Dubbo is the kind of place where people like to rest their head for a night or two. So, it’s no surprise that when it comes to Dubbo accommodation, you’ll find a good selection to choose from.
As one of the main commercial centres in western New South Wales, it’s a hub for people in the region who will come in and stay while they conduct their business, or visit the hospital.
For travellers passing through – perhaps on a road trip to Broken Hill, for example – it’s a convenient place to break up the drive.
And there’s also plenty here for visitors to explore, particularly the Taronga Western Plains Zoo, which makes Dubbo a popular destination for families.
You might be interested in my story on the best things to do in Dubbo.
When you’re considering where to stay in Dubbo, I would suggest thinking first about how long you’re going to be here for. If it’s just a night to break up a drive, then there are lots of really good motels that would probably serve that purpose.
If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Dubbo for a couple of nights, then there are also quite a few self-contained accommodations in Dubbo, either standalone properties or as part of a motor inn.
And if you’re visiting the zoo, then there are also some fun places around the park that will add to the fun and excitement of the visit (for kids and adults)!
To get a sense of availability and prices, have a look at this map.
Booking.comBecause of the zoo, and because it’s a road trip stopover, Dubbo accommodation can get quite busy in school holidays. It’s worth booking well in advance to get a room at your preferred place.
However, the good news is that the whole city rarely books out because there are so many roadside accommodations that are aimed at the drop-in market (they’re just not necessarily the best places to stay in Dubbo).
With all that in mind, I wanted to share my recommendations for the best accommodation in Dubbo.
Best overall
For my top recommendation on where to stay in Dubbo, I’ve chosen somewhere that is the best of both worlds – suitable for a quick stopover or a longer stay in town.
Bluegum Dubbo Motel
It may be called a motel, and it may look like one from the outside, but the Bluegum Dubbo Motel is completely redesigned inside and feels like a charming boutique hotel.
There are 23 rooms and each one has contemporary and elegant features. The artworks, the cushions, and the furniture all create a comfortable environment without going over the top.
There are different types of rooms, including a king studio that has a full kitchenette (useful for longer stays). There’s also a large pool and a room service menu for breakfast and dinner.
Best motel
There are a LOT of motels here and you shouldn’t have much trouble finding a room at one of them. But for the best motels in Dubbo, I think these ones have the perfect balance of quality and affordability.
BEST: Shearing Shed Motor Inn
The modern rooms at the Shearing Shed Motor Inn are very clean and comfortable, plus you’ll always get a warm welcome.
Orana Motel
The refurbished rooms and the large pool at Orana Motel make this one of the best places to stay in Dubbo – plus the restaurant is great.
Atlas Motel
Although the rooms are getting a bit old, Atlas Motel is one of the most affordable in Dubbo and offers great value.
Best self-contained
If you’re staying in Dubbo for a few days, or are in a larger group, then having your own space can be a good idea. These Dubbo accommodation options all have kitchenettes and some have multiple bedrooms.
BEST: Country Apartments
With a range of different configurations, Country Apartments gives you lots of great options in a suburban atmosphere.
Akuna Motor Inn
As well as having motel rooms, Akuna Motor Inn also has large apartments that offer the convenience of having a pool and staff on site.
Discovery Parks
Close to the zoo, Discovery Parks is some of the best accommodation in Dubbo for families and has a range of large cabins and glamping tents.
Best unique
Along with the standard Dubbo accommodation, there are a few special places that give you a unique experience, which will add a bit of fun to your holiday.
BEST: Savannah Cabins
Right on the edge of the zoo, Savannah Cabins gives you a view of the animals (in the distance, at least).
Dubbo Rhino Lodge
Also near the zoo, Dubbo Rhino Lodge has glamping tents that give you the sense of being in safari (with a lovely restaurant attached!).
Outback Cellar & Country Cottage
For a different self-contained option, Outback Cellar & Country Cottage is on farming land a short drive from the city.
Best luxury
For some luxury accommodation, the best places to stay in Dubbo aren’t fancy hotels, but places that have a little bit of character.
BEST: Pericoe Retreat
More like a country estate than a hotel, you’ll be well looked after at Pericoe Retreat, located in a rural setting with beautiful views.
Bluegum Dubbo Motel
Keeping the convenience of a motel but with the design of a boutique hotel, Bluegum Dubbo Motel has very comfortable rooms.
Quest Dubbo
It has a bit of a corporate feel but Quest Dubbo is like most other Quests in Australia – modern, clean, and comfortable.
