The best cultural getaways in NSW for families

Start your real-life safari and base your family in one of Discovery Parks – Dubbo’s Deluxe Safari Tents. You'll be moments from Taronga Western Plains Zoo, where kids (and grown-ups) can observe rhinoceroses, zebras, cheetahs, elephants and giraffes up close and learn about African wildlife and conservation. For more excitement, head to the nearby Old Dubbo Gaol for a walk through cells from 1847 and exhibitions displaying what the life of a convict was like, or check out the operations control screens of the Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Experience. Come nighttime, learn about stars and galaxies at Dubbo Observatory's massive telescope.

Byron Bay is a well-known destination for its nature, laidback vibe and scenic walks. That also means it’s a hub for connecting with and learning about Mother Nature, from guided tours to art spaces, and Discovery Parks – Byron Bay is in the centre of it all. With the park being only two kilometres from the heart of town, and housing tranquil Lakeside Cabins and Deluxe Safari Tents, we think it’s an awesome option for a Byron Bay stay. Discover gorgeous scenery from the perspective of Australia’s First Nations people with Explore Byron Bay’s Aboriginal Tours, or if you’re a bit peckish, head on their Bush Tucker Tour to sample edible Australian flora. For any creative enthusiasts in the family, go independent gallery hopping in the town centre or stroll through Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens. 

Sometimes we get so caught up in journeying far away that we miss what’s right under our noses. Sydneytown is one of the most culturally dense places in the world, and a stay at Discovery Parks – Lane Cove acts as the perfect base for exploring the city. Relax in your newly built Deluxe Two Bedroom Cabin, with its own balcony overlooking the trees – perfect for kicking back after a day exploring Sydney’s attractions. Visit legendary Sydney buildings, like the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the State Gallery of NSW, plus take a trip to Darling Harbour for Madame Tussauds and Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. There are also some incredible Indigenous walking tours, so you can learn about Sydney from its Traditional Owners.  

Set by the border of New South Wales and Victoria, a stay at Discovery Parks – Maidens Inn, Moama is your go-to for exploring the century-old history at Echuca. The town borders Moama and may as well be frozen in time. Teach the kids about a life before iPads and smartphones with a visit to the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre. Cruise on a paddlesteamer or stick around after dark for some spooky ghost tours by lantern light. Back at the park, choose your riverside escape – from family-friendly cabins and villas to spacious sites. Plus, stay entertained all day long with tennis courts, a bike station and a boat ramp. 

Eden is the place to be for budding marine scientists, young and old alike, with countless educational marine attractions. Discovery Parks – Eden puts you right in the heart of it all, with every accommodation type from family cabins to Deluxe Powered Sites. Davidson Whaling Station is a major drawcard to the area – it was the last of its kind to shut down in Australia and shows how far we’ve come in regenerating the thriving number of migrating whales along the east coast. Watch them in wintertime from Boyd’s Tower or Green Cape Lighthouse, both with their own interesting pasts. Have a crack at the beautiful nature activities too, including the Gravity Eden Mountain Bike Trails and Beowa National Park. Discovery Parks makes it easy with in-park mountain bike storage lockers, a repair station and a bike station.