At the delicate centre of the Northern Rivers region lies Grafton, a historic town lined with glorious Victorian and Edwardian architecture, on the banks of the Clarence River. During the months of spring, this pocket of North Coast NSW becomes the most Instagrammable destination in the state as more than 2,000 jacaranda trees line streets, turning the town an eye-popping shade of purple. There is a long list of things to do in Grafton if you want to explore the breathtaking nature of New South Wales, where epic beaches, gorges and World Heritage rainforest await your visit.
A Guide On The Top Things To Do In Grafton
If you’re vying for an adventurous trip to the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, then look no further than visiting Grafton. This beautiful and picturesque city sits along the Clarence River, about 608 km north of Sydney. If you’re in the mood for a hike, you can head to the Clarence Gorge or Washpool National Park. Even the area surrounding Grafton is renowned for its natural beauty. A place of beauty, heritage and soul, Grafton is also known for its rich history and heritage, as well as its beautiful natural surroundings and popular annual events, such as the world-famous Jacaranda Festival and the Grafton Bridge to Bridge ski race.
1. Attend The Jacaranda Festival
Image Credit: Jacaranda for Wikipedia Commons
Grafton is better known and promoted as the Jacaranda City, owing to its tree-lined streets and to the popularity of the annual Jacaranda Festival that was inaugurated in 1935. For a short time in early summer, you can witness Grafton’s streets and parks bathed in a magical purple glow when the city’s hundreds of Jacaranda trees burst into flower. In tribute to this mystical spectacle Grafton hosts the week-long Jacaranda Festival, beginning from the last weekend of October up to the first weekend of November. Here, this annual festival, being the oldest floral celebration in the country, paints the entire town lilac, from specially curated art exhibits to nightly fireworks, parades, markets and many such sources of entertainment.
Location: 48, Prince Street, Grafton New South Wales 2460
Dates for 2024: 25 October to 3 November 2024
Also Read: Things To Do In New South Wales
2. Travel To Clarence Gorge
Image Credit: Kgbo for Wikipedia Commons
This excursion is just a 90-minute drive into the mountains, north-west of Grafton, where the Clarence River weaves through walls of rock and rushes over a series of waterfalls. North of Grafton is the popular tourist destination – Clarence Gorge, a breathtaking region of savage rapids and waterfalls. Three of the waterfalls are rainbow-shaped and offer swimming and fishing opportunities. The area is also well-known for its excellent fishing avenues.
But, unlike the other natural sights that you will find here in Grafton, the Clarence Gorge is actually a part of a private land, and a visit will require a bit of planning. But what you can do to experience this location’s magic is book a farmstay with the landowner. Trust us when we say that staying in this inspiring part of the country where you can take bushwalks for a closer look at the gorge and falls, bring a canoe to challenge yourself on the rapids or try your hand at catch and release fishing; all of this will make up for a truly magical feeling.
Location: 2568 Gorge Road, Heifer Station New South Wales 2460
Access Fee: Only the day visitors are required to pay a donation fee to access the Gorge via the private properties.
3. Relax At The See Park
Image Credit: Kgbo for Wikipedia Commons
If you are looking for a place to relax, you should definitely consider visiting the See Park in Grafton. This park boasts all extensive facilities that you can possibly think of, including well-sheltered picnic areas, an artificially constructed waterfall, hygienic public toilets, and a separate playground for kids. The park with its location and amenities makes up for a great relaxing spot. Its prime location also makes it one of the best places to view the jacarandas in November during the Famous Jacaranda Festival, for the park lightens up the heart of Grafton on the course of Alumy Creek.
Since Grafton’s trees are such a big tourist-pull for the city it’s no surprise that See Park is kept spotless with gorgeous landscaping and comprehensive facilities. The many mature trees in See Park offer great respite from the sun, and what might surprise you is how much non-human life there is in the park, with loads of lizards scurrying around.
Location: Pound Street, Grafton New South Wales 2460
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Related Post: Places To Visit in Melbourne
4. Explore The Yuraygir National Park In Entirety
Image Credit: Michael Munich for Wikipedia Commons
If you are planning a trip to Australia, then a visit to Yuraygir National Park in Grafton is a must in your itinerary. This Australian national park is situated 482 km northeast of Sydney. It was established in 1980 as the result of a merger of two previous national parks. This park enclosure is also home to the precious Yuraygir native animal sanctuary. The Brooms Head Road (25 km) connects the park to the Sandon River Camping Area. After exploring the park to your heart’s content, you can then opt for a short drive down the sandy coast to find whale watching spots and enjoy some beach camping.
Yuraygir is a great place for fishing, with tailor and bream often caught in season. The headlands are also home to a variety of rock fish, and surfing is a popular activity around here with the headlands offering some of the best surf spots on the entire north coast. The park’s beaches make up for an ideal set-up for swimming leisurely, and visitors can also enjoy the experience of bushwalking along the coast. Considered as one of Australia’s great nature walks, the Yuraygir Coastal Walk, is 65 kilometres long.
Location: Located between Yamba and Coffs Harbour.
Timings: Open from 7am to 7pm daily
5. Christ Church Cathedral
Image Credit: Kgbo for Wikipedia Commons
You may not believe this but there has been a church at this exact location on Duke Street since 1842, and the current building, composed of salmon-pink bricks, was raised in ten years between 1874 and 1884. In a Gothic Revival style, Christ Church Cathedral rests among lawns and tree-lined streets, and was designed by architect John Horbury Hunt. Today the church is nothing less than a Grafton signature, shining for its ornamental brickwork and ingeniously reflecting the heavy transition between the Early English and Decorated Gothic styles. When you visit this site, don’t forget to check out the imposing western archway, and the smart use of wooden louvers instead of glass as a way of cooling the interior.
The Cathedral is more than just a popular tourist attraction in Grafton, the church is also a significant symbol of the local aboriginal community. A visit to this popular site is guaranteed to be a memorable one for you.
The spire is a renowned landmark of the city, with many tourists visiting it each year to admire the architectural masterpiece. The imposing red brick structure is home to a number of beautiful stained-glass windows and exposed wooden beams. Inside, there are numerous dedication stones.
Location:Duke & Victoria Streets, Grafton New South Wales 2460
Timings: Open from 9am to 5pm daily
You May Also Like To Read: Things To Do In Australia
Now that you have a list of things to keep in mind for your awaited exploration of Grafton in New South Wales, make sure you plan your trip to Australia to scout these fabulous spots for the experience of a lifetime. Don’t waste any more time on thinking and just book your tickets now to explore these best things to do in Grafton.
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Cover Image Credit : Kgbo for Wikipedia
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Grafton
How can I experience the culture and history of Grafton?
Even minus the flowers, Grafton’s broad avenues offer reasons to linger, with many of its sites beholding the history of this place. You can embark on the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail, highlighting the Grafton Gaol and 1884 Christ Church Cathedral, as well as the Clarence River Historical Society at Schaeffer House in order to have a clearer idea about the culture and history of Grafton.
How can I book a flight to Grafton?
The main centre of Grafton is situated 12km away from the Clarence Valley Regional Airport. To make the quick trip northwest, use the cab options that are offered at the port. An even better choice would be to lease a car from the airport's rental agencies and then take your time and leisurely tour the area.
What are the best places to eat in Grafton?
The Naked Bean Cafe, Toast Espresso Bar, Clarence River Fishermen’s Co-op and Thai Square Restaurant are some of the famous places in Grafton where you can go for a taste of local cuisine. And if you miss the taste of your home, then straightaway head to Coastal Indian Restaurant for authentic Indian food.
What makes Australia such a popular destination?
Australia is a continent-country that is blessed with numerous distinctive geographical features and a distinctive wildlife. Consequently, ecotourism makes up a significant amount of both domestic and foreign travel to Australia; data indicates that two thirds of foreign visitors have participated in some form of nature tourism.
What is the preferred time to visit Australia?
The best time to visit Australia depends mainly on the area you plan to explore. While the northern half of Australia is driest and most accessible between April and September, on the other hand, the southern half is warmer and more festive between December and February.
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