Wagga Wagga Top 10 Things to Do in the Heart of the Riverina, NSW

Wagga Wagga Top 10 Things to Do in the Heart of the Riverina, NSW

Set on the banks of the mighty Murrumbidgee River, Wagga Wagga is a vibrant regional city right in the heart of the Riverina. Located about 460 kilometres south-west of Sydney, it’s the largest inland city in New South Wales — though locals simply call it Wagga. With leafy parks, heritage streets, fascinating museums, thriving arts spaces, and even its own beach, Wagga Wagga offers a surprisingly diverse mix of things to see and do. Here are our top 10 things to do in Wagga Wagga to help you make the most of your visit.

Relax at Wagga Beach

Just five minutes from the city centre, Wagga Beach is one of the city’s most loved spots. Set along the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, this sandy river beach is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply sitting back and enjoying the peaceful riverside setting.

In 2020, Wagga Beach was named number 9 in Tourism Australia’s Top 20 Beaches, which surprises many first-time visitors. The surrounding Riverside Precinct features shady lawns, sheltered BBQs, walking paths, and a fantastic adventure playground, making it ideal for families.

Discover the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens

Located at the base of Willans Hill, the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens cover more than 22 acres and are a lovely place to slow down. The gardens feature themed areas, ponds, water features, and plenty of quiet spots to sit and relax.

Within the gardens precinct, you’ll also find the Zoo & Aviary, which is free to enter and open Thursday to Monday from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Home to native animals, birds, and farm animals, it’s a great bonus stop — especially if you’re travelling with kids.

Visit the RAAF Wagga Aviation Heritage Centre

A must-see for history and aviation enthusiasts is the RAAF Wagga Aviation Heritage Centre, located about 13 kilometres from the city at the RAAF Base. Open Saturday to Thursday from 10:00am to 4:00pm (closed Fridays), the centre showcases more than 70 years of RAAF flying history. You can wander among historic aircraft including a Mirage, Korean War Meteor, Vietnam War Canberra, Macchi trainer, and an F-111C.

Inside, exhibitions tell the story of the Air Force and its strong connection to the Riverina. Out front, the Memorial Gardens feature a striking mural dedicated to the Empire Air Training Scheme.

Explore the Art Galleries

Right in the city centre, you’ll find two standout galleries — both with free entry.

The National Art Glass Gallery is a striking glass-fronted building housing a world-class collection of contemporary art glass. Inside, the light-filled space showcases colourful sculptures, intricate glasswork, and bold modern designs.

Next door, the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery focuses on touring exhibitions, works from its extensive collection, and art by Riverina-based artists. Together, they make an excellent cultural stop.

Wander around Wollundry Lagoon

In the heart of the city, Wollundry Lagoon is a calm, green oasis surrounded by landscaped parklands. It’s a lovely place for a gentle walk, with a path circling the lagoon and plenty of spots to sit and watch ducks and waterbirds. As you wander, you’ll also notice sculptures and public artworks dotted around the area, adding interest to this peaceful city space.

Discover Wagga's Street Art

Wagga has embraced street art, and colourful murals can be found throughout the city. The Cadell Place Murals, located between Fitzmaurice Street and the Murrumbidgee River, are a great place to start. As you continue exploring the city streets, you’ll spot more large-scale artworks that add colour and personality to laneways and public spaces.

Explore the Museum of the Riverina

The Museum of the Riverina has two locations, both offering insight into the people and events that shaped Wagga Wagga and the wider Riverina.

One museum is located at the Botanic Gardens, while the other is housed in the historic Council Chambers, built in 1881. Here, you can wander through the old council meeting room with its tall arched windows and vaulted ceilings, and explore exhibitions covering local history and influential figures. Both museums are open from 10:00am to 4:00pm and are closed on Mondays.

Follow the Heritage Walk

Wandering the streets of Wagga Wagga reveals an impressive collection of heritage buildings. Highlights include:

• The Court House on Fitzmaurice Street is one of the most impressive heritage buildings. This stunning Edwardian Court House complex with a square clock tower was built between 1901 - 1903.

• The PRD Building in Fitzmaurice Street was originally the Commercial Bank and was built in 1882 in the Classic Revival style. Next to it is the old Post Office that was built in 1888.

• The Union Club Hotel was built between 1851-1858. It has a lovely 19th-century facade with a wraparound lacework verandah. This is a unique feature, as many hotels removed their verandahs in the 1940s - 1950s.

• St Michael's Cathedral on Johnston Street was built in 1887, several extensions were added from 1922 to 1925 to complete this lovely building.

• The Riverina Hotel is the oldest Hotel in Wagga Wagga. It was established in 1851 and was originally called the Hope Inn. 

Enjoy the Outdoors at Lake Albert

About eight kilometres from the city centre, Lake Albert is a popular recreational hub. Created in 1868, the lake is used for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water activities. A 5.5-kilometre walking circuit loops around the lake and is popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists. At Apex Park, you’ll find a playground, picnic tables, BBQs, toilets, and a boat ramp.

Explore Marrambidya Wetland

Just minutes from the city centre, Marrambidya Wetland is a peaceful 20-hectare reserve along the Murrumbidgee River. The wetland features two kilometres of walking tracks, boardwalks, bird hides, and elevated viewing platforms. Interpretive signage explains the importance of the wetlands to the local Wiradjuri people, and there’s also a cultural demonstration area with a Wiradjuri campsite and bora ring — adding an important cultural layer to the experience.

Why Wagga Wagga Is Worth Exploring

Wagga Wagga blends riverside relaxation, cultural depth, and regional charm in a way that feels genuine and welcoming. From swimming at a river beach and wandering botanic gardens to exploring aviation history, art galleries, and wetlands, there’s far more here than many travellers expect. It’s a city that rewards curiosity — and one that makes a perfect base for discovering the best of the Riverina.

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