Things To Do
in Kalgoorlie

Kalgoorlie is a vibrant city located in the Goldfields region of Western Australia, known for its rich mining history and stunning architecture. The city is famed for its gold rush heritage and has a lively atmosphere with a blend of historic and modern elements. It serves as a gateway to some of the most significant mining operations in the country, attracting tourists and adventurers alike.

Kalgoorlie's unique charm, accentuated by its red earth and clear blue skies, makes it a captivating destination for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Goldfields
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Super Pit, one of the largest open-cut gold mines in the world, and take a guided tour to learn about its operations.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Historical Museum to explore the city's rich mining history, followed by a stroll through the historic buildings along Hannan Street.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at the Palace Hotel, famous for its ornate architecture and a great selection of local dishes, before heading to a local pub for live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the local flora and fauna at the nearby Karlkurla Bushland Park, a beautiful area for a morning walk.

afternoon
:

Visit the Goldfields Arts Centre to check out local art exhibitions and cultural performances.

evening
:

Dine at The Continental Hotel, known for its relaxed atmosphere and hearty meals, and then explore the nightlife at local bars featuring live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$20-$40
Coffee$4-$5
🍺Pint of Beer$7-$12
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$100-$200
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich mining history and unique cultural experiences.
  • Vibrant atmosphere with friendly locals.
  • Abundance of outdoor activities and natural beauty.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some visitors.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Can be quite remote, requiring travel to reach other major cities.

Places to Visit in Kalgoorlie

Visit one of these nice places.

Super Pit Lookout

A stunning viewpoint overlooking one of the largest open-cut gold mines in the world, offering dramatic views.

Kalgoorlie Town Hall

An iconic building featuring beautiful architecture, perfect for capturing historic charm.

Hannan Street

The main street lined with historic buildings and vibrant street art, ideal for urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kalgoorlie

Kalgoorlie offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes reflecting its rich mining heritage. From hearty pub meals to fresh seafood, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Kalgoorlie Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barramundi

A popular local fish served grilled or fried, often paired with chips and a fresh salad.

Must-Try!

Meat Pie

A classic Australian dish, often filled with minced meat and gravy, perfect for a quick lunch.

Sausage Roll

A flaky pastry filled with seasoned sausage meat, commonly enjoyed as a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kalgoorlie Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market offers fresh produce, local meats, and artisanal goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kalgoorlie experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), while winters can drop to around 10°C (50°F) at night. Rainfall is scarce, with most precipitation occurring in winter and spring. The dry climate contributes to clear skies, making it an excellent destination for stargazing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Friendly Greetings

Australians are generally friendly; a simple 'G'day' is a common greeting.

Respect Personal Space

Maintain personal space in conversations, as Australians value privacy.

Queuing

Always queue politely and wait your turn, as it is considered good manners.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kalgoorlie is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s wise to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid isolated places after dark. Always secure your belongings and be cautious when accepting offers from strangers. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 000 for urgent assistance.

Tipping in Kalgoorlie

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, and contactless payment is widely used; cash is less common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot temperatures averaging over 30°C (86°F), making it ideal for early morning outdoor activities.

Autumn (March - May)

Mild temperatures and less rainfall, perfect for exploring the outdoors and cultural events.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures averaging 10°C (50°F) at night; great for indoor activities and cozy dining.

Spring (September - November)

A beautiful time with blooming wildflowers and mild weather, ideal for hiking and nature walks.

Nightlife Guide

Kalgoorlie at Night

Kalgoorlie boasts a lively nightlife scene with a variety of pubs, bars, and clubs catering to all tastes. The city offers live music venues featuring local bands, dance floors in nightclubs, and relaxed pubs where you can enjoy a drink with friends. Popular spots often host themed nights and events, making it a great place to socialize after dark.

Hiking in Kalgoorlie

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Charlotte

A relatively easy hike offering panoramic views of Kalgoorlie and the surrounding landscape.

The Golden Quest Discovery Trail

A longer trail that provides a historical perspective on the gold rush, stretching over 965 kilometers.

Airports

How to reach Kalgoorlie by plane.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport

Located just 5 km from the city center, this airport offers flights to Perth and other regional destinations, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kalgoorlie's city center is quite walkable, with key attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance of each other. Pedestrian-friendly pathways and well-marked crosswalks make it easy to explore on foot, although some areas may require a vehicle for longer distances to surrounding attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Australians

A significant demographic group in Kalgoorlie, contributing to the cultural heritage and community events.

Mining Workers

Many residents work in the mining industry, influencing the city's economy and lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Australian Rules Football (AFL)

A popular sport in Kalgoorlie, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Cricket

Another favorite, especially during the summer months, with many local clubs and community matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kalgoorlie is generally light, with most residents using cars for transportation. Public transport is available but limited, primarily consisting of bus services. It's advisable to drive if planning to explore the surrounding areas, as distances can be significant.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalgoorlie.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets; always inquire about options when dining out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Kalgoorlie includes the Kalgoorlie Health Campus, which provides a range of medical services including emergency care, outpatient services, and specialist clinics. There are also several private clinics and pharmacies available throughout the city. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide