1. Hot Artesian Springs
Who would have thought being in a desert area that there would be any spots to take a swim in hot artesian water? While in Lightning Ridge, enjoy the Lightning Ridge hot bore baths at night while stargazing. In Walgett, Burren Junction bore baths are also open 24 hours and camping is available here. The baths are closed during the summer months. The Goodooga Artesian Spring is also worth a visit and camping is available.
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2. Check Out Silverton
Located 26km north-west of Broken Hill in the rolling hills of the Barrier Range, it was once a silver mining town. The amazing outback landscape has been seen in many movies such as Mad Max 2, A Town Like Alice and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Grab the ‘Welcome to Historic Silverton’ brochure which lists 21 things to see around the town. A visit to Silverton would not be complete without a stop at the Mad Max Museum and the Silverton Hotel.
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3. Drive Darling River Run
A 950km driving experience along the Darling River between Walgett and Wentowrth. You will see Aboriginal rock art, ancient man-made fish traps and plenty of paddle steamer history. Along with plenty of places to free camp, there are also many opportunities to throw in a line and catch some fish for dinner.
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4. Drink At An Unique Outback Pub
Every town has at least one pub. The outback has plenty that are a little bit quirky. The wall of the main bar at the Tibooburra Two Story Hotel has akubras that belong to people that call the town home. The Family Hotel in Tibooburra has an entire wall painted by Clifton Pugh, an archibald prize winning artist. The Silverton Hotel has appeared in numerous commercials and films. Its walls are covered in memorabilia and the car from Mad Max 2 sits out the front.
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5. Visit Corner Country
Canberra is blessed with some amazing galleries that are lucky host to some historic and significant exhibits, from Monet to Cartier. The National Museum of Australia holds these exhibitions throughout the year, and they are very popular, so be sure to get there early. Across the road is the National Portrait Gallery, where you are sure to see some familiar faces displayed in stunning photographs, paintings and more.
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6. Explore The Mines
The ACT isn’t all about cityscapes and museums. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors too. Why not head to Mount Ainslie? You can drive to the top or park the car at the War memorial and enjoy the hike to the top for the rewarding views. Or visit Corin Forest. In the summer, you can visit the beautiful Gibraltor Falls and take the Alpine Slide 1.2km through the ash forest. In winter, Corin Forest provides an affordable snow experience for families to enjoy snow play and tobogganing down their safe man made runs.
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7. Discover Pastoral Heritage
Outback NSW is rich with mining and pastoral heritage and there are a number of things to do which prove it. From all of the heritage walks (see walks section) to the historic sites and museums, there is a lot to learn here. Try The Bottle House and Mining Museum, Lightning Ridge Heritage Cottage or Chambers of the Black Hand.
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