THINGS TO DO IN ALBURY - INSIDER LOCAL

12 Mar

At just three and a half hours from Melbourne, and five and a half from Sydney, Albury is the perfect place for a quick (or long) getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. But now that you’re here, what are some things to do in Albury?

Rather than list the more common activities and attractions you’ll find, we thought it best to offer some insider advice. These hidden gems will help you experience our city like a local.

1/ Listen to the sounds of ‘Music in the Gardens’

Time your visit right and you could be in for a massive musical treat. ‘Music in the Gardens’ is a collection of free outdoor concerts surrounded by the lush landscape of the Albury Botanic Gardens.

The concerts take place on the third Sunday of March, April, May, September, October, and November. Each a chance to enjoy musical entertainment from visiting Australian and International artists. So grab your picnic basket and bask in the sounds of music.

2/ Step back in time at Bonegilla Migrant Experience

Just 12km outside of Wodonga is Bonegilla, home to the largest and longest operating reception centre for migrants in the post-war era.

Back then, more than 300,000 migrants marched through the doors of the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre which was made up of 24 blocks. Today, there is just one block remaining from the original site. It is now used to bring to life the gripping stories and experiences of the migrants who travelled through the centre. Undoubtedly ready for you to step back in time and enjoy.

3/ Cycle Yindyamurra Sculpture Trail to Wonga Wetlands

Be inspired as you casually cycle the 8.5km track along the Yindyamurra Sculpture Trail all the way to the Wonga Wetlands.

The Sculpture Trail allows you to appreciate the art of eleven captivating and contemporary Aboriginal sculptures. Each dotted along the two-metre-wide shared path.

If the 8.5km track is not enough to curb your cycling enthusiasm, you can choose to link up to the Bungambrawatha Creek Trail and beyond to the Thurgoona Trail.

4/ Get your adrenaline fix Mountain Biking in Nail Can and Hunchback Hill

Another cycling opportunity but of a different kind, the Nail Can and Hunchback Hill Mountain Bike Trails are perfect for those looking for more of an adrenaline fix. For the kids, set your sites on a hidden track at Charles St Uni campus.

Our Albury/Wodonga mountain bike trails are one of our best-kept secrets since most people head for the more well-known destinations nearby in Bright, Beechworth, or Mt Buller.

But stick around to try out our trails and you’ll find we can offer a great mix of riding conditions for budding downhill adventurers (big or small).

5/ Float downriver in Noreuil Park

This is one of our favourite spots in Albury to take a plunge into the iconic Murray River before cooling off under the hot summer sun.

We may be biased since this beautiful location resides outside our very own River Deck Cafe. But, what’s not to love between the lush green lawns, towering River Gums, and collection of picnic tables and seating.

Grab a floaty, don your swimmers and maybe book a post-dip lunch with us?

6/ Enjoy a picture-perfect picnic at Kookaburra Point

Just 20km east of Albury CBD you’ll happen upon the undulating hills that border the famous Lake Hume Dam. Considered an engineering triumph, Lake Hume is now home to parklands, picnic spots, and plenty of freshwater fish including Murray Cod, Rainbow Trout, and Golden Perch.

Head to Kookaburra Point to find a picturesque picnic location. Soak up the sun and take in the views of Lake Hume.

7/ Shop local delicacies at the Weekend Farmers Market

You can’t call yourself an Albury local without a trip to the local Farmer’s Market. Hosted every Saturday from 8am to 12 noon, you’ll find a collection of local producers and growers. Each offer ethical, high-quality, sustainable foods.

From local cheesemakers to berry growers, wineries to honey, and everything in between, the Albury Farmer’s market will have you salivating before you even reach your first stall.