Lismore is a more residential town than its coastal neighbours. It is surrounded by very pretty coastal hinterland, and it is worthwhile taking one of the scenic drives around the area. It is in some ways the administrative centre of the Northern Rivers region. It has the main hospital, fairly large courthouse, as well as a university and medium size [but large by local standards] shopping centre. None of these are really tourist attractions. Better shopping can be had in other places. The Wilsons River runs through town, however it is dirty and some people may not wish to swim in it, although it is safe in that there are no crocodiles, or sharks-in spite of the legend of "Hector", a crocodile rumoured to have inhabited the river at one point-he is long gone.
There area a few historical buildings and churches about the town and the Lismore Regional Art Gallery is worth a look. There is sometimes an interesting music and creative scene about the town as there are many music and art students, as well as alternative lifestylers in Lismore and surrounding areas.
