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Your Brisbane to Dubbo Road Trip
Hop on an unforgettable journey from Brisbane to Dubbo, traversing diverse landscapes and charming towns.
This road trip offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, with opportunities to explore national parks, encounter wildlife, and experience the rich cultural heritage of regional Australia.
Get ready to be captivated by the beauty of the Australian countryside as you venture from Queensland to New South Wales on this scenic route.
Brisbane to Dubbo Road Trip: An Overview
The Brisbane to Dubbo road trip spans a picture-perfect route of 525.2 miles, offering approximately 10 hours of travel time.
As you journey through the heart of Queensland and New South Wales, expect to be mesmerised by various landscapes, from lush greenery to expansive plains.
Along the way, notable sights include the striking rock formations of Girraween National Park, the charming townships dotted with historical landmarks, and the chance to witness native Australian wildlife roaming freely.
This adventure invites families in search of bonding experiences, nature enthusiasts craving immersive outdoor escapades, and travelers yearning for a deeper exploration of Australia’s lesser-known treasures.
Let’s check each notable stop as we go along.
| Brisbane to Dubbo Road Trip Number of Stops: 7Distance: 525.2 milesTravel Time: 10 hours |
1. Ipswich
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The first stop on your road trip from Brisbane to is Ipswich, just a 1-hour and 2-minute drive covering 26.5 miles.
Ipswich is known for its history, bragging over 6,000 heritage-listed sites and a number of parks. As Queensland’s oldest provincial city, its streets are lined with beautifully preserved historical buildings.
And when you’re here, make sure to not miss the Ipswich Nature Centre, where you can encounter native Australian wildlife up close and learn about conservation efforts.
You can also drop by At Nerima Gardens, and take a stroll through the peaceful Japanese-inspired gardens, perfect for relaxation and photography enthusiasts.
| Stop 1: Ipswich Distance: 26.5 milesTravel Time: 1 hour, 2 minutes |
Stay at Country Motel Ipswich
Address: 250 S Station Rd, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
If you’re looking for a place to stay in the Ipswich area, consider the Country Motel Ipswich. Their rooms are spacious, offering plenty of room to stretch out and relax.
Studio rooms come with full kitchens, providing convenience for longer stays. For larger groups, apartments are available, complete with living rooms and dining areas for added comfort.
Additionally, laundry facilities are on-site, making it easy to keep your clothes fresh during your travels.
Eat at Bakehouse Steakhouse
Website: https://www.bakehousesteakhouse.com/
Address: Cnr Darling St And, West St., Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM; Thursday, Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM; Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
If you find yourself in Ipswich and craving a hearty meal, head to Bakehouse Steakhouse, a cosy and storied hub housed in a sturdy brick building with a vintage charm.
Here, you can indulge in their signature hefty steaks and burgers, cooked to perfection and sure to satisfy any appetite. Enjoy the inviting atmosphere both indoors and outdoors with their outdoor seating option.
Moreover, families will appreciate the kids’ menu, offering delicious options for your little ones to enjoy.
2. Toowoomba
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The second stop on your Brisbane to Dubbo road trip is Toowoomba, just 1 hour and 6 minutes away covering 55.8 miles. As Queensland’s largest inland city, Toowoomba offers a delightful blend of sophistication and country charm.
You’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant coffee culture, with several dining options showcasing the region’s fresh produce.
And don’t miss the chance to explore Toowoomba’s parks and gardens, particularly during the annual Carnival of Flowers spring celebration.
Make sure to drop by Queens Park, where you can marvel at the colourful floral displays and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
Picnic Point Lookout is another stopover for you! Here, you can soak in panoramic views of the Lockyer Valley and Tabletop Mountain, providing the perfect backdrop for a picnic or an afternoon stroll.
| Stop 2: Toowoomba Distance: 55.8 milesTravel Time: 1 hour, 6 minutes |
Stay at Park Motor Inn
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Address: 88 Margaret St, Toowoomba City, QLD 4350, Australia
If you’re in the Toowoomba area and looking for a comfortable place to stay without breaking the bank, consider the Park Motor Inn. Offering reasonable prices, it’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a convenient stopover before hitting the road again.
Located opposite Queens Park, you can easily plan an afternoon picnic or stroll through the park’s grounds.
The inn offers low-key, traditional decor, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere for guests. Rooms come equipped with modern amenities including free Wi-Fi, TVs, and tea and coffee making facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Eat at Seasons on Ruthven Restaurant & Wine Bar
Website: https://www.seasonsonruthven.com.au/
Address: 200 Ruthven St, Toowoomba City, QLD 4350, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
If you’re looking for a delicious dining experience in Toowoomba, consider visiting Seasons on Ruthven Restaurant & Wine Bar.
You’ll find seasonal Modern Australian cuisine paired with a selection of boutique wines. The contemporary dining room offers a relaxed atmosphere, complete with a lounge area for added comfort.
It’s recommended to make reservations before dining here to ensure you secure a table. The restaurant caters to various dietary preferences, offering vegetarian dishes for those who prefer plant-based options.
Additionally, families with children will appreciate the kids’ menu, providing tasty options for younger diners.
3. Goondiwindi
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From Toowoomba, you’ll reach Goondiwindi after a drive of about 2 hours and 29 minutes, covering 137.6 miles.
Located on Queensland’s southern border, Goondiwindi is known for its agricultural skill, producing a variety of crops, fibres, and meats.
When you’re in the area, you can dive into the town’s rich heritage by exploring attractions such as the Goondiwindi Botanic Gardens of the Western Woodlands, where you can wander amid native flora and fauna.
Another must-visit spot is the Goondiwindi Natural Heritage & Water Park, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Here, you can enjoy picnics by the water, take strolls, or simply bask in nature’s peace.
| Stop 3: Goondiwindi Distance: 137.6 milesTravel Time: 2 hours, 29 minutes |
Stay at Pioneer Motel Goondiwindi
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Address: 145-147 Marshall St, Goondiwindi, QLD 4390, Australia
The Pioneer Motel offers spacious accommodations perfectly suited for big groups or families. With generously sized rooms, you can stretch out and relax after a long day on the road, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
Eat at Gather 4390
Address: 126a Marshall St, Goondiwindi, QLD 4390, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Gather 4390 offers more than just delicious coffee and tasty treats; it’s a unique destination where you can also buy flowers!
Whether you need a caffeine fix or looking for a thoughtful gift, Gather 4390 is the perfect spot to relax and indulge in both aromatic beverages and lovely floral arrangements.
4. Moree
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From Goondiwindi, your next stop is Moree, just 1 hour and 26 minutes away, covering 77.7 miles. Known for its healing spa waters sourced from the Great Artesian Basin, Moree attracts travelers seeking relaxation and locals embracing the town’s offerings.
A must-visit spot is the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre, where you can soak in natural mineral springs for a rejuvenating experience.
Another highlight is the Bank Art Museum, where you can see local paintings along its banks, offering insight into the town’s vibrant artistic scene.
Meanwhile, for those craving unique experiences, exploring the vast wetlands and birdwatching opportunities are available.
| Stop 4: Moree Distance: 77.67milesTravel Time: 1 hour, 26 minutes |
Stay at EconoLodge Moree Spa Motor Inn
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Address: 21 Alice St, Moree, NSW 2400, Australia
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay in Moree, consider EconoLodge Moree Spa Motor Inn.
Just a 5-minute walk from the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre and just a mile away from the Moree Plains Gallery, it’s conveniently located for exploring the area.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, offering free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Some rooms even come with kitchenettes or lounge areas for added convenience.
You can unwind and relax in the hot tub or outdoor pool, and BBQ facilities are available for those who want to cook a meal outdoors.
Eat at Moree Thai Cuisine
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Website: https://www.seasonsonruthven.com.au/
Address: 52 Anne St, Moree, NSW 2400, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
At Moree Thai Cuisine, diners are treated to a delightful culinary experience featuring authentic Thai flavors. This restaurant offers a diverse menu, including a variety of meat, seafood, and vegetable dishes to cater to different dietary preferences.
In addition to their traditional Thai offerings, Moree Thai Cuisine also provides vegan dishes for those seeking plant-based options.
5. Narrabri
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From Moree, your next stop is Narrabri, just a 1-hour and 9-minute drive covering 62 miles. Known as an agricultural wonderland, Narrabri offers high-quality produce including wheat, lambs, beef, and cotton.
But beyond its agricultural prowess, the town is also home to several attractions sure to capture visitors.
One of the town’s highlights is Mount Kaputar National Park, offering diverse landscapes and unforgettable memories. Located in the Great Dividing Range region, this park encompasses 15,000 hectares of woodlands and eucalypt forests.
Here, you can enjoy bushwalking trails, spot native birdlife, and even catch a glimpse of unique wildlife like wallabies and quolls.
For those seeking relaxation, the Pilliga Artesian Bore Bath provides therapeutic and recreational opportunities. Fed by aquifers and surrounded by scenic vistas, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic.
| Stop 5: Narrabri Distance: 62 milesTravel Time: 1 hour, 9 minutes |
Stay at Crossroads Hotel
Address: 170 Maitland St, Narrabri, NSW 2390, Australia
Located on the northern side of Narrabri, the Crossroads Hotel offers a laid-back accommodation experience in a restored former pub.
Within walking distance, you can explore the historic exhibits at the Narrabri Old Gaol & Museum and can even conveniently access Narrabri train station.
Crossroads Hotel features bright and casual rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and kitchenettes.
Some rooms even offer additional amenities such as floor-to-ceiling windows and shared balconies with views of the Nandewar Ranges. Meanwhile, upgraded rooms include living areas and extra bedrooms.
You can also take advantage of free parking and enjoy on-site amenities such as a bowling alley and a bistro-style restaurant with a charming beer garden.
Eat at Fiesta Fried Chicken
Address: 5/131 Maitland St, Narrabri, NSW 2390, Australia
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
One of the restaurants that can provide instant comfort food when you’re road tripping is Fiesta Fried Chicken in Narrabri. This eatery specialises in crispy and flavorful fried chicken, perfect for satisfying hunger pangs on the go.
With a focus on quick service and delicious meals, Fiesta Fried Chicken offers a convenient dining option for travelers passing through Narrabri.
6. Coonabarabran
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Your sixth stop on your way to Dubbo from Brisbane is Coonabarabran, known as the stargazing capital of Australia. Located 1 hour and 19 minutes away, covering 74.6 miles from Narrabri, this town offers a celestial experience like no other.
Officially recognised as the International Dark Sky Park since 2016, The Warrumbungle National Park is a must-see destination!
A visit to the Siding Spring Observatory is a must for anyone interested in Australia’s astronomical history. As the largest optical observatory in the country, it provides important research facilities for astronomy and space science.
Another stop worth exploring is the Crystal Kingdom, where you can discover some of the world’s most fascinating minerals.
Featuring rare Zeolite crystal specimens unique to the area, this attraction offers insight into the geological processes that created these stunning formations.
You can even opt to take home professional photographs of these unusual rocks as a memorable souvenir from your trip.
| Stop 6: Coonabarabran Distance: 74.6 milesTravel Time: 1 hour, 19 minutes |
Stay at Acacia Motor Lodge
Address: 10 John St, Coonabarabran, NSW 2357, Australia
When you need a break during your road trip to Dubbo, consider staying at Acacia Motor Lodge. Situated on a peaceful tree-lined street, this modest redbrick motel offers a relaxing retreat just a 9-minute walk from the Crystal Kingdom fossil museum.
It’s also conveniently located 6.2 miles from night-sky viewing at the Warrumbungle Observatory.
The casual rooms at Acacia Motor Lodge come equipped with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, providing all the essentials for a comfortable stay.
Upgraded rooms offer pool-view balconies, and some even offer whirlpool baths for added luxury.
The motel also features an outdoor pool and a hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel.
Eat at Coona Chicks
Website: http://www.coonachicks.com.au/
Address: 47 John St, Coonabarabran, NSW 2357, Australia
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
When it comes to dining in the Coonabarabran area, Coona Chicks is a must-visit eatery. This charming restaurant offers a cozsy atmosphere and a menu filled with delicious comfort food options such as hearty burgers and flavourful salads.
In addition to their tasty food offerings, Coona Chicks is also known for using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that each dish is bursting with flavour.
7. Dubbo
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And your road trip has come to an end in Dubbo, just 1 hour and 41 minutes away, covering 89.8 miles from Coonabarabran.
In Dubbo, you can hop on an immersive African savanna wildlife adventure at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo, where you can encounter exotic animals up close.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the haunted heritage-listed prison at Old Dubbo Gaol offers a glimpse into the region’s past.
Nature lovers can take a stroll through the peaceful Shoyoen Japanese Garden, while those interested in medical history can gain insight into the Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Experience.
Additionally, Dubbo Observatory offers the perfect opportunity for a night full of stargazing, allowing you to marvel at the wonders of the universe.
| Stop 6: Dubbo Distance: 89.8 milesTravel Time: 1 hour, 41 minutes |
Stay at Countryman Motor Inn
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Address: 47 Cobra St, Dubbo, NSW 2830, Australia
Countryman Motor Inn in Dubbo offers comfortable accommodation in a casual setting. Situated just 6.2 miles from the Taronga Western Plains Zoo and a short 14-minute walk from Dubbo train station, it’s conveniently located if you want to explore the area.
You can enjoy amenities such as Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, sitting areas, tea- and coffee-making facilities, mini fridges, and en suite shower-only bathrooms.
Parking is available for cars, trucks, and even boats.
Eat at Old Bank Restaurant & Bar
Address: 232 Macquarie St, Dubbo, NSW 2830, Australia
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
If you want a restaurant and bar with some live music, then Old Bank Restaurant & Bar in Dubbo is the place to be.
Enjoy your meal outdoors on their spacious patio, or cosy up indoors by the fireplace during cooler evenings. For a more intimate dining experience, there’s also a private dining room available.
The menu features a variety of delicious dishes, ranging from hearty mains to tasty appetisers, all prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
