The Best Things to Do in Mildura

Cruise the Murray River

You can’t visit Mildura without getting on the Murray. It’s the heart of everything here, and there’s no shortage of ways to experience it.

Houseboating is one of the top things to do in Mildura, especially if you’re travelling with a group. Rent a houseboat for a few days and you’ve got a floating campsite. BBQ on the deck, cold drinks in hand, and the freedom to pull up wherever you like for a swim or a fish. It’s a brilliant way to see the region at a pace that actually lets you enjoy it.

For something more active, hire a kayak or paddleboard and explore at your own pace. Paddling along the quieter stretches of the Murray River in Mildura is a great way to spot birdlife along the banks without the noise of motor boats. Plenty of local operators hire gear by the hour or half-day.

If you’d prefer someone else to do the steering, hop on a paddlesteamer cruise. These heritage riverboats have been running on the Murray for over a century, and a couple of hours on board gives you a relaxed mix of sightseeing and local history. It’s a lovely option for couples or anyone who wants to sit back and take in the river without lifting a paddle.

Explore Kings Billabong

Just a short drive east of the Mildura CBD, Kings Billabong is a wetland wildlife reserve that sits right on the Murray and it’s one of those places that locals love but visitors often miss.

The billabong is brilliant for kayaking. The water is calm, there are no houseboats or jet skis to dodge, and the birdlife is incredible: pelicans, black swans, herons, and whistling kites are all regulars. You can hire kayaks from local operators who’ll meet you at the car park with everything you need, which makes the whole thing easy. The kayak launchers at the water’s edge are a nice touch too. You can roll straight in without getting your feet wet!

Beyond the water, there are walking tracks for all fitness levels, including a 9.5km loop around Ducks Foot Lagoon for anyone after a longer bush walk. There’s a bird hide where you can sit and watch the waterbirds without disturbing them, and the whole reserve is free to enter. You can even camp here for free if you’re set up in a campervan. Some of the dispersed sites along the Murray are genuinely beautiful.

Kings Billabong is one of the best things to do in Mildura with kids, too. The calm water, the wildlife spotting, and the space to roam make it a winner for families. Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Good to know: If you visit on a Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday, you can catch a glimpse of the historic Psyche Bend Pumping Station, built in 1891 by the Chaffey Brothers.

Visit Mungo National Park

This is the day trip from Mildura that sticks with you. About a 1.5-hour drive north, Mungo National Park honestly feels like another planet. Ancient dunes, a lakebed that’s been dry for thousands of years, and the famous Walls of China, those towering sand and clay formations that shift and change with the light.

It’s a place with serious cultural significance, too. Mungo Lady and Mungo Man were found here. Human remains dating back around 40,000 to 42,000 years, making this one of the oldest known sites of human habitation on the planet.

Sunset is the time to be here. The formations glow in shades of orange and pink as the light drops. It’s an incredible spot for photography and one of the most unusual things to do in Mildura for adults who want something beyond the typical sightseeing circuit.

The roads in can be unsealed, so check conditions before you head out, especially after rain. If you’re not confident driving on dirt roads, guided day tours run from Mildura and are well worth it. Pack water, snacks, and sun protection, because facilities are limited.

Good to know: An entry fee applies to the national park. Check the Parks Victoria website for current pricing and any seasonal closures.

See the Pink Lakes at Murray-Sunset National Park

A couple of hours south of Mildura, the pink salt lakes in Murray-Sunset National Park are genuinely surreal. Thanks to salt-loving algae, the lakes shift between shades of pink and rose depending on the season and conditions. Set against red outback dirt and big open skies, the colour contrast is unreal.

This is one of those unusual things to do in Mildura that feels completely different from everything else on your trip. It’s quiet, remote, and totally untouched. There’s no gift shop, no cafe, and no crowds. 

The lakes are best visited in the warmer months when the algae is most active and the pink colour is at its strongest. Bring everything you need, including fuel, water, and food. This is proper outback, and there’s nothing out here.

Take a Scenic Flight Over the Murray

The Murray River is stunning from the water, but seeing it from above is a completely different experience. Scenic flights run out of Mildura and give you a bird’s eye view of the meandering river, the surrounding vineyards, and the vast farmlands that stretch out in every direction.

It’s a splurge, but if you’re celebrating something special or just want an experience that’s hard to forget, a scenic flight over the Murray River in Mildura is one of the most memorable things you can do. The 360-degree views are breathtaking, and it gives you a whole new appreciation for how the river shapes this part of the country.

Sandboard the Perry Sandhills

About 35 minutes from Mildura, the Perry Sandhills are a compact but striking set of ancient red dunes formed by wind erosion over thousands of years. They’re a great stop on a Mildura road trip. Easy to access, free to visit, and genuinely impressive once you’re standing among them.

The standout feature is the God Tree, a 500-year-old river red gum that’s been partially buried by shifting sands. It’s an eerie, beautiful sight that gives the place a sense of deep time.

If you’ve got kids (or just a healthy appetite for fun), sandboarding is the main event here. It’s like snowboarding but on red sand, and it’s a blast. You can bring your own board or hire one locally. Even without the sandboarding, wandering the dunes and watching the light change across the landscape is well worth the detour.

The Perry Sandhills are one of the best things to do in Mildura with kids. They’ll burn off energy, have a great time on the dunes, and it’s completely free.

Wine Tasting at Trentham Estate

Perched on the banks of the Murray, Trentham Estate Winery is one of the region’s standout cellar door experiences. It’s a family-owned, award-winning boutique operation, and the setting alone, right on the river, makes it worth the visit.

You’ll get to taste wines made from grapes grown in the surrounding Sunraysia region, and the staff are generous with their knowledge. The estate also produces its own olive oil and balsamic, both of which are worth trying. If you’re there around lunch, the on-site restaurant does excellent food with river views.

This is a great option for couples, or for anyone who wants to break up the outdoor adventures with something a bit more refined. It’s not pretentious either, just good wine in a beautiful spot.

Grab a Brew at Mildura Brewery

When you’ve wrapped up a day of exploring, the Mildura Brewery is the place to be. Housed in a converted heritage theatre, it’s got character in spades… Think high ceilings, original features, and a solid lineup of house-brewed beers on tap.

Order a schooner of whatever catches your eye , they brew everything from pale ales to darker styles, and settle into the relaxed atmosphere. The food menu is generous, and the pub itself is worth visiting just for the building and the vibe, even if beer isn’t your thing.

It’s a proper local spot and a great way to wind down after a day on the road. If you’re wondering what to do in Mildura this weekend, checking what’s on at the brewery is always a good starting point.

Wander the Mildura Riverfront

The Mildura Riverfront precinct stretches from River Boulevard to Chaffey Landing, and it’s one of the best free things to do in Mildura sightseeing-wise. The walking and cycling path follows the Murray through shady gum trees, past interpretive signage about the region’s history, and through some genuinely beautiful riverside scenery.

It’s a lovely morning walk, a great spot for a riverside picnic, and an easy way to get your bearings when you first arrive. You’ll pass cultural and historical sites along the way, and there are picnic areas with BBQ facilities dotted throughout.

For families, the Mildura Water Play Park is along this stretch and is a hit with younger kids on a warm day. For couples, an evening stroll along the river as the light fades is hard to beat.

Explore the Etiwanda Wetlands

A short drive from the CBD, the Etiwanda Wetlands are a tranquil 16-hectare site with a series of ponds, native plantings, and an abundance of birdlife. It’s a peaceful spot for a morning walk, a bit of bird watching, or just some time away from the road.

The wetlands are free, easy to access, and a good option for travellers of all ages. It’s one of those Mildura sights that doesn’t take long to visit but adds a quiet, natural moment to your day.

Tour Orange World

Orange World is a working citrus property just outside of Mildura, and it’s one of the more unique things to see in Mildura. Hop on the tractor-train tour to learn about citrus farming in the Sunraysia region, sample fresh produce straight from the orchard, and browse the farm shop for jams, marmalades, and local goodies.

It’s family-friendly, educational, and surprisingly interesting even if you’re not particularly into agriculture. Kids love the tractor ride, and there’s something rather satisfying about eating an orange that was picked minutes ago.

Walk the Chaffey Trail

If you’re keen on a bit of history, the Chaffey Trail is a series of walking and driving trails that take you through Mildura’s past. The town’s irrigation story is genuinely fascinating, Canadian engineers George and Ben Chaffey turned this stretch of outback into a productive farming region in the 1880s, and their legacy is everywhere.

The walks are short and easy, and the interpretive signage along the way fills in the story without dragging. It’s free, self-guided, and a good way to understand why Mildura exists the way it does.

Get Cultural at the Mildura Arts Centre

The Mildura Arts Centre is a hub for visual arts, live performances, and local history. The complex includes the Rio Vista Historic House, five exhibition spaces, a 500-seat theatre, a sculpture park, and a cafe.

Whether you’re catching a show, wandering through a contemporary exhibition, or just having a coffee in the cafe, it’s a solid spot to spend an hour or two. It’s especially good on a rainy day or when you need a break from the sun.

Check the events calendar before you visit. There’s usually something on, especially over weekends, and it’s a good answer to the “what to do in Mildura this weekend” question.

Stock Up at the Sunraysia Farmers Market

Held on the first and third Saturday of each month, the Sunraysia Farmers Market at Jaycee Park is where Mildura’s food culture really comes alive. You’ll find fresh seasonal fruit and veg, homemade jams, honey, baked goods, olive oils, and local artisan products, all from producers in the region.

It’s the perfect place to grab a proper brekkie while you browse, or to stock up the campervan with supplies for a few days of riverside cooking. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and you’ll get a genuine taste of what Mildura grows and makes.

Good to know: Get there early for the best selection. The market runs from 8am to 12pm.

Visit Kow Plains Homestead

A couple of hours from Mildura, Kow Plains Homestead is a fully restored 1800s pastoral station that gives you a feel for what settler life was like in the Aussie outback. It’s been lovingly maintained by local volunteers over many years, and a visit here is a quiet, interesting step back in time.

Nose through the old rooms, check out the machinery shed, and take in the harshness of the landscape that early settlers had to work with. It’s a small site, but for anyone interested in outback heritage, it’s a worthwhile day trip from Mildura.

Want a campervan that makes day trips like this easy? Send us your dates and we’ll sort the rest.

Mildura punches well above its weight when it comes to food. The Sunraysia region produces incredible fresh produce, and the local dining scene makes the most of it.

Feastreet is the town’s dedicated dining and entertainment precinct on Langtree Avenue. You’ll find everything from fine dining to casual eats, and it’s the best place to start if you’re not sure where to head. Wander the strip and see what grabs you.

Stefano’s Cafe is a Mildura institution. Laid-back, unpretentious, and known for excellent breakfast and lunch options using local ingredients. The toasted sandwiches are a local favourite, and you can pick up wines, cheeses, and sauces to take away.

The Brass Monkey is housed in a heritage-listed building in the CBD and is an all-day dining spot with a sophisticated edge. Great for a relaxed lunch or a proper dinner out.

Andy’s Kitchen serves award-winning Asian-fusion food in a family-friendly setting (there’s even a mini playground for kids). The daily specials are worth asking about.

For a more casual bite, grab a pie from a local bakery or pick up fish and chips to eat by the river. Mildura’s food scene caters to all budgets and appetites.

Mildura is an official RV-friendly town, with plenty of options for campervans, caravans, and campers. Long-vehicle parking is available in the CBD, and there are dump points and public showers throughout the region.

Apex RiverBeach Holiday Park is one of the standout options. It’s the only caravan park in Mildura with direct beach access to the Murray River. Set among beautiful gum trees, it’s peaceful, well-maintained, and pet-friendly. Powered and unpowered sites are available, and it’s just a short drive into town.

NRMA Mildura Riverside Holiday Park is a larger park with a wide range of facilities: pool, cabins, spacious sites, and river views. It’s a great pick for families, with plenty of space for kids to run around.

All Seasons Holiday Park has recently added a heap of new facilities: jumping pillow, pump track, splash water park, playground, mini golf, and more. It’s probably the most activity-packed park in the area and a strong choice for families with younger kids.

Kings Billabong (free camping): If you’re set up in a self-contained campervan, the dispersed camping at Kings Billabong is hard to beat. Shady sites along the Murray, no fees, and you wake up to birdlife. Just remember to leave no trace.

If you’re planning a campervan trip to Mildura, we can match you with the right van for your needs, and at the best price.

Best Time to Visit Mildura

Mildura enjoys a semi-arid climate with plenty of sunshine year-round. The best time to visit Mildura is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when daytime temperatures sit between 20-30°C and the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.

Summer (December to February) can be hot… Daytime temps regularly push past 35°C and occasionally hit 40°C. If you’re visiting in summer, plan your outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated, and make the most of the river for cooling off. Summer is also when the pink lakes are at their most vibrant.

Winter (June to August) is cooler, with daytime temps around 15-17°C and overnight lows dropping to around 5-6°C. It’s quieter, more affordable, and still sunny most days. A good time for those who prefer fewer crowds and milder temperatures.

Getting to Mildura

Mildura is about six hours by car from Melbourne, four hours from Adelaide, and roughly four hours from Echuca along the Murray. The Echuca to Mildura drive along the river is a brilliant road trip in itself, with plenty of small towns and stops along the way.

Mildura also has an airport with regular flights from Melbourne, making it accessible if you don’t want to drive the full distance.

How Long to Spend in Mildura

Three to four days is a solid amount of time to see the main sights, do a day trip or two, and enjoy the town at a relaxed pace. If you’re adding Mungo National Park and the pink lakes, allow at least four to five days.

A long weekend in Mildura works well if you focus on the in-town attractions, the riverfront, and one day trip. If you’re wondering what to do in Mildura this weekend, you can comfortably cover the brewery, farmers market, a river cruise, and the arts centre in two days.

What to Do in Mildura This Weekend

If you’re visiting for a weekend, check the What’s On Mildura events calendar before you go. The town regularly hosts live music, food events, markets, and community gatherings, especially through the warmer months. The Sunraysia Farmers Market (first and third Saturdays) is a great weekend anchor, and the arts centre usually has something on.

Mildura’s central position makes it a great base for exploring the wider region. Here are the standout day trips:

Mungo National Park (1.5 hours)

 Ancient landscapes, the Walls of China, and serious cultural significance. Allow a full day.

Murray-Sunset National Park / Pink Lakes (2 hours) 

Surreal salt lakes in a remote outback setting. Best in warmer months.

Kow Plains Homestead (2 hours) 

Restored 1800s pastoral station for history lovers.

Perry Sandhills (35 minutes) 

Quick, fun stop with sandboarding and ancient dunes.

Wentworth (30 minutes) 

Where the Murray and Darling rivers meet. A small town with a junction lookout, historic jail, and local cafes.

Red Cliffs (15 minutes) 

Home to a historic steam railway and weekend markets.

A Mildura road trip works best when you mix the big day trips with some slower days in town. Don’t try to cram everything in, part of the appeal here is the pace.

What are the top 10 things to do in Mildura?

The standout experiences include cruising the Murray River, visiting Mungo National Park, kayaking Kings Billabong, sandboarding the Perry Sandhills, wine tasting at Trentham Estate, visiting the pink lakes at Murray-Sunset National Park, exploring the Mildura Riverfront, checking out the Mildura Arts Centre, grabbing a brew at Mildura Brewery, and stocking up at the Sunraysia Farmers Market.

What are the best things to do in Mildura for couples?

Couples love the scenic flights over the Murray, wine tasting at Trentham Estate, sunset at Mungo National Park, a paddlesteamer cruise, and evening walks along the Mildura Riverfront. For a special dinner, Feastreet has several excellent restaurants. Mildura has a relaxed, romantic pace that suits couples well.

What are the best things to do in Mildura with kids?

Families will enjoy sandboarding at the Perry Sandhills, kayaking at Kings Billabong, the tractor-train tour at Orange World, the Water Play Park on the riverfront, All Seasons Holiday Park (with its jumping pillow, splash park, and mini golf), and the Sunraysia Farmers Market. The Murray River itself is endlessly entertaining for kids: swimming, fishing, and exploring the banks.

What unusual things to do in Mildura are there?

For something different, visit the pink salt lakes in Murray-Sunset National Park, take a scenic flight over the Murray, explore the ancient Walls of China at Mungo National Park, or check out the God Tree at the Perry Sandhills. A 500-year-old river red gum buried by shifting sands. Woodsies Gem Shop in town is another unexpected find.

What is the best time to visit Mildura?

Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer the most comfortable weather for exploring, with temperatures between 20-30°C. Summer is great for river activities but can be very hot. Winter is mild, quiet, and budget-friendly.

How far is the drive from Melbourne to Mildura?

Melbourne to Mildura is approximately 550km, or about six hours by car. The drive is mostly highway and is a straightforward route. Mildura also has an airport with flights from Melbourne if you’d prefer to fly.

Is Mildura worth visiting for a weekend?

Absolutely. A weekend in Mildura gives you time to explore the riverfront, visit the brewery and a winery, hit the farmers market (if the timing lines up), and do one solid day trip, either the Perry Sandhills or a river cruise. You’ll leave wishing you had another day or two.

Mildura is one of those destinations that genuinely has something for everyone. Whether you’re after river adventures, outback landscapes, local food and wine, or just a place to slow down and enjoy the drive, it delivers without the crowds or the hype.

A campervan gives you the freedom to explore Mildura and the surrounding region on your own terms, pull up by the river, camp at Kings Billabong, take a detour to the pink lakes, and move at whatever pace feels right.

At RatPack Travel, we’ve spent years road tripping across Australia and New Zealand, and we know exactly what makes the right camper for every kind of trip. With over 2,000 five-star reviews and access to campervans that others don’t, we’ll match you with the perfect van, and it’s cheaper than booking online.

Hit the button, send us your travel dates, and we’ll find the best deals and build you a personalised camper deal.