrease Orchard are top choices for this time of the year. 

We recommend staying at The Cosmopolitan; it’s an elegant, stunning hotel and rates are normally super high but drop during the Autumn time.

Recommended by Katie of Creative Travel Guide

26. Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)

Average temp:  high 69, low 46

Washingtonians and visitors don’t even have to hop in a car to enjoy peak fall foliage in a forest. Rock Creek Park is situated in the nation’s capital.

It’s the nation’s third oldest national park. Rock Creek Park was authorized in 1890.

Come October, the oaks, American beech and tulip trees suddenly change into the colors of the sunset—golden, orange and red. The 1,754-acre park features hikes for the hardcore as well as weekend adventurer.

If time permits, hike the two primary trails – Western Ridge Trail and Valley Trail. They run side by side. Imagine walking along a ladder laid on the ground.

Half-day hikes include Boulder Bridge, Milkhouse Ford, Rapids Bridge and Chestnut Oak/Mountain Laurels.

Or, devote a fall weekend to exploring Rock Creek Park . Tramp around the Civil War fortifications, watch interpreters at the Peirce Mill and Barn and visit the horses.

Bring a carrot or pull on your boots to ride a horse at the Rock Creek Park Horse Center, which is the only public riding facility in Washington DC.

Families will definitely want to visit the Nature Center and Planetarium. There are picnic areas scattered across Rock Creek Park, so fill a basket with ciders, sandwiches and apples.

Recommended by Terri of Female Solo Trek

27. Siesta Key, Florida (another favorite warm place to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 85, low 67

A Florida beach may not come to the top of mind when thinking about the best October vacation destinations. However, it’s the perfect time to go! And what better way to end this list than one of the top-ranked beaches in the USA!

Siesta Key, Florida is home to turquoise water and some of the finest white powder sand you’ll ever step foot on. While you won’t see much fall foliage here, you’ll see wide open beaches and affordable prices, compared to the peak summer season and those looking for a winter escape.

Fall is the ideal time to visit Siesta Key. The weather is very comfortable and the water is still warm enough to enjoy.

From excellent restaurants, shopping, kayaking and beaching, there’s seriously so many things to do in Siesta Key. Whether you’re looking for a fall getaway as a couple, family, solo or friends trip, you’ll love spending time in Siesta Key!

While a bit unconventional in terms of fall colors, this is still one of the best places to visit in October in the USA.

28. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp:  high 81, low 62

New Orleans is one of the top warm places to visit in October in USA. It’s a fantastic walking city so it’s an ideal location to visit in the fall when the summer weather has cooled a bit and the crowds have left.

New Orleans is a very family friendly city , even in the French Quarter, or a great destination for a romantic getaway or a fun girls’ or boy’s weekend. 

A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without exploring the French Quarter. Here you can aimlessly walk along cobblestone streets, poking your head into cute shops, or eating your way through delicious food.

One of the must-try treats is a beignet, a cross between a french pastry and a doughnut. They are easily found in the French Quarter. 

If you’re curious about the history of this area, take one of the many walking tours that will ultimately take you to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Here you will learn all about the ghosts, the after-life and even voodoo, themes found all over New Orleans.

A fantastic experience is visiting the National WWII Museum, a short walk from the French Quarter.

This is an exceptional interactive museum that focuses on the United States’ role in Asia and Europe during WWII. It’s a thrilling experience that will grab the attention of anyone even those that aren’t normally interested in history or wars. 

There are countless exciting activities to do within a short drive of New Orleans. You can visit a plantation, like Oak Alley Plantation, and learn about slavery and a difficult part of US history. The drive there is beautiful and exploring the grounds is a lovely thing to do in the fall.

In addition, you can take a swamp tour which is a lot of fun. You hop on a bayou boat and explore some of the many surrounding swamps filled with crocodiles and other wild creatures.

October is the perfect time of year to visit New Orleans due to the cooling weather and reasonable crowds.

Recommended by Nicole of Go Far Grow Close

Best places to visit in October in the USA

Whew! What a list. I hope you’ve found enough inspiration for your fall getaway – or 2! With so many amazing spots in the USA to choose from, I’m sure you can’t go wrong!

Let’s recap those destinations again, in a much more condensed list…

Best fall vacations in US

• Blue Ridge Parkway, NC to VA
• Bend, Oregon
• Mammoth Lakes, California
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Door County, Wisconsin
• San Diego, California
• Oahu, Hawaii
• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Asheville, North Carolina
• Mount Rainier National Park, Washington 
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Napa Valley, California
• Chicago, Illinois
• Kauai, Hawaii
• Lutsen, Minnesota
• Portsmouth, New Hampshire
• Eastern Sierra, California
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
• Austin, Texas
• Newport, Rhode Island
• Aspen, Colorado
• New York City, New York
• Zion National Park, Utah
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)
• Siesta Key, Florida
• New Orleans, Louisiana

So, have you decided? Comment below with your fall vacation plans!

By the way, if you’re planning to rent a car for your fall getaway, check out the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I routinely save 10% – 30% on rentals. They search top car carriers to find the best deal, at no extra price to you! Here’s that link again to search rental cars .

Related content: 28 Underrated Destinations in the USA 32 Best Places to Visit in September in USA (Unique and Cool Ideas You’ll Love) 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacation Spots in the USA 35 Swoon-worthy Beach Vacations 26 Best Beaches on the Gulf Coast 100 Romantic Vacations in the United States

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Sunday 27th of August 2023

I have actually visited quite a few of these in the autumn (I am from the UK!) I am pleased to say. There are still a few more to tick off though. Fall is my favourite season for visiting the US. I would especially love to see Aspen in the fall. I have only ever seen it in the winter. You have whetted my appetite for another fall road trip!

Monday 28th of August 2023

Oh yay Jane! I'm so glad to hear you've visited so many spots in the US during the fall season. Such a spectacular time to travel! Hope you get to cross a few more off your list soon :)

I've been to Kauai in October and you are correct, it's a great time to go! Warm, sunny and not too crowded either.

haha yes! Although there may not be a bad time to go to Kauai....🤣

Saturday 26th of August 2023

Love this entire listicle! All these places must be stunning during autumn and I'd love to visit some day. Thanks for sharing this!

You're so welcome Kelly. Glad you enjoyed the list!

This list is amazing. I completely agree with Bend, OR as one of the best underrated places to visit! I really want to get out to the northeast at some point to see the fall colors, they look incredible. Thanks for the inspiration.

Oh yay Sophie, so glad you found some inspiration here. The PNW is so stunning in the fall and worth the trip 🧡

Sunday 24th of October 2021

Such an exhaustive list Nikki! I am really glad that I stumbled upon your blog today. Hope to tick some of this list in the next few years though. Kudos on this article and stay safe! :)

Thursday 28th of October 2021

Thanks so much Darryl! It was fun putting an extensive list together. I hope you get to see many of the places on this list!

Unique places to go in NSW you've never heard of

13 February 2023

If you’re in search of a holiday without the crowds, consider these lesser-known gems of NSW.

With so many  beautiful beaches , world-renowned wine regions,  charming country towns , boundless snowfields and the state’s  magnificent outback  hogging the spotlight in NSW you could be forgiven for thinking there is nowhere left to discover. But if you break away from the caravan convoy you’ll find a range of fascinating places that even the most seasoned traveller hasn’t heard of. Here are our picks.

Why should you visit?

It’s primed to become the state’s newest foodie hotspot.

Sydneysiders who can sniff out a trend are driving 300 kilometres away to the country town of Jugiong on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, just to eat lunch at the swanky Sir George Pub.

Grounds at the Sir George Jugiong.

After two years’ worth of renovations, the pub (which was built in 1852 and had been in the same family for 165 years before the handover) reopened, and the reimagined venue now houses a restaurant, sourdough bakery and beer garden. Heritage-listed accommodation (even older than the pub — dating back to 1845) is attached for those eager to rest their head among history.

Add to this The Long Track Pantry, the award-winning store, cafe and cooking school next door; and the Curators Collective, a fashion, homewares and furniture store located just above the pub; and we’re sensing a hint of Merivale vibes in the Hilltops Region of NSW, especially with its convenient position just off the Hume Highway.

Housed on the property, the beautifully picturesque Potting Shed sells gifts for the gardener.

Mungo National Park

For the otherworldly beauty of the landscape and fascinating ancient history.

Mungo National Park, located within the Willandra Lakes Region (a World Heritage area in far Outback NSW), provides a tantalising glimpse into the earliest years of white settlement in Australia – and, importantly, even further back to the beginning of the Paakantji, Ngiyampaa and Mutthi Mutthi peoples heritage. The park’s cultural legacy paints a vivid picture of Australian Ice Age environments, and the people who lived and died during those ancient times.

It’s an eerie place, but a fabulous one in which to dream of the first civilisations to occupy this country. In fact, the park is home to Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, who both date back 42,000 years and are considered to be the oldest human remains found outside of Africa.

If you make the trip with lake-clad fantasies in mind, you’ll certainly be left a little confused. Having long since dried up, the once 135-square-kilometre stretch of water is believed to have evaporated some 10,000 – 15,000 years ago. Instead, guided walks with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Indigenous rangers can be arranged at the  Mungo Visitor Centre  (July through October).

Lake Mungo mesmerises visitors with its otherworldly beauty. (Image: Mildura Regional Development)

Bungonia National Park

To immerse yourself in nature, get your adrenalin pumping and feel refreshed.

You don’t need to drive far from civilisation to find a pristine national park in NSW. Just a 2.5-hour drive southwest of Sydney or 1.5 hours from Canberra lies Bungonia National Park, also known as the adventure capital of the NSW Southern Tablelands and the Country of the Njunawal people.

This mini-Eden can be explored in myriad intrepid ways. On-foot is an obvious one; find over 10 hiking, walking and lookout trails on offer for visitors. A popular walk is the 6.7-kilometre  Green Track  (allow 2.5 to 3.5 hours to complete the loop). Multi-day guided  adventure treks  are also available.

Thrilling opportunists can also abseil, rock climb, go canyoning or caving in Bungonia. Many of the caves are steep and precipitous and should only be explored by well-equipped and experienced cavers.

Before you head out, read up on  safety during adventure sports  in NSW national parks.

Bungonia National Park is an outdoor adventure playground.

White Cliffs

To dig for opals and experience a night sleeping underground.

Often mentioned in the same breath as her more famous South Australian cousin in Coober Pedy, White Cliffs also lays claim to a slice of Australia’s underground. Located in the Central Darling Shire, the town is around 255 kilometres northeast of Broken Hill and 93 kilometres north of Wilcannia.

Drive through the beauty of White Cliffs

Ever since kangaroo shooters stumbled across the precious white opal here, a tight community of quirky dreamers have called this deserted town home. We’re not sure how often they see each other, however, with an estimated two-thirds of the 100 or so residents living underground to escape the lunar-level extremes.

While you’re in town, go underground into a working mine with the  Red Earth Opal Mine Tour  and try your hand at uncovering a glittering gem. And you can’t go past a stay at the Underground Motel, with its rabbit warren of ever-expanding dugouts that will have little ones running amok for hours.

White Cliffs Underground Motel is a huge complex with 40 underground rooms.

To learn about one of the oldest human-made structures on Earth.

Brewarrina Fish Traps, on the banks of the Barwon River in northwest NSW, are among the oldest human-made structures on Earth – and we bet you’ve never even heard of them.

Forty-thousand years is a long time to be sitting in the same riverbed, but the engineering prowess of early indigenous Australians is evident from the Brewarrina Fish Traps, a system of stone weirs and pools that are still intact all these years later.

The fish traps are about half a kilometre long and were devised to catch fish as they swam upstream. They once served as a major meeting place for the region’s First Peoples and were added to the Australian heritage list back in 2005.

They’re a remarkable example of ancient innovation, and exploiting the natural landscape to one’s advantage – in an entirely environmentally-friendly way. Head up to the museum to learn more.

Brewarrina’s beauty.

Cameron Corner

To see how big the world’s biggest fence really is.

Eager to catch a glimpse of the biggest fence in the world? That may just seem like just another “biggest” claim, but to give you a feel for just how big we’re talking, consider this: drive from Melbourne to Sydney and back. You’re not even close. Now drive to Perth. You’ve almost driven as long as this fence stretches. (You’ve driven 5133 kilometres. Only 187 kilometres to go.)

Playing an important role in Australia’s agricultural development, and well-known by its cinematic adage, the ‘Rabbit Proof Fence’ has kept sheep safe from dingoes since its erection in 1901. The fence explains why you don’t really see many dingoes across Australia’s southeast – except the pure breeds on K’gari, of course.

The best place to see and feel the scope of it is out at Cameron Corner, at the intersection of SA, Qld and NSW. Here the fence is “one chain” (22 yards, or exactly one cricket pitch) from the post that marks the meeting point of the three states.

The 1.8m high fence traces a crooked line from Jimbour in Queensland’s south-east to the Great Australian Bight.

Want to discover more of NSW? Read to our ultimate holiday guide to NSW here.

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One Comment

I have been to four of these wonderful amazing places. Everyone should visit them at least once.

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Best places to visit in october 2024.

Fall is here, and in many regions the leaves have changed and are ready for their close-up. While in some destinations you'll still have to contend with foliage-seeking tourists, other top getaways in October offer a bit more breathing room after the departure of summer crowds. Taking into account these factors, as well as expert opinion, traveler sentiment and array of sights (among other details), U.S. News chose the best places to visit in October. Have a favorite? Vote below to influence next year's list. 

Yellowstone National Park

Zion national park, british virgin islands, serengeti national park, buenos aires, black forest, asheville, nc, acadia national park.

If "White Lotus" piqued your interest in a Sicilian getaway, but you don't quite have the budget to splurge, plan a trip for October when the summer tourists have gone home. At the start of the offseason, hotel rates in this Italian paradise can drop to almost half of their peak prices. You'll still be able to squeeze in some of the season's last beach days as temperatures typically remain in the 70s. What's more, the streets are likely to be less crowded, so you can easily spend your days sauntering through the region's quaint villages and sampling exquisite Mediterranean cuisine.

If you can handle declining temps (think: 40s and 50s), you'll be rewarded with a wonderful time of year to visit Yellowstone National Park. October sees far fewer visitors than peak summer months, which means you'll encounter less traffic and won't have to jostle for a spot at top attractions like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Plus, you might catch the tail end of elk rutting season and hear their otherworldly bugling. This national park's roads close for the season in November, but keep in mind that some lodging options close earlier, so book your accommodations early.

Pleasant weather, more manageable crowds and fall foliage – what's not to love about Zion National Park in October? Daytime temperatures in the 70s will keep you comfortable for activities like hiking and rock climbing, but pack layers and prepare for cooler temperatures in sunless hiking spots like the Narrows. What's more, leaf peepers won't want to miss taking the Canyon Overlook trail to catch a glimpse of the autumn colors. While fewer travelers tend to visit this national park in October than the summer months, you'll want to avoid peak times like fall break.

Beat the winter holiday rush with an autumn trip to the British Virgin Islands. Though October falls in the middle of the rainy season, this typically means brief squalls rather than days full of rain, and low season travel will mean fewer tourists and great rates on accommodations. The Moorings Interline Regatta also takes place in October, delighting sailors and landlubbers alike with its exhilarating sailboat races and nightly parties. However, these great rewards do come with a bit of risk, as well. Since this island lies in the hurricane belt, you may want to consider travel insurance for a fall trip here.

Summer is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit Iceland's capital, so an October visit will give you access to top sights sans crowds. Take in the city's quirky architecture like Hallgrímskirkja and the Harpa concert hall on a free walking tour before grabbing a craft beer or a bowl of fiskisúpa (fish soup). Temperatures may hover in the 40s, but the area's hot springs and geothermal pools will warm you right up. Plus, as a trade-off for shorter days and cooler weather, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the northern lights this time of year.

October falls within the Southern Hemisphere's spring season, so expect to enjoy long, sunny days and beautiful blooming jacarandas during an October visit to Sydney. Average daytime temperatures rest in the 70s this time of year, meaning you can comfortably check out Sydney Harbour's most famous landmark , the Sydney Opera House, and tour the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. This is also a perfect time to stroll along the coastal walk between the iconic Bondi and Coogee beaches. What's more, October is when two of Sydney's most popular events – the Night Noodle Markets and Sculpture by the Sea – occur.

Serengeti National Park's wildlife-viewing opportunities are incomparable, and visiting in October at the end of its dry season offers certain benefits. October is one of the Tanzanian park's warmest months, with average temperatures sitting in the low 80s. And while you might encounter a few short rain showers toward the end of the month, October is generally still quite dry, meaning you'll find fewer mosquitos and sparse vegetation – which makes it easier to spot animals – during game drives. The best place to catch a glimpse of migrating herds this time of year is in the Northern Serengeti.

Buenos Aires' spring shoulder season promises mild weather and moderate crowds – ideal conditions for exploring this Argentinian capital's charming neighborhoods. Come October, chic Palermo's stately trees, gardens and parks are at their finest, while 70-degree temperatures breathe new life into San Telmo's street fairs and alfresco restaurants. With the money you save on accommodations by avoiding peak tourist season, buy tickets to an opera at Colón Theater, take in a tango show or wine and dine at a parrilla (steakhouse).

Japan may be famous for its spring cherry blossoms, but Kyoto's many beautiful shrines, temples and pavilions shine even brighter among the orange- and red-hued trees that begin to dot the city in October. Strolling the tree-lined Philosopher's Path or taking in the leafy views from the Kiyomizu-dera Temple's verandah will leave you with unforgettable memories of this Japanese city. Plus, if you time your visit around October 22, you can catch two popular festivals, the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages) and the Kurama no Hi Matsuri (Kurama Fire Festival).

For smaller crowds and more affordable accommodations and airfare, consider a tropical escape to Aruba in October. During this low season month, hotels slash their prices up to 50%. Plus, the island experiences some of its warmest weather (think: daytime temps in the high 80s) come October, so you can stretch out and enjoy various water sports on popular white sand shores like Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Though October can be rainy, showers tend to be brief, leaving plenty of time for fun in the sun. Plus, since Aruba sits below the hurricane belt, storms here are unlikely.

While Germany's Bavaria region and its raucous Oktoberfest celebrations garner a lot of attention every fall, the Black Forest in southwestern Germany offers a quieter escape into nature. Despite its many evergreens, the Black Forest is one of the best destinations in the country for fall foliage. Take in the colors while driving along the Black Forest High Road, riding the Feldberg cableway or boating on Lake Schluchsee. Though you may encounter rain, the Black Forest (the birthplace of Grimm's Fairy Tales), offers plenty of enchanting villages and cozy towns to duck into.

October falls at the end of this Indonesian island's peak dry season, meaning you can enjoy great weather for most of the month without the crowds and high accommodation rates of the busier summer months. Daytime temperatures hover in the high 80s, providing ideal conditions for swimming, surfing and sunbathing at beaches like those in Padang Padang and Sanur. Families on fall break will also enjoy cooling off at the Waterbom Bali water park. What's more, tourist hot spots like Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot Temple are less likely to be packed in October, making it a great time for sightseeing.

As one of the first months without summer tourists, and the final one before chilly temperatures arrive in earnest, October in Lyon is a prime time to visit. Travelers can score dinner reservations and settle in for autumnal feasting in France's third largest city, which is widely celebrated for its cuisine. A stroll through Vieux-Lyon, the city's picturesque old town, will also be more pleasant without rubbing elbows with hordes of other tourists. What's more, this month, Lyon celebrates its fame as the birthplace of cinema – the Cinematograph was invented here in the late 1800s – with the Lumière Film Festival.

Nothing beats seeing the vibrant foliage take over Asheville in the autumn. With dozens of deciduous tree species showcasing vivid hues of red, yellow and orange come October, this North Carolina destination is a leaf peeping paradise. A drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fall colors and take photos at numerous overlooks. Plus, the mild fall weather is ideal for a scenic hike through the Pisgah National Forest or a stroll around the colorful Biltmore grounds. What's more, with Asheville's booming food scene, you'll be able to cozy up for a top-notch dinner after a day of adventure.

The most beautiful time to visit Acadia National Park is October, hands down. By mid-month, this top attraction in Maine is blanketed by vibrant fall foliage, both along the coast and high atop its many mountains. And starting Oct. 7 every year, Cadillac Mountain (the tallest peak on the North Atlantic seaboard) becomes the first place to see the sun rise in the U.S. Remember to register your car for a trip up the mountain, and bundle up before venturing out to catch a sunrise; it can be quite chilly at the peak early in the morning.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Albuquerque

Mexico City

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Best places to visit on the NSW South Coast

There’s something seriously special about a saltwater sojourn to the South Coast. We visit Wollongong, Jervis Bay, Batemans Bay and Narooma

There’s something seriously special about a saltwater sojourn to the South Coast, says Jennifer Ennion.

Checking out wollongong.

Lollipop-pink ice-cream races down the side of the cone and onto my son’s chubby hands. He doesn’t notice. He is too busy devouring the peak that’s threatening to topple onto the golden sand below. It’s quite a warm day, the sun beating down on holiday treats and rainbow umbrellas.

Ice-cream demolished, we wash away the stickiness in waves marching to shore at Port Kembla Beach, one of the most popular stretches of sand in Wollongong. It’s the first day of our holiday along the South Coast of New South Wales and we’re lapping up the city’s famous surf culture. We smash through whitewash and dash down dunes, before making a beeline for a nearby playground and then continuing our exploration of Wollongong, about 1.5 hours south of Sydney

Although the beaches are the obvious attraction, along with the 665-metre curvaceous Sea Cliff Bridge, there are also great off-road cycleways, numerous walking trails and a growing culinary scene (families will love relaxed Diggies cafe, on North Wollongong Beach). Wollongong is even home to the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, Nan Tien Temple, but we leave it for next time.

Accommodation-wise, there are plenty of camping options. Our favourite is Corrimal Beach Tourist Park , a 10-hectare park behind vegetated dunes with cabins and ensuite, powered and unpowered sites. There is also a playground, large barbecue area and a convenient on-site cafe.

We point the 4WD south on Grand Pacific Drive, popping into Berry Sourdough Cafe for apple tarts and the colourful emporium that is Goldfish Toyshop, also in Berry.

Our first stop in Jervis Bay is the region’s biggest drawcard, the brilliantly white Hyams Beach. My son gets a kick out of making the fine silicon sand squeak underfoot, while I go snap happy over the sapphire water – perfect for paddleboarding.

We stay at Green Patch , one of three campgrounds in Booderee National Park, an oasis that’s home to Booderee Botanic Gardens, the only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens in Australia. It’s a peaceful site frequented by colourful king parrots and rainbow lorikeets.

If you’d prefer to be close to town, check out Holiday Haven White Sands . It’s around the corner from the iconic Huskisson Hotel and the main street of souvenir shops, clothing boutiques and cafes. The park also has lovely views of the bay and direct access to Huskisson Beach.

Surf runs in the veins of locals in Mollymook. Experienced riders try to outrun the white water, while frothy waves lap at the toes of those walking on the ocean’s edge. Mollymook, an hour south of Jervis Bay, is the place for those wanting to learn to ride a wave.

Walk around to splash-tastic rock pools at The Bogey Hole, head to Mollymook Markets are held every fifth Sunday for rides and homemade berry ice cream, and burn off some energy at Funland Ulladulla or the awesome free beach playground. For parents that love a wine, Cupitt’s Estate has a kit and pet friendly lawn with live music on sundays.

The nearby town of Milton is chic, charming and home to the delicious Milton Heritage Bakery.

Batemans Bay

We spend a couple of nights free camping around South Coast darling Mollymook before calling in to Pebbly Beach , an idyllic seaside campground in Murramarang National Park. With kangaroos lazing on the foreshore, it’s a popular spot to pitch a tent. It’s also only 25 minutes from major hub and pretty as a picture Batemans Bay, another must-visit with a wide range of family activities.

The bay’s biggest claim to fame is the oyster industry, making it a top spot to learn about the mollusc and introduce kids to it. We spend the day with Merinda Cruises , floating up Clyde River learning about Pacific and Sydney rock oysters. Pink jellyfish bob past as we glide by fishermen and houseboats on our way to Nelligen. An isolated, historic town, we poke around the corner store and relax on the riverbank.

If you’d prefer a stay with more facilities, pet-friendly BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Broulee , midway between Batemans Bay and Moruya, is a great spot for families with a kids’ club, pool and playground as well as an array of spectacular beaches within walking distance of the park.

Another Eurobodalla Shire gem is Narooma and we always make time to stop, albeit for bangin’ fish and chips, if nothing else. Narooma Bridge Oysters is a great seafood co-op, while The Quarterdeck is a kitsch seafood restaurant in a former boatshed.

The town is busy when we visit – thanks to the run of good weather – so we stay in the quiet coastal suburb of Dalmeny, to the north. Aside from an empty beach, great coastal walking tracks and a small grocery store, there’s not much here, just the way we like it.

We watch sea foam blur the shore from Dalmeny Campground , located on a large grassed park on Dalmeny Headland, and pop into Narooma when the lure of prawns and paddleboarding proves too strong. If you’re a fishing family, you’ll want to hire a tinny and try your luck on the brilliant blue Wagonga Inlet, while mini explorers will enjoy searching for the little penguins of Montague Island.

If you’re after a little luxury, BIG4 Narooma Easts Holiday Park offers luxury spa units and waterfront bungalows, as well as classic waterfront tent sites on the banks of the stunning Wagonga Inlet.

This article originally appeared in Holidays with Kids  magazine. To subscribe to the latest issue, click here .

Main image: Kayaking in Jervis Bay © Dee Kramer

Keep reading:

• South Coast family-friendly travel guide
• Whale watching on the NSW South Coast
• 13 incredible places to holiday in New South Wales

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