Katoomba is known as the commercial and business heart of the Blue Mountains. Generally speaking, Katoomba is a location popular amongst many Sydneysiders and tourists alike. When traveling to Katoomba, we wanted to avoid the typical tourist paths and explore the less known and unique finds within the township of Katoomba. Based in the Blue Mountains, Katoomba experiences mild summers and cold winters. We were lucky enough to experience Katoomba in the snow which was definitely a bucket-list experience. Katoomba is situated on the traditional lands of the Gundungurra and Durag People.
Starting your day, walking the streets of Katoomba exploring the quirky antique and second-hand stores. Stroll around Katoomba Street taking note of the buildings that line the road. The Paragon Building boasts iconic art deco style architecture, unfortunately, due to necessary repair works the Paragon no longer houses the iconic chocolate store, but the new store can be found at the top of Katoomba Street in another beautiful art deco building.
For some culture, check out the Katoomba Street Art Walk. Launched in 2015, the walk consists of dynamic street artworks lining the hidden alleyways of Katoomba Town. The walk displays world-class artworks from a variety of international and national artists from all aerosol disciplines. The walk is located in Beverly Street and is definitely worth checking out. Along with this dedicated walk, be sure to keep an eye out for the hidden laneways that also showcase a variety of Katoomba Artworks.
After exploring the streets, head into Carrington Cellars on Park Street, which is located at the back end of the Historic Carrington Hotel. Carrington Cellars is one of the best bottle shops we have visited. Stocking a huge array of rare wines, spirits, and beers both locally and internationally, as well as cheese, chocolates, and other fine foods you’re bound to find something here to take away with you and enjoy at a later date.
Continuing up Park Street, head over to Mountain Culture Beer Co. Set in the historic Echo building which once housed the local newspaper ‘The Echo’. Mountain Culture has transformed the space into a brewery and bar. Open 7 days a week you’ll find locals flocking into the space throughout the day to catch up on some emails and lunch, or coming in for an after-work drink. We’d recommend trying out one of their tasting paddles which features 4 of their ever-changing beer selections. Be sure to strike up a conversation with the bar tenders and let them know what you keen to try. Mountain Culture is now the number one IPA and the limited releases are insanely good.
If time permits, be sure to check out The Carrington Hotel. If it’s a snow day like the day we visited, it’s a must see! The gardens of the Carrington in the snow instantly transport you to Christmas time. Even if you’ve never experienced a white Christmas this place will blow you away and you’ll be feeling the Christmas cheer in no time. The hotel has a public bar and restaurant open to the public, as well as rooms to spend the night.
Katoomba is located within the Blue Mountains and is easily accessible via the Great Western Highway, as well as by train. There is so much to see and do while up here, you could easily fill a whole weekend with adventure.
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