Cooma

Things to do

Cooma is home to the Snowy Mountains Hydro Discovery Centre where you can explore the fascinating history of hydro-electric power and learn about the famous Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme. Built between 1949 and 1974, it's considered one of the engineering wonders of the modern world and a leading example of Australian innovation and ingenuity. You can also find out about Snowy 2.0, the next phase of the scheme focusing on renewable energy.

Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre and Cafe, Cooma

Visit the NSW State Correctional Gaol Museum for a fascinating insight into the 200-year penal history of NSW prisons, from convict days to the present. Join a guided tour for stories of prison life, along with exhibits of prison artefacts. Find out more about the rich history of Cooma on the Lambie Town Walk, a self-guided trail through heritage and scenic areas, including Centennial Park and Nanny Goat Hill Lookout.

To check out local artists, visit the Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre, which showcases work by established and emerging artists of the region. Built in 1854 as the Lord Raglan Inn, the historic building retains some of the original 100-year-old gardens. There's more history on show at the Cooma Monaro Railway Museum, set inside the station building from 1889.

Cooma Monaro Railway, Cooma

Outdoor adventure

Winter means snow in the high country. With the ski fields of Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass all within easy reach, skiers and snowboarders often opt to stopover in Cooma rather than drive straight through from Sydney. You can also hire ski gear and snow chains for your tyres if you’re heading to the slopes. If you're planning to stay in Cooma, the Skitube station at Bullocks Flat is a one-hour drive.

Thredbo, Snowy Mountains

In the summertime, try your hand fishing in the pristine mountain rivers and lakes or learn how to fly fish on a guided tour with Snowy Monaro Fly Fishing. Experience the thrill of white water rafting or kayaking down the Snowy River with Alpine River Adventures and explore scenic mountain trails dotted with wildflowers on foot or mountain bike.

Alpine River Adventures, Numeralla

See historic huts, weathered snow gums and rock formations on the Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk from Charlotte Pass to the top of Australia’s highest peak. For an authentic Man From Snowy River alpine adventure, explore the high country on horseback with Reynella Rides or Cochran Horse Treks.

Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk, Kosciuszko National Park - Credit: NSW Government

Food, wine & events

For superb dishes featuring locally sourced produce head to Restaurant 1861 at the Snowy Mountains Travellers Rest. Explore the collection of historic buildings being lovingly restored, including a heritage inn built during the gold rush in 1861. Enjoy a Devonshire tea or barista-made coffee and browse the huge range of homewares, collectibles, and gifts.

The art deco Alpine Hotel on the main street has been serving thirsty travellers for more than 80 years. Grab a seat by the wood fire or enjoy the sunshine in the beer garden during the warmer months. Mezcals is a lively Mexican restaurant and tequila bar with happy hour cocktails every night and bottomless feasts on the weekend.

The Alpine Hotel, Cooma - Credit: The Alpine Hotel

Check out the CMR Fresh Produce Markets, run monthly trackside at the historic Cooma Monaro Railway Station, for delicious local fare. In Centennial Park, the Cooma Rotary Market has something for everyone with a variety of stalls, activities for the kids as well as the popular Country Roots & Blues music event each November. 

AgriWest Cooma Rodeo, Cooma - Credit: Jenny Solomon

Cooma’s event calendar is jam-packed throughout the year. Don’t miss the Cooma Show, a traditional country show held each March since 1870. There’s thrills and spills galore at the AgriWest Cooma Rodeo in February, while the Bredbo Sheep Dog Trials are held in November. Car enthusiasts will love all things motorised at Cooma Motorfest, while the Cooma Multicultural Festival offers live music, performances and food stalls.

Getting there & where to stay

The drive from Sydney to Cooma is a little over four hours, from Canberra it’s around 80mins and it's just 90mins from the beaches of the Sapphire Coast. You can fly into Snowy Mountains Airport and hire a car to explore the High Country. Cooma has a range of accommodation including motels, hotels, farm stays, cottages and caravan parks.