Situated along the banks of Victoria’s picturesque Murray River, Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement is a wonderful outdoor museum. Established in the 1960s, the settlement features a reconstructed town that showcases the region's rich history, portraying life on the Murray from 1830 to 1930. Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement provides a hands-on experience, giving visitors a deeper appreciation for the resilience and spirit of the pioneers who shaped Australia.
With interactive exhibits and engaging activities, visitors need a full day to explore all that’s on offer. Wander through the authentic historic buildings, including a general store, schoolhouse and working blacksmith shop, all reflecting the architectural styles of the era. Take a glimpse into what daily life might have been like for our early settlers as costumed characters demonstrate traditional crafts such as woodturning and basket weaving.
The Pioneer Settlement Swan Hill was Australia’s first open-air museum when it opened in 1966. Originally named the Swan Hill Folk Museum, it was renamed following a visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 1970. Set on three hectares on the banks of the Little Murray River, the settlement features around 50 replica buildings, including a Post Office, Coach-house, Newspaper Office, Music Shop, Bakery and an original 1895 Kaiser-Panorama - a rather unique style of theatre.
Take a vintage car ride or hop onboard the horse and carriage for the perfect way to see some of the 1950s pioneer cottages, passing Riversdale and Keats Cottages, the Lower Murray Inn and Towaninnie Homestead, a typical 1880s Mallee building relocated and preserved at Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement for visitors to enjoy.
Wander the Golden Harvest Trail, relax over a delicious Devonshire Tea at The Paragon Café or take home some old-fashioned lollies from the General Store.
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One of the highlights of a visit is the Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement Sound and Light Show. This laser, fire and water spectacular - Heartbeat of the Murray - won first prize in the International Laser Design Association multi-media show category and it’s easy to see why.
This dramatic evening experience brings to life the history of the region’s early settlers. Set against the backdrop of the river, the show combines captivating storytelling with music and stunning visual effects. Guests are guided through the settlement as scenes unfold, highlighting pivotal moments in the area’s history, from struggles to celebrations. It’s an enchanting and memorable way to experience the rich heritage of Swan Hill.
Another wonderful attraction to enjoy is the riverboat ride on the historic ‘Pioneer.’ This delightful cruise along the Murray River has interesting commentary filled with stories of what life was like for Victoria’s pioneering river folk.
The area was named in the 1830s by explorer Thomas Mitchell. It is said he was kept awake at night by the call of the swans.
The Pioneer Settlement Swan Hill opened in 1966 as the Swan Hill Folk Museum, before being renamed, following a visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 1970.
In 1962, Swan Hill community members and State Government members explored the possibility of purchasing the PS Gem for use as an art gallery. It was the start of what was to become Australia’s first open air, living history museum.
Buildings were donated by locals, horse drawn farming equipment was brought in, along with tractors and traction engines. Staff searched far and wide for authentic items to recreate the township while donations of antiques and special pieces arrived.
The settlement opened in 1966 and quickly became one of the most popular tourism destinations in Victoria.
The Wamba Wamba and Wadi Wadi people are considered the original inhabitants and have walked this land for over 40,000 years. The Swan Hill region is rich in archaeological remains, fossils and artifacts and has a rich and diverse Indigenous cultural heritage.
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We are a Green Travel Leader. This is awarded to businesses which have consistently proven their commitment to sustainable tourism management over ten years.
As a Sustianable Tourism accredited business, we are proud to offer engaging tourism experiences that follow sound sustainability practices and environmental appreciation.
Quality Tourism accredited businesses like Fun Over 50 lead the way by offering the highest industry standards of customer service, satisfaction, reliability, and ethical practices.
We are committed to operating in ways that respect and reinforce Indigenous cultural heritage and the authenticity and integrity of living cultures of Indigenous communities.
We have incorporated strategic climate change responses across all relevant levels of our planning and operations. We are working towards becoming carbon neutral.
With Advanced Ecotourism certification, we offer outstanding experiences which let you get back to nature, help conservation, and minimise environmental impact.
We are a credible, well trained, and professional business. We conduct business in compliance with Australian Consumer Law and in accordance with ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct.
The Council of Australian Tour Operators represents tour operators and wholesalers. As a full CATO member, we provide authentic and original holidays with sustainable travel.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them, their cultures, and to the elders both past and present.
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