Leeton
Discover delicious food and wine in Leeton, a charming country town in the beautiful Riverina known for its well-preserved art deco buildings. Go wine tasting at boutique wineries, browse produce markets and enjoy birdwatching at two important global sanctuaries.
History and heritage
Leeton was designed by noted architect Walter Burley Griffin in the early 20th century as part of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Scheme. When exploring the heritage streetscapes you’ll see many beautiful art deco buildings, such as the Roxy Theatre, which has been operating as a cinema since 1930.
Launching in 2020, Australian Art Deco Festival Leeton celebrates the culture of the interwar period of the 1920s and 1930s in the food bowl of Australia. Enjoy Prohibition Parties, Speakeasy's Music and Dancing, and Gatsby Galas in this celebration Leeton’s art deco heritage.
Local produce
As one of Australia’s richest agricultural areas, Leeton is a great base for exploring outstanding food and wine experiences. Begin with the Tastes of Leeton, a short daily presentation at the Leeton Visitor Information Centre that offers local produce to sample, including citrus and walnuts.
Wine lovers can visit cellar doors at Lillypilly Estate Winery and Toorak Winery. You’ll also find a tasty selection of places to eat in Leeton, and picnics are popular at the Gogeldrie and Yanco irrigation weirs.
Things to do
When flowing with water, the Ramsar-listed Fivebough and Turkey Flat wetlands are home to more than 170 bird species. From spoonbills to swamphens to sandpipers, check out the colourful birds from behind a special birdwatching structure near the Turkey Flat picnic area.
The town celebrates its rice harvest at the biennial Leeton Sunrice Festival at Easter, with popular signature events such as the Balloon Glow and Leeton’s Longest Lunch. Check out the events calendar for other attractions, including the Leeton Farmers Market and the Leeton Show. The Museum Miniature Railway in Yanco runs train rides on the last Sunday of the month.
Getting there and where to stay
Leeton is a six-hour drive from Sydney, five hours from Melbourne and three hours from Canberra. You can also fly into Narrandera-Leeton Airport, 20min outside of town, or Griffith Airport, a 60min drive. Places to stay include caravan and camping sites, cottages and motels.
Fly into Griffith Airport
Griffith Airport is 5km from Griffith’s town centre. Use the taxi services available at the terminal to make the short trip south. Alternatively, rent a car at the airport and explore the region at your own pace.
Regional Express operates daily direct flights between Sydney and Griffith, and flights between Broken Hill and Griffith on weekdays.
