Things to See & Do in Lismore

Lismore is known as the heart of the Northern Rivers, and there’s always something to do in Lismore and its surrounding villages, with a variety of unique attractions and a chock-full events calendar. From natural wonders to cultural attractions, amazing food to a variety of shops, there’s always something exciting to do in Lismore.

The beautiful landscape and great climate of the Northern Rivers has long attracted artists, musicians, performers and other creative types, and Lismore is a hub for both traditional and alternative arts.

Art is everywhere in Lismore – from the galleries to the markets to the back lanes – and the creative community is well supported by Southern Cross University, Northern Rivers Performing Arts (NORPA) and the new Lismore Quadrangle, which connects the new Lismore Regional Gallery, the Northern Rivers Conservatorium, and the Lismore Library with a well-utilised multi-purpose space that hosts festivals, concerts and public arts events. Or stroll through the ‘Back Alley Gallery’ in the city centre to see street art from local, national and international artists.  

If shopping is more your speed, Lismore has you covered, with everything from quirky boutique shops to the major retailers at Lismore Shopping Square. The CBD has heaps of specialty shops, from retro and vintage to books, toys, music and more. For more information about the many markets in the region, click here.

If you need to entertain the kids, you’re spoilt for choice with a number of parks and playgrounds including the mini-trains at Heritage Park (Molesworth St), Wade Park (Anne St), Kadina Park (Ballina Rd & Kadina St), Nesbitt Park (Casino St), Riverside Park (Victoria St), the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens (Wyrallah Rd) and the Rocky Creek Dam at Dorroughby. You can also visit the roller-skating rink, bowling alley, indoor play centre, cinemas, and even a Koala Care Centre. Or get out in the great outdoors at one of the nearby National Parks.

For the sporty types, Lismore has everything – swimming pools, football fields, cricket pitches, baseball diamonds, gyms, tennis courts, netball courts, a synthetic hockey arena, and racing for horses, greyhounds and cars.

And no matter where you go in or around Lismore, you’ll find plenty of delicious treats to eat and drink, with a great variety of cafes, coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants, pubs and clubs. Many eateries make use of the amazing locally-grown and organic produce, including coffee, macadamias, and tropical fruits.

For more information about Things to See and Do in Lismore, go to visitlismore.com.au