12 Places to Visit in Broken Hill: An Outback Adventure

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you embark on an outback adventure in Broken Hill, ensuring seamless communication while exploring the town’s unique heritage, stunning landscapes, and fascinating attractions.

Broken Hill sits in the heart of the Australian outback, 1,100 kilometres west of Sydney. This historic mining town brims with artistic energy, quirky attractions, and rugged natural beauty. Red earth stretches out to meet a vivid blue sky. Weathered storefronts hint at a rich past. And a thriving creative community injects new life into old spaces.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art aficionado, or an outdoor enthusiast, Broken Hill delivers.

Here are 12 things to see in Broken Hill that showcase the best of the Silver City:

1. Living Desert State Park

Just 12km from the city centre, Living Desert State Park protects 2,400 hectares of arid landscapes. Spot wallaroos and kangaroos hopping through the Flora and Fauna Sanctuary. Then drive up to the hilltop sculptures for panoramic desert views.

Time your visit for sunset, when the Sculpture Symposium carvings glow in the golden light. Pack a picnic and watch the sky shift from tangerine to indigo as night falls over the outback.

2. Line of Lode Miners Memorial

Perched atop the ‘Line of Lode‘, this striking memorial pays tribute to over 800 Broken Hill miners who lost their lives on the job since the 1800s. Wander along the hilltop, reading the names and epitaphs etched into the stone.

The neighbouring Broken Earth Cafe serves up tasty meals with a side of mining history. Stop in to refuel before exploring the nearby Broken Hill Geo Centre.

3. Pro Hart Gallery

No Broken Hill itinerary is complete without a stop at the Pro Hart Gallery. This local icon houses the works of Kevin ‘Pro’ Hart, one of Australia’s most celebrated outback artists.

Browse the three levels of galleries, taking in Hart’s vivid landscapes, cheeky dragonflies, and signature ‘cannon paintings’. Then peek into the artist’s preserved studio, complete with paint-splattered easels and unfinished works.

4. Silverton Ghost Town

Silverton, a former mining village 25 kilometres northwest of Broken Hill, is a must-visit. This living ghost town has starred in countless movies and commercials, thanks to its quintessential outback vibe.

Stroll the dusty streets lined with historic buildings, including the Silverton Gaol Museum and the Mad Max Museum. Pop into art galleries housed in heritage cottages. Then wet your whistle at the Silverton Hotel, an outback pub that’s been quenching thirsts since 1884.

5. Sulphide Street Railway & Historical Museum

All aboard for a journey through Broken Hill’s rail history at the Sulphide Street Railway & Historical Museum. This volunteer-run complex features restored locomotives, vintage carriages, and hands-on exhibits.

Chat with knowledgeable volunteers who worked the rails back in the day. Kids will love climbing aboard the old steam engines and ringing the brass bell. Don’t miss the display of antique biscuit tins, a quirky slice of Aussie nostalgia.

6. Royal Flying Doctor Service Outback Heritage Experience

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has been a lifeline for remote communities across Australia since 1928. At the RFDS Outback Heritage Experience in Broken Hill, you can explore this iconic service’s history and ongoing impact.

Check out vintage medical equipment, step inside a replica RFDS aircraft, and hear real stories of outback rescues. The immersive displays drive home the challenges of providing healthcare in isolated regions. You’ll leave with a deep appreciation for this uniquely Australian institution.

7. Bells Milk Bar

Slide into a red vinyl booth at Bells Milk Bar, a local landmark that’s been serving up old-school diner fare since 1892. The retro decor, complete with chequerboard floors and a pressed tin ceiling, will transport you back to the 1950s.

Order a classic milkshake or spider (soda with a scoop of ice cream) and enjoy the nostalgic ambience. The menu also features toasted sandwiches, hot chips, and other simple favourites. It’s a tasty trip down memory lane.

8. Daydream Mine

For a hands-on mining history lesson, head to Daydream Mine on the outskirts of Silverton. This former silver and zinc mine offers guided underground tours led by ex-miners with decades of experience.

Don a hardhat and descend into the cool tunnels, following your guide past glittering mineral seams and historic mining equipment. Back above ground, try your hand at panning for gold or silver. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Broken Hill’s industrial roots.

9. Albert Kersten Mining and Minerals Museum (GeoCentre)

Delve into Broken Hill’s geological wonders at the Albert Kersten Mining and Minerals Museum, aka the GeoCentre. Housed in the former Bond Store, this museum showcases the region’s rich mineral deposits and mining heritage.

Marvel at the Silver Tree, a stunning sculpture crafted from 8.5 kilograms of pure silver. Then ogle colourful crystals, learn about the area’s unique geology, and see how Broken Hill earned its ‘Silver City’ nickname. The hands-on exhibits make earth science engaging for all ages.

10. Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery

The Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery is a beacon for contemporary Australian art. Housed in a striking modern building, the gallery features rotating exhibitions by local and national artists.

Recent shows have spotlighted everything from Aboriginal dot paintings to avant-garde sculptures. The on-site shop stocks a curated selection of artworks, books and souvenirs. Check the gallery’s event calendar for artist talks, workshops and opening receptions during your visit.

11. Where to Stay

When it comes to Broken Hill accommodation, you’ve got options:

For a true outback experience, consider Broken Hill Outback Resort. This unique property offers air-conditioned cabins and safari-style glamping tents spread across a red sand landscape. Guests can cool off in the pool, dine under the stars, and spot wildlife right outside their door.

12. Getting Around

Broken Hill’s main attractions are scattered around town and out in the surrounding desert. While you can walk between some central cafes in Broken Hill, you’ll need wheels to properly explore the region.

Hire a car from the airport or in town and set out on a self-drive adventure. Be sure to fuel up before venturing into the outback, as petrol stations can be few and far between. And always carry extra water in case of unexpected delays or breakdowns.

Discover Broken Hill with Airtel’s Connectivity

Consider picking up an international roaming plan from a provider like Airtel before your trip. That way, you can stay connected while exploring Broken Hill’s far-flung attractions. Use maps to navigate, look up hotel reviews, and share photos of your outback adventures as you go.

From underground mines to outdoor sculptures, vibrant galleries to vintage motels, Broken Hill offers a unique slice of outback life. Whether you stay for a weekend or a week, you’ll find plenty to keep you fascinated in this legendary tourist town.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, charge your camera, and hit the road to Broken Hill. This outback gem is ready to welcome you with open arms.