Find Things to See and Do in the Hilltops

History, nature, creativity, and family fun — all waiting to be explored in Young, Boorowa and Harden and Villages

History, nature, creativity, and family fun — all waiting to be explored in Young, Boorowa and Harden and Villages

History, nature, and creativity on show in Young, Harden and Boorowa

Your guide to what to see and do in the Hilltops​

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things to do and see Across the Hilltops

From country charm to cultural treasures, the Hilltops region of New South Wales is a destination that rewards the curious. Whether you’re travelling with family, seeking a moment of quiet among nature, or chasing stories from the past, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in the Hilltops.

Memorable Things to See and Do in the Hilltops

Spanning the towns of Young, Boorowa, and Harden Murrumburrah, this region offers something for every kind of explorer—where heritage and creativity meet river walks and open skies, and every visit feels just a little bit personal.

Discover Hidden Gems and Iconic Attractions

At the heart of the “see and do” experience is Robert’s Shark Tank Museum and Collectibles in Young — a quirky, fascinating collection of pop culture memorabilia, antiques, model railways and curiosities. It’s the kind of place where every corner holds a surprise, and visitors of all ages leave with a story to tell. As the hero of this directory, it captures exactly what the Hilltops is all about: passion, community, and preserving the past in unforgettable ways.
 
Just up the road and around the corner, Southern Cross Cinema offers a community-driven experience that goes beyond movies. It’s a arts and cultural hub showcasing film, live performances, and exhibitions — making it a creative anchor in the region.

For those drawn to heritage or beautiful outdoor gardens, the Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Garden is a beautiful space built in recognition of the Chinese community who played a vital role in the gold rush days. Nestled at Chinaman’s Dam on the outskirts of Young, it’s a place of reflection, history, and serenity—especially stunning in spring.

Meanwhile in Harden Murrumburrah, the towering Harden Silo Art brings rural life to life through large-scale murals that honour local people and the spirit of the land. It’s one of several landmarks across the Hilltops that tell stories in bold, visual ways.  And while in Harden Murrumburrah, make sure you visit the iconic life-sized statue of Bill the Bastard – Australia’s Greatest Warhourse (by local sculptor Carl Valerius).

Step Into Nature

The Hilltops is as rich in fresh air as it is in culture. The Boorowa River Walk winds gently alongside the riverbank, offering an easy and scenic track for walking, birdwatching, and reconnecting with the natural environment. If you’re lucky, you might spot a platypus or hear the flutter of the rare Superb Parrot.

Across the region, local parks, gardens and reserves provide peaceful spaces to slow down and enjoy the changing seasons—whether you’re taking a picnic to Carrington Park, admiring sculptures in Harden’s community spaces, or meandering Boorowa’s river walk.

Family-Friendly Fun

For families, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Hilltops. The region’s public swimming pools in Young, Boorowa and Harden are summertime favourites. Each pool offers something unique, from Olympic lanes to shaded toddler areas and relaxed lawns—perfect for cooling off or spending the day poolside.

In Young, Southern Cross Cinema offers school holiday screenings and weekend movies, making it an easy win for parents and kids alike. And thanks to the Hilltops Youth Action Group (HYAG), there are always activities happening for young people—from bike trails and art workshops to outdoor movie nights and youth leadership opportunities.

Families also benefit from community-led spaces like the Hilltops Community Hub in Young, where local programs include craft sessions, beginner sewing, drumming circles, and school readiness support—all part of what makes this region connected and caring.

Hilltops Visitor Information Centre, Young

Tucked inside Young’s beautifully restored 1885 railway station, the Young Visitor Information Centre is more than just a place to pick up brochures — it’s a vibrant showcase of the Hilltops region’s culture, creativity, and flavour. Here, visitors can browse a curated selection of local products, including handmade soaps, jams, honey, and a standout collection of Hilltops wines.

Also inside the visitor centre in Young is the Burrangong Gallery, managed by the Young Society of Artists Inc. This gallery hosts rotating exhibitions that celebrate local talent, featuring mediums ranging from porcelain and photography to sculpture and mixed media . Together, the visitor centre and gallery offer an authentic introduction to the Hilltops region, making it an essential first stop for anyone eager to explore the area’s rich offerings.

If you are in Boorowa or Harden, there are also smaller versions of the Hilltops Visitor Information Centre in those towns with staff willing an able to assist you with what to see and do in the Hilltops. 

Experience the Spirit of the Region

While this page focuses on permanent attractions, the Hilltops is also home to a rich calendar of local events—from art trails and heritage festivals to twilight markets and community days. Each event brings its own flavour, and many of them are hosted in the same locations you’ll explore on this page.

So whether you’re here for a weekend escape, a scenic day trip, or to dive into the stories of a region shaped by resilience, community and creativity, there’s no shortage of experiences to uncover.

See and do in the Hilltops — see what makes this region truly shine.

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