Get on the road to explore the art and culture offerings of the Queanbeyan-Palerang region, from the performing arts to galleries and city streets lined with public art.
Queanbeyan
Kick off your weekend with an evening in Queanbeyan. Browse the changing exhibitions of the Queanbeyan galleries, such as Rusten House Arts Centre or Queanbeyan Art Society, or take a walk around town to discover the public art lining the city’s streets. If you are a fan of the performing arts, catch a show at The Q – Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, conveniently located in the city centre within walking distance from most of the city’s hotels, restaurants and motels. Finish the day off with a drink and a bite to eat at one of Queanbeyan’s many iconic pubs, such as The Tourist Hotel, Walsh’s Hotel, Hotel Queanbeyan and The Royal Hotel Queanbeyan, before turning in for the night at one of the many local motels.
Bungendore
The next day, your first stop of the day will be in Bungendore, just a quick 20-minute drive from Queanbeyan. Here, you’ll find a variety of art forms from exquisite woodworking to glass art, silversmithing and more at renowned local galleries with distinct styles of their own. Make sure to visit Bungendore Wood Works Gallery, Bungendore Fine Art, Suki & Hugh, Water Through Reeds and X Gallery for a snapshot of the local artistry. You’ll also find more art in local cafes, such as the permanent exhibition on show at The Gathering. Pay a visit to some of the other local cafes and restaurants, such as the modern Australian The George Bar & Dining and The Flock to feast your senses on the flavours of the region. On Saturday mornings, you’ll also find fantastic local produce from the Southern Harvest Farmers Markets on the corner of Butmaroo and Gibraltar Streets. Before you head back on the road, make sure to also peruse the local boutiques of clothing, gift and homewares, furniture and more.
Braidwood
Following along the Kings Highway, you’ll then reach Braidwood. This heritage-listed town is a hub for artists and artisans, thanks to the inspiring landscape and wildlife surrounding it. Explore the arts in Braidwood with a visit to the local galleries, showrooms and jewellers, such as Braidwood Regional Arts Gallery, Thompson Bespoke Jewellers, Vetro e Metallo and William Verdon Manufacturing Jewellers. While in town, don’t forget to treat yourself to some of the farm fresh local produce by stopping by at one of the local cafes, bakeries and restaurants, and learn more about the local culture and heritage with a visit to the Braidwood Museum or take the self-guided Braidwood Heritage Walk around town.
Captains Flat
Finally, your road trip takes you back around towards Queanbeyan through Tallaganda National Park, arriving in Captains Flat, where you’ll find the warm and cosy Neverwhere Gallery, showcasing local artists’ and artisans’ works from locally made jewellery, soaps and crafts to paintings and photography. Take the opportunity to explore Captains Flat further with the Captains Flat Heritage Walk around some of the historically significant sites of the village.
