Getting to The Murray from Canberra with a Family

We want to explore the Murray – what’s the best time of the year to go there?

Each season offers something different for families in the Murray region. Summer is perfect for swimming, winter is an ideal time to gather around a fireplace, while spring and autumn offer clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

What’s the best way to get there?

Driving is the easiest way. Though it’s possible to fly with Qantas from Canberra to Albury, via Sydney, that trip will take you three hours at best. The drive to Albury is only three-and-a-half hours. 

What is the best route to follow for a scenic drive to the Murray from Canberra?

The Hume Highway provides plenty of beautiful vistas, but there is another, slightly longer route that is even more visually spectacular. Instead, head west from Canberra through Brindabella National Park, on through Tumut in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains, across to Wagga Wagga, and then south via Henty to Albury.

Where could we stop along the way to entertain the kids?

On the Hume, make your first stop at the Dog on the Tucker Box just outside Gundagai, where there’s plenty of space for the kids to run around and places to buy food. If you’re taking the scenic route, there are easy stops at Tumut (try Fitzroy Street Park) and Wagga Wagga. 

Is it worth breaking the journey up and staying somewhere overnight?

Though it’s only a three-hour trip, if you have time it’s worth spending the night in Tumut. Here, the kids will have access to Kosciuszko National Park, where there are ample opportunities for biking and water sports.

What are some great places to stop for coffee and/or food?

An hour and a half out of Canberra is Jugiong, where you’ll high-quality cafe fare at Long Track Pantry. A little further down the road, there’s excellent food at the Coffee Pedaler in Gundagai. If you’re going via Tumut, the Tumut Terrace Cafe has plenty of family-friendly eats.

Any unmissable sights on the journey we might not know about?

On the Hume Highway, check out the Dog on the Tucker Box and the historic Prince Alfred Bridge in Gundagai. On the scenic route, Kosciuszko National Park is unmissable.

Any good driving tips?

Give the kids plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs by stopping every couple of hours. On this drive there are local towns to visit just a small detour off the highway and service stations where you can stock up on supplies. Many also have parks and playgrounds, perfect for burning off some energy.