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Orange in New South Wales is the perfect getaway location if you’re all about food, wine, nature, and history.
This thriving country town is known for its rich heritage, award-winning restaurants, cool-climate varieties, and exceptional local produce.
Spend a weekend wandering the local shops, gardens, and undulating vineyards, breathing in that fresh country air and enjoying the world-renowned food, drink, accommodation, and activities on offer.
Let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in Orange for a memorable trip.
Where to Play
When it comes to your activity itinerary, you’ll be struggling to jam everything into a few short days.
There’s a lot to see and do in the Orange region, so take your pick!
Visit Federal Falls
Federal falls are an absolute must-visit.
This breathtaking natural wonder is picture-perfect, but we recommend tucking the phone away and experiencing its beauty in real time.
The waterfall cascades beautifully down the cliffside, especially after heavy rainfall. You’ll be able to journey all the way down to the base of the falls, where there are large rocks you can sit upon to admire the view.
The track is 2.4km and is very doable, with a somewhat steep descent. You’ll just need to be aware of the rocky path at the end which can be a bit tricky to navigate. There’s also a shorter back route if that’s more your style.
Be sure to block out a morning or afternoon for this one — you’ll be glad you left enough time to truly sit back and take it all in.
Website: Here
Address: Canobolas NSW 2800
Reviews:
4.2 Google Review from 62 reviews
Spend an Afternoon at Ophir
Just half an hour from Orange, the Ophir Reserve is the perfect stop-off for the history-lovers among us.
Ophir is the region in which the gold rush began in Australia. When it was all happening, 2000 diggers lived in Ophir in a tent city. Today, the area remains much the same as when the diggers left it all those years ago.
You can explore the area and mines on self-guided walking trails — just keep an eye out for open mine shafts!
Make your way along the 2km Bluff Tunnels Trail, torch in hand to shine on the rocks and view those magical golden specks.
You can also visit the Obelisk, which commemorates the discovery of gold. There are heaps of activities to participate in, from fishing and exploring old diggings to panning for gold and camping.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can even camp on-site by the creek.
Website: Here
Address: Ophir Road Orange NSW 2800
Reviews:
4.4 Google Review from 62 reviews
4 Trip Advisor Review from 47 reviews
Adventure through the Arch Cave
You can easily spend an entire day exploring the Borenore Karst Conservation Reserve.
Start by taking the 700m loop through the Arch cave, taking in the cave systems and incredible arch formations from the inside.
You can keep walking through the reserve, which is beloved for its picturesque landscapes, fresh air, and native flora varieties.
Ready for a break? Tuck into a picnic or enjoy a barbecue while kicking back and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Website: Here
Address: Arch Cave, Borenore Karst Conservation Reserve, NSW, 2800
Reviews:
4.7 Google Review from 28 reviews
4.5 Trip Advisor Review from 23 reviews
Stop by Millthorpe
Visiting Millthorpe is like taking a step back in time, in the very best ways.
There isn’t a lot to do in Millthorpe, and that’s the beauty of it. Spend the day wandering the streets of the quaint village, taking the time to appreciate the heritage buildings and countryside landscape.
The Golden Memories Museum is a great stop-off for history-buffs, housing a collection of information and photographs of the local family and business history.
When you’re feeling peckish, stop by the Old Mill Cafe for homemade food crafted from fresh local produce.
Explore the local shops, gardens, pubs, and boutique cellar doors at your leisure.
If you want to fully immerse yourself in the Millthorpe experience, you can stay the night at one of the village’s stunning accommodations.
Website: Here
Address: Millthorpe NSW 2798
Reviews:
4.5 Trip Advisor Review from 57 reviews
Take the Kids to Orange Adventure Playground
If you have some youngins joining you, the Orange Adventure Playground is the place to be.
It’s an oasis for all kids and is accessible for kids with special needs. There are climbing, sliding, swinging and running areas for the little ones to explore, as well as shaded areas where you can sit back and relax.
There are also themed constructions to be enjoyed, including a farm tractor, rock wall, rocket ship, and tree house.
With barbecues and picnic shelters dotted around the playground, you can set up camp and make a whole day of it.
The Orange Botanic Gardens are also right next door if you’re in the mood for some longer scenic walks and bird watching.
Website: Here
Address: Yellow Box Way, Bletchington NSW 2800
Reviews:
4.5 Google Review from 318 reviews
4.5 Trip Advisor Review from 52 reviews
Where to Eat and Drink
Orange is home to some of the best food and drink in New South Wales.
These are our top three picks. You can also take a look at our list of must-visit wineries in Orange.
Raku Izakaya
First established in 2018, Raku Izakaya is Orange’s first (and only) contemporary Japanese restaurant.
We love it for its cosy atmosphere, modern decor, and intimate ambience. Here, you can indulge in Japanese dishes with modern flares. Each dish uses locally-sourced ingredients, which makes the food even more enticing.
If you’re heading in for dinner, try the Omakase set menu and enjoy the taste sensation. All dishes are designed to be shared and complemented by local wines, cocktails, Beers, and Japanese Sake.
Raku Izakaya is also the only restaurant in Orange to serve Asahi on tap!
Website: Here
Address: 129 Summer St, Orange NSW 2800
Phone: 0478 759 050
Reviews:
4.6 Google Review from 203 reviews
4.5 Trip Advisor from 118 reviews
Printhie Wines
Printhie Wines offers both an intimate dining experience and a sophisticated tasting experience, so take your pick depending on your mood and hunger levels!
The venue is situated on the slopes of Mt Canobolas, 1000 metres above sea level. Gaze out at the scenic views of the undulating hills and vines while you enjoy a memorable wine and delectable meal.
If you’re really looking to indulge, opt for the five-course degustation lunch. The menu features native Australian flavours and local produce, and Printhie’s very own wine varieties guide each dish.
Alternatively, pop in for a vineyard picnic in the warmer months or a cosy tasting experience. For a truly luxurious day out, there’s a sparkling masterclass, complete with a private on-ground tour, three-course lunch, and a helicopter winery tour.
Unfortunately, Printhie Wines don’t offer a kids menu, so this one is best for adults-only parties.
Website: Here
Address: 208 Nancarrow Ln, Nashdale NSW 2800
Phone: 0409 645 075
Reviews:
4.7 Google Review from 117 reviews
4.5 Trip Advisor from 21 reviews
Leaf Cafe Orange
Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable breakfast venue or a relaxed lunching spot, Lead Cafe has you covered.
The team behind Leaf Cafe know their stuff; in fact, the brand has multiplied since its birth in 2008 and Leaf Cafes are now dotted across New South Wales.
They take coffee very seriously, so you know you’ll get a good cup.
Delight in their contemporary menus that use 100% organic artisan bread and locally-sourced produce. The menu items are simple and healthy, with minimal artificial sugars and preservatives.
Tuck into breakfast and lunch classics such as smashed avo, a vegan burger, a steak sandwich, and hotcakes.
Website: Here
Address: Shop 08/190 Anson St, Orange NSW 2800
Phone: 0493 235 619
Reviews:
4.9 Google Review from 60 reviews
5 Trip Advisor from 14 reviews
Where to Stay
As for where to rest your head after a big day out, these four options will serve you well.
The Byng Street Boutique Hotel
This luxurious boutique hotel is renowned for its unique style and sophisticated furnishings.
It features historical and contemporary architectural designs that perfectly complement each other to create a modern yet old-worldly atmosphere.
The Byng Street Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of the Orange heritage precinct, making it the ideal spot to set up camp.
Breakfast is included in all accommodation bookings and is served in the Yallungah Dining Room.
You don’t need to take our word for it — the Byng Hotel was a Gold Award winner of the 2021 NSW Tourism Awards in the Deluxe Accommodation Category.
Website: Here
Address: 62 Byng St, Orange NSW 2800
Phone: (02) 5317 8200
Reviews:
4.9 Google Review from 78 reviews
5 Trip Advisor from 130 reviews
The Remington Orange
Born in December 2020, the Remington is a fresh and modern accommodation spot in Orange.
There is a range of rooms to choose from depending on your party, from contemporary King Studios to spacious Executive Suites.
Each room houses beautiful and sophisticated decor which makes for a luxurious stay.
You are welcome to make the most of the restaurant and bar facilities on-premises.
Website: Here
Address: 1517 Forest Rd, Orange NSW 2800
Phone: (02) 6361 6362
Reviews:
4.6 Google Review from 121 reviews
5 Trip Advisor from 39 reviews
The Oriana Orange
The Oriana Orange boasts eight luxury suites, located in the heart of Orange.
This accommodation exudes glamour; think a cocktail bar, plush salons, and an elegant restaurant.
You can also enjoy a unique garden dining experience and poolside cocktails.
The room decor and fittings are colourful yet tasteful, and the warm lighting and artwork placed in each room add to the establishment’s air of sophistication.
It’s the perfect place to stay for a romantic getaway or girls’ trip.
Website: Here
Address: 178-184 Woodward St, Orange NSW 2800
Phone: (02) 6362 3066
Reviews:
4.4 Google Review from 297 reviews
4.5 Trip Advisor from 606 reviews
De Russie Boutique Hotel
Situated just off Orange’s central business district, the De Russie Boutique Hotel features 25 luxurious rooms.
There are suites with fully-equipped kitchens available, which is perfect if you’re heading in for a longer stay or if you like to cook while holidaying.
The hotel is nestled among boutique shops, award-winning vineyards, cafes, and restaurants, so Orange’s best attractions will be right on your doorstep!
Website: Here
Address: 72 Hill St, Orange NSW 2800
Phone: (02) 6360 0973
Reviews:
4.8 Google Review from 174 reviews
4.5 Trip Advisor from 974 reviews
Looking to add a winery visit (or four) to your trip? Discover our top picks for the best wineries in Orange.