From its picturesque riverbank walks to a buzzing culinary scene, Wagga Wagga has endless appeal. In the heart of the vibrant city, the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens are a joyful respite for locals and visitors alike.

A striking public space located in the Willans Hill Reserve; the 22-acre gardens have a multitude of areas that will charm all ages. Here’s what to see and explore at the beautiful Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens.

What are the highlights of Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens?

The Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens have nine areas, each with their own distinct identity. Meandering pathways connect each section and it’s a pleasure to stroll through at your own pace. The ornate rose garden is awash with pink and crimson in its prime, while the bamboo garden with its gazebo and pond invites a moment of contemplation.

In the northern part of Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens, a unique tree chapel is a literal living place of worship, often used for open air services. Next to it, the camelia garden was created to honour the city’s sister relationship with Kunming, China. Its grand entrance gate, pavilion and marble lanterns transport you to the Far East.

A must-see is the free to enter zoo and aviary. Here, peacocks and chooks roam freely while kangaroos bounce, and llamas play.

What does Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens have to keep kids entertained?

The Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens are fully geared up for kids. To start, there’s the Willans Hill Miniature Railway that chuffs and puffs over 2km through the gardens to and from the Museum of the Riverina. Little ones will love riding on the tiny classic steam engine as it passes through tunnels and woodlands.

Then to let off some further steam, two large adventure playgrounds – one for toddlers and one for older children – come complete with climbing nets, cable rides and labyrinth mazes. Covered BBQs and picnic facilities are available if you fancy making or taking lunch and spending a whole day at the gardens with your family.

What else is there to see and do around Wagga Wagga?

Whether day tripping or making a weekend of it, Wagga Wagga has tonnes to explore. Get acquainted with the city’s past at the Wagga Wagga Rail Heritage Station Museum and the Temora Aviation Museum. See the diverse Riverina arts culture at the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery. Splash around or push out your kayak on the Murrumbidgee River at Riverside: Wagga Beach.

Wagga Wagga is blessed with countless quality makers and producers. Find the best local wines at Borambola Wines’s cellar door, and top regional beers at Thirsty Crow brewpub.

The Wagga Wagga Botanical Gardens at a glance

  • The Wagga Wagga Botanical Gardens are 252km and three hours’ drive from Canberra.
  • The Wagga Wagga Botanical Gardens and zoo are free to visit and open all year round except Christmas Day.
  • Model railway trains run on the first and third Sundays of each month.

Who are the Wagga Wagga Botanical Gardens good for?

Families, retirees, kids of all ages, weddings, and functions.

About the ActewAGL evHub

There are now over 20 models of electric vehicles that can go 400kms in a single battery charge ensuring an EV fits seamlessly into your leisure lifestyle. If you need help to find an EV, finance an EV or charge an EV, then visit the ActewAGL evHub today.

For those with an EV, listed below are the three charging stations along the way to help with planning your trip.

Hotel Realm Canberra
Tesla 2 Plugs 22 kW2 Stations
Tesla Destination

18 National Circuit Canberra 2600 ACT


Gundagai River Camping & Caravan Park
Wall (AU/NZ) 4 Plugs4 Stations
Non-networked

67 Middleton Dr Gundagai 2722 NSW


Wagga Show Grounds
Wall (AU/NZ) 1 Plug1 Station
Non-networked
Three Phase 1 Plug1 Station
Non-networked

39 Bourke St Turvey Park 2650 NSW