Cobar is a special town in the heart of Western New South Wales. This small mining town has preserved its outback charm. It ranks among the most authentic outback destinations.
Today, visitors can explore mining heritage, see ancient rock art, and experience genuine Australian outback life.
While beaches in Australia draw millions, Cobar offers something completely different with dusty streets and historic buildings. This gem deserves more than a quick stop.
10 Amazing Things to Do in Cobar
Peak Gold Mine
The Peak Gold Mine shows modern outback mining. Walk the Golden Walk trail past old equipment and rusty shafts.
Signs explain today’s operations. From the lookout, see workers digging for gold underground. This easy, free walk helps families understand the importance of mining to the community.
The Big Beer Can
The five-meter Big Beer Can stands above the Grand Hotel. This fun landmark represents Cobar’s humor. Travelers stop for pictures with this unusual attraction on the main street. Free to visit and impossible to miss.
Fort Bourke Hill Lookout
This lookout provides Cobar’s best view. Look down into the working New Cobar Gold Mine from 300 meters high.
Spot dump trucks at the bottom. See amazing views over town and red earth. Information boards explain mining history. Open 9 AM to 5 PM, sunset is magical.
Mount Grenfell Historic Site
Mount Grenfell is an Aboriginal cultural treasure and one of the Hidden Gems in Australia. Located 70 kilometres northwest, it showcases Ngiyampaa rock art, thousands of years old. Colorful animal, people, and hand stencil paintings cover rock walls. A sealed road makes access easy. Three art sites are within walking distance. Wire mesh protects ancient artwork.
The Great Cobar Heritage Centre
This museum sits in the 1910 Mine Administration Building. Displays show mining, farming, and Aboriginal history.
The exhibits connect to Australian inventions that shaped the mining industry. Bronze sculptures and equipment fill the outdoors. Upstairs exhibits explain industries plus the Ngiyampaa culture.
Adult tickets are $10, and families are $20.
Cobar Miners Heritage Park
This park honours miners who died in the Cobar mines. “Rick the Miner” bronze sculpture is the centrepiece. See stamper battery, poppet-head, and machinery.
Each piece tells mining stories. The peaceful memorial helps understand miner dangers and courage. Free entry.
Newey Reservoir
Locals call it “the Newey,” Cobar’s favourite water fun spot. This large reservoir sits outside town along the Centenary of Federation Walk. People swim, kayak, and enjoy water sports during the summer in Australia.
The area has picnic spots and space for families. Finding so much water this far inland is surprising. Pack a picnic for a relaxing afternoon.
Cobar Heritage Walk
This self-guided trail covers over 40 historic locations. Starting at the Great Cobar Museum, see Victorian and Edwardian buildings, miners’ cottages, and landmarks.
Pass the Great Western Hotel from 1898 with beautiful verandahs, the 1887 courthouse, and St. Laurence O’Toole Catholic Church.
For things to do in Cobar at night, this walk offers beautiful building lighting. Information signs tell each building’s story. Maps are available at the visitor centre. The walk takes about two hours.
The Old Reservoir and Devil’s Rock
Three kilometres north, the Old Reservoir was Cobar’s first water supply, now used for recreation and bird watching. A one-kilometre track connects to Devil’s Rock, an ancient formation important in Aboriginal legend.
This area holds deep cultural significance. The Ngemba people performed ceremonial rites here for thousands of years. Spot various birds and wildlife along the bushland track.
Cobar Sound Chapel
This unique modern building offers incredible acoustics. Completed in 2022 by composer Georges Lentz and architect Glenn Murcutt, it hosts concerts and artistic performances. Even without events, the building is worth seeing.
How sound moves through the space is amazing. Check schedules as events are not daily. This shows Cobar’s creative commitment to the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cobar worth visiting?
Yes, Cobar offers unique outback experiences, including mining heritage sites, Aboriginal rock art at Mount Grenfell, quirky attractions, and genuine Aussie hospitality that you cannot find anywhere else.
What to do in Cobar today?
Visit Fort Bourke Hill Lookout for spectacular views, explore the Heritage Centre museum, walk the Heritage Walk through historic buildings, or swim at Newey Reservoir if the weather permits swimming.
Is Cobar safe at night?
Cobar is generally safe at night with a friendly community. The town has low crime rates typical of small Australian outback towns, though visitors should use normal safety precautions everywhere.
How long should I spend in Cobar?
Plan at least one full day to see the main attractions comfortably. Two days are perfect if you want to visit Mount Grenfell Historic Site and explore the surrounding area thoroughly.
What is Cobar famous for?
Cobar is famous for its copper and gold mining history dating back to 1870. The town was once Australia’s leading copper producer and continues active mining operations today.
Conclusion
Cobar is worth visiting when exploring Western NSW. From mining history to Aboriginal rock art, quirky landmarks to natural beauty, this town offers diverse experiences. The outback character shines through friendly locals and historic streets.
Mining heritage tells stories of hard work and determination. Plan at least one full day to explore this fascinating destination properly.
You will leave with great memories and a new appreciation for outback life. Visit Australia City Guide and discover the best places, experiences, and hidden gems across every corner of Australia.
