Are you looking for tours and things your dog can do with you in New South Wales? Want more to do than dog friendly beaches, wineries and cafes (although we love them too)? Read on for more than 35 outstanding dog friendly NSW attractions and tours that you and your dog can enjoy together.
This list has cruises and ferries, museums, historic sites, underground mining tours and more that are dog friendly. By the way, for a tour or attraction to make it on this list, your dog has to be able to be with you, not limited to a dog friendly area. So, please have fun with your puppa and happy adventures!
Oh, please assume the rules for each tour or attraction your dog can do with you are:
- Dog must be a on a lead
- Ensure your dog is under your effective control
- Clean up after your dog
- Be mindful of others and if they show any fear of dogs, it is up to you to move your dog away and enjoy!
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Dog Friendly NSW Attractions and Tours
Dog Friendly Cruises and Ferries NSW
Berger Houseboats
Tweed Heads | Tweed Heads Region
Stay on the Tweed River on a dog friendly houseboat for a unique and fun experience. Relax, swim in the river, fish and enjoy the serenity for just a few nights or a week or more. There are plenty of places to anchor and explore along the river. Berger Houseboats in Tweed Heads has one dog friendly houseboat, the Wanderer (sleeps up to 6 people). Also, no boat license is required.
Clarence River Ferry
Yamba and Iluka | Clarence Valley Region
The Clarence River Ferry has cruise tours that are not dog friendly. However, they also operate multiple ferry services each day between Yamba and Iluka that allow dogs. The old style ferry is actually a pleasant way to experience a ‘cruise’ on the Clarence River as a 90 minute loop or 45 minutes each way with a stopover in between. Sit back, enjoy the lovely scenery and maybe spot some dolphins. Who needs to pay cruise prices anyway!
Lake Mac Ferry
Lake Macquarie | Hunter Region
As an option for a lovely short cruise on Lake Macquarie (twice the size of Sydney Harbour) or as a quicker option to get from one side to the other, compared to driving, you cannot go past the Lake Mac Ferry. The ferry service is dog friendly (see restrictions below), stops at five locations and operates a one way, same day return or hop on and off service on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and for Special Events only.
Restrictions: Dogs can be a maximum of 7 kilograms and must sit on your lap. Only one dog per passenger is allowed.
Palm Beach Ferries Fantasea
Port Stephens Ferry Service
Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens | Port Stephens Region
Port Stephens Ferry Service links Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens. More than that, the dog friendly ferry service is a great way to spend a day out. We recommend a return trip, one way during the day, with a high likelihood you will encounter dolphins (95% of cruises) and the return trip at sunset. The journey is one hour each way.
Dog Friendly Museums and Historic Sites NSW
Gilgandra Rural Museum and Historical Society
Gilgandra | Orana Region
Visit Gilgandra Rural Museum and discover Australia’s rural history. Dog friendly, walk around the museum with your dog on a lead and check out the authentic old farm machinery and interesting historical items.
Kandos Museum
Kandos | Central Tablelands
Dog friendly, the Kandos Museum has an extensive range of artifacts and antiques from a bygone era for you and your dog to browse. The industrial and domestic collections are well presented and brilliantly share the local stories and history.
Restrictions: The staff prefer to limit the number of dogs in the museum but did not say what this number is.
Mad Max Museum
Silverton | Broken Hill Region
The Mad Max Museum, devoted to Mad Max 2 (The Road Warrior) filmed in Silverton and Broken Hill, is a must for fans of the iconic Aussie film or anyone who enjoys the less ordinary. Filled, and by that, we mean cramped packed with original and replica movie memorabilia, the museum showcases photos, props, costumes, vehicles and more. Adrian and Lind, the curators, would love to meet your dog so absolutely take them along.
Montreal Goldfield
Bermagui | Sapphire Coast
As Australia’s only seaside goldfield, Montreal Goldfield has an intriguing history, one full of miners’ stories. You and your dog can book and join a guided tour held daily at 2 pm (except Christmas Day). Learn from knowledgeable guides how in the 1880s gold was dug up in the alluvial goldfield using only basic tools and no machinery.
Old Dubbo Gaol
Dubbo | Orana Region
At Old Dubbo Gaol, dogs are welcome to accompany their owners, provided they remain on a lead. Wander about the gaol on a self-guided tour or join an Escape Tour (3 pm weekdays or 11 am and 3 pm weekends) for a fun and fascinating glimpse into gaol life as stories told by actors.
Robert Stein Motorcycle Museum + Vineyard, Winery and Farm
Mudgee | Central West
It has been a deliberate choice not to add wineries to this post, but we could not go past Robert Stein in Mudgee because of their dog friendly motorcycle museum, vineyard and farm. For something out of the ordinary, see a range of motorbikes dating back to the 1920s and wander the grounds of the vineyard and farm with your furkid.
Roundhouse Railway Museum
Junee | Riverina Region
Locomotive buffs and anyone passing through Junee really should stop in at the Roundhouse Railway Museum with their dog. Volunteer guides are more than happy to share their knowledge of the working roundhouse, the old steam and diesel engines and the old carriages, many of which you are allowed to go in. There is also a fascinating large model train display to check out.
Tenterfield Railway Museum
Tenterfield | New England Region
Do you love nostalgia? And a museum that lets you touch and play with (most) things on display? If that isn’t enough, a museum where your dog is welcome to be right with you? Then Tenterfield Railway Museum is for you; allow at least a couple of hours.
Dog Friendly Mine and Underground Tours NSW
Chambers of the Blackhand
Lightning Ridge | North Western NSW
Chamber of the Blackhand is an underground dog friendly sculpture gallery and an opal mine (two different levels). At the bottom of the 80-ish steps is a labyrinth of underground chambers featuring many sandstone sculptures of recognisable characters and creatures. It is like no other art gallery and on a hot Lightning Ridge day, it is the perfect escape from the heat.
Opal Mine Adventure
Lightning Ridge | North Western NSW
What dog does not want to go down into an underground opal mine? Okay, so maybe this interests you, but Opal Mine Adventure will let you bring your dog on their self guided opal mine tour is a welcome bonus.
Restrictions: Only friendly dogs are welcome if there are “not too many people” in the mine.
Red Earth Opal Mine Tour
White Cliffs | Central Darling Shire
For a brilliant, informative and hands on experience, you cannot go past the Red Earth Opal Mine Tour in White Cliffs. Venture into the active 45 feet deep mine with Graeme, the owner who loves to share his passion for opal mining and keeps things interesting with his humour and vast knowledge. The dog friendly mine tour allows well-behaved dogs and gives you the chance to try opal fossicking for yourself. Mine tours are closed January and reopen in April.
Dog Friendly Public and Open Gardens NSW
Braymont Gardens
Maragle | Riverina Region
It is hard to believe that in 2013, the now lush and beautiful massive Braymont Gardens was a barren paddock. Today, the gardens, changeable with the seasons, have dams, ponds, birdlife and scenic views of high country mountains all able to meander with your dog. The highlight and unique feature is the Tree Church which, in all honesty, you have to see for yourself to appreciate its grandeur and magnificence. The Garden Cafe serves light lunches, coffee and cakes. We suggest checking out their Facebook page for opening hours as they are irregular.
Breenhold Gardens
Mount Wilson | Blue Mountains
The heritage listed Garden Estate of Breenhold is a gorgeous private garden open to the public during the Autumn (April and May) and Spring (September and October) months each year. The gardens feature both native and exotic plants. In the autumn, see the changing colours of reds, oranges and yellows and in spring, the exquisite blooms. Dogs are allowed and it is recommended you bring a picnic or snacks as there is no food or drinks to purchase onsite.
Chang Lai Yuan Gardens
Doonside | Western Sydney
Located within the Nurragingiy Reserve, the dog friendly Chang Lai Yuan Gardens is a fine example of traditional Chinese gardens and architecture. Mosey about the garden paths and check out the Chinese inspired entry gates, stone bridge, gazebo, and lake.
Fagan Park
Hornsby | Sydney North Shore
Fagan Park is one of Greater Sydney’s best dog friendly parklands. Located in Hornsby, the park has 55 hectares of public gardens and spaces with walking tracks, themed gardens showcasing the plants of different countries, lakes and ponds, BBQs and playgrounds. It is a fantastic place to walk your dog if you decide to include Sydney on your travels.
Glenbernie Family Farm
Kurmond | Hawkesbury Region
Glenbernie is a small flower farm less than an hour from Sydney. Dog friend with seasonal flowers all year, it is a lovely spot to wander about admiring the pretty blossoms. The highlight is when the stunning sunflowers are in bloom. Keep up to date on their Facebook page.
Mayfield Gardens
Oberon | Central Tablelands
Mayfield Gardens is a real gem. The beautiful dog friendly gardens are a fantastic day out. Together you and your dog can walk exploring the gardens’ magical 2.5 hectare water garden, the fun maze, a string of garden ponds and so much more. Also, for 16 days of each season, a secondary garden is opened to the public – the Hawkin’s Family Garden. It is best to check the website for dates.
Merribee Gardens
Numbaa | Nowra Region
Merribee Gardens is the labor of love by owners Richard and Lucy. Along with a team of dedicated gardeners, they have transformed seven acres surrounding an old 1850s farmhouse and other farm buildings into several “botanical rooms.” The gardens are only open Wednesdays for public viewing and dogs are welcome to stroll about with you. There is also a cafe on site. The gardens also host festivals throughout the year, with the most popular the Lavender Festival in December.
Orana Cactusworld
Gilgandra | Orana Region
A cactus garden over 40 years in the making, Orana Cactusworld has over 800 different types of cacti. The owner, Lester, has clearly dedicated a lot of love and time to his amazing garden and it is open Saturday and Sunday mornings only if you would like to have a look. Dogs are welcome on a lead.
POW Camp Site and Cowra Japanese Garden
Cowra | Central West
Cowra was the location of a Japanese POW camp during WW2. Did you know this? Today the heritage-listed site is open to the public, with dogs welcome. Information boards tell the history and stories of the camp and its people, both the Australian forces that were the guards and the prisoners.
The Cowra Japanese Garden is a tribute to the POW camp. More than that, the purpose of the garden is that of restoring relationships through respect, healing and forgiveness. Immaculate with amazing attention to detail, the garden is stunningly beautiful and tranquil and an excellent example of Japanese gardens. Dogs are welcome.
Wendy’s Secret Garden
Lavender Bay | Sydney
Wendy’s Secret Garden is a sanctuary right in Sydney. The dog friendly garden is a beautiful place to explore, with fantastic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Stroll the winding paths steep in some sections to discover many nooks and secluded spots as well as garden sculptures.
Restrictions: Please keep dogs off the garden beds.
Related: 20 Fun Free Things To Do In Sydney
Dog Friendly Landmarks and Nature NSW
Australia Rock
Narooma | Sapphire Coast
Australia Rock is an iconic or gimmick photo opportunity that needs a bit of imagination and the right photo angle, but it is fun to do with your dog. Honestly, it is the picturesque landscape and the wildlife that makes this a must-visit dog friendly destination. Go to see the seals sunbaking on the rocks and playing in the water. Dolphins are also regularly spotted.
Big Banana
Coffs Harbour | Coffs Harbour
Getting the iconic photo in front of the Big Banana is a must for many travellers and you can do it with your dog. The cafe is also dog friendly on the deck, however the other activities do not allow dogs.
Bombo Headland Quarry Geological Site
Bombo | Kiama Region
Sometimes places are what you expect, some are less and some are more. Bombo Headland Quarry is much more with its unique basalt columns and seaside location. Explore the quarry with your dog, climb (with care) the basalt rocks, watch the powerful waves batter coastline, see if you can spot dolphins and be surprised by the beauty of the place. The dramatic landscape and rock structures against the background of the ocean are terrific for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Ellenborough Falls
Elands | Mid North Coast
The tallest single drop waterfall in NSW, Ellenborough Falls is spectacular. Ellenborough Falls is also dog friendly and is easily from the viewing platforms overlooking the falls. There are 641 steps down (and back up) to the base of the falls, which we highly recommend doing. It is quite the experience standing at the bottom of the falls and feeling the power of the water hitting the ground. The noise is also impressive.
Forest Sky Pier
Korora | Coffs Harbour Region
The Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout, a 15 minute drive up the escarpment from Coffs Harbour, has uninterrupted breathtaking views of the region’s countryside and coastline. The dog friendly attraction is one of Coffs finest and nearby are three dog friendly walking tracks varying from 500 to 1.6 kilometres.
Gondwana Coast Fossils
Ulladulla Harbour | Ulladulla Region
As travellers with a dog, a constant is trying to find enjoyable places to walk said dog. We recommend the Ulladulla Harbour fossil walk. The 500 metre walk along the naturally formed rock platforms at Ulladulla Harbour is home to an abundance of 270 million-year-old marine invertebrate fossils, just waiting for you to discover (at low tide). Our suggestion is to visit the free Fossil Centre for information on the fossils and a map before doing the walk. There is also the Brodie Park Geological Walk overlooking the harbour with information on the history of the earth if you would like to lengthen your walk.
Kiama Lighthouse and Blowhole
Kiama | Kiama Region
Kiama Harbour is incredibly scenic, home to the famous Kiama Lighthouse and Kiama Blowhole, surrounded by lush green grass and uninterrupted sea views. A lovely place to wander with your dog, take photos of the lighthouse and experience the natural wonder that is the blowhole. Best on days the seas are rough and the tide is high, listen for the ‘whomp’ sound, and feel the roar beneath your feet before the seawater sprays high into the air. It is so much fun.
Related read: Dog Friendly Kiama Things To Do
Merimbula Boardwalk
Merimbula | Sapphire Coast
Roam lakeside past mangroves and oyster farms on the dog friendly Merimbula Boardwalk. The nearly 3.5 kilometre track is a lovely leisurely walk in Merimbula. The scenery is beautiful.
Orange World
Mildura | Mallee Region
A working 50 acre citrus farm, Orange World is perhaps unexpectedly a fun destination. There is an everything-citrus theme cafe and gift shop (dogs not allowed inside). The highlight is the informative and dog-friendly Tractor Train Orchard Guided Tour through the orchards.
Sculpture Down the Lachlan
Forbes to Condobolin |
Towering gigantic sculptures bring art and nature together along the Lachlan River between Forbes and Condobolin for 100 kilometres via the Lachlan Valley Way. Start by checking out the small sculptures scattered throughout the township of Forbes. Then follow the art trail to Condobalin and also check out the artworks at Utes in the Paddock.
Related read: Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail listed in post on 30 Dog Friendly Queensland Things to Do
Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House
Port Jackson | Sydney City
The two most iconic Sydney landmarks and you can take your dog! Well, walking your dog across the bridge along the pedestrian pathway is allowed. We recommend walking the 1.5 kilometre (one way) path on the eastern side (outside of peak hour) as it offers the best views of the city and harbour.
As for the Opera House, a visit to Sydney is not complete without seeing those towering white sails covered in tiles for yourself. Dogs cannot go inside the Opera House, but the forecourt is dog friendly. It is a buzz to be there with your dog.
The Farm
Byron Bay | Northern NSW
Some people go to The Farm for coffee and food served at the cafe and restaurant. Others go to walk the 1 kilometre track around the farm. Your dog is welcome to do both. We recommend seeing the farm animals – the hairy coos and piglets are adorable and visiting the macadamia orchard where you can collect and crack nuts to eat.
Urunga Boardwalk
Urunga | Mid North Coast
A nearly one kilometre boardwalk out over the wetlands and mangroves, ending at a stunning dog friendly beach also ideal for swimming, Urunga Boardwalk is an exceptional place to walk your dog. We highly recommend sunrise and sunset for the most scenic views from the boardwalk or during the day, take the time to stop along the way to see what creatures you can spot.
V Wall Outdoor Gallery
Nambucca Heads | Mid North Coast
Nambucca Head breakwall is a one-of-a-kind outdoor art gallery that is open to anyone adding their artistic contribution if you can find a rock not yet painted. The breakwall overlooking the Nambucca River and estuary is a pleasable place to walk your dog while checking out the artworks of varying skill levels, all telling a story. Today, the V or Vee Wall is one of Nambucca Heads most known tourist attractions.
I have done my best to find as many dog friendly tours and attractions in NSW to add to this list. Please let me know if I have missed any.
Safe travels with your dog.
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