Parkes

As the holiday period approaches, many people start thinking about taking a break from their daily routine and exploring new places. If you’re looking for a great getaway destination, the Parkes region in New South Wales has plenty to offer. With its charming rural scenery, fascinating history, and friendly locals, it’s a great place to spend a long weekend.

Parkes is located in the Central West region of New South Wales and is the perfect place to spend a long lazy weekend. Take a walk around the town and you will discover a charming town that offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Here are some ideas for things to do in the area:

Attend the Elvis Festival in Parkes

One of the most popular events in Parkes (and one of the top 3 festivals in Australia) is the Parkes Elvis Festival. Attracting visitors from all over the world, the festival is a celebration of all things Elvis Presley. The festival takes place every second week in January, which coincides with Elvis Presley’s birthday. The festival features a variety of events, including live music, dance workshops, music bingo, parades, and art exhibitions. Find out more about the Elvis Festival here.

Image via parkesfestival.com.au

Go Stargazing at the Parkes Observatory

Nights in Parkes are perfect for stargazing at the Parkes Observatory Visitors Centre which was made famous in the movie “The Dish,” and is a great place to view the stars. Located just outside of town, the observatory is an iconic Australian landmark that has played a crucial role in space exploration. The observatory is home to one of the world’s most powerful radio telescopes, which has been used to support missions such as the Apollo Moon landing and the Voyager missions.

Image via Destination NSW image library

The observatory offers guided tours, allowing visitors to see the telescopes in action, up close and learn about the research conducted at the facility and the fascinating science behind it.

Explore the Local History of the Town

Parkes has a rich and fascinating history that is just waiting to be explored. The town is home to several museums and heritage sites that visitors can explore during their stay, that offer a fascinating glimpse into the areas rich past.

The Henry Parkes Centre is a popular attraction that showcases the history of the town and the region, including exhibits on farming, mining, and transportation. It houses a collection of museums that cover topics such as local history, antique radios, and vintage cars.

Other places of interest include the Motor Museum, which features a collection of vintage cars and motorbikes, the Railway Station, and the Pioneer Park Museum.

Parkes Antique Motor Museum via visitnsw.com

Explore the Goobang National Park

The Goobang National Park is a stunning natural wonderland that is located just a short drive from town. With its rugged terrain, ancient rock formations, and abundance of wildlife, it’s a great place to spend a day or two exploring. The park has several walking trails that range from easy to challenging, as well as picnic areas, mountain biking trails, camping grounds, and plenty of opportunities for bird watching. The Caloma lookout also provides incredible views over the Goobang National Park.

Parkes Accommodation

There are several options for accommodation, including bed and breakfasts, hotels and motels. The Southern Cross Motel Group has two properties in the area that both offer comfortable and affordable accommodation.

Station Motel:

If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay, the Station Motel is a great option. Located in Northern Parkes, Station Motel is just a short drive to shops, restaurants and bars. The motel offers clean and spacious rooms, friendly service, and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. The rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, Smart TVs, and free Wi-Fi, as well as comfortable beds which are ideal for a long weekend away.

Parkes International Motor Inn:

Another great option for accommodation is the Parkes International Motor Inn. This motel offers a range of comfortable and modern rooms, including family rooms if you’re bringing the kids along. Parkes International Motor Inn is located closer to town and features quality accommodation with a country charm and hospitality. The motel also offers function rooms for business travellers, a swimming pool and an on-site restaurant that serves delicious home cooked meals.

Whether you’re interested in science, nature, or history, the Parkes region has something for everyone and is an excellent place to visit any time of year, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation. So why not plan a long weekend getaway and explore this beautiful part of New South Wales?