Things to Do in Swan Hill
BIG4 Riverside Swan Hill is close to many of the region’s most popular attractions, Murray River experiences and laid-back country towns. Set right on the banks of the Murray River, the park makes a great base for exploring local history, river cruises, fishing spots, walking tracks, wineries and outdoor attractions throughout the Swan Hill region.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, fishing trip, caravan getaway or regional Victoria road trip, there’s plenty to see and do both in town and around the wider Murray River region.
From riverfront sunsets and paddle steamer cruises through to local pubs, salt lakes and country drives, Swan Hill offers the kind of easy-going holiday experiences people keep coming back for.
Pioneer Settlement, Swan Hill
Pioneer Settlement is one of Swan Hill’s best-known attractions and gives visitors the chance to step back into Australia’s pioneering history. Located on the banks of the Little Murray River, the attraction features historic cottages, old shops, schools, hotels and working machinery that bring the region’s early river trade and settlement days to life.
Guests staying at BIG4 Riverside Swan Hill can explore horse and cart rides, blacksmith demonstrations, vintage tractors and interactive displays just minutes from the park, making it a great family-friendly day out while holidaying in Swan Hill.
PS PYAP
The PS Pyap is a historic paddle steamer offering Murray River cruises departing daily from Pioneer Settlement in Swan Hill. Originally built in South Australia in 1896, the paddle steamer once operated as a floating general store travelling between small settlements along the Murray River.
Today, visitors can enjoy relaxing one-hour cruises along the river while taking in the peaceful scenery, riverfront homes and surrounding Murray River landscapes near Swan Hill. It remains one of the most popular attractions for guests wanting to properly experience the river during their stay.
Heartbeat of the Murray & Legends of the Mallee
- Laser Show
Heartbeat of the Murray is a breathtaking laser light and multimedia show set along the banks of the Little Murray River in Swan Hill. Combining water, light, lasers, sound and special effects, the internationally recognised experience shares the story of the Murray River and the landscapes that have shaped the region over millions of years.
Guests are taken on a journey stretching back more than 30 million years, following the evolution of the Murray River through to present day. Set within a natural river environment, the show was the first production of its kind in the world to use a real river setting as the backdrop, creating a truly unique Murray River experience.
Legends of the Mallee also brings the region’s history to life through stories connected to the Wamba Wamba and Wadi Wadi people, European explorers, Burke and Wills, Lake Boga and the wartime contributions of the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force.
Blending history, storytelling and incredible visual effects, the experience has become one of the most popular evening attractions for guests visiting Swan Hill and the wider Murray River region.
Lake Boga Catalina Flying Boat Museum
Located between Swan Hill and Kerang, the Lake Boga Catalina Flying Boat Museum shares the fascinating wartime history of the region and the important role Lake Boga played during World War II.
Visitors can explore the restored Catalina Flying Boat, original communication bunker and a large collection of wartime artefacts while learning about the servicemen and women who worked at the No. 1 Flying Boat Repair Depot. The museum makes a great day trip for guests exploring the wider Murray River region.
Lake Tyrrell
Located around an hour from Swan Hill, Lake Tyrrell is Victoria’s largest inland salt lake and one of the most photographed natural attractions in the region.
Known for its incredible sunsets, reflective salt flats and huge star-filled skies, Lake Tyrrell attracts photographers, campers and travellers looking to experience something different while exploring regional Victoria. It’s an easy day trip from BIG4 Riverside Swan Hill and well worth the drive.
Giant Murray Cod
The Giant Murray Cod outside the Swan Hill train station is one of the town’s most iconic roadside attractions and a must-stop photo opportunity for visitors passing through.
Measuring around 11 metres long, the giant cod celebrates the fishing history of the Murray River and the important role the river has played in shaping Swan Hill over the years. It’s a fun and easy stop while exploring town.
Murray Downs Golf Resort
Murray Downs Golf Resort is one of the leading golf courses along the Murray River and is located only a short drive from BIG4 Riverside Swan Hill.
The championship 18-hole course is surrounded by beautiful river red gums and is popular with both casual golfers and dedicated golf groups visiting the region. It’s a great option for guests wanting to mix a relaxing riverside holiday with a round of golf during their stay.
Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery
Located near Pioneer Settlement and the Little Murray River, the Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery showcases a mix of touring exhibitions, local artwork, workshops and community events throughout the year.
The gallery offers a quieter change of pace while exploring Swan Hill and is well worth visiting for guests interested in local culture, art and regional stories.
The Pub Grub Trail, Swan Hill
The Swan Hill Pub Grub Trail is perfect for visitors wanting to experience relaxed country pubs, hearty meals and classic regional hospitality throughout the Murray River region.
Travelling through towns surrounding Swan Hill, the trail highlights local pubs and dining spots known for generous meals, friendly locals and laid-back country atmospheres. It’s a great way to explore the region while enjoying local produce and authentic country hospitality along the way.