Exploring Your Hometown: Hidden Gems Await

Your next adventure might be right outside your door.

You might have grown up locally but have since moved away. Your parents never really prioritised exploring the area with us as kids, yet there is wonder to be found, even in an area you might know quite well as a child.

How do you be a tourist in your hometown?

At Camden History Notes, we believe wonder is everywhere, even in your backyard. Trying to reframe the familiar as an adventure can take some time. For most of us, it’s easy to think of our hometowns as ordinary, even dull, especially if our hometown is in a small country town. It’s hard not to think, “Haven’t I done everything here?” But even the most well-known settings hold surprises. It just takes some imagination (and maybe a bit of research).

Dig Into Local Histories

So many of us don’t know the history of our hometowns. We may know bits and pieces, but when did you dive into the archives and learn something new about your origins?

Your local library, historical society, or family history society is a great place to start. Libraries, historical societies, and family history societies have a wealth of local records, including old newspapers, church records, early maps, historic photographs, census data, and more.

Try comparing old maps to the satellite view in Google Maps. Are there some old ruins you could safely hike to?  Or maybe pick up a book about the Indigenous history of the local area.

Historical societies can be an information treasure trove, too. Peruse their displays on local history and prominent individuals. Read an old diary or learn about bygone businesses. Many historical societies are run by history-loving volunteers, so don’t hesitate to ask any staff or your local librarian about what they recommend exploring—you may be surprised by their answer.

Also, libraries, historical societies and family history societies often have free, digitised records that you can explore even from home.

Take a Cue From Nature

Long before human history, the land kept track of its history. Ever-changing nature is a cache of curiosities. You could purchase a topographic map and hike to the highest (or lowest!) point. Or explore nearby natural wonders, like local caves, strange rock formations, or hidden waterfalls.

If you find an old map at the library or historical society, see if you can find and follow an abandoned road, railway or horse trail. Walking, you could smell the wildflowers or admire the view from the top of the hill.

Play a game called “What Went By,” researching footprints in the dirt or scat to see what animals have visited your backyard or local park. Or try birding for an afternoon. You can use free apps like Birdly – BirdLife Australia. The Birdly app is not just a bird book on your phone; it is Australia’s first bird identification guide, specifically designed and built as an app only. It is making the most of cutting-edge AI technology for bird image (700+ species) and sound recognition (60+ species), as well as 200 videos and 200 photos in 3D.

Dive Into Local Culture

Whether you’re exploring Sydney or sleepy parts of the local area, everywhere has unique customs and food. A great way to explore your hometown is to attend a local festival or try local food offerings you may have missed.

Ask a long-time resident if they know about a hidden culinary speciality. Is there an unusual flavour served at a local ice cream shop, a hyper-local sandwich at the local cafe, or a coffee speciality?

Drop by the local tourism office and grab brochures or visit websites for anything interesting. You can also ask a staff member for recommendations. They may be able to make suggestions that cater to your interests.

Above all, go in with an open mind and don’t take anything too seriously. Adventures can be had anywhere. Driving down an unfamiliar road can be an adventure if you let it. So stay curious and start small. Give yourself a day to get a little lost and turn off the GPS—you may be surprised by all the wonder you find in your backyard.

Pokémon Go and local heritage

Pokémon Go can be used to explore local history by encouraging players to visit historical landmarks and learn about their local heritage. 

The game’s augmented reality feature can bring historical sites to life, and its social aspect can foster discussions about local history among players. 

By incorporating Pokémon Go into educational initiatives and partnering with museums, cultural organisations, and schools, local history can be made more accessible and engaging. 

Camden on display in the 2025 Australian Heritage Festival ‘Unearthed’

Unlock the secrets of a 19th-century Gentleman’s Victorian Townhouse

Local festivals

Acknowledgement

With apologies and inspiration for this post from Sarah Durn and her article ‘Dear Atlas: How Can I Explore My Hometown Like a Tourist?’