If you feel like staying close to home, the park makes self-catering easy. There’s a well-equipped Camp Kitchen on site along with BBQ facilities, ideal for relaxed breakfasts or easy dinners after a day out exploring.

For great coffee, we jumped in the car and headed into Bathurst’s town centre to see what we could find. Two spots stood out. The Black Crow quickly became a favourite, serving delicious, well-presented food alongside consistently good coffee. It’s a welcoming space that feels right whether you’re settling in for breakfast or grabbing something mid-morning.

For those who take their coffee seriously, Enso Specialty Coffee Bar is worth seeking out. These guys are true coffee purists, working with local roaster Fish River Roasters to deliver excellent brews. It’s a great spot for a quality coffee and a small bite, like a classic ham and cheese croissant, before heading off for the day.

If you’re after something quick and close to the park for lunch, PJs Bakehouse is an easy win. This long-standing local bakery is known for its classic country favourites, from fresh pies and sausage rolls to sweet treats that disappear quickly once you open the bag.

For a casual dinner with a bit of atmosphere, head to Church Bar & Woodfired Pizza in Ribbon Gang Lane. Set inside the old Anglican Church School House, the setting is memorable without being fussy. It’s relaxed, family friendly, and a great place to share wood-fired pizzas and a drink while soaking up Bathurst’s character.

And for dessert, Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour is a must. With themed décor, Elvis posters and a jukebox, it feels like stepping into an old-school American diner. Treat the kids to an ice cream or settle in with a hot chocolate and enjoy the nostalgia.

If you’re staying here, chances are Mount Panorama is already on your radar. Making the pilgrimage to the circuit is a must, particularly if you’re visiting during the Bathurst 1000. Across four action-packed days each year, the mountain comes alive with power, noise and an atmosphere that’s hard to match anywhere else in Australia. Even outside race week, driving or walking the circuit gives you a real appreciation for the legends of past and future who have pushed themselves and their machines to the limit here. 

The National Motor Racing Museum is essential viewing for motorsport fans. The museum showcases the history of Australian motor sport across touring cars, open wheelers, rallying, drag racing, speedway and more. It’s well laid out and engaging, whether you’re deeply knowledgeable or just starting to appreciate the sport’s rich history.

If your visit lines up with winter, the Bathurst Winter Festival adds a completely different energy to town. Held during the winter school holidays, the festival celebrates creativity and everything unique about the region. Think food stalls, mulled wine, ice skating and a genuine winter wonderland feel that draws the community together. It’s a great excuse to rug up and linger in town a little longer.

For a classic day trip, jump in the car and head to the Zig Zag Railway, located just over an hour away in the Blue Mountains. Built in the 1860s, this full-size narrow gauge railway once transported people and produce from the western plains to Sydney. Today, the lovingly restored trains and tracks are maintained by a not-for-profit cooperative, and riding the line offers a nostalgic journey through dramatic scenery and impressive engineering.

Bathurst’s winters can be cold, especially in the evenings. If you’re visiting during the cooler months, pack warm layers so you can still enjoy outdoor dining, events and evening strolls.