When I first planned my road trip through the Southern Tablelands, I saw Goulburn as little more than a convenient pit stop between Sydney and Canberra. I expected a sleepy town, a quick coffee, and back on the road.
Discover new places and experiences
But Goulburn surprised me.
This charming, history-soaked city turned out to be a vibrant hub of heritage buildings, wild landscapes, quirky roadside attractions, and some of the most sincere hospitality I’ve ever experienced. Over a few days of exploring on foot, on wheels, and occasionally with muddy boots, I came to realise something: Goulburn isn’t a place you pass through—it’s a destination worth staying for.
So here it is—my curated guide to 10 must-visit attractions in Goulburn, each one described with the kind of raw, real experience only a backpack, camera, and open mind can give you.
1. The Big Merino
📍Location: 98 Hume St, Goulburn NSW 2580
The Ewe Can’t Miss This Icon
Let’s be honest—no trip to Goulburn is complete without paying homage to Rambo, the famous Big Merino. Towering at 15.2 metres high and weighing over 97 tonnes, this colossal concrete sheep is a quirky Aussie icon that has become a rite of passage for anyone traveling along the Hume Highway.
When I first caught sight of it from the road, I couldn’t help but laugh. It’s absurd, it’s over-the-top, and it’s absolutely brilliant. But the moment I stood beneath its weathered concrete legs and craned my neck to the top, I realized: this wasn’t just a roadside gimmick—it was a proud nod to the heritage of the region.
Why It’s More Than Just a Giant Sheep
Goulburn was once known as the fine wool capital of the world, and Rambo stands as a tribute to that wool-rich legacy. Inside the ram’s belly (yes, inside), you’ll find a compact but informative museum that details the history of Australia’s wool industry—from the first Merino flocks to modern-day shearing techniques. I spent a solid 20 minutes reading the panels and chatting with a volunteer who explained how wool helped shape Goulburn’s economy.
Then there’s the view. At the top, through the glass in the ram’s eyes, you’re rewarded with a surprisingly serene outlook over the Goulburn plains and the town below. It’s weirdly poetic.
Highlights
- Wool Museum: Compact but full of charm and detail.
- Gift Shop: A treasure trove of locally made products—think ultra-soft merino wool scarves, lanolin creams, hand-knitted baby wear, and of course, sheep plushies that are impossible to resist.
Entry Fee: Free
Must-Buy Souvenir: A pair of premium Merino wool socks or a cuddly sheep plushie for the kids (or yourself—no judgment).
Tip: Come mid-morning when the light hits the concrete just right for photos. Skip weekends if you want an uninterrupted selfie—this spot gets busloads of tour groups.
2. Belmore Park
📍Location: Corner of Auburn and Market Streets, Goulburn NSW 2580
A Victorian Oasis in the Middle of Town
After a day of walking around Goulburn’s historic CBD, I found solace in Belmore Park. Think wide lawns, floral gardens, a band rotunda, heritage statues, and water fountains—all surrounded by leafy pathways. It’s the perfect place for a slow moment, a picnic, or a sunset photo shoot.
What Makes It Special
- Often hosts weekend markets, buskers, and art displays
- Beautiful rose gardens in bloom from late spring to early autumn
Entry Fee: Free
Activities: Reading, sketching, picnicking, or people-watching
Tip: Grab a pastry from Trappers Bakery before heading here—best park bench breakfast ever.
3. Rocky Hill War Memorial and Museum
📍Location: Memorial Rd, Goulburn NSW 2580
Goulburn’s Towering Tribute to the Brave
Climbing up to Rocky Hill is more than a workout—it’s a quiet, contemplative journey through history. The War Memorial tower stands tall over the city and offers panoramic views that left me breathless. Inside the museum, I was moved by personal stories, wartime artefacts, and touching tributes.
Features
- Observation tower with 360° views
- Museum featuring uniforms, letters, photographs
Entry Fee: \$10 AUD for adults, \$5 for kids
Activities: Guided tours available on weekends
Tip: Go around 4:30 pm for golden-hour photography and quiet reflection.
4. Goulburn Historic Waterworks
📍Location: Marsden Weir, Fitzroy St, Goulburn NSW 2580
Where Steam Still Lives
This riverside gem took me by surprise. An original 1885 steam-powered water pumping station? Yes, and it’s still operational! On select weekends, they fire up the machinery—and the rumble, hiss, and clank take you right back in time.
Why It’s Special
- National Trust-listed site
- One of the few still-functioning steam waterworks in the world
Entry Fee: \$6 AUD adults, \$3 kids, Family pass \$15
Souvenir: Vintage-style postcards from the gift shop
Tip: Visit during “Steam Days” for the full sensory experience. Check dates on their official website.
5. St. Saviour’s Cathedral
📍Location: 170 Bourke St, Goulburn NSW 2580
A Gothic Masterpiece
St. Saviour’s isn’t just a cathedral—it’s a sacred experience. Designed by Edmund Blacket (a colonial architecture legend), this cathedral stuns with soaring ceilings, stained glass, and organ music that echoes through your soul.
I sat in silence for almost 20 minutes inside. It wasn’t even Sunday, but the peace was palpable.
Highlights
- Hand-carved sandstone exterior
- Peaceful interior with gorgeous stained-glass windows
Entry Fee: Free, though donations appreciated
Activities: Attend a choir rehearsal or special service
Tip: Photographers—come during the early morning for dreamy interior light.
6. Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre
📍Location: 12 Braidwood Rd, Goulburn NSW 2580
All Aboard the Nostalgia Express
Whether or not you’re a train buff, the Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre is genuinely fascinating. I climbed inside decommissioned engines, peeked into antique carriages, and even chatted with a volunteer restoring an old sleeper car.
Features
- Historic roundhouse
- Restored locomotives and carriages
Entry Fee: \$10 AUD, guided tours available
Must-Buy: Model trains and conductor caps in the museum shop
Tip: Best visited in the morning before it gets too hot—many exhibits are outdoors.
7. Wollondilly River Walkway
📍Location: Start near Marsden Weir, Fitzroy St
Goulburn’s Nature Escape
This gentle riverside trail winds along the Wollondilly River and offers a dose of nature right on the edge of town. I walked it barefoot in parts—sun on my face, camera in hand, birdsong overhead. Pure peace.
Why Go?
- Great for families, joggers, or casual strollers
- Occasional art installations and nature signage
Entry Fee: Free
Activities: Walking, photography, bike riding
Tip: Bring a reusable bottle—the park has refill stations and lots of shaded rest stops.
8. Goulburn Regional Art Gallery
📍Location: 184 Bourke St, Goulburn NSW 2580
Art in the Heartland
This modern, light-filled space features rotating exhibitions of contemporary Australian art and some thought-provoking installations. It’s small, but mighty—perfect for a 45-minute cultural dive.
What to Expect
- Rotating exhibitions of regional and national artists
- Art programs and workshops
Entry Fee: Free
Activities: Drop-in art sessions on select weekends
Tip: Check their Instagram for exhibit previews—it’s surprisingly aesthetic!
9. Garroorigang Historic Home
📍Location: 209-213 Garroorigang Rd, Goulburn NSW 2580
Step Into the Colonial Past
This family-run, still-lived-in 1850s homestead is one of the most authentic historic homes I’ve visited. It hasn’t been overly “museum-ified.” You walk through the rooms and feel like the original owners just stepped out.
Highlights
- Guided tours with passionate hosts
- Original furnishings, family portraits, handwritten letters
Entry Fee: \$15 AUD
Souvenir: A handmade bookmark or postcard
Tip: Check open hours—they don’t open daily. Tours are intimate and packed with stories.
10. Bungonia National Park (A Short Drive from Goulburn)
📍Location: Bungonia Lookdown Rd, Bungonia NSW 2580 (approx. 35 min drive)
Wild Landscapes & Caves
Want to stretch your legs in raw Aussie bushland? This is the spot. Bungonia is dramatic—deep gorges, limestone caves, sweeping views, and kangaroos galore. I hiked the Green Track and stood stunned at Bungonia Lookdown. It felt like staring into the Earth’s open mouth.
Activities
- Hiking, canyoning, cave exploration
- Birdwatching, rock climbing
Entry Fee: \$8 AUD per vehicle (via NSW National Parks)
Tip: Bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water. Book guided cave tours in advance through NSW Parks Online.
Handy Travel Tools for Booking in Australia
If you’re planning your own Goulburn adventure, here are the platforms I rely on:
🛏️ Accommodation
- Booking.com – Best for flexible cancellation
- Wotif – Often has Aussie-only discounts and bundles
- Airbnb – Great for staying in Goulburn’s historic homes
✈️ Flights & Packages
- Skyscanner – My go-to for cheapest domestic flights
- Jetstar & Rex Airlines – Affordable regional options
🎫 Attractions & Tours
- Klook and GetYourGuide – Both great for day trips and activities
- NSW National Parks App – Essential for parks like Bungonia
🍽️ Restaurants
- Zomato, Quandoo, and TheFork – Good for checking reviews and making bookings in Goulburn and beyond
A Town That Grows on You
Goulburn may not have the razzle-dazzle of Australia’s tourist hotspots—but that’s exactly why I fell for it. It’s authentic, unpretentious, and filled with beauty if you’re willing to slow down and look.
So don’t just pass through Goulburn next time. Park the car. Order the pie. Climb the tower. Stare at the sheep. And let this town surprise you the way it surprised me.
