Driving down the red dirt, empty streets, and sand-strewn landscapes of Silverton doesn’t exactly read like the Hollywood Walk of Fame. But this high-desert corner of the NSW outback is surprisingly ritzy. Silverton has featured in so many movies and ads, the town could be a veritable main character in itself. There is perhaps no better way to fully capture its essence than to look at the movies that call it home — from Mad Max and The Adventures of Priscilla to Mission: Impossible II and Furiosa, Silverton’s cinematic résumé is surprisingly stacked, and deeply Australian. Rustic pubs, quirky museums, sweeping lookouts, and sublime sunsets are all part of the Silverton experience. Ready to soak up the movie magic? Here’s what to see, eat, and do around town.
Silverton, NSW
Officially founded in 1883, Silverton was once a booming mining hub with more than 3,000 residents. Today, it’s home to fewer than 50 people as of the 2021 census, and many have landed walk-on roles in the films shot here. It may be classified as a ghost town, but Silverton draws thousands of visitors each year looking for a quintessential outback adventure. There’s nary a shopping complex or fancy boutique in sight, but you’ll find something fun and charming in every corner. Here’s how to plan a trip around one of NSW’s most iconic gems.
Things to do: Musuems, galleries, and outdoor recreation
Crowds from far and wide make the journey to Silverton for the Mad Max 2 Museum — a space dedicated entirely to the cult post-apocalyptic film. Inside, you’ll find an impressive display of memorabilia from the movie, including props, behind-the-scenes photos, and original and replica costumes. You can even get up close to the famous action vehicles from the movie, including not one, but two Interceptors. Also worth a visit is the quirky and colourful John Dynon Art Gallery, where you’ll find works by Silverton local, and one of Australia’s top-selling artists, John Dynon.
Take a stroll through town and you’ll come across several historic buildings, including the Silverton Gaol, the old Court House, and St Carthage Catholic Church, built in 1888.
Want another taste of Silverton’s Hollywood credentials? Just five minutes south lies the Mundi Mundi Lookout, where several scenes from Mad Max were filmed. Once you’re there, it’s easy to see why Hollywood prefers it. Perched atop the Barrier Ranges, this sweeping viewpoint overlooks Mundi Mundi Station, which stretches all the way into South Australia.
For something super local, take in the sights on a camel ride with Silverton Outback Camels, then venture underground at the Historic Daydream Mine, a former silver mine that offers a peek into Silverton’s mining past.
Where to eat: Local eateries and pubs
For a brew: There were once about 10 pubs in Silverton. Today, there’s just one, but it more than holds its own. The Silverton Hotel is a true-blue Aussie pub and debatably the most filmed in Australia, serving cold beer on tap, hearty pub grub, and no-frills country hospitality. And if it feels oddly familiar? You’ve probably seen it before — in movies like Razorback, Wake in Fright, The Slim Dusty Movie, Mission: Impossible II, and more.
For breakfast and coffee: Grab a classic brekkie and barista-made coffee at Silverton Bakery, a local favourite known for its fresh pies, pastries, cakes, and biscuits. Pull up a seat, tuck in, and soak up the wide-open outback views.
For dinner and an overnight stay: Planning to stay the night? The Silverton Hotel has seven comfy rooms and an all-day bistro menu to keep you well-fed and happy. You can also find hotels and charming campgrounds in Broken Hill nearby.
The best time to visit Silverton
The seasons of spring — September to November and autumn — March to May are generally considered the best time to visit Silverton for pleasant, temperate weather and clear skies. The summer months can be quite hot, as with most outback towns, but winter is also a good time for outdoor exploration and bushwalks. Read more about Silverton and find accommodation options here.
Getting there
Silverton is quite remote with no public transport to speak of. But if you’re wondering if the 13-hour drive from Sydney is worthy of a trip, the answer is a resounding yes. You also have the option to fly into Broken Hill and hire a car for the short 25-minute drive. Happy location scouting!