Hop aboard historic paddle steamers, explore lush citrus groves and vineyards, and marvel at the wonder of the World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park. Mildura is packed with activities and things to do.

With its Mediterranean climate and iconic natural wonders, Mildura has long been a popular destination for holiday makers. Explore the riverfront and stop by the Mildura Water Play Park, a family favourite with plenty of shaded picnic areas near water pumps, weirs and fountains.

 

On a bigger scale, the kids will love Lock 11 and Mildura Weir, where boats and paddle steamers pass through different sections of the Murray River, with gates controlling the water level. Walk across the bridge to the man-made island to see the fascinating weir in action.

 

For a unique and relaxing getaway, hire a houseboat or take a ride on an historic paddle steamer and explore the Murray River. Grand old river boats the P.S. Melbourne, built in 1912, and the P.V. Rothbury, built in 1881, have been beautifully restored to their former glory and offer daytime and evening cruises. Back on land, ride a tractor train through the abundant citrus groves, orchards and avocado trees at Orange World and taste succulent fruits and juices.

 

The Perry Sandhills are a fascinating geological natural wonder half an hour from Mildura. Believed to be 40,000 years old, the sandhills are part of an important Aboriginal cultural heritage area. Explore 10 hectares of dramatic red sandhills, with their striking ripples and formations carved by the wind.

An hour and half northeast of Mildura, the World Heritage Mungo National Park is one of the most important archeological sites in the world. Rich in Aboriginal history and culture dating back 50,000 years, and part of the World Heritage Willandra Lakes Region, Lake Mungo was once teeming with life. The lake dried up around 16,000 years ago, leaving an arid and spectacular lunar landscape.

 

Mungo Woman and Mungo Man, the earliest discovery of ritualised burial, were unearthed here after 42,000 years. Take a guided tour with an Aboriginal Discover Ranger to the Walls of China, a series of crescent-shaped sand dunes. Learn about Aboriginal cultural history and enjoy spectacular views across the ancient landscape from the viewing platform.

Mildura is just under six hours’ drive from Melbourne, around 11 hours’ from Sydney and a 4hr 20min drive from Adelaide. A regular daily train service runs between Melbourne and Swan Hill, with a connecting bus from Swan Hill to Mildura. V/Line operates an overnight coach service from Melbourne to Mildura. You can also fly into Mildura Airport and hire a car to explore the region.