Parkes Shire

Parkes Shire Tourism

Tourist Attractions in and Around Parkes Shire of New South Wales, Australia

Located in the central-western region of New South Wales, Australia, Parkes Shire is known for its rolling hills, rich mining heritage, and natural beauty. If you're planning a trip to the area, make sure to check out these top tourist attractions:

1. Parkes Radio Telescope - Located within the CSIRO Parkes Observatory, the Parkes Radio Telescope is a massive dish that played a significant role in the Apollo 11 moon landing back in 1969. You can take a guided tour of the facility and learn about the importance of radio astronomy.

2. Bushmans Hill - If you love hiking and enjoy scenic views, Bushmans Hill is a must-visit. This 151-meter high hill offers panoramic views of Parkes Shire and its surrounding areas.

3. Goobang National Park - Spread over an area of about 44,000 hectares, the Goobang National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You can indulge in activities like bushwalking, bird watching, and camping in the park.

4. Parkes Elvis Festival - Held annually in January, the Parkes Elvis Festival is a popular event that attracts thousands of Elvis fans from around the world. The festival features live music, dance parties, parades, and much more.

5. Henry Parkes Centre - This cultural and historical museum is dedicated to Sir Henry Parkes, the founder of the Federation of Australia. The museum features a collection of artifacts, archives, and exhibits that showcase the life and legacy of Sir Henry Parkes.

6. Parkes War Memorial - The Parkes War Memorial is dedicated to the memory of the soldiers who served in World War I and II from the Parkes Shire region. The memorial features a cenotaph, a plaque wall, and a reflection pool.

7. Peak Hill Open Cut Experience - If you're interested in the mining history of the region, make sure to visit the Peak Hill Open Cut Experience. You can take a guided tour of the open cut mine and learn about the gold mining boom of the late 1800s.

8. Cooke Park - Located in the heart of Parkes town, Cooke Park is a popular spot for picnics, family outings, and events. The park features a large playground, BBQ facilities, and a water fountain.

9. Parkes Observatory Visitors Centre - If you want to learn more about the fun and fascinating world of astronomy, check out the Parkes Observatory Visitors Centre. You can explore interactive exhibits, watch a movie on the big screen, and even see the Parkes Radio Telescope up close.

10. Narromine Aviation Museum - The Narromine Aviation Museum is a treasure trove of vintage aircraft, aviation memorabilia, and other artifacts. You can take a guided tour of the museum and learn about the history of aviation in Australia.

That's our top ten list of tourist attractions in and around Parkes Shire. No matter what your interests are, there's something here for everyone. So come visit this beautiful region and see for yourself why it's a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

Contact Information:

Parkes Shire Council
Address: 2 Cecile St, Parkes NSW 2870, Australia
Phone: +61 2 6861 2333

Parkes Radio Telescope
Address: Telescope Road, Parkes, New South Wales, Australia
Phone: +61 2 6861 1768

Goobang National Park
Address: 438 Toogong Rd, Parkes NSW 2870, Australia
Phone: +61 2 6862 6166

Henry Parkes Centre
Address: Newell Hwy, Peak Hill NSW 2869, Australia
Phone: +61 2 6869 1499

Peak Hill Open Cut Experience
Address: Newell Hwy, Peak Hill NSW 2869, Australia
Phone: +61 2 6869 1622

Parkes Observatory Visitors Centre
Address: Telescope Road, Parkes, New South Wales, Australia
Phone: +61 2 6861 1777

Narromine Aviation Museum
Address: Narromine Aerodrome, Narromine NSW 2821, Australia
Phone: +61 2 6889 1388

Note: The above information is subject to change, and it's best to double-check with the relevant authorities before visiting any of the attractions mentioned above.