Forbes Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Forbes, New South Wales, Australia. Our travel guide offers insider tips on the food and drink scene, hiking and biking routes, must-see attractions, and much more.


Introduction to Forbes

Forbes is a charming town located in the Central West region of New South Wales, Australia. Known for its rich heritage, natural beauty, and friendly locals, Forbes has become a go-to destination for travelers looking for a unique cultural experience. With a population of just over 8,000 people, Forbes offers a laid-back and relaxing vacation full of memorable experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Forbes

Forbes has a plethora of fascinating attractions for travelers to explore. Here is a comprehensive list of our top recommendations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Forbes Historical Museum
  • Ben Hall’s Cave
  • Forbes Heritage Trail
  • Jemalong Regional Education Centre and Museum

Natural Attractions of Forbes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Forbes
  • Gum Swamp & Bird Hide
  • Forbes Water Tower War Memorial
  • McFeeters Motor Museum

Hiking/Biking Routes of Forbes

For travelers looking to get active and explore the great outdoors, Forbes has a range of stunning hiking and biking trails.

  • Jubilee Park Walking Track
  • Algona Walk
  • Kiacatoo (Dog Rock) Trail

Best Things to Do in Forbes: Activities and Tours

From wine tasting to hot air ballooning, Forbes offers a wide range of activities and tours for all types of travelers.

  • Hot Air Ballooning
  • Forbes Flatlands Hang Gliding Championships
  • Wine Tasting at the Forbes Wine & Food Festival
  • Tractor Tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Forbes

Here is a recommended week-long itinerary for travelers looking to make the most out of their time in Forbes:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Forbes Historical Museum, followed by a walk on the Forbes Heritage Trail
2 Explore the Algona Walk and Gum Swamp & Bird Hide
3 Hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscapes of Forbes
4 Wine tasting at Forbes Wine & Food Festival
5 Hike the Kiacatoo (Dog Rock) Trail
6 Visit the McFeeters Motor Museum and Ben Hall’s Cave
7 Tractor Tours and local shopping for souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Forbes

Forbes is well known for its delicious cuisine, made from local and fresh ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken schnitzel with creamy mushroom sauce
  • Steak and ale pie
  • Grilled lamb with mint sauce

Local Beverages

  • Wine from Printhie Wines
  • Craft beer from Forbes Brewery

Where to Stay in Forbes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Forbes has a range of accommodations to suit every budget and taste.

  • Adrian Motel
  • EconoLodge Ben Hall Motor Inn
  • Forbes Victoria Inn

What to Buy in Forbes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Forbes offers a range of unique and locally made souvenirs and products for travelers to bring home.

  • Hand-crafted pottery and ceramics from the Jemalong Gallery
  • Locally produced wines and beers
  • Forbes Historical Museum merchandise

Local Culture and Customs of Forbes

Forbes is a friendly and laid-back community, where visitors are always welcomed with open arms. The town has a rich Aboriginal heritage and is home to many traditional Aboriginal customs and ceremonies.

Best Time to Visit Forbes

Forbes can be visited any time of year, but the best time to visit is during the mild climate months of March to May or September to November. The town also hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year, making it a great time to experience the local culture.

Do’s and Don’ts of Forbes

Do:

  • Take part in cultural celebrations and traditions
  • Visit the Forbes Historical Museum and other local attractions
  • Respect the natural environment and its wildlife

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Litter or harm the natural environment
  • Engage in illegal or disruptive behavior

Safety and Health

Safety in Forbes

Forbes is a safe and friendly town, with low crime rates and a welcoming community.

Health in Forbes

As with any travel destination, it is important to ensure you have up-to-date vaccinations and comprehensive medical insurance. Forbes has a range of local medical facilities and practitioners to assist with any health concerns during your visit.

Getting to Forbes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Forbes can be accessed through a range of transportation options, and is located a 4-hour drive from Sydney.

Airports Near Forbes

  • Orange Regional Airport
  • Dubbo City Regional Airport

Bus Stations Near Forbes

  • Forbes Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rental services are available in Forbes
  • Taxis and other ride-share services

How to Get Around in Forbes

Forbes is a small and easily navigable town, with many attractions within walking distance. Taxis and other transportation services are also available for longer distance travel.

Where to Go Next from Forbes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For travelers looking to continue their exploration of the Central West region, here are some recommended nearby destinations:

  • Parkes
  • Cowra
  • Dubbo

Conclusion

Forbes, New South Wales, Australia, offers a unique and authentic cultural experience for travelers. From its rich heritage to its stunning natural beauty, Forbes has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to make the most out of your visit to Forbes.