10 Activities to Do Around Canowindra

Canowindra is one of those rare places that packs an extraordinary amount into a small package. This heritage town in NSW's Central West has become a destination in its own right, drawing visitors for everything from hot air ballooning to world-class dining. Whether you're here for a weekend or just passing through, here are 10 activities that make Canowindra worth a stop — and a stay.

1. Hot Air Ballooning

Canowindra is one of Australia's premier hot air ballooning destinations. The calm morning conditions and stunning Belubula Valley landscape make it ideal for flight. Several operators offer sunrise balloon rides that lift off from the surrounding paddocks and drift over the patchwork of farms, vineyards, and bushland.

The town hosts the annual Canowindra International Balloon Challenge, when dozens of colourful balloons fill the sky. It's a photographer's dream and an experience you'll never forget.

Tip: Book accommodation well in advance — balloon season is Canowindra's busiest time.

2. Visit the Age of Fishes Museum

Canowindra is home to one of the world's most significant fossil fish discoveries. In 1993, a local farmer discovered a rock slab containing perfectly preserved fish fossils dating back 360 million years to the Devonian period.

The Age of Fishes Museum houses these extraordinary specimens and tells the story of Canowindra's prehistoric past. It's a fascinating visit for adults and children alike, and the kind of place that makes you see a small country town in a completely different light.

3. Explore the Orange Wine Region

Just 40 minutes from Canowindra, the Orange wine region is one of NSW's coolest-climate wine areas, known for exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz. The region's elevated position (around 600-900 metres above sea level) creates ideal conditions for complex, elegant wines.

You can spend a full day visiting cellar doors, with dozens of wineries offering tastings and sales. Many also feature restaurants serving seasonal dishes paired with their wines.

Popular wineries near Canowindra include: de Salis, Ross Hill, Patina, Rowlee, and Angullong.

4. Canowindra's Heritage Streetscape

Canowindra's main street, Gaskill Street, is one of the finest heritage streetscapes in regional NSW. Walking down this street is like stepping into a time capsule — the buildings date from the mid-1800s to early 1900s, and many retain their original facades, verandas, and architectural details.

The Old Vic Inn itself has been part of this streetscape since 1865. Take a self-guided heritage walk and read the interpretive signs that tell the story of each building and the people who built them.

5. Art Galleries and Studios

Canowindra has quietly become a hub for the visual arts. The Old Vic Inn itself functions as a gallery, with the entire building dedicated to showcasing work by local and regional artists. You'll find paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media works in every room and hallway.

Beyond the Inn, several studios and galleries are scattered through town, offering visitors the chance to meet working artists and purchase original pieces directly.

6. Social Dancing

Canowindra is home to an active New Vogue and Social Dance Group that holds regular events open to visitors. New Vogue is a distinctly Australian style of ballroom dancing — lively, social, and beginner-friendly.

No partner? No experience? No problem. The group welcomes everyone, and most events include a beginners' lesson before the main dance.

Check the Canowindra New Vogue and Social Dance Group Facebook page for upcoming events.

7. Golf

Canowindra Golf Club offers a welcoming country course with scenic views across the Belubula Valley. It's the kind of relaxed, uncrowded course where you can enjoy a round without the pressures of a city club.

The Central West region also offers several other courses within easy driving distance, making it possible to play a different course each day of a golf weekend.

8. Fishing

The Belubula River and surrounding waterways offer excellent fishing opportunities. Redfin, golden perch (yellowbelly), and Murray cod are all found in the local waters. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying fishing for the first time, the quiet rivers around Canowindra provide a peaceful setting.

Pick up a NSW recreational fishing licence and ask locally for the best spots — everyone has an opinion, and most are happy to share.

9. Attend a Local Event

Canowindra's event calendar is packed throughout the year:

• Balloon festivals — the town's most famous events

• Baroque Music Festival — classical performances in heritage settings

• Canowindra Races — a classic country race day

• Markets and art shows — regular community events

• New Vogue dance nights — social dancing evenings

  
  

Check with the local visitor centre or The Old Vic Inn for events happening during your visit.

10. Simply Slow Down

Sometimes the best activity is no activity at all. Canowindra's pace of life is deliberately, beautifully slow. Sit on the veranda at The Old Vic Inn with a glass of local wine. Watch the light change over Gaskill Street. Chat with locals at the café. Read a book. Do nothing.

In a world that constantly demands your attention, Canowindra gives you permission to stop. That might be the most valuable activity of all.

Plan Your Canowindra Visit

Whether you're here for a balloon festival, a wine weekend, or simply to escape the city, The Old Vic Inn provides the perfect base. Heritage accommodation, licensed dining, and the kind of hospitality that makes you want to stay longer than planned.

Book your stay. Visit oldvicinn.com.au or call 02 6344 1009.