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For your map of Orange visit this Link.
Welcome to the Colour City Orange
Located just three and a half hours from Sydney and Canberra in Central New South Wales, Orange is the ideal destination for families. Orange boasts a wonderful balance of family lifestyle and has all the benefits of City life. Orange is rich in history, heritage and culture with a clean crisp environment in which you can escape, relax and refresh yourself with plenty to do for every one. Please find below a directory of fun, recreational and educational activities to do in Orange. Now all you need to do is book your holiday in pack your bags and we look forward to seeing you soon.
FREE AND FUN THINGS FOR FAMILIES TO DO!
Next to the Orange Botanic Gardens on Kearneys Drive stands a retreat for children to have fun and enjoy themselves. The Adventure Playground is built from timber and was constructed in October 2002 by the Orange Community. This was a huge project built with the help of 1200 volunteers.
There are several themes to this playground they are a farm tractor, rock walls, a rocket and a tree house. There are swings, slides, platforms, tunnels and sway bridges. Play equipment is suitable for toddlers up to teens and is divided into two separate areas.
There are also activities for children with special needs giving them the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities and the environment. The park has shade structures, electronic BBQ's, plenty of seating and picnic areas, disabled access, parking and toilets. Within easy access there is a caf← and the Orange Botanical Gardens.
Anzac BMX Track
Anzac BMX track is located on the corner of March and Winter street where the newly built competitive/ recreational BMX Track is located. Test out your riding skills, timing and fitness levels at this state of the art BMX Track.
John Lomas Skate Park
Moulder park, corner of Anson and Warrendine Streets, Orange. The Skate Park, which was listed on a major web page, was at one time rated the 10th in Australia and 2nd in NSW- certainly the comments from everyone that use it are that "it is the best!" Test your bike and skateboarding skills at the John Lomas Skate Park which is in close proximity to the velodrome, and local aquatic centre.
Elephant Park
A fun park with plenty of activities for all to do. There are BBQ facilities with picnic areas, wide-ranging play equipment which is shaded, cycle or walking tracks. Located within Moulder park off Woodward Road. This park is located in close proximity to the Orange City Council Pool, Piltcher park which is great for ball games, frizbies and flying kites and the velodrome, netball courts and John Lomas skate park.
Orange Botanical Gardens
Orange Botanical Garden is located next to the Adventure Playground in Hill Street Orange. There are several themed gardens with plenty to see and do for the whole family. Visit the plant stall and call into see the Bonsai House on the first Sunday of each month and while you are there stop and enjoy morning tea.
Guided walks 8.30am The Bird walk and 10am Gardens walk again on the first Sunday of every month. Guided walks are free and group guided walks can be arranged at other times by appointment. For further details contact Neil Bollinger Ph 6393 8680 or Margaret Weaver Ph 63623056.
Self guided walking brochures are available at the gardens entrance. The Country walk offers all the pleasures of a stroll through varying landscapes. Features of the walk include-original homestead garden, billabong, exotic and indigenous woodlands, heritage orchard including historic apple varieties, heritage rose garden set below the country church, analemmatic sundial (human involvement sundial) and the Federation Arch. Plenty to do for everyone in your family and be sure to call across and visit the Adventure Play ground within walking distance.
Cook Park
Centrally located just three blocks west of the Post Office along Summer Street can be found a park that truly caters for people of all ages. One of the spectacular sights of Cook Park is the changing colours during the autumn season. Between February and May each year, hundreds of begonias bloom in the Blowes Conservatory.
Other attractions are the historic trees dating back to the 1880's, duck ponds, and the popular latticed fernery with many interesting plants. There are heritage buildings surrounding this park and within the park swings, and bird aviaries can be found. There are also plenty of picnic tables, a sunken rose garden, Fountain and Bandstand.
The Guildry is situated within the park and has many fine examples of local arts and crafts both on show and for sale. At the front gate there are self guided walking trail leaflets available, the Dinosaur Trail is sure to be a big hit with the children as there is a bit of searching and reading to do.
Robertson Park
Located in the centre of Orange along Summer street is a park that boasts beautiful gardens, a bandstand, picnic facilities, a Cenotaph, the Boree War memorial, and extensive plantings of exotic trees. The Sir Neville Howse VC memorial which was designed by local artist Les Quick can also be found in Robertson Park.
To the north of Robertson park is the Sister Cities Garden. Orange has four Sister Cities- Ushiku, Japan; Orange, California; Timaru, New Zealand and Mt Hagen, Papua New Guinea. There are four semi-circular garden beds which contain plants from the countries of the four Sister Cities.
Memorial To Banjo Paterson
Situated near the Sister Cities Garden and along side of the Tourist Information Centre in Byng street is the A B (Banjo) Paterson Memorial designed by Reuben Buesnel. There is a talking book which gives a narration on the life of Banjo Paterson together with excerpts of Banjo's poetry.
The memorial forms a fitting monument to the achievements of one of Orange's most honoured sons. Orange is proud to be the birthplace of this great Australian and the memorial commemorating his achievements and origin forms a lasting tribute. Well worth a visit to learn about some of the history of Orange.
Library - Story Time
Orange City Library- Story time at the Library. Join in the fun of story time and be involved in a simple craft activity designed for Preschoolers. The SESSIONS ARE FREE and no bookings are required. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (Tuesdays program is repeated on Wednesday and Thursday) during school term at 11am. For further information please contact the Library on 63938132
Orange Art Gallery
The Orange Regional Gallery is a fine example of sophisticated art nestled in the heart of the country. At any one time the Gallery may be exhibiting local artists, national exhibitions or some of the worldメs finest artists. The Orange Regional Gallery has three galleries and a fabulous gift shop. The gallery can offer travelling exhibitions. Corner of Byng and Peisley Street situated in the Civic Square, Orange. Opening hours: 10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and 12pm-4pm Sundays and Public Holidays. For further information Ph 6393 8136
Mt Canobolas
Located 12km south-west of Orange on the Lake Canobolas Road (off Cargo Road). Mount Canobolas State Recreation Area features spectacular views from the highest point in the Central West. Tall and majestic Mount Canobolas, an ancient volcano, stands 1395 meters above sea level and is often capped with snow in winter. About 11-13 million years before present Mount Canobolas was an aggressive, living volcano. Mount Canobolas is a member of an extensive volcanic chain, stretching along the eastern sea border of Australia for almost 3000km.
This is an area to be enjoyed by the whole family with a great deal of history to be learnt. There are several walking trails, camping areas, Federal Falls and spectacular views from all the lookouts. There are also plenty of picnic areas to enjoy with wood and electric BBQ's available. Toilets are located at the base of the mountain.
Lake Canobolas
Apex playground along with Lake Canobolas reserve is situated at the foot of Mt Canobolas. There is a large tranquil lake that provides a range of activities which is complimented with the changing seasons. There is also a Caf← in close proximity.
The features of Apex playground is the modern play equipment with a nautical theme. There is a large cableway (flying fox) for the adventurous along with water features with bridges and ponds. Coin operated BBQメs, picnic areas, toilets and cycle ways are also available.
Features of the lake are the walking trails, sail boating and canoeing on the lake, fishing and swimming. There are two pontoons midway for swimmers who want to do the distance across the lake. The lake is regularly stocked with trout species making an ideal fishermans delight.
You can have the chance to walk across the top of the damn wall at any time and visit the Meadow Creek Pump house on the eastern side of the lake. This building has been restored to near original condition after being disused for over 40 years. The Pump house is open daily and an information brochure is available in the Pump house, at the Lake Canobolas cafe or from the Visitors Information Centre Byng Street Orange.
When out on the walking trails keep your eyes peeled because there is an abundance of bird life, water fowl and native fauna. For the keen eyes you may get the opportunity to spot echidnas, wallabies or a variety of lizards.
Gosling Creek
Located to the South East of Orange on the Bloomfield road (off Forest Road). This reserve features sealed shared pedestrian/cycle paths with connections to district pathways, including Sir Jack Brabham Park. Facilities in the reserve provides walking tracks, cycle tracks, picnic grounds, fishing, Bird Hides, childrens playground equipment catering for climbing, spinning and balancing activities and public amenities. In the future there is also a proposed canoe launch and swimming beach.
The reservoir is regularly stocked with Golden Perch (Yellow Belly) and Trout for fishing, which is permitted from the foreshores. NSW fisheries regulations apply. There are large open spaces which can accommodate ball games, Frisbee throwing and kite flying.
Cycle Ways
Orange has available bike lanes, on road bicycle facilities and off road cycle ways. The wearing of a helmet is the LAW and applies to all cyclists riding on public roads or in public places. Some of the bike tracks include Gosling Creek and Forest Road Orange. Orange City Council Tourist Information Centre has available a map which identifies cycle lanes and pathways. Visit the Tourism site.
Fishing
Lake Canobolas is regularly stocked with trout species making it an ideal fishermans delight. Lake Canobolas Road (Off Cargo Road), Orange.
Another place for fishing is Gosling Creek located on the Bloomfield Road (Off Forest Road) Orange. The reservoir is regularly stocked with Golden Perch (Yellow Belly) and Trout for fishing, which is permitted from the foreshores. NSW fisheries regulations apply.
For fishing enquiries contact: Website or 1300 369 365
For further information on places to visit with things to see and do in Orange be sure to visit the Tourist Information site www.orange.nsw.gov.au or phone 1800 069 466
If you wish to be added to the Friendly Family Attractions Page forward an email with details to
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Conditions do apply.
Walking Trails
Walks at Orange Botanic Gardens
Next to the Orange Adventure Playground Kearneys Drive Orange there are several walks at the Botanical Gardens. On the first Sunday of each month guided tours are available by the Friends of the Orange Botanic Gardens for FREE. Duration of a walk is an hour with two to choose from. 8.30am Bird walk or 10am Gardens walk 10am-12md Morning Teas 10am-12md Bonsai House open 10am-12md plant stall
Group guided walks can be arranged at other times by appointment. Self guided walk brochures are available at the gardens entrance. Enquiries Neil Bollinger Ph 6393 8680 or Margaret Weaver Ph 63623056. Walking & Cycling Trail Orange to Lake Canobolas Reserve The trail commences at the intersection of Ploughmans Lane and Canobolas Road where it follows minor rural roads. The road shoulder is used along Canobolas Road, Mt Pleasant Lane and Feathers Lane, which is a relatively flat section before climbing a hill on Woods Lane. At the end of Woods Lane the trail follows a Crown Road Reserve to Molong Creek approximately 500m north of Lake Canobolas Reserve. The trail from the end of Woods lane to Lake Canobolas Reserve has a gravel surface suitable for mountain bikes pedestrians and buggy type strollers.
At this point the trail crosses a suspension bridge spanning Molong Creek which leads to an elevated boardwalk constructed over a native grass wetland. Just prior to a small timber bridge crossing a gully, there is a choice of trails to Lake Canobolas Reserve. Once you arrive at Lake Canobolas Reserve there are plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. Have a BBQ there, eat at the caf← or bring a picnic lunch.
Other Heritage Walks Orange City Council has developed a series of Heritage walks. Make time to enjoy a self guided walking tour of either Orange City, East Orange, Spring Hill and the Lucknow Heritage Walks and discover the history and heritage of the area. The Orange Visitors Information Centre holds brochures on all of the walks.
Great Australian Bushwalks
This annual community event offers 120 free guided bushwalks in spectacular locations around Australia - the perfect chance to try bushwalking with Australia's leading community bushwalking organisations. Visit their site to learn more Great Australian Bushwalks
ACTIVITIES THAT COST
Play on Indoor
Plenty of fun for every one with sports competitions or mum and dad sit back and relax with a coffee while the children play. Children can let off steam while you enjoy a coffee and yummy home made goodies. There is plenty of room in the clean and safe payground open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm. Barrett Court, Orange For further details on sports competitions and special offers ph 6362 0313 or visit their website www.playonindoor.com.au
OZ Kidz Playcentre
Oz Kidz Playcentre is a childrenメs indoor playground with a cafe and birthday party area. It has reverse cycle air conditioning making it ideally suited to Orange's cold winter climate. We aim to provide a clean, safe and happy environment for children to play and a warm, friendly and relaxing atmosphere for parents. We are located at 179 Byng Street, Orange (Just over the railway line in the Old Woollen Mills) and can be contacted on Ph 6363 1081. Our business hours are 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (closed Thursday during school term) and 12pm to 5pm on Sunday.
Orange Tenpin Bowling
ORANGE TENPIN BOWL the place to go for great family fun. Tenpin bowling offers hours of fun for all ages, we cater from the very young to very senior - we have light weight bowling balls, bumper lanes, fully automatic scoring, all equipment supplied. Pool tables, Amusement games, Child friendly Cafe within the centre catering for drinks, snacks or meals or just a great cup of coffee. Plus air conditioned comfort all year round. Best of all our friendly staff love meeting people and offering genuine service with a smile. Corner of Byng and Seymour Streets Orange For further information Ph 6362 5466 or visit their website www.orangetenpinbowl.com.au
Laser Skirmish
A fun and friendly environment that challenges players as they work together in the most realistic combat simulation to date. The best alternative to the highly restricted and controversial paintball, Laser Skirmish is an outdoor combat simulation that combines the best aspects of Laser tag and paintball in a fusion that results in fun, realistic combat that anyone can play safely. For further information and bookings Ph 6362 9460 or 0403 677 770 visit Laser Skirmish website.
The Orange Society Of Model Trains- Minature Railway
A large number of parents and children come for rides each month on the Public Running Day and the facility is unique to Orange. It provides much enjoyment to all at an exceptionally low cost. Come and enjoy a picnic in the park and a ride on the miniature steam locomotives at Matthews Park, corner of Anson and Moulder street. The SECOND SATURDAY of each month. Rides commence at 1pm. Rides cost $1 each for an adult and child. Contact person Greg Bird Ph 62629634 For more details visit: your guide site
PCYC
Welcome to the Orange PCYC. We are located right in the middle of the CBD. We have many activities for children and adults including programs geared to the needs of the local young people. Orange PCYC offer a huge variety of activities ranging from music lessons and ballroom dancing to boxing and gymnastics.
Opening times and Fees: Monday 9am-7pm Tuesday 9am-6pm Wednesday 9am-6pm Thursday 9am-7pm Friday 9am-9pm Saturday Gymnastics only Sunday and Public Holidays closed Fees $10 Senior membership $5 Junior membership
Orange City Council Pool
Cnr Hill and Warrendine Street, Orange. Ph 63938690
Indoor Heated Pool Orange ExServices Club
241 Anson Street, Orange. Ph 6362 2666
Indoor Heated Pool Fitness Perfection
168 March Street, Orange. Ph 6362 6195
Orange Civic Theatre (Ticketek)
Civic Square, Cnr Byng St & Lords Place, Orange. Orange Civic Theatre boasts a 500 seat auditorium, spacious foyers and well catered facilities. The Theatre built in 1976, offers a diverse annual subscription season and hosts many local, national and international touring productions. The theatre is accessible to people in wheelchairs and also provides for the needs of people with a hearing impairment. Box office hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm and 1 hour prior to performances. For details on what is playing visit www.orange.nsw.gov.auor Ph 6393 8111
Resource Recovery Centre
The Ophir Road Resource Recovery Centre (traditionally known as the "dump" or the "tip") may be the last place youメd expect to find an exciting public art project put on display, but a visit will prove otherwise. "Waste Not" was a community-based public art skill development project that used found objects, recovered metal, timber, plastic and other sculptural materials to build an outdoor art gallery out of recycled materials. The Resource Recovery Centre embodies worldメs best practice in waste management
Rotary Sunday Markets
An enjoyable morning and you never know what you might findナ. There are numerous stalls with craft items, local produce-fruit, vegetable and honey. You can find old wares, flowers, plants, shrubs, specialty products, toys, books, clothing and much more. Donメt be concerned if you haven't eaten as a food and refreshment van is available if you should be hungry. The Rotary Markets are managed by the Rotary Club of Orange and are located in the undercover K Mart car park off Byng Street in Orange. Every Sunday (except Christmas day) at 8am to midday you will find the markets open. Entry by gold coin donation. For further information contact Glyn Carpenter on Ph (H) 6362 3758 (W) 6363 1111.
Orange Regional Farmers Markets
Taste the difference of great regional produce and enjoy cooking classes with children. Orange Farmers' Market Children's Cooking Classes Commencing at the March 11 market, the class will feature fun, easy recipes using seasonal local produce and be presented by local chefs. The next class will be held on 9th September. Class size is limited, cost is $5 per child. Depending on the demand two sessions may be held during the morning. For further details and bookings; Contact Jane Arnott on Ph 6362 0039 Childrens classes are the 2nd Saturday of the Month at Orange Showground 8.30am-12 noon. Entry by gold coin donation. Agricultural Pavilion- Orange Showground, Leeds Parade, Orange. Visit their website www.orangefarmersmarket.org.au
Piccadilli Family Amusement Centre
In addition to the video games we previously had, we now also provide Spacezone Laser Tag games, Internet Access/Compuer use, a Cafe and a variety of packages for birthday parties.
Opening Hours Monday - Wednesday 9.30am - 8pm Thursday 9.30am - 9pm Friday and Saturday 9.30am - 10pm Sunday 9.30am - 8pm
Address: 150 Summer Street, Orange, NSW 2800 Phone: (02) 6361 7373 Contact: George Kastrounis (although all staff are able to assist with general enquiries)
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Totally Tennis
Indoor centre 5 indoor courts a pro shop and qualified coach for training. Palmer Street, Orange. For further information Ph 6362 9811
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Orange Ex-Services Club Tennis
Wade Park, Warrendine Street, Orange. Ph 6362 8020
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