Things to Do in Bright

Play & Explore

Things to Do in Bright

Bright is at the centre of Victoria’s Alpine Shire, nestled between Mount Buffalo and Mount Beauty. Its four distinct seasons open it up to a wide variety of outdoor activities throughout the year. And with that, you’re guaranteed a great time, night and day.

Never been to Bright before, or it’s been a while? Well, here are a few things for you to do in Bright:

1. The Autumn Leaves Drift by My Window…

Bright’s iconic European trees in the township and surrounds are famous nation-wide for putting on a spectacular display of colour as the seasons change to the cooler months.

The Bright Autumn Festival has been running since 1962, and runs from around late April every year. Specific dates for each year can be found at the autumn festival’s website here. As one of the longest-running continuous festivals in Australia, demand for attendance is high, so it is advised that you book well in advance, should you need somewhere to stay in Bright.

2. Climb Every Mountain

Bright is a great place to base yourself if you’re into doing a bit of everything, in town and in surrounding areas.

If you’re the outdoor type, a big choice of hiking and sightseeing options are available in every direction — Mount Hotham, 55 minutes’ drive to the south, Mount Beauty, 30 minutes’ drive to the east and Mount Buffalo, 50 minutes’ drive to the east.

Mount Hotham — a skier’s delight in winter with amazing alpine views. Whether skiing down the slopes or traversing the cross-country trails in winter, or exploring these trails on foot or bike during other seasons, it is well worth a day trip.
Mount Beauty — again, for skiers, a stop-off town for hiring gear to take to Falls Creek. But for those with other interests, Mount Beauty offers a beautiful setting, cafes restaurants and more; it’s another great day trip.
Mount Buffalo – Speaking of views, Mount Buffalo is an easy 45 minutes’ drive from Bright. There is even a lake! For the energetic, you can park at the base and hike your way up to ‘Bents Lookout’ or ‘The Horn’, then grab a snack at the Mount Buffalo Chalet to prepare you for your trek down.

3. Splish Splash

Opened in 2014, the Bright Splash Park offers great fun in the warmer months for the kids. Located in Centenary Park, adjacent to Morses Creek, this park entertains kids (and big kids, let’s be honest) of all ages. And the best thing? It’s absolutely free-of-charge fun!

4. Food, Glorious Food

Many regional Victorian towns are known for their culinary attractions. And Bright is no exception.

Daytime

Coffee, coffee everywhere – and it is! There are heaps of great coffee shops in Bright, but of course we have a few faves. You’ll find your own too, but here are our top three:
1. Food Wine Friends at the top of Ireland Street is always our go-to for our ‘quick shot stop’ and the closest to BlueMill. The vibe and the staff match the yumminess of the coffee.
2. For a home-grown retro feel, Coral Lee Café in Barnard Street is another great place for a great brew, while you listen to some great vinyl classics.
Find out more about Bright’s best places for eating here.
Sneaky sips —
if you want something a little stronger during the daylight hours…there are a variety of options: pubs, wine bars, distilleries, a boutique brewery, and a smattering of cocktail bars. Find out more about Bright’s bars and brewing establishments here.

Evenings

Bright has an abundance of eateries within walking distance of each other – everything from casual fish and chips, authentic international fare and locally-focused Australian fusions.
Bars and pubs — for an evening swill, or just a respectable tipple, Bright brings you everything from the local Australian experience you expect from excellent pubs, as well as more adventurous ventures like the Bright Brewery and Reed & Co. Distillery. Find out more about bars in Bright here.

5. Art for Art’s Sake

There is an entire yearly calendar full of events in Bright, such as the Brighter Days Festival – an annual three-day celebration of classic cars, motorbikes and live music and the renowned Bright Autumn Festival – a 10 day celebration of dazzling autumn colours.

Find out more here.