Goulburn: Budget-Friendly Things To Do

Discover Goulburn’s treasures without breaking the bank. From peaceful picnics at Belmore Park to the nostalgia-filled Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre, there’s an array of low-cost activities waiting for you. Stroll through history, bask in nature, and experience local culture, all while keeping your wallet happy.

Belmore Park Picnic: Tranquil Moments in Goulburn

Cost: Free

Things to do: Belmore Park is an ideal location to unwind with a picnic. Take pleasure in the charming flower beds, the soothing fountain, and the ample green space. Perfect for a family outing or a solitary escape to read a book.

Local transportation: Goulburn Railway Station is a short walk away. Local bus services operate nearby providing easy access to the park.

Location/Address: Belmore Park, Auburn St, Goulburn NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, dawn till dusk (sunrise to sunset)

Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre: Journey Through Railway History

Cost: Affordable entry fee

Things to do: Discover the rich history of locomotives at the Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre. Explore vintage trains, delve into the railway’s past, and indulge in the nostalgia of bygone eras.

Local transportation: The Goulburn railway station is a short walk away, making it easily accessible by train. Local bus services provide convenient connections across the city.

Location/Address: Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre, 11 Braidwood Road, Goulburn, NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Open on weekends, 10:00 – 16:00 (10 AM – 4 PM)

Goulburn’s Rocky Hill War Memorial and Museum: Honoring History

Cost: Entry by donation

Things to do: Explore the rich history of Goulburn’s World War eras at the Rocky Hill War Memorial and Museum. Enjoy panoramic views and take a moment to reflect at the monument dedicated to our soldiers.

Local transportation: Local bus services operate in the area with the nearest stops along Bourke Street, providing convenient access to the site.

Location/Address: Rocky Hill War Memorial and Museum, 15 Memorial Dr, Goulburn NSW 2580, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Open Tue-Sun, 10:00 – 16:00 (10 AM – 4 PM)

Goulburn Historic Waterworks: A Glimpse into Industrial Heritage

Cost: Entry is free; small fee for special events

Things to do: Explore Australia’s only complete, steam-powered municipal water supply. Immerse yourself in Victorian engineering and take a riverside walk by the Wollondilly River.

Local transportation: The waterworks is a short taxi ride away from Goulburn Station. Public buses are an option, with bus stops located nearby.

Location/Address: Marsden Weir, off Fitzroy Street, Goulburn, NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Open on Sundays, 10:00 – 15:00 (10 AM – 3 PM), other days for arranged tours

Goulburn’s Riversdale National Trust Historic Homestead: A Step Back in Time

Cost: Affordable entry fee

Things to do: Explore the heritage of Goulburn at the Riversdale Homestead. Admire colonial architecture, enjoy the enchanting gardens, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the property.

Local transportation: The nearest public transportation are buses that service the area. The closest stop is a short walk away, making it convenient for visitors to reach this historical gem.

Location/Address: Riversdale Historic Homestead, Twynam Drive, Goulburn, NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Varied hours, please check ahead (visitor information can often provide up-to-date details)

Goulburn’s Wombeyan Caves Day Trip

Cost: Affordable entry fees apply

Things to do: Explore the stunning underground world of Wombeyan Caves. Delight in guided tours, marvel at limestone formations, and perhaps catch sight of local wildlife on the bushwalks surrounding the area.

Local transportation: While there’s no direct metro service to Wombeyan Caves, local coach companies offer trips from Goulburn, making the caves accessible for a day trip.

Location/Address: Wombeyan Caves Road, Wombeyan Caves, NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Visitor Centre open daily, 09:00 – 16:30 (9 AM – 4:30 PM)

Goulburn Community Gardens Stroll: A Slice of Serenity

Cost: Free

Things to do: Wander through the vibrant Goulburn Community Gardens. Marvel at the collective effort of organic vegetable and flower beds. Ideal for relaxation and a touch of local community spirit.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops on Faithfull Street provide convenient access. Various local buses service the area, making it easy for a quick drop-off and pick-up.

Location/Address: Goulburn Community Gardens, Goulburn, NSW

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the week, daylight hours recommended (sunrise to sunset)

Goulburn City Walking Tour: Discovering Heritage and Culture

Cost: Free or by donation

Things to do: Embark on a self-guided walking tour of Goulburn, exploring historic cathedrals, charming parks, and local galleries. Dive into the stories behind the colonial architecture and vibrant street art.

Local transportation: Goulburn Railway Station is centrally located, offering easy access. Local bus services operate with stops throughout the city center for convenient pick up and drop off.

Location/Address: Tour starts at the Goulburn Visitor Information Centre, 201 Sloane St, Goulburn NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Accessible daily, optimum daylight hours are suggested for the best experience (8 AM – 6 PM or 08:00 – 18:00).

Goulburn Regional Art Gallery Visit: A Cultural Gem

Cost: Free

Things to do: Discover contemporary art at the Goulburn Regional Art Gallery. Explore exhibitions by local and international artists, engage in community workshops, or immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene.

Local transportation: Goulburn Railway Station is nearby, with bus services like route 931 offering convenient access to the gallery’s location.

Location/Address: 184 Bourke Street, Goulburn, NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 (10 AM) to 17:00 (5 PM), Saturday from 12:00 (12 PM) to 16:00 (4 PM)

Goulburn Marsden Weir Walk: A Picturesque Riverside Amble

Cost: No charge

Things to do: Stroll along the Wollondilly River on the Marsden Weir Walk. Enjoy the serene environment, spot native birds, and absorb the historic atmosphere of Goulburn’s past. Ideal for casual walks and nature photography.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are located on Faithfull Street, serviced by routes with connections to Goulburn city center and surrounding areas.

Location/Address: Marsden Weir, Fitzroy Street, Goulburn, NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours

Bungonia State Conservation Area Hike: Discover Natural Splendour

Cost: Low-cost Park Entry Fee

Things to do: Explore breathtaking trails at Bungonia State Conservation Area. Ideal for bushwalking, rock climbing and looking out for native wildlife. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Australian bushland.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Goulburn, from where you can use local bus services or a taxi to reach the conservation area.

Location/Address: Bungonia Dr, Bungonia NSW 2580, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset (times vary throughout the year)

Goulburn’s Victoria Park Rose Garden: A Scented Gem

Cost: Free entry

Things to do: Immerse yourself in the fragrance and colors of Goulburn’s Victoria Park Rose Garden. Perfect for relaxation and taking in the beauty of nature, or for a delightful stroll among the blossoms.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stop is located on Faithfull Street, offering convenient access to the garden. Multiple local bus services provide regular links to the area.

Location/Address: Victoria Park, Goulburn, NSW, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year during daylight hours

Garroorigang Historic Home: Step Back into the 1800s

Cost: A small entrance fee

Things to do: Explore Garroorigang Historic Home to discover period furnishings and relics of the past. Experience life in the 1800s with a guided tour that tells the fascinating stories of the residence.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Goulburn Station, a short bus ride or drive away. Local buses service the area around Garroorigang Historic Home.

Location/Address: Garroorigang Historic Home, Hume St, Goulburn NSW 2580, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Available by appointment (please call ahead to arrange a visit)

Goulburn Skate Park: High-flying Fun for Every Age

Cost: Free

Things to do: Enjoy an action-packed day at Goulburn Skate Park. Ideal for skateboarders, BMX riders, and rollerbladers looking to practice their tricks or simply have a fun outing.

Local transportation: The closest bus stops are on Goldsmith Street. Local bus routes connect the skate park to the rest of Goulburn, making it easily accessible.

Location/Address: Goulburn Skate Park, Goulburn, NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, with unrestricted access during daylight hours.

Goulburn’s Saints Peter and Paul’s Old Cathedral: A Heritage Landmark

Cost: Entry is free, donations appreciated

Things to do: Explore the Gothic Revival architecture, attend a service, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere. The cathedral’s stained glass windows and historical significance are noteworthy.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are located on Verner Street. For those arriving by train, Goulburn Station is the closest, offering a short walk to the cathedral.

Location/Address: Bourke Street, Goulburn NSW 2580, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Generally open to visitors during daylight hours, with specific times for services

Goulburn Brewery Tour: Discovering Craftsmanship and Heritage

Cost: Free guided tours available

Things to do: Explore the historical Goulburn Brewery, appreciate the art of brewing, taste unique craft ales, and absorb the charm of Australia’s brewing history.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stop is located on Sloane St, with several bus routes servicing the area for convenient access to the brewery.

Location/Address: Goulburn Brewery, Bungonia Road, Goulburn, NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Tours run on weekends, check in advance for specific times

Mulwaree Remembrance Garden: Serene Sanctuary in Goulburn

Cost: Free entry

Things to do: Take a moment of quiet reflection among beautifully maintained gardens. The Mulwaree Remembrance Garden offers a tranquil environment for remembrance and relaxation, with various memorials and serene landscapes.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are located on Clinton Street, offering convenient connections to the rest of Goulburn.

Location/Address: Mulwaree Remembrance Garden, Goulburn, NSW

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, visitors are welcome during daylight hours

Goulburn Ghost Tour: A Chilling Adventure in the Night

Cost: Economical

Things to do: Join the Goulburn Ghost Tour and uncover the town’s spooky history. Wander through historic locales said to be haunted, listen to eerie tales, and maybe even encounter a ghost!

Local transportation: The Goulburn Railway Station is the nearest major transport hub. Local buses service the area, providing easy access to the ghost tour’s starting point.

Location/Address: Goulburn, NSW, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Weekends, after dark (dusk until late)

Taralga Historical Society Museum: Dive into Local Heritage

Cost: By donation

Things to do: Explore the rich history of Taralga at the museum. View artifacts and photographs that tell the story of the area’s past, from early settlers to the present day.

Local transportation: While Taralga isn’t served by metro, the museum is a short walk from the local bus stop serviced by regional bus lines.

Location/Address: Orchard Street, Taralga, NSW 2580

Open Days/Hours: Weekends, 11:00 – 15:00 (11 AM – 3 PM)

Pejar Dam Picnic: Relax by the Water’s Edge

Cost: Free to visit

Things to do: Enjoy a tranquil picnic by the Pejar Dam, with scenic views that are sure to delight. Ideal for a family day out, fishing, observing local wildlife, or simply unwinding in the peaceful surroundings.

Local transportation: Public transport options are limited; however, the nearest town, Goulburn, can be reached by bus, where you can take a taxi or drive to the dam.

Location/Address: Pejar Dam, Pejar, NSW 2583

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year during daylight hours

Conclusion

Bus: For bus passengers, embarking on a Goulburn City Walking Tour offers a delightful and affordable way to discover the city’s heritage and culture, at no charge.

Train: For those arriving in Goulburn by train, a visit to the Goulburn Regional Art Gallery showcases contemporary art and cultural engagements, also free of cost.

Pro Tip: To enhance your experience while exploring Goulburn via bus or train, pack a light picnic and head to the serene Belmore Park or Victoria Park Rose Garden. You’ll find these green retreats perfect for a leisurely break and they’re easily accessible on your city tour. Whether you’re enjoying the artworks or the city’s stories, each stop is an opportunity to create lasting memories without straining your wallet.