Casino

Nestled in the heart of the Northern Rivers region, Casino is a classic country town with a rich history and a surprising vibrancy. Known as the 'Beef Capital of Australia', this friendly town offers a genuine taste of rural life, with heritage streetscapes, a thriving food scene, and easy access to the Richmond River. It's a perfect stop for travellers exploring the hinterland between Byron Bay and the Queensland border.

Highlights & What to See

• Casino Beef Week – If you time your visit for May, this legendary festival celebrates everything beef with rodeos, parades, and steaks galore.
• Richmond River – Stroll along the banks, try your hand at fishing, or join a river cruise to spot wildlife and learn about the area's flood history.
• Casino Heritage Walk – A self-guided tour past grand old pubs, the 1880s courthouse, and the historic railway station, telling stories of the town's timber and beef boom.
• Casino & District Historical Museum – Housed in a former bank, this museum is packed with local memorabilia, from Indigenous artefacts to pioneer farming tools.
• Nearby National Parks – Just a short drive away, explore the rainforests of Richmond Range National Park or the rugged gorges of Toonumbar National Park for hiking and birdwatching.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a day is enough to soak up Casino's main attractions—wander the heritage trail, enjoy a pub lunch, and visit the museum. If you're keen to explore the surrounding national parks or attend Beef Week, plan for two days. The town works well as a lunch stop on a drive between Byron Bay and the Gold Coast hinterland.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kyogle – A charming town 30 minutes north, known for its historic buildings and as a gateway to the Border Ranges.
• Lismore – The regional hub, 40 minutes east, with excellent cafes, galleries, and the award-winning Lismore Regional Gallery.
• Byron Bay – About an hour's drive east, offering world-class beaches and a vibrant coastal scene.
• Richmond Range National Park – Just 20 minutes south, featuring stunning rainforest walks and the spectacular Sheepstation Creek Falls.
• Nimbin – A quirky, alternative-lifestyle town 45 minutes north-east, famous for its colourful markets and counterculture history.

Please check official sources for current details.