If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Australia, consider Parkes! This charming town in New South Wales offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and space exploration history. And with cheap flights available, it's never been easier to visit.
Parkes is perhaps best known for its famous radio telescope, which was featured in the movie "The Dish" and played a crucial role in the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing. You can visit the telescope and learn about its fascinating history at the Parkes Observatory Visitors Centre. Be sure to check out the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside while you're there.
But Parkes isn't just about space exploration. The town has a rich agricultural heritage, with plenty of wheat fields, sheep farms, and vineyards to explore. If you're a foodie, you won't want to miss the annual Parkes Picnic Races, a beloved local tradition featuring horse racing, live music, and delicious regional cuisine.
For a taste of Parkes' small-town charm, head to the main street and browse the local boutiques and antique shops. You can also visit the Henry Parkes Centre, which houses a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of one of Australia's most influential politicians.
If you're an outdoor enthusiast, don't miss the scenic Bushman's Hill Walking Track, which offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding landscape. And for a unique experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the countryside at sunrise.
So why not add Parkes to your travel bucket list? With cheap flights and plenty to see and do, it's a destination worth exploring.
Airlines flying to Parkes
Are you planning a trip to Parkes, NSW but worried about the cost of flights? Look no further! There are a variety of airlines offering cheap flights to Parkes, making it easier for you to travel without breaking the bank.
Qantas - Australia's most well-known airline offers direct flights to Parkes Airport from Sydney. You can easily book tickets online or through a travel agent for a seamless experience. The duration of the flight is just under 1 hour, making it a convenient option for those looking to save time.
Regional Express or Rex - This airline is known for providing affordable flights to regional destinations across Australia. Rex offers flights from Sydney, Dubbo, and Griffith to Parkes with competitive prices and excellent service. With daily flights available, Rex is a reliable option for your travel itinerary.
Fly Corporate - A relatively new airline, Fly Corporate is gaining popularity for its services in regional areas. They offer flights from Brisbane and Melbourne to Parkes, providing a route for those living further afield. It's important to note that these flights may have limited availability or specific departure times, so make sure to plan ahead to secure the best deal.
Flying to Parkes is not only affordable but also convenient. With multiple airlines offering competitive prices and direct flights, there's never been a better time to explore the charming town of Parkes.
Getting to and from the airport
Parkes, Australia is a beautiful town in New South Wales, known for its world-famous radio telescope, the CSIRO Parkes Observatory. If you're planning a trip to this stunning location, you'll most likely be flying into Parkes Airport, with the main airport code PKE.
The airport itself is small and compact, making it easy to navigate. There are limited flights available, but low-cost carriers like Regional Express Airlines (REX) offer cheap flights to and from Parkes. You can easily book your flights online or through a travel agency.
Once you arrive at the airport, you can easily get to your destination by taxi or car rental. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, so you can choose the most convenient one for you. It's always best to pre-book your rental car so that everything is ready for you upon your arrival.
Alternatively, you can also take a taxi service to reach your destination. The airport has a designated area for taxi pickups, and the rates are reasonable.
Getting to and from Parkes PKE airport is pretty straightforward. With affordable flights and reliable transportation options available, you'll have no trouble reaching your destination. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery around Parkes Australia.
What to do in Parkes
Parkes is a quaint town in New South Wales, Australia that is known for its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and delicious local cuisine. If you're looking for a quick getaway from the city, Parkes is the perfect destination. Here are some things you can do in Parkes.
Visit the Parkes Elvis Festival
If you're a fan of the King of Rock and Roll, you can't miss the Parkes Elvis Festival. This annual event is held every January and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. The festival features live music, costume contests, food stalls, and much more.
Explore the CSIRO Parkes Observatory
If you're interested in science and technology, you'll love visiting the CSIRO Parkes Observatory. This world-famous radio telescope was used to receive television signals from the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969. You can take a guided tour of the facility and learn more about its history and current research projects.
Enjoy the local cuisine
Parkes is known for its delicious local cuisine, especially its meat pies. You can find a variety of pie shops throughout the town, but the most famous one is the Parkes Bakery. You can also try other Australian specialties like fish and chips, meat pies, and lamingtons.
Visit the Henry Parkes Centre
The Henry Parkes Centre is a museum that showcases the history and culture of the town and its surrounding areas. The museum features exhibits on local industry, sport, and education, as well as an art gallery and a gift shop.
Take a nature walk
Parkes is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, and there are several nature walks you can take to explore them. The Goobang National Park is a popular destination for hiking and bird watching, while the Parkes Rail Trail is a great option for cycling and walking.
Don't wait any longer to visit Parkes! With plenty of cheap flights available, it's easier than ever to discover this charming town in Australia.
When is best to visit Parkes
When is Best to Visit Parkes, Australia?
If you're planning to visit Parkes, a small town in New South Wales, Australia, you might be wondering when is the best time to go. Well, it really depends on what you're looking for.
Generally, Parkes experiences a semi-arid climate, which means hot summers and cold winters with moderate rainfall. The town is popular for its Elvis Festival, a week-long celebration of the King of Rock and Roll held annually in the second week of January. If you're a fan of Elvis Presley or just looking for some fun, then this is the best time to visit Parkes. However, keep in mind that this festival attracts a lot of tourists, so expect higher prices for restaurants, hotels, and activities.
If you're looking for cheaper flights and accommodation, you might want to consider visiting Parkes during off-peak season. From March to May and September to November, the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. During this time, you can enjoy the town's attractions and activities, such as the Henry Parkes Centre, Parkes Observatory, and the Peak Hill Open Cut Experience, without having to worry about long queues and crowds.
Summer in Parkes can be scorching, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C, so it might not be the best time to explore the town. On the flip side, winter in Parkes can be harsh, with temperatures dropping to as low as -5°C, so make sure to pack some warm clothes if you plan to visit during this time.
In summary, the best time to visit Parkes, Australia varies depending on your preferences. If you want to experience the Elvis Festival and don't mind the crowds, then January is the right time for you. However, if you're on a budget and want to avoid the crowds, visit from March to May or September to November. Just make sure to pack appropriately for the weather conditions and have a great time exploring this charming town.
What to eat in Parkes
If you're planning to visit Parkes, Australia, you're in for a treat-- especially when it comes to food! Despite its small size, this town is brimming with culinary delights that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
- Parkes Services Club If you're looking to fill up on classic pub fare, the Parkes Services Club should be your first stop. This local hangout boasts a menu filled with hearty, flavor-packed options, from juicy burgers to crispy chicken schnitzel. And with prices that won't break the bank, it's the perfect spot to refuel after a day of exploring.
- Hello World Noodle Bar For a taste of international cuisine, make your way to the Hello World Noodle Bar. This cozy establishment serves up authentic Asian dishes, including spicy Thai curries, savory stir-frys, and of course, steaming bowls of noodles. And with generous portions and reasonable prices, it's no surprise that this place is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- The Dish Cafe No visit to Parkes would be complete without a visit to the Dish Cafe. This charming spot is located right near the famous radio telescope, and its menu features plenty of space-themed dishes (think rocket-shaped cookies and moon pies). But even if you're not a science enthusiast, you'll still appreciate the fresh, flavorful fare served up here.
- Sweet Caramel Cafe And speaking of sweets, don't miss your chance to stop by the Sweet Caramel Cafe. This adorable bakery specializes in all things sugary and delicious, from creamy cheesecake to flaky pastries. And with friendly service and a cozy atmosphere, it's the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth.
There are plenty of amazing food options to try in Parkes-- so why not start planning your trip today? With cheap flights available to this charming town, there's never been a better time to discover all that it has to offer.
Top 5 attractions in Parkes
Parkes is a charming town located in New South Wales, Australia. The town is known for its remarkable historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and splendid natural attractions. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just an adventurer, Parkes has something for you. Here are the top 5 attractions in Parkes that you should not miss out on.
1. The Parkes Observatory
The Parkes Observatory is an iconic landmark of Parkes. It is a world-leading astronomical observatory that has been operating for over 60 years. The observatory played a vital role in the Apollo 11 mission and played a significant role in the development of wireless internet. You can book a tour of the observatory for a chance to learn about the various scientific endeavors happening at the facility.
2. The Henry Parkes Centre
The Henry Parkes Centre is a remarkable complex that houses an impressive museum, an art gallery, and a cultural center. The museum offers an in-depth look into the history of Parkes and the surrounding region. The art gallery features local artists' works and hosts regular exhibitions. The cultural center often hosts live performances, events, and workshops that celebrate the town's vibrant culture.
3. Goobang National Park
Goobang National Park is a stunning natural attraction located just outside of Parkes. The park features rugged terrain, breathtaking scenery, and an abundance of wildlife. You can go hiking, bird watching, sightseeing, or have a picnic in one of the many scenic viewing areas.
4. Elvis Presley Festival
The Elvis Presley Festival is an annual event that celebrates the life and legacy of the King of Rock and Roll. The festival features live music, dance performances, tribute shows, and much more. It is a fun-filled event that attracts visitors from all over the world.
5. Bush Tucker Tours
If you are looking for a unique culinary experience, a Bush Tucker tour is a must-do in Parkes. The tour takes you on a journey to learn about the Aboriginal culture and their traditional food and medicine. You get to taste bush tucker recipes, learn about the different types of plants used, and their medicinal values.
Cheap flights to Parkes are available all year round, so you can easily plan a visit to this fantastic town. With so many exciting attractions to explore, Parkes is a perfect holiday destination for everyone.
Places like Parkes worth visiting
- Parkes, Australia
Have you ever heard of Parkes? That small Australian town might not be on your travel bucket list, but it's definitely worth a visit. Here are the top 5 places you should check out.
- The Dish - This impressive radio telescope played a crucial role in relaying the first images of the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969. Nowadays, visitors can explore the visitor center and even attend stargazing events.
- Bushranger history - Parkes has a rich history of bushrangers, the Australian equivalent of outlaws. You can visit their hideouts and learn more about their stories at the local museums.
- Elvis Festival - Every year, Parkes hosts the largest Elvis Presley Festival outside of the United States. Thousands of fans come from all over the world to celebrate the King of Rock and Roll.
- Bogan Gate - Just outside of Parkes, you'll find the town of Bogan Gate. The name might not sound appealing, but the quaint pub and community spirit make it worth a detour.
- Nature reserves - Parkes is surrounded by stunning nature reserves, such as Goobang National Park and the Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park. You can go bushwalking, birdwatching, and even see wild kangaroos.
If you're on a budget, don't worry. Parkes is easily accessible with cheap flights from major cities, and there are plenty of affordable accommodations and dining options. So why not add Parkes to your Aussie adventure?