9 things to do in Grafton during the jacaranda season

It’s funny how moving countries can completely change one’s opinion about something. November used to be my least favourite month of the year when I was living in the northern hemisphere. It’s usually the first month where it starts getting pretty cold, the leaves in the trees are gone, and everything looks pretty much dead. Now, ever since I moved to Australia, I’m looking forward to spring and more specifically November every year! The reason is pretty simple, the whole coast gets covered in purple because the jacaranda trees are in full bloom. Grafton, which is located in northern New South Wales (6 hours from Sydney precisely) is well known for hosting the annual jacaranda festival. I managed to convince my friend Sasha to come with me last year, and we both had so much fun exploring this cute little town.

Grafton (NSW)

The Annual Jacaranda Festival

In this article, discover nine things to do while visiting the town of Grafton during jacaranda season.

1- Take a stroll around town

Grafton is a super cute town with lots of old buildings and some nice clothing and souvenir shops. I particularly loved the architecture near the clocktower (pictured below).

2- Discover the street art

I always enjoy seeing how creative people can get, especially when visiting smaller towns. If you venture near the bridge, you’ll find tons of graffitis, some showcasing more purple colours to fit with the rest of the town :)

3- Check out Jacaranda Jill @ See Park

The annual jacaranda festival has its own mascot, and it has a name: Jill! You can find Jacaranda Jill in See Park, one of the best spots to see the jacaranda trees.

4- Walk to the old bridge

Grafton has built a more modern bridge right next to its old bridge. It is a popular spot to go for a walk, or watch the sunrise/sunset on Clarence River.

5- Explore the art gallery

If you’re in need of a bit of art, make sure to check out the regional gallery which is located right in the heart of town.

6- Get yourself some jacaranda flavoured ice cream

There is a local ice cream shop called I Scream which serves jacaranda-flavoured ice cream. Super cheesy, but definitely something you want to do while in Grafton. Plus, I thought it was really good!

7- Find as many jacaranda trees as you’d like

Probably the main reason to visit Grafton during the month of November: the jacarandas in full bloom! Some. of my favourite spots to see them are See Park, Pound Street, Bacon Street & Market Square.

8- Don’t miss out on fig tree avenue

Before I visited, I had no idea that Grafton also had many giant fig trees, including this beautiful avenue located in a residential area near the old bridge.

9- Indulge in good local food

Grafton has a lot of options when it comes to food. My favourite brunch place in town is Heart & Soul Wholefood Cafe, but if you’re willing to venture outside of town too, I’d recommend driving to Maclean and going to Botero. Also make sure to book yourself a table at Ulmarra restaurant for dinner at sunset; their river views are stunning!