Grafton Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque Clarence Valley of the New South Wales region, Grafton is a charming city that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. With its rich heritage and friendly atmosphere, Grafton is a perfect destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of regional Australia.

One of the main attractions in Grafton is the Jacaranda Festival, held annually in late October. During this time, the city's streets are transformed into a mesmerizing sea of purple as the jacaranda trees bloom. The festival features a variety of events, including a grand parade, live music performances, art exhibitions, and food stalls. It is a celebration of Grafton's unique identity and a testament to its status as the "Jacaranda City".

For nature enthusiasts, the Clarence River is a must-visit destination in Grafton. Offering a perfect setting for boating, fishing, and water sports, the river is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a leisurely cruise along the riverbanks and soak in the scenic views of lush greenery and abundant wildlife. The nearby Nymboida National Park is also worth exploring, with its rugged terrain, cascading waterfalls, and numerous walking trails.

History buffs will find plenty to discover in Grafton. The Schaeffer House Museum, a beautifully preserved colonial building, provides a glimpse into the city's past. Step back in time as you explore the rooms filled with period furnishings and artifacts. Another historical gem is the Grafton Bridge, an iconic landmark that spans the Clarence River. Dating back to the late 19th century, this heritage-listed bridge offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Grafton boasts a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The Grafton Regional Gallery showcases an impressive collection of Australian art, including works by renowned artists such as Margaret Olley and Lloyd Rees. The gallery also hosts regular exhibitions, workshops, and events that cater to all ages and interests. For a taste of local flavor, explore the Grafton Regional Library, which houses a vast collection of books and resources that celebrate the region's literary heritage.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Grafton also offers a delightful dining and shopping scene. From quaint cafes serving freshly brewed coffee to boutique shops offering unique handmade crafts, there is something to suit every taste and preference.

Alternative names: Population: 10.5 thous. (2019)Elevation: 26 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 29°41'28"S, 152°56'6"E

Location

New South WalesAustralia

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Grafton Top Attractions

Grafton Attractions - What to See and Explore

Grafton offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Saraton Theatre, Christ Church Cathedral, Grafton Bridge. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Concerts and shows • Cinema • Theater
Saraton Theatre
Saraton Theatre is a heritage-listed theatre at 95 Prince Street, Grafton, Clarence Valley Council, New South Wales, Australia. It now operates both as a cinema and a venue for live performances. The original 1926 building was designed by F. J. Board and built by J.
Church
Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral is a heritage-listed Anglican cathedral complex at Duke Street, Grafton, Clarence Valley Council, New South Wales, Australia. The cathedral was designed by John Horbury Hunt and built from 1874 to 1884 by Reynold Brothers and G. J. T. Lawson.
Bridge
Grafton Bridge
The Grafton Bridge is a heritage-listed bascule truss bridge that carries the Bent Street and North Coast railway line across the Clarence River in Grafton, New South Wales, Australia.

Day trips

Grafton – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Grafton, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Dorrigo Steam Railway and Museum (Dorrigo), Dangar Falls (Dorrigo), History of New Italy (Woodburn).

46 milesS
Museum
Dorrigo Steam Railway and Museum, Dorrigo
The Dorrigo Steam Railway & Museum in Dorrigo, New South Wales, Australia is a large, privately owned collection of railway vehicles and equipment from the railways of New South Wales, covering both Government and private railways.
46 milesS
Natural attraction, Park, Waterfall
Dangar Falls, Dorrigo
The Dangar Falls is a cascade waterfall located across the Bielsdown River about 1.2 km north of Dorrigo in the New England region of New South Wales, Australia. The falls are small, picturesque, and are a popular photographic subject. For a short time after rain, they are quite spectacular.
43 milesNE
Museum
History of New Italy, Woodburn
The history of New Italy, New South Wales dates back to 1882. The historic nature of the New Italy settlement in the Richmond Valley Council in New South Wales, Australia, has been recognised with the listing of much of the settlement on the New South Wales State Heritage Register on 9 August 2002.
31 milesNE
Lighthouse, Vernacular architecture
Clarence River Light, Yamba
Clarence River Light, also known as Yamba Light or Clarence Head Light, is an active lighthouse located on Pilot Hill, a hill in Wooli Park, Yamba, New South Wales, Australia, south of the entrance of Clarence River.
42 milesS
Park, Monuments and statues, Amusement park
Big Banana, Coffs Harbour
The Big Banana is a tourist attraction and amusement park in the city of Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia. The grounds of the park are set amongst a banana plantation, featuring a large walk-through banana. Built in 1964, it was one of Australia's first Big Things.