10 Picture-Perfect Main Streets In Australia
There’s no better way to discover a new town than by strolling its main street, coffee and camera in hand. Australia is dotted with destinations that range from European-inspired villages like Hahndorf to historic gold-rush towns and coastal retreats. No matter which vibe you choose, these ten spots across the country all have one thing in common: picture-perfect downtowns with plenty to see and do. Whether you are looking for a relaxing spa weekend getaway, courtesy of Daylesford's natural mineral springs, or a bit of cultural immersion and fresh culinary delights, these places offer the perfect setting to slow down and enjoy a beautiful change of scenery.
Daylesford, Victoria
For a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway, head to Daylesford, Victoria. Known as Australia’s spa capital, Daylesford has a plethora of mineral springs and wellness spas, such as the Daylesford Day Spa, ready to welcome you. For boutique shopping and delicious eateries, Vincent Street is not to be missed. Afterward, soak up the natural beauty of the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens set atop an extinct volcano, or stroll the Lake Daylesford Loop, a 2.8 km trail around the town's namesake lake. For a unique local experience, plan a visit to the Daylesford Sunday Market, a dog-friendly market featuring local produce, crafts, and clothing.
Beechworth, Victoria
History buffs, rejoice! Beechworth is one of Australia’s most authentically preserved gold-rush-era towns. Its wide, tree-lined boulevard offers a lovely backdrop as you explore the Beechworth Historic Precinct, which houses several historic buildings from the mid-19th century. The Burke Museum boasts more than 30,000 items, including taxidermy and artifacts from the Gold Rush, while the Beechworth Courthouse is significant as the site of Ned Kelly's first court appearance. Here, you will find engaging and immersive exhibits related to the trials that shaped the town's history.
There are also daily walking tours of the Precinct if you want to learn even more about this region from a local expert, and you can visit the Old Beechworth Gaol to hear fascinating stories of famous inmates and see where the Kelly Gang was held. Before you leave, make sure you pick up some delicious pastries from the famous Beechworth Bakery!
Hahndorf, South Australia
Located less than thirty minutes outside Adelaide is Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement. With its distinct German architecture, walking down Hahndorf’s gorgeous main street feels like you’ve stepped into Europe. The iconic main road is lined with traditional German bakeries, pubs, and eateries, like the Hahndorf Inn. Steps from the Inn, the Australian Opal Company is a must for one-of-a-kind keepsakes and treasures to take home, mined in Coober Pedy. If you are visiting between November and April, make sure to stop at the Beerenberg Farm for strawberry picking. This family-run farm has been in business for six generations and is the perfect spot to pick up delicious homemade jams, chutneys, and other gourmet delights.
Leura, New South Wales
Leura’s central Leura Mall is lined with boutiques, antique stores, and cafés, like Leura Gourmet, a popular deli for breakfast and lunch. For sweeping views over the Jamison Valley, visit the Everglades House & Gardens, a National Trust-listed site with gorgeous Art Deco architecture and stunning grounds. For more views of the valley, head to Sublime Point Lookout. Bonus points if you can make it there in time to catch the sunset over the Blue Mountains! Hikers will enjoy trekking the Leura Cascades, or for more adventure, search for the hidden Dr. Dark’s Cave, a steep, unmarked trail that ends in a cave used by Dr. Dark and his family as a retreat in the 1930s.
Kiama, New South Wales
For a fun weekend getaway that pairs natural beauty with rich history, look no further than Kiama. This beachside town has it all: a great surfing spot at Surf Beach, a bustling farmers market held each Wednesday right in town, historic sites like the Kiama Lighthouse, and, of course, the Kiama Blowhole, one of Australia’s most famous natural attractions. In between all the sightseeing, grab a bite at one of the many delicious restaurants and cafés in Kiama, like The Brooding Italian. If you are visiting during the weekend, make sure to check out Slow Dough, a bakery known for its yummy cardamom buns.
Maleny, Queensland
Maleny is a small mountain town tucked in the hinterlands of Queensland. Its access to nature and relaxed vibe make it the perfect weekend getaway for families. The region, known for its verdant pastures, is also one of the country’s most renowned dairy producers. As you are strolling down Maple Street, make sure to stop in at Maleny Cheese to sample the Sunshine Coast’s delicious bounty for yourself. The shop has a plethora of options and platters, as well as baked goods and gelato. If you're craving a bit of nature, you can check out the Maleny Boardwalk, a flat, easy path following the Obi Obi Creek steps from the main drag. Keep your eyes peeled for platypuses as you walk along this river trail! For a break between sightseeing, grab a bite to eat and a cup of coffee at Monica’s Café, where you can enjoy your food inside or on the open-air patio.
Margaret River, Western Australia
With its gorgeous natural beauty, access to a variety of outdoor activities, and great boutique shopping, Margaret River has one of Australia’s best main streets to explore. Make sure you plan a trip to the award-winning Margaret River Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday right in town. This market brings vendors from all over the region together to sell seasonal fresh farm produce and artisan food. For a unique experience, check out the Margs Street Art Trail, which will take you down the town’s main street and tell you in detail about each piece featured along the way. You can even use your smartphone to engage with the art using augmented reality. End your day with a dinner at morries, situated in the heart of town. The crowd favourite serves up delicious modern Australian fare, including creative cocktails and share plates, using locally sourced fresh ingredients.
York, Western Australia
York, first settled by Europeans in 1831, has a beautiful colonial-style main street lined with historic 19th-century buildings from Australia's Gold-Rush period. Car aficionados will love visiting the York Motor Museum, one of Australia’s best private collections of vintage cars. Right next to the museum is the York Courthouse Complex, a National Trust site. Here, you can tour the gaol, courthouse, police quarters, and police station. Take a guided tour and learn about the legal and social history of the area while walking through these beautifully preserved buildings. For a scenic stroll, walk along the York Suspension Bridge, located just steps from the town’s main street. This bridge was first opened in the late 1800s and remains a popular historic landmark with its unique structure and great views.
Richmond, Tasmania
Richmond is a town steeped in history. Australia’s oldest bridge, the Richmond Bridge, was originally built by convicts in the 1820s and is still used today. Richmond is also home to Australia’s oldest intact colonial gaol, the Richmond Gaol. Visitors can tour the facility and learn all about Tasmania’s convict past. Children will love stopping at Sweets & Treats, a traditional-style ‘lolly’ shop selling Tasmanian fudge, ice cream, and candy on Bridge Street. Richmond’s main street is also packed with art galleries, so make sure you plan time to stroll as you admire everything from photography and jewelry to glass sculptures.
Stanley, Tasmania
The Nut, a famous volcanic formation, is probably what Stanley is best known for, but this little town’s main street is not to be missed! Make sure to check out the Stanley Heritage Walk, a stroll that takes you past fifteen notable locations around town. You can pick up a map at the Stanley Visitor Centre or download a digital map from the Stanley Heritage Walk website for your self-guided tour. For a deeper dive, check out the Stanley Discovery Museum, located on Church Street. The museum, which has been around for over 50 years, has tons of information about the history of the town, from settlement through development over generations. Stanley is also known for its delicious seafood, so make sure you plan a stop at the Stanley Hotel Bistro for fresh-caught fish ’n’ chips to get the full experience.
Explore Australia's Small-Town Streetscapes
Whether you are relaxing in the shade of an elm tree in Hahndorf or admiring The Nut in Stanley, these towns prove that sometimes the most memorable journeys begin right on Main Street. Packed with local galleries, shops, and cafes, each one offers its own personality and a glimpse into the region’s culture, making them all perfect weekend getaway destinations. Pack your bags today and get ready to explore some of Australia’s most inviting small towns!
