Things To Do
in Grafton
Grafton is a riverside town in New South Wales' Northern Rivers region, known for its jacaranda-lined streets and colonial charm. It sits on the Clarence River, serving as a gateway to the Clarence Valley's beaches, rainforests, and scenic drives. The town exudes a relaxed, friendly vibe with a strong arts and events scene, including the famous Jacaranda Festival.
Visitors enjoy a mix of historic architecture, riverfront parks, and easy access to outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the scenic streets of Grafton adorned with vibrant jacaranda blossoms. Attend the festival's opening ceremony to immerse yourself in the local culture and music. Don’t forget to grab breakfast at a local café, where you can indulge in delicious Australian cuisine.
Spend the afternoon exploring market stalls filled with artisan crafts and local produce, soaking in the festive atmosphere. Join guided tours that showcase the rich history and beautiful architecture of Grafton's heritage-listed buildings. You may also want to participate in some family-friendly activities, including craft workshops and games for the kids.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Grafton's acclaimed restaurants serving regional specialties. Take a leisurely walk along the Clarence River, where you can watch the sunset reflecting on the water. If you're up for it, catch live music performances at local venues that embody the spirit of the festival.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk through the Grafton Regional Botanical Gardens, taking in the variety of native plants and serene landscapes. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including various bird species that call the gardens home. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic breakfast surrounded by nature.
After lunch, explore the diverse walking trails that wind through the gardens, each leading to picturesque viewpoints or hidden nooks. Participate in a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the environment. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to cover more ground.
End your day with a sunset visit to the nearby, stunning lookout over Grafton. Enjoy a homemade dinner at your accommodation or visit a local eatery for a taste of Grafton’s culinary highlights. Wrap up with stargazing, as the clear skies provide a perfect opportunity to admire the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚌Public transport fare (single trip) | $2-4 |
| 🏠Rent for 1BR apartment in city centre | $900-1400 per month |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, friendly town with easy access to nature
- Strong arts scene and seasonal festivals
- Good value for money and diverse dining options
- Beautiful jacaranda blooms and scenic riverfront
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services and options require personal transport
- Distances to larger capitals mean longer drives for certain experiences
Places to Visit in Grafton
Visit one of these nice places.
A canopy of purple blossoms in season, creating a dramatic early-morning street scene.
Golden hour over the river with reflections off the historic bridge and embankments.
A photogenic urban corner with architectural lines and rotating public art.
Historic stone and verandah-adorned streets that showcase Grafton’s heritage.
Food in Grafton
Grafton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh barramundi fillet grilled or pan-seared with a lemon myrtle nuance and a light citrus beurre blanc; best enjoyed at riverside eateries.
Must-Try!
Prawns prepared in garlic butter or herb sauces, highlighting the local seafood heritage.
A hearty Aussie pie with rich gravy and flaky pastry, a staple at local pubs.
Classic Australian desserts; lamingtons are chocolate-coated sponge with coconut, pavlova features crisp meringue and berries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and regional treats, typically held on Saturdays.
Seasonal evening market with local food stalls, street eats, and live music, perfect for a relaxed stroll after dark.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Australians are informal and value friendliness; queue politely and use please and thank you.
Ask before photographing people; be mindful of Aboriginal people and sacred sites; modest dress in religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Grafton
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is common in nicer venues.
Card payments are widely accepted; contactless options (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common, and cash is still accepted but increasingly less used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Jacaranda blooms light up the streets from around September to November; warm days and mild evenings—perfect for strolling and outdoor markets.
Warm to hot days with higher humidity and the chance of afternoon storms; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan river or shade breaks.
Pleasant temperatures and clear days; festival atmosphere around October during the Jacaranda Festival; good for outdoor activities.
Milder daytime temperatures with cooler nights; rain is possible but generally dry spells occur; light layering recommended.
Grafton at Night
Hiking in Grafton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with boardwalks leading to panoramic viewpoints and waterfalls.
Riverside and forest trails with varied difficulty and scenic overlooks.
Shaded forest routes with gentle gradients suitable for casual hikers.
Airports
How to reach Grafton by plane.
Nearest regional airport with domestic flights; about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Grafton.
Regional airport offering domestic flights; roughly 2.5–3 hours by road from Grafton.
Regional airport with domestic services; around 3–3.5 hours' drive to Grafton.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong family presence with good schools, parks, and community events.
A settled retiree population attracted by a slower pace and scenic surroundings.
Visitors drawn to rivers, rainforests, and regional festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and schools emphasize rugby as a community sport.
Summer sport with local clubs and weekend fixtures.
Active junior and senior leagues in the region with regular matches.
Commonly played in schools and local clubs across the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Grafton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer vegetarian mains, salads, and sides. Look for veggie mains with beans, lentils, or roasted vegetables; ask for meat-free adaptations if needed.