Silverton is a small outback town in New South Wales, sitting about 25 kilometres west of Broken Hill. It was founded in 1883 during a silver mining boom and once had thousands of residents.
Today, only around 35 people call it home. But the town is rich in history, art, and wide-open landscapes. Whether you are travelling solo or looking for things to do in Silverton with kids, this quiet gem offers more than you expect. Come and discover it for yourself.
1. Mad Max 2 Museum
Silverton became famous as the filming location for parts of Mad Max 2, one of the most loved action films ever made. The red dirt roads and wide flat land made it a perfect backdrop for the movie.
For many years, there was no place to commemorate this historic site until Adrian Bennett arrived. He visited in 2004 and returned in 2010 to open the Mad Max 2 Museum. Inside, you will find props, costumes, behind-the-scenes photos, and a collection of vehicles straight from the film. The cars are the highlight, and seeing them up close is a real experience for any fan.
2. John Dynon Art Gallery
The art scene in this part of NSW has a very strong name, and the John Dynon Art Gallery is one of its shining examples. John set up his studio in Silverton around 35 years ago and has been painting here full-time ever since.
His gallery stands out with its brightly painted walls and fun sculptures outside. Inside, you will find a wide collection of his paintings, all shaped by the vivid colours and light of the outback.
John is often in his corner studio while you browse, and he is always happy to have a friendly conversation with people who come to visit.
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3. Beyond 39 Dips
A short walk up the hill from John Dynon’s gallery brings you to Beyond 39 Dips, a creative space run by local artists Jimmy and Lee Neilson.
They create and display their own glasswork and leather pieces, and the gallery also carries a good mix of paintings, pottery, and photography from other artists in the region.
It is a wonderful way to see the kind of work being done out here in the outback. Entry is free, and even a short browse gives you a warm feel for the creative community that has grown in Silverton over the years.
4. Heritage Buildings
Walking around Silverton to look at the old heritage buildings is one of the most calming things to do in the town.
The streets are spread out with big open spaces where buildings once stood, giving it a feeling of a place where time slowly moved through. Several structures have been carefully kept and restored.
Look out for the Methodist church from 1885, the fully restored St Carthage Catholic Church, the public school from 1888, the Municipal Chambers from 1889, and the Masonic Lodge from 1886. Each one holds a small piece of the story of what life was like here during the early boom years.
5. Silverton Gaol Museum
The Silverton Gaol Museum is spread across 18 rooms and old prison cells, each packed with items, photos, and stories about life in Silverton during its busiest years.
You can learn about the workers who built the town, the families who raised children here, and the slow change that came after most people moved to Broken Hill. There is so much to see that one visit may not cover everything.
You can either wander through at your own pace or spend more time in the rooms that interest you most. Children under five enter for free, making it a very easy choice for families.
6. Silverton Hotel
The Silverton Hotel has been the beating heart of this small community since 1884. It is where locals and visitors come together, share stories, and enjoy good food and cold drinks.
The walls inside are filled with old photos, quirky keepsakes, and plenty of conversation starters. Outside, there is a large area with a stage that sometimes hosts live music and events.
The current building is not the original, but the charred remains of the first pub are still visible out the back. This is also the historic spot where BHP, one of Australia’s largest companies, first came into being.
7. Mundi Mundi Lookout
Just a few kilometres from town, the Mundi Mundi Lookout rewards you with one of the most breathtaking views in all of New South Wales.
The flat plains below stretch so far that you can actually see the gentle curve of the earth on the horizon. For fans of Mad Max 2, this is a must-visit spot because it is where the famous final chase scene was filmed.
But even for those who have never seen the movie, the view speaks for itself. Try to visit around sunset when the light turns golden, and the plains glow in a way that is truly hard to put into words.
8. Eldee Station
For those who want to go even deeper into the outback, Eldee Station is a wonderful overnight stop located about 25 kilometres from Silverton.
It is a real working farm that has been welcoming guests for many years. You can stay in a room near the main homestead or set up camp in a tent or caravan. The best part of staying here is getting out on the land.
There are 4WD tracks that wind through rocky hills, past dry creek beds, and alongside old ruins. Owner Stephen also offers guided tours and takes guests up to a high point for stunning sunset views over the Mundi Mundi Plains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Silverton easy to visit as a day trip from Broken Hill?
Yes, Silverton is only 25 kilometres from Broken Hill and is very easy to reach. Most visitors come for a day trip and can see the main sights comfortably in just a few enjoyable hours.
Are there things to do in Silverton with kids?
Yes, the Mad Max Museum, Silverton Gaol Museum, and Eldee Station all work very well for kids. Children under five enter the Gaol Museum for free, which makes it a great family-friendly stop.
What is the best time of year to visit Silverton?
The cooler months between April and September are the most comfortable for a visit. Summer in the outback can get very hot, so it is better to plan your trip during the milder part of the year.
How does Silverton compare to the beaches of NSW?
While the beaches of NSW offer coastal scenery, Silverton gives you a completely different side of the state. Think red dirt roads, wide open skies, and outback history rather than sand and surf.
How long should you spend in Silverton?
A half day is enough to see the main spots, but spending a full day or even one night lets you slow down and truly enjoy the atmosphere. Eldee Station is a great option if you want to stay overnight.
Conclusion
Silverton is a place that is easy to underestimate until you actually arrive. The quiet streets, the old buildings, the open sky, and the warm people all come together to create something genuinely special. From a world-famous film museum to a working outback station, the things to do in Silverton cover a wide range of interests and moods.
There is no need to rush. Walk slowly, stop often, and let the town tell you its story. If you are putting together a trip to outback New South Wales, make sure Silverton is on your list. The best things to do in Silverton are waiting for you, and every visit leaves people wanting to come back.
For more travel ideas and guides across the country, visit Australia City Guide and explore everything this incredible nation has to offer. A complete guide to Silverton is just the beginning of your Australian adventure.
