Parkes

265 km west of Sydney, Parkes is a thriving rural and commercial centre and an excellent base for exploring the Central West region. The town has a rich agricultural and mining history displayed in museums and at various historic sites. See historic civic buildings in the area around Currajong and Court streets and learn about the gold rush era on a walk through the remains at Bushman's Hill goldmine.

Take a hike through Goobang National Park where you can enjoy great views over the surrounding countryside from Caloma Trig. There are also great views of the town from the top of Parkes Memorial Hill. The popular Parkes Elvis Festival, held annually on the second weekend in January, attracts Elvis impersonators from far and wide.