37 BEST Things To Do In Kalgoorlie Boulder WA

Here’s a useful guide to the top 37 things you should do when visiting Kalgoorlie Boulder WA. From its vibrant gold rush heritage to modern day attractions these twin towns are packed with exciting things to do. Kalgoorlie and Boulder located in Western Australia’s Goldfields region gives visitors a unique experience rich in history adventure and the good old Aussie outback charm. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventurer or are just passing through.

Looking Down Into The Super Pit

1. Visit the Super Pit Lookout

No trip to Kalgoorlie is complete without a visit to the Super Pit – one of the largest open pit gold mines in the world. The sheer scale of it is mind blowing. You can watch the massive haul trucks looking like tiny toys as they work their way through the pit. Head to the Super Pit Lookout for the best views.

2. Take a Goldfields History Tour

Immerse yourself in the history of the Goldfields by joining a guided tour. You’ll learn all about the gold rush that shaped this area, from the early days of prospectors with pickaxes to the huge mining operations that continue today.

3. Explore the Western Australian Museum – Kalgoorlie Boulder

For history enthusiasts, the WA Museum in Kalgoorlie Boulder is a must. It showcases the rich history of the Goldfields, including the mining history, the people who lived here and Indigenous culture. Don’t miss the section on the Super Pit – it’s fascinating to learn about how the town grew around the mine.

4. Walk Down Hannan Street

Hannan Street is the main drag in Kalgoorlie and a great place to take a leisurely stroll. Lined with heritage buildings, pubs and shops, it’s a reminder of the town’s boomtime during the gold rush. Pop into a pub for a cold beer, or simply soak in the atmosphere.

5. Enjoy a Beer at Kalgoorlie’s Historic Pubs

Kalgoorlie is known for its iconic pubs many of which date back to the gold rush days. Places like the Exchange Hotel and the Palace Hotel ooze history and you can enjoy a cold one while imagining what life was like for the gold miners back in the day. Pubs are listed further down this page.

6. Go on a Brothel Tour at Questa Casa

Kalgoorlie’s historic brothel, Questa Casa, offers tours where you can learn about the town’s rather risqué side. This old pink building has been operational for over 100 years and the tour is an eye opening (but PG rated!) look at Kalgoorlie’s infamous redlight district.

Inside Boulder Town Hall

7. Explore Hammond Park

For a relaxing afternoon, head to Hammond Park. This leafy oasis is home to plenty of wildlife. Including kangaroos, emus and peacocks. It’s a great spot for a picnic and there’s even a miniature Bavarian castle for the kids to enjoy.

8. Discover Karlkurla Bushland Park

Nature lovers will enjoy exploring Karlkurla Bushland Park, a natural bush reserve located just outside of town. There are walking trails through the park where you can spot native plants and wildlife. It’s the perfect place to experience the outback’s unique flora and fauna.

9. Try Your Luck Panning for Gold

Feeling lucky? Why not try your hand at gold panning! Kalgoorlie was built on gold and you can still have a go at finding some of the shiny stuff today. There are guided tours available where you’ll be taught the proper technique.

10. Explore the Boulder Town Hall

The Boulder Town Hall is a beautifully restored building. It’s known for its magnificent Edwardian architecture and is home to the famous Goatcher Curtain – the last surviving stage curtain of its kind in the world.

11. Walk the Golden Mile Loopline Railway

For a bit of local history and a scenic walk, the Golden Mile Loopline Railway is a great way to explore the area. The original railway was used to transport ore and miners between Kalgoorlie and Boulder. Today, you can walk parts of the track and learn about the town’s mining history.

12. Visit Mount Charlotte Reservoir and Lookout

The Mount Charlotte Lookout offers stunning panoramic views of Kalgoorlie Boulder and the surrounding Goldfields. The reservoir itself is a vital part of the Goldfields’ history, as it marks the end of the pipeline that brought water from Perth to Kalgoorlie, a massive engineering feat in its day.

13. Enjoy a Round of Golf at Kalgoorlie Golf Course

Golfers will be thrilled by Kalgoorlie’s 18 hole championship golf course. It’s considered one of the best desert golf courses in the world. Even if you’re not a serious golfer, the stunning landscape makes for a great day out.

14. Explore Lake Ballard and Its Art Installations

A day trip from Kalgoorlie to Lake Ballard is a must for art lovers. The lake is home to Antony Gormley’s “Inside Australia” art installation, featuring 51 metal sculptures scattered across the salt flats. It’s an eerie, otherworldly experience that’s well worth the trip.

15. Check Out the Goldfields Arts Centre

For a bit of culture, head to the Goldfields Arts Centre. This venue hosts many different events throughout the year. Including theatre performances, concerts and art exhibitions. It’s a great way to tap into Kalgoorlie’s creative scene.

16. Catch a Flick at the Outdoor Cinema

During the warmer months, Kalgoorlie’s outdoor cinema is a fantastic way to enjoy a movie under the stars. The ambiance of watching a film in the balmy outback night is something truly special.

17. Explore the Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Centre

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has been a lifeline for remote communities in Australia for decades. The RFDS Visitor Centre in Kalgoorlie offers a fascinating insight into their work and the vital role they play in the outback.

18. Visit Boulder Market Day

If you’re in town on a Sunday, head to Boulder Market Day. This lively local market features everything from handmade crafts to delicious food and it’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir.

19. Go Underground at the Museum of the Goldfields

Kalgoorlie’s mining heritage is best experienced at the Museum of the Goldfields, where you can go underground and see firsthand what life was like for early gold miners. The museum also has a great collection of gold nuggets and mining memorabilia.

20. Take a Self Guided Heritage Walk

Pick up a map from the visitor centre and take yourself on a self guided heritage walk around Kalgoorlie Boulder. You’ll discover historical buildings, landmarks and plenty of fascinating stories from the town’s colourful past.

Kalgoorlie Pipeline Commemorative Plaque

21. Drive the Golden Quest Discovery Trail

The Golden Quest Discovery Trail is a scenic drive that takes you through the heart of the Goldfields. It’s perfect for those who love a good road trip, with plenty of stops along the way to explore ghost towns, historical sites and natural attractions.

22. Tour the Beaten Track Brewery

If you’re a beer lover, a visit to Beaten Track Brewery is a must. This local microbrewery produces a range of craft beers inspired by the rugged Goldfields region. Take a tour, sample some brews and chat with the friendly locals.

23. Explore the Kalgoorlie Arboretum

For a peaceful escape, the Kalgoorlie Arboretum is a lovely spot for a walk or picnic. It’s home to a variety of native trees and is a great place to spot birds and other wildlife.

24. Join a Camel Tour

For a truly outback experience, join a camel tour and explore the Goldfields from a new perspective. Camel rides offer a relaxed way to see the desert landscape and learn about the history of camels in the region.

25. Try Prospecting for Gold

If you’re really keen to get a feel for Kalgoorlie’s golden history, why not try prospecting? Several local tour operators offer guided prospecting tours, where you’ll be taught how to use a metal detector and possibly strike it lucky!

26. Go Wild at the Goldfields Water Ski Park

Kalgoorlie might be in the middle of the desert, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some water sports! The Goldfields Water Ski Park offers a range of activities, from water skiing and wakeboarding to picnicking by the lake.

27. Play 2-Up in Kalgoorlie

Kalgoorlie’s iconic Two-Up Shed is one of the most famous places in Australia where 2-up is legally played year round. Located just outside of town, this iconic venue has been around for decades and stepping inside feels like stepping back in time. It’s a rustic, open air shed where locals and tourists gather for a day of good natured betting, a cold beer and loads of fun. Open to visit 24/7. Play Two Up each Sunday from 2:00pm.

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Pubs and Hotels in Kalgoorlie Boulder, WA

Kalgoorlie Boulder is known for its rich history, but also for its legendary pubs and hotels, which are an essential part of the town’s culture. Whether you’re looking for a cold one after a day of exploring, a hearty meal, or a place to stay, the pubs and hotels here offer a friendly, laid back vibe. Here’s a list of some of the currently open spots you can check out.

28. Exchange Hotel

The Exchange Hotel is a Kalgoorlie institution. Located on Hannan Street, this iconic pub has been serving up cold beers since 1901. It’s got a great atmosphere, with a lively bar, good food and often some live entertainment. It’s also famous for its history and connection to the gold rush days. Perfect for those looking to soak in some local character.

– Address: 135 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie
– What to expect: Classic Aussie pub meals, live music, historic charm

29. The Palace Hotel

Another one of Kalgoorlie’s oldest hotels, the Palace Hotel is full of charm and history. It has a popular bar and restaurant, as well as accommodation for those wanting to stay right in the heart of Kalgoorlie. The hotel has a long history, including a connection to Herbert Hoover, the former U.S. president, who stayed here during his time as a mining engineer. The pub has a classic, relaxed vibe and serves great pub grub.

– Address: 137 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie
– What to expect: Historic setting, hearty meals, central location

30. The Recreation Hotel

Known as “The Rec” by locals, this hotel has been a favourite watering hole in Boulder for years. It offers a relaxed environment, with a spacious bar, outdoor area and solid pub meals. The Rec is particularly popular for its family friendly atmosphere and friendly service. It’s a great spot to grab a pint and a feed after a day out in the Goldfields.

– Address: 140 Burt St, Boulder
– What to expect: Relaxed pub, family friendly, affordable meals

31. Kalgoorlie Hotel

Located in the heart of town, the Kalgoorlie Hotel is a classic stop for anyone visiting the Goldfields. It’s one of the oldest hotels in Kalgoorlie and offers a welcoming environment with cold beers and delicious meals. The Kalgoorlie Hotel also features a large outdoor beer garden, perfect for those sunny outback afternoons. The friendly locals make it a great place to chat and unwind.

– Address: 319 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie
– What to expect: Great atmosphere, beer garden, pub classics

Beers At The York Hotel Kalgoorlie

32. Broken Hill Hotel

If you’re after a no fuss pub experience, the Broken Hill Hotel is the place to go. Located in Boulder, this old school pub offers a laid back atmosphere, with ice cold beers and tasty pub meals. The locals here are welcoming and it’s a top spot to relax and have a yarn with new mates. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some other places, but it’s a reliable go to for a classic Aussie pub experience.

– Address: 128 Burt St, Boulder
– What to expect: Laid back vibe, friendly service, affordable food and drinks

33. Judds Kalgoorlie

Located inside the historic Kalgoorlie Overland Motel, Judds is a great spot to grab a feed and a drink. It offers a modern twist on the classic Aussie pub, with a menu full of pub favourites as well as some more refined options. The atmosphere is welcoming and it’s a top spot for travellers and locals alike. Whether you’re after a cold beer or a good steak, Judds has you covered.

– Address: 566 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie
– What to expect: Good food, casual dining, modern pub experience

34. North End Tavern

The North End Tavern is a more local centric pub, a bit off the main tourist track, but well worth a visit if you want a quieter, more authentic outback experience. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere, great pub meals and an excellent selection of beers. The North End is popular among the locals, so it’s a good spot to get some tips on hidden gems around the area.

– Address: 29 Forrest St, Kalgoorlie
– What to expect: Friendly locals, pub food, relaxed vibe

35. The York Hotel

This historic hotel is another gem on Hannan Street, with stunning architecture and a warm, welcoming vibe. The York Hotel’s pub is a great place to enjoy a drink while taking in the history that surrounds you. The restaurant also serves up a good range of pub classics and more refined options. It’s a good place to stop for a meal while you explore Kalgoorlie’s rich heritage.

– Address: 259 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie
– What to expect: Heritage building, casual dining, friendly atmosphere

36. The Grand Hotel Boulder

Over in Boulder, the Grand Hotel is another top spot for a good drink and a bite to eat. It’s a smaller, more intimate pub with a great local following. The food is well priced and the service is friendly. It’s a good place to relax with a cold beer after exploring Boulder’s historical precinct.

– Address: 201 Lane St, Boulder
– What to expect: Local favourite, affordable meals, cosy atmosphere

37. The Albion Shamrock Hotel Motel

Located between Kalgoorlie and Boulder, the Albion Shamrock Hotel is a favourite for those who want a mix of good food, cold drinks and comfortable accommodation. It’s a great spot for both locals and travellers, offering a down to earth pub experience with all the essentials you’d expect from a great Aussie pub. The Shamrock is particularly known for its friendly staff and tasty pub meals.

– Address: 60 Burt St, Boulder
– What to expect: Comfortable accommodation, great food, laid back vibe

Dinner And Beers At The Palace Hotel

Final Thoughts On The Best Things To In Kalgoorlie Boulder WA

Kalgoorlie and Boulder are so much more than just dusty mining towns. With a rich history, beautiful outback landscapes and plenty of unique experiences, they’re well worth a visit. Whether you’re keen to learn about the gold rush, explore the rugged outback, or just relax in a local pub, there’s something for everyone in these two fascinating towns. Kalgoorlie Boulder is full of character and its pubs and hotels reflect the town’s rich history and welcoming spirit. Whether you’re just passing through or staying a while, you’ll find plenty of spots to enjoy a drink, a meal, or a good yarn with the locals.