Things to do in Old Broome
Walk to Chinatown. The hustle and drama of old Chinatown’s billiard saloons and mahjong halls has gone, leaving the easy charm and the unique character of Old Broome today. East meets west in Chinatown’s eateries and side walk cafes. Take some time to watch the world pass by. The only decision you need to make right now is whether to try something new off the menu.
Tradition meets innovation in Old Broome’s pearl showrooms, and in the galleries offering unique indigenous art and handcraft. The variety on show is stunning. See for yourself just what draws international jewellers and collectors to Old Broome today.
Walk to the oldest operating outdoor theatre in the world. Relax in a deck chair and enjoy a new release, or an old favourite. Sun Pictures operates the oldest outdoor picture gardens in Australia. Come back for the daily theatre tours and soak up the stories that come with 90 years in show business.
Walk to the Pearl Luggers. The discovery of the world’s largest pearl shell way back in the 1860’s lit the imaginations of thousands, and started the industry that has defined Broome for so many, many years. Pearl Luggers has restored two wooden luggers and offers an entertaining look at the ’saltwater cowboys’ who risked their lives diving in hard hats for the lustre of pearl shell. Catch the Pigram Brothers Nowhere Else But Here Concerts planned for Pearl Luggers on Thursday nights, in May.
Walk to the Courthouse Market. Stroll through these famous weekend markets and meet the local painters, crafts people and foodies that gather here. Find yourself a few treasures with that unique Broome feel, or maybe russle up today’s picnic lunch of tasty, local produce.
Walk to the Staircase to the Moon. Relax on Town Beach and witness the spectacular Staircase to the Moon. This very special natural phenomena is visible on only three nights in each month from March to October.
The Staircase is actually the reflection of the full moon as it rises over the tidal flats of Roebuck Bay. Markets are held on the first two nights each month, to coincide with this unique event. Make a night of it and soak up the atmosphere.
Walk to the heart of Broome’s pearl showcase It’s said that the best pearls come from contented oysters. It can also be said that the best pearl shopping comes a short walk from Captains by the Bay. Kailis Australian Pearls and Paspaley Pearls, the pioneers of the south seas pearling industry in Broome are a stroll away. Close by are Linneys, designing with Broome pearls and Argyle diamonds for thirty years, along side galleries like The Courthouse Collection, Anastasia’s Pearl Gallery and Broome Staircase Designs. The lustre of Broome pearls is something you need to see for yourself.
Walk out for a cocktail. Or was that a beer? You are in an easy walk of four of Broome’s hotels and Broome’s own brewery.
It’s easy to find eating and entertainment to suit your mood.
Maybe you’d enjoy the Pearlers breakfast on the verandah at Matsos, or is it a family lunch at The Roey soaking up the nostalgia of Old Broome? There is always dinner at Broomes secret gem, Carlottas.
Walk to the wildside. Nearby Minyirr Park offers a stroll through the bush and on to the beach beyond. Explore the self-guided walking trails, and discover the panoramic views and cooling breezes of Minyirr (Broome).
Walk the Heritage Trail. Said to be one of the best regional museums in Australia, Broome Museum offers an excellent range of memorabilia from the town’s pearling past, and has the Broome Heritage Trail brochure offering an excellent guide to some of the town’s more unusual historical attractions.
Wrap it up with a cycle tour around town. Take in all the colour and character of Old Broome with a three hour cycle tour. Catch a glimpse of the Chinatown of early days. Hear fascinating stories of this amazing precinct, and visit icons like the notorious Sheba Lane, Pearlers Row, Streeters Jetty and the Male Store. At the Short St. Gallery, take time to view authentic Aboriginal artwork. Learn the significance of such places as Bedford Park, Bourne and Inglis Store and hear about Broome’s “One Day War”.
