Things To Do in Broken Hill: 5 Days Itinerary (2024)

Explore the vibrant and adventurous side of Broken Hill with our curated list of thrilling activities. From immersing yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage to embarking on exciting outdoor adventures, there’s something for every solo traveller seeking an unforgettable experience. Discover hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes, and unique activities that will make your solo journey in Broken Hill truly exceptional. Uncover the allure of this remarkable destination with this guide to the best things to do in Broken Hill, ensuring an exciting and memorable solo travel experience.

Exploring Broken Hill was a long-standing aspiration of mine. I have a penchant for quaint towns in the heart of nowhere, particularly those in the vastness of the Outback. A few years back, I ventured to Coober Pedy, a city with a similar charm, and the experience was nothing short of delightful. Immersing myself in the desert landscape and embracing the local lifestyle in the Outback has always been a preference. While I typically opt for a road trip to such towns, this time, I chose to embark on the journey via public transport.

For fun big things to see on the way, read 11 big things to see in NSW.

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About Broken Hill

In the New South Wales (NSW) state of Australia, Broken Hill is a historic mining town in the heart of the Australian Outback. Boasting the title of Australia’s oldest mining town, it is renowned by various names such as “The Silver City,” “Oasis of the West,” and “The Capital of the Outback.”

Believed to have been initially inhabited by the Wiljakali Indigenous Australians, Broken Hill was officially founded by Charles Rasp in 1883. Interestingly, the town observes the timezone of South Australia rather than New South Wales.

As per the 2019 census, Broken Hill is home to just 17,500 residents, encapsulating the essence of a close-knit community in this historic mining hub.

Best Time to Visit Broken Hill

The prime time to experience the allure of Broken Hill is during the Spring season, spanning the months of October and November. As the weather transitions from the chill of winter to the warmth of spring, the town comes to life with vibrant colours and a rejuvenating atmosphere. During this period, the temperatures are generally pleasant, ranging from mild to warm, making it ideal for exploring the outdoors and enjoying the various attractions Broken Hill offers.

It’s worth noting that Broken Hill’s climate can be pretty extreme during other times of the year, with scorching temperatures in summer and chilly nights in winter.

How To Get To Broken Hill?

By Air

Arriving in Broken Hill is conveniently facilitated through flights into Broken Hill Airport. Both Qantas and Rex Airlines offer services connecting Sydney to Broken Hill. The airport is conveniently situated approximately 6 kilometres from the heart of the city, ensuring a swift and seamless transition from air travel to your exploration of Broken Hill.

By Train

Experience the charm of railway travel with trains linking Broken Hill to key cities such as Sydney, Adelaide, and Perth. Opt for the renowned Indian Pacific Train for a cross-country adventure or explore New South Wales (NSW) through the efficient service of Intercity Trains, operated by Transport for NSW (TfNSW), providing a convenient and scenic journey to and from Broken Hill.

By Road

Covering a distance of about 1150 kilometers from Sydney, the road trip to Broken Hill takes approximately 13 hours. Opting for a car rental provides you with the freedom to navigate the journey and discover the surrounding areas at your leisure, ensuring a personalized and flexible exploration of the route.

Where to Stay in Broken Hill?

Broken Hill has a few accommodation options to choose from. Ranging from Historic Hotels to Budget-friendly hostels, the stays accommodate every kind of traveller.

You can consider the below resorts for your stay at Broken Hill:

• Broken Hill Outback Resort (Customer Rating of 8.4/10 on Booking.com)
• Broken Hill Outback Church Stay (Customer Rating of 8.7/10 on Booking.com)
• IBIS Styles Broken Hill (Customer Rating of 8.2/10 on Booking.com)

I lodged at Broken Hill Tourist Lodge for a duration of two nights. The reservation was made through the Booking.com website. The accommodation, which included a twin room with a shared bathroom for the entire stay, amounted to AUD 138.

Things To Do in Broken Hill

In the distant past, a former colleague asserted that Broken Hill had nothing to offer in terms of activities. However, I vehemently disagree as Broken Hill boasts a plethora of engaging experiences and stands out as one of the most picturesque towns I’ve encountered in Australia.

For optimal exploration, I highly recommend opting for car rental as the ideal mode of transportation in Broken Hill.

Heritage-Listed Buildings

Broken Hill boasts a collection of heritage-listed buildings, each exuding a charming blend of antiquity and beauty. For aficionados of the old and historical, a stroll of approximately 4 kilometers around the city provides an immersive experience of its isolated urban ambiance.

Some noteworthy stops on this architectural journey include:

• Broken Hill Mosque
• Broken Hill Post Office
• Broken Hill Railway Station
• Palace Hotel – Recognized as the filming location for the 1994 Australian movie “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert”
• Walter Sully Emporium
• Wesley Uniting Church

Embark on this historic walk to appreciate the unique character and tales of Broken Hill’s well-preserved structures.

Sculpture Symposium

Established in 1993 by a group of 12 talented sculptors, the Sculpture Symposium is a captivating collection of artworks crafted from 52 tonnes of Wilcannia sandstone. Nestled within the scenic Living Desert State Park, this extraordinary ensemble comprises 12 sculptures intricately connected to the themes of the Sun, Moon, and Aboriginal culture.

To explore this cultural treasure, an entry fee of AUD 6 per person is required, obtainable at the Living Desert State Park entrance. Situated approximately 11 kilometers from Broken Hill city, the park offers a serene setting for an enriching experience.

Undoubtedly, this visit was the pinnacle of my journey, made even more special by the tranquil solitude of the park during my exploration.

Silverton

Silverton is a quaint village situated approximately 26 kilometers from Broken Hill, accessible exclusively by car. Renowned for its silver mining history, the village gained cinematic fame as the backdrop for the movie “Mad Mex,” commemorated by the Mad Mex museum dedicated to the film.

Beyond this cinematic connection, visitors can explore Silverton’s charm by visiting art galleries and admiring the heritage buildings that contribute to the village’s unique character.

Star Gazing

Gazing upon a sky adorned with an infinite array of stars is an exclusive experience reserved for the vastness of the Outback. Outback Astronomy. Outback Astronomy offers the enchanting “Hang Out with the Stars” tours every night. The 1.5-hour tour is priced at AUD 55 per person, and it’s essential to secure your spot by making advance bookings through their website.

For those seeking alternative locations in New South Wales (NSW) to marvel at the Milky Way, I recommend checking out my post on 10 places to see Milky Way.

Mungo National Park

Nestled in the southwestern region of New South Wales, Mungo National Park has earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list, celebrated for its archaeological significance, breathtaking landscapes, and profound indigenous history. Revered by Aboriginal communities, notably the Muthi Muthi, Nyiampaar, and Barkinji, Mungo National Park holds deep cultural importance. The site is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, housing renowned artifacts such as the Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, ancient human remains that offer valuable glimpses into Australia’s prehistoric heritage.

Train Stations To Look for During Your Train Journey

Stop at Ivanhoe

Ivanhoe, situated in New South Wales, is an exceptionally petite town facing a decline. A considerable number of residents have deserted their homes, opting to move to alternative towns. The train makes a brief stop at the Ivanhoe train station, with a halt lasting approximately 7 minutes.

Darnick Train Station

Darnick train station holds the distinction of being the most compact train station in NSW. Its platform is designed to accommodate only one door of the train, and interestingly, the board of the train station surpasses the platform in size.

5-Day Itinerary for Broken Hill

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

• Arrive in Broken Hill and settle into your accommodation.
• Take a leisurely stroll around the city center to get acquainted with its unique charm.
• Visit the Miner’s Memorial, a tribute to the city’s mining history.
• Explore local art galleries showcasing the region’s creativity.

Day 2: Living Desert Sculptures and Heritage Buildings

• Spend the morning at the Living Desert Sculptures, marveling at the unique outdoor gallery.
• Afternoon exploration of Broken Hill’s heritage buildings, including the Broken Hill Post Office and Railway Station.
• Visit the Palace Hotel, famous for its role in the movie “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.”

Day 3: Day Trip to Silverton

• Take a day trip to Silverton, a historic village 26 kilometers from Broken Hill.
• Explore the Silverton Gaol Museum and Mad Mex Museum, dedicated to the filming of “Mad Max.”
• Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Silverton’s outback surroundings.

Day 4: Mungo National Park Excursion

• Embark on a day trip to Mungo National Park, approximately 110 kilometers from Broken Hill.
• Witness the Walls of China, unique sand and clay formations.
• Explore the rich Aboriginal history, including the ancient human remains of Mungo Lady and Mungo Man.

Day 5: Outdoor Adventure and Departure

• Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or a scenic drive in the nearby outback landscapes.
• Visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Experience for insights into remote healthcare.
• Conclude your stay with a memorable farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Is Broken Hill Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Australia, overall, is considered very safe for female travelers. Similarly, all the destinations, including Broken Hill, that I visited during this trip were very safe. Nevertheless, as with any location worldwide, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution, especially during nighttime.

Closing Notes

The Australian Outback exudes a magical charm, and each town within its vast expanse contributes to this unique allure. I recommend exploring some of these towns at least once to immerse yourself in the rich Aboriginal culture and experience the essence of desert life.

PIN for later reference – Things To Do in Broken Hill: 5 Days Itinerary