Kempsey, located in New South Wales, is surrounded by several museums and galleries that showcase the region's rich history and culture. Some of the notable museums and galleries in the area include the Macleay River Historical Society - Kempsey Museum, which is located in an award-winning building designed by Glenn Murcutt. It houses a collection of Aboriginal artifacts and over 40,000 photographs dating back to the 1830s.
Another attraction is the Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery, situated in an annex to the Kempsey Visitor Information Centre. This gallery showcases works by local artists from the Mid-North Coast region and offers unique handcrafted items for purchase. The gallery hosts various exhibitions and events, including the annual Kempsey Art Prize.
For those willing to venture a bit further, Bellbrook Studio on Hat Head Road in Bellbrook, a 30-minute drive from Kempsey, offers a selection of ceramics, glass products, paintings, and more created by local artists. Visitors can observe the artists at work and purchase their creations.
In addition to these cultural attractions, Kempsey and its surroundings boast a range of national parks, beaches, and scenic drives for visitors to enjoy and explore.