Things To Do
in Kalgoorlie
Kalgoorlie-Boulder sits in the arid heart of Western Australia, about 595 kilometers east of Perth, defined by vast desert landscapes and a towering open-cut mine. It rose to prominence during the gold rush and is still dominated by the colossal Super Pit, which shapes its skyline. The streets echo with mining heritage, grand 19th-century buildings, and a warm outback charm that invites exploration.
Visitors can dive into frontier culture, explore museums, and tour nearby ghost towns and lookouts for a quintessential Australian outback experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kalgoorlie Boulder Visitor Centre to get an overview of the town's rich gold mining history. Discover detailed exhibits and interactive displays that set the tone for your adventure. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Take a guided tour of the Super Pit, one of the largest open-pit gold mines in Australia. Learn about the mining processes and see massive machinery in action. Take plenty of photos from the lookout points for memorable views.
Head to the Exchange Hotel, an iconic local pub, for dinner and a taste of regional cuisine. Relax and mingle with locals while enjoying live music or a quiet drink. Reflect on the day's discoveries under the starry outback sky.
Visit the Museum of the Goldfields to explore artefacts, mining equipment, and fascinating stories from the gold rush era. Engage with hands-on exhibits that appeal to all ages. Take a guided walk around historical buildings adjacent to the museum.
Spend time at the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum, where you can see vintage trains and learn about the role of rail in Kalgoorlie's development. Nearby, stop at local galleries showcasing Aboriginal and contemporary Australian art. Pick up unique souvenirs and crafts.
Dine at one of Kalgoorlie's popular restaurants specializing in modern Australian fare. Sample local wines and fresh ingredients sourced from Western Australia. Consider a walk through Hannan Street to experience the town's lively nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧺Groceries per week | $80-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per liter | $2.00-2.50 |
| 🎟️Museum entry | $10-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique outback mining town with iconic Super Pit
- Rich heritage and architecture
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Accessible day trips to desert landscapes
- Remote location with long travel times from major cities
- Limited public transport in some areas
- Very hot summers and dusty conditions
- Some attractions are weather dependent or seasonal
Places to Visit in Kalgoorlie
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic vantage point of one of the world’s largest open-cut mines; best during late afternoon light.
Photogenic façades of gold-rush era architecture and the lively street scene.
Grand historic buildings that capture the region’s mining-era grandeur.
Elevated viewpoint with sweeping views over the town and desert horizon.
Food in Kalgoorlie
Kalgoorlie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Aussie pub staple—savory meat pie served with mash or peas.
Must-Try!
Traditional bush bread, often enjoyed warm with salted butter or golden syrup.
Grilled lean game meat featured on some modern menus, prepared with regional herbs.
Fresh seafood option available at pubs and seafood-focused eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets with local produce, crafts, and street-food stalls offering snacks and meals.
Casual options near the station with burgers, kebabs, and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and casual conversation are well received; maintain a relaxed, respectful tone.
Ask before photographing Indigenous sites or artifacts; respect sacred places and private property; learn a little about local history when visiting communities.
Safety
Tipping in Kalgoorlie
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not required; rounding up the bill or leaving about 5–10% for good service is common in many venues.
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, eftpos) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; cash is still useful in some remote venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and arid with daytime highs frequently above 35°C. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Cool and dry with milder daytime temperatures (roughly 18–22°C) and cooler nights; nights can be chilly.
Dry and sunny, often pleasant for outdoor tours and lookouts; wildflowers may appear after rain.
Warm days with cooler evenings; comfortable conditions for exploring heritage sites and desert drives.
Kalgoorlie at Night
Hiking in Kalgoorlie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short to moderate hike offering sweeping views of Kalgoorlie and the surrounding desert.
Urban walking routes with interpretive signs about local history and early mining life.
Airports
How to reach Kalgoorlie by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights; easy taxi or rental car transfer to the town center.
Major international gateway with connections to Kalgoorlie via domestic flights or longer road trips; provides broader travel options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-standing families, miners, and service workers with a strong outback community spirit.
Significant Indigenous presence with ties to the land in the Goldfields region, contributing to culture and heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A central pastime with local clubs and seasonal matches throughout the year.
Popular during the Southern Hemisphere summer with local leagues and social games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalgoorlie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common at pubs and cafes; look for veggie burgers, salads, and veggie mains; ask about stock and broths to confirm ingredients.