A Guide To Coolamon: Eat, Stay & Play

There’s a special kind of magic in Coolamon. Just half an hour from Wagga Wagga and Junee, and 45 minutes from Temora and Narrandera, this little country town nestled among rolling canola fields blends rich heritage, creativity and an abundance of small-town charm.

The kind of place where you can unpack, unwind and settle in for a few days, using it as your base to explore scenic drives, boutique neighbouring villages and regional farm gate experiences just moments beyond its doorstep. With restored shopfronts, tree-lined streets and an easy country rhythm that will instantly make you feel relax, Coolamon is the perfect pace for flavour, history and gentle wandering.

Here’s the perfect way to spend a day exploring Coolamon and its surrounds.

Morning

To begin, you’re starting the morning with breakfast at either The Station Collective or The Little Rustic Collective, both equally loved by locals, known for their good coffee, good food and relaxed country feel that instantly slows your pace.

If you’re visiting in Spring, take a drive and discover the regions famous Canola Trail. The patchwork of gold-and-green paddocks is one of the Riverina’s most breathtaking seasonal sights. Pro tip - it’s even better from above. If you have time, book in for a hot air balloon ride and be blown away in the

Back in town, wander through the streets, stopping in at the Up-To-Date Store Museum to discover Coolamon’s heritage stories, the Coolamon Fire Museum for the kids, or pop into Ruby’s Boutique (a must for clothing, gifts and homewares), Gigi the Gourmet Grocer for deli items and range of small-batch goods you’ll definitely eat before you get home.

Afternoon

Coolamon Cheese Co. is the natural choice for lunch (hello, who doesn't want a free tasting?). Set inside a century-old building down the main street, the artisan cheese factory and café serves generous platters, handcrafted cheeses and regional wines. It’s the perfect place to settle in and enjoy a selection of some of the Riverina’s best produce.

After lunch, it’s time to choose your adventure.

Stay local and wander through Kindra State Forest for a peaceful walk or bike ride amongst the bushland or if you’re keen to explore further, take a short drive to Ganmain and browse the beautifully curated homewares at Fisher & Farmer, or visit Lush Creative Gallery. This small but impressive gallery showcases local artworks, ceramics and creative pieces; just check opening hours or book ahead to ensure you don’t miss out. Before leaving Ganmain, stop by the Ganmain Bakery for its famous pies and pastries.

Alternatively, continue on to Marrar for a mid-afternoon pause. Marrar Kitchen & Co. is a welcoming café where you can enjoy a fresh coffee and a sweet treat before heading back to Coolamon or if you plan ahead, visit Kinnilla Flower Market and book in for one of their workhops events.

Evening

For dinner, checking out the recently rennovated Coolamon Hotel is a must. In winter, find a seat in the Glass House for spot under the stars and in Summer, a relaxed seat in the beer garden to enjoy a sundowner with the cool afternoon breeze and woodfired pizza.

Stay the night at Drovers Run Farm Stay, a wake up in a rural retreat surrounded by open paddocks, fresh garden produce and birds filling the skies. If you prefer to be close to town, the Coolamon Motel offers comfortable, convenient accommodation but if you’re looking for something more boutique, the Coolamon Ark (an old church transformed) is one of those unique Riverina stays, among a host of local BnB’s within easy walking distance of cafés, shops and the pub.

Why You’ll Love It

Coolamon doesn’t need to try hard to impress; its charm is effortless. From artisan cheese to golden canola, boutique shopping to country bakeries, creative galleries to peaceful bushland, it’s a town that invites you to breathe a little deeper and reconnect with the small joys of travelling regional NSW.