best things to do in parkes australia

Welcome to Parkes, a charming town in Australia with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. Named after the renowned statesman Sir Henry Parkes, this town has a fascinating past rooted in the gold rush era. Today, Parkes boasts a mix of historical sites, natural wonders, and unique attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers.

Discovering Parkes’ Iconic Landmarks

Let’s delve into the top 15 attractions that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Parkes:

  1. CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope (Parkes Observatory)
  2. The iconic 64-meter steerable radio telescope known as “The Dish” is a symbol of Australian scientific progress.
  3. Built in 1961, this heritage-listed observatory played a crucial role in transmitting live images of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing.

  4. Visitors can marvel at the telescope’s sheer size and learn about its groundbreaking astronomical research at the Visitor Centre.

  5. Parkes Radio Telescope Visitor Centre

  6. Step into the CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope Discovery Centre to dive into the history of astronomy and explore interactive exhibits.

  7. Engage in educational 3D presentations at the HD theater and grab a bite at the Dish Cafe while enjoying the picturesque views.

  8. The Henry Parkes Centre

  9. Head north on the Newell Highway to explore the Henry Parkes Centre, a hub of tourist attractions featuring four museums under one roof.
  10. Discover the Parkes Motor Museum, King’s Castle Elvis Exhibit, Henry Parkes Museum, and Antique Machinery Collection, offering a glimpse into Parkes’ diverse history.

Immersing Yourself in Nature

  1. Goobang National Park
  2. Venture 30 kilometers outside of town to explore the Goobang National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna.
  3. Embark on the Burrabadine Walking Track for stunning views of the Herveys Range and the surrounding farmland.

Uncovering Parkes’ Aviation History

  1. Parkes Aviation Museum
  2. Dive into Parkes’ aviation heritage at the Parkes Aviation Museum, housed in a historic RAAF hangar.
  3. Explore a collection of aircraft, including a Convair 580 and a Bell AH-1 Huey Cobra, and witness ongoing restorations of rare planes like the Lockheed Neptune.

Savoring Scenic Views

  1. Memorial Hill Lookout
  2. Climb to the top of Memorial Hill for panoramic views of Parkes and its picturesque surroundings.

  3. Marvel at the white memorial tower and enjoy a leisurely walk around the hill to soak in the beauty of the landscape.

  4. Parkes War Memorial

  5. Pay tribute to Parkes’ wartime history at the Parkes War Memorial, a 33-meter tall concrete monument honoring Australian servicemen.
  6. Wander around the memorial grounds to reflect on the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who served their country.

Exploring Historical Treasures

  1. Bushmans Hill Reserve
  2. Explore the remnants of Parkes’ gold mining past at Bushmans Hill Reserve, home to the Wiradjuri Amphitheater and indigenous artwork.

  3. Climb to the hilltop for panoramic views of Parkes and surrounding areas, and immerse yourself in the town’s rich cultural heritage.

  4. Peak Hill

  5. Journey to Peak Hill to witness a living legacy of the gold rush era, with the town’s gold mine still operational today.
  6. Visit the Peak Hill Open Cut Experience for guided tours and stunning views of the mine’s terraces, and don’t miss the Big Fish Fossil Hut for a quirky detour.

Relaxing in Parkes’ Parks

  1. Kelly Reserve

    • Escape to the peaceful surroundings of Kelly Reserve, featuring the Bushmans Dam reservoir and the Elvis Wall of Fame.
    • Take a moment to admire a historic steam locomotive and appreciate the park’s tranquil ambiance.

  2. Cooke Park

    • Enjoy a leisurely picnic at Cooke Park, a well-maintained green space in Parkes’ CBD adorned with mature trees.
    • Explore the new multipurpose center and immerse yourself in the vibrant community spirit during events like the Parkes Elvis Festival.

Day Trips from Parkes

  1. Forbes

    • Embark on a day trip to Forbes, a historic town steeped in 19th-century heritage and captivating stories from the gold rush era.
    • Visit iconic landmarks like the Italianate Post Office and Ben Hall’s Death Site to delve into Forbes’ colorful past.

  2. McFeeters Motor Museum

    • Discover a remarkable collection of vintage vehicles at the McFeeters Motor Museum in Forbes, featuring rare cars from different eras.
    • Immerse yourself in the world of automotive history and marvel at classic models like the 1905 Minerva and the 1968 E-Type Jaguar.

Celebrating Rail History

  1. Railway Pioneers of Parkes
    • Learn about Parkes’ railway legacy at Kelly Reserve, where a preserved steam locomotive stands as a tribute to the town’s pioneering spirit.
    • Explore the history of rail transport in Australia and appreciate the contributions of Parkes’ railway pioneers.

Honoring Sir Henry Parkes

  1. Sir Henry Parkes Statue
    • Wrap up your visit to Parkes with a stop at the Sir Henry Parkes Statue, honoring the iconic Australian statesman known as the “Father of Federation.”
    • Learn about Sir Henry Parkes’ significant contributions to Australian politics and his efforts to unite the country’s colonies under a federal government.

From exploring the wonders of the Parkes Observatory to immersing yourself in nature at Goobang National Park, Parkes offers a diverse range of attractions for every traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or aviation aficionado, Parkes has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and set off on an unforgettable journey to this charming town in Australia!

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