Armidale is a picturesque town located along the photogenic New England region of NSW. At an elevation of almost 1,000 metres above sea level, it is claimed to be Australia’s highest city which makes it ideal for a dreamy winter escape or during the cooler autumn months for a vibrant leaf-peeping adventure. The best way to experience this is on one of the most beautiful road trips in NSW — the Waterfall Way which connects Coffs Harbour and Armidale, taking visitors through scenic national parks, waterfalls and abundant natural scenery in a quick 3-hour drive. If you’re planning a weekend trip, make a pitstop here and enjoy the charms of the laidback town before retreating to city life. Here are some of the best things to do in Armidale.
Armidale, NSW
Start your journey by marvelling at all the incredible waterfalls the region has to offer. Plan a picnic at Dangars Falls, 30 minutes from the Armidale town centre, a little-known albeit beautiful waterfall in NSW, not to be mistaken for the far more popular and busier Dangar Falls, a beautiful 30-metre waterfall in Dorrigo that flows into a swimming hole you can take a dip in, although this is also a quick 1.5-hour drive from Armidale if you do want to visit.
If you want more waterfall adventures, make a beeline to Ebor Falls and watch the Guy Fawkes River plunge 100 metres over two waterfalls. It comes with lookout platforms, picnic areas and spectacular views so you can easily make a day of it. A 35-minute drive east of Armidale will bring you to Wollomombi Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Australia. Other outdoor highlights include Dangars Gorge, which has formed over millions of years and offers an excellent lookout to see Armidale and Dangars Falls. Gara Gorge is another incredible place filled with wild swimming spots and local wildlife.
More things to do
The region is also known for its 4 national parks namely, the New England National Park, the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, the Cunnawarra National Park and the Werrikimbe National Park which are all part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia and boast stunning landscapes and endless outdoor adventures like bushwalking, birdwatching and camping.
If you prefer something low-key, a must-see in Armidale is the Gostwyck Chapel, a lovely little church covered in ivy with a tree-lined carriageway enveloped in elm trees, ideal for an afternoon stroll.
You can also go on a self-guided historical walking tour on the Heritage Walk which features heritage buildings and cathedrals from the 1860s.
Armidale is also known for its food scene and is full of snug cafes and family-owned restaurants that are worth checking out. Some to keep on your radar include The Goldfish Bowl for all the cosy laneway vibes, Laneway Cafe for excellent coffee and stacked cookies and Seesaw Coffee Co for wholesome breakfast and lunch options.
Art lovers can head to the Aboriginal Cultural Centre & Keeping Place and learn more about the diversity of Australian Indigenous arts and culture, discover local and regional art at the New England Regional Art Gallery or see vintage trains, carriages, and locomotives at the Armidale Bicentennial Railway Museum.
The best time to visit
Autumn and spring are excellent seasons to visit Armidale as the city transforms with rich colours and blooms. It’s particularly beautiful in autumn with vibrant foliage lining the streets.
How to get there
Armidale is about a 5.5-hour drive from Sydney but worth it for all the natural wonders and outdoor adventures it offers. Alternatively, you can catch a flight and get there within an hour. Direct trains also depart from Central to Armidale with no changes but be prepared for at least an 8-hour long journey. Find accomodation and read more about Armidale here.