Things to do in Mt Gambier
Nature & Parks
1 Mount Gambier Visitor Centre provides a warm welcome; our qualified staff are ready to assist with getting the best out of your visit to Mount Gambier, long or short. Free Entry
The Lady Nelson Discovery Centre interprets the pre European history of the Limestone Coast, walk through wetlands, caves, see ghosts, and learn about the voyage of discovery undertaken by Lieutenant Grant. Fee appliesSouvenirs, hot &cold drinks, public toilets, ample parking, large vehicle parking, bus departure bay, disabled access, after hour’s information at the front door.
2 The Blue Lake, beautiful all year round, marvel at its mysterious colour change in warmer weather. A sealed road takes you all around the perimeter; stop at the lookouts for panoramic views. Or you can walk around the Lake, only 3.6km it is an easy 45 minute walk. Free Entry John Watson Drive Mt Gambier
Aquifer Tour, a fascinating 45 minute tour, gets down close to the water to find out more about the Folklore, History, Geology and Aboriginal Legend of the lake. Enjoy a coffee afterwards. Fee Applies. John Watson Drive Mt Gambier 08 8723 1199
3 Valley Lake & Centenary Tower,drive down into the Valley Lake area and enjoy the free Wildlife Conservation Park. Children will love the Adventure Playground. Free barbecues available. Bring a picnic, feed the ducks, and discover Brownes Lake. This was the site of Mount Gambier's original botanic gardens and the area is picturesque all year round, but especially in Autumn. Free Entry
The magnificent view is worth the short, steep walk from the car park to the highest point in the area, Centenary Tower,take a great photo of the Valley Lake and view other volcanic craters. On a clear day enjoy breathtaking views of the sand dunes and ocean in the distance. Tower open when the flag is flying from the Top, climb to the top of the tower for an even better view. Fee applies. Enter from the roundabout John Watson Drive, Crater Lakes Precinct opposite the Blue Lake.
4 The lush beauty of the Umpherston Sinkhole, also known as the sunken gardens, has to be seen to be believed. Appreciate is size and depth from the viewing platforms at the top of the sinkhole, then, walk down into the sinkhole, along the terraces and behind the hanging vines. The resident colony of possums make an appearance at dusk and enjoy being fed fresh fruit. Kiosk on site for, coffee, snacks, ice creams, and souvenirs. Free Entry. Jubilee Highway East Mt Gambier
5 Engelbrecht Cave deep underneath Mt Gambier is this unique cave with its interesting local history. Take a tour to discover why cave divers swim through the water filled passages under the streets and roads of Mount Gambier. The Alfresco Cafe is available and sources Artisan food and gifts. Fee Applies. Jubilee Highway West enter via Chute St 08 8723 5552
6 The Main Corner, emerging from the historic dolomite building, connecting us to Mt Gambier history, with interactive displays that will appeal to adults and children alike. A diorama brings to life the Wreck of the Admella, touch screens tell the history of Mount Gambier, see cave paintings and view the discovery of Australia’s oldest boomerang. Also an entrance to the Riddoch Art Gallery, South Australia's largest regional Gallery, featuring local collections, changing exhibitions of local artists as well as exhibitions of national importance. Free Entry. 1 Bay Rd Mt Gambier 08 8723 9566
7 Volcano the story of Earth Fire and Water, start at the beginning , with the Aboriginal Dreamtime story of the Craitbul, and his giant ovens, this big screen cinematic experience, wows the senses, as it weaves its way through its incredible story. Eight major eruptions created Mount Gambier. This exciting adventure takes you through the spectacular history of eruptions that shaped the Kanawinka region. Free Entry. Main Corner 1 Bay Rd Mt Gambier
8 Sound and Light Exhibits, free every evening, historic local photos and pictures are projected onto the back of the buildings in the area. Then within the Cave Garden, the story our local dreamtime legends appears music and lighting adds to the atmosphere. The windows of the Main Corner features dramatic vision of volcanic eruptions and cave divers. Free Entry. Civic Precinct Watson Tce
9 Beautiful roses are a stunning feature of the famous Cave Garden in the centre of Mount Gambier. With its historic garden flowing deep into the sinkhole, this area is a great meeting place for locals. Walking down into the sinkhole there are several viewing platforms which hang dramatically over the sinkhole. A bonus in wet weather is the spectacular waterfall . Free Entry. Civic Precinct Watson Tce
10 Bold, interactive and entertaining the innovative Mount Gambier Library, named as the best small public library in the world, offers free Wi-Fi, access to computers, children’s play area, or have a coffee or lunch in the Bookmark Cafe, overlooking the Cave Gardens. Free Entry. Civic Precinct Watson Tce