Silverton Gaol Museum
Explore a surprisingly vast collection of outback history, from mining to local life, in this charming historic gaol.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Explore exhibits fully
Silverton Gaol Museum
Best Time
Explore exhibits fully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a surprisingly vast collection of outback history, from mining to local life, in this charming historic gaol.
"WOW was I mistaken, I would be in and out of this small museum in the matter of a few minutes, so so wrong."
Allocate Plenty of Time
Don't underestimate this museum; you could spend hours exploring its vast collection. :clock1:
Chat with the Caretaker
Volunteers offer incredible insights, especially about local history and 'Mad Max 2'. :speech_balloon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Extensive Local History Collection
Discover artifacts from mining, local sports, and daily life, revealing Silverton's unique outback story.
The Historic Gaol Building
Explore the beautifully preserved 1888 gaol, a testament to Silverton's early days and a key filming location.
Mad Max 2 Filming Connections
Learn about the museum's caretakers' involvement in the iconic 'Mad Max 2' film, adding a cinematic layer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Silverton's Rich Past
Beyond the Gaol: Explore Silverton
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Plenty of Time
Don't underestimate this museum; you could spend hours exploring its vast collection. :clock1:
Chat with the Caretaker
Volunteers offer incredible insights, especially about local history and 'Mad Max 2'. :speech_balloon:
Discover Filming Locations
Ask about spots where 'Mad Max 2' was filmed; the museum has direct connections. :movie_camera:
Explore Silverton Town
Combine your museum visit with a walk around the historic mining town. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Plenty of Time
Don't underestimate this museum; you could spend hours exploring its vast collection. :clock1:
Chat with the Caretaker
Volunteers offer incredible insights, especially about local history and 'Mad Max 2'. :speech_balloon:
Discover Filming Locations
Ask about spots where 'Mad Max 2' was filmed; the museum has direct connections. :movie_camera:
Explore Silverton Town
Combine your museum visit with a walk around the historic mining town. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently surprised by the depth and breadth of history packed into the Silverton Gaol Museum, far exceeding initial expectations. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, often volunteers, are a major highlight, sharing captivating stories and local insights. While the sheer volume of artifacts can be overwhelming, it offers a rich and rewarding glimpse into the town's unique outback past.
"Wasn't expecting such a huge amount of information and history when I walked in. Friendly and helpful staff. Allow some extra time for this sppt. A massive amount of town history on one place."
david ebsworth
"We enjoyed the Silverton museum, so many items to tell about life in the remote outback. The lady at the front was lovely too!"
Gesine Koch
"Another great museum in Silverton, the Silverton Goal is a beautiful old building and had a very extensive collection of historical artefacts from the area. I had a wonderful chat with the caretaker who told me about some locations in the area where Mad Max 2 was filmed and that he and his wife were involved in the film, too."
Daniel Camm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Silverton is accessible by road, often as part of a scenic drive through the outback. Many visitors arrive via the historic Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which offers breathtaking mountain views.+2 If driving, be prepared for remote conditions.
Absolutely! Silverton is a recommended stop between Durango and Ouray, perfect for lunch and a stroll around town. The drive itself is incredibly scenic, with stunning beauty at places like Molas Lake.
The Durango-Silverton train is a top choice for scenic rail travel, hugging cliffs and overlooking rivers.+1 For hikers, trails like Island Lake offer incredible Colorado mountain experiences.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is generally open during daylight hours, but it's best to check locally or with the Historical Society for exact times, as it's run by volunteers.
Entry fees are typically modest and support the volunteer-run Historical Society. It's considered well worth the entrance fee for the extensive collection.
Advance booking is usually not required for the Silverton Gaol Museum itself. However, if you plan to arrive via the Durango-Silverton train, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
While the historic building has character, accessibility can vary. It's advisable to inquire directly with the museum regarding specific accessibility features.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum houses a vast collection covering Silverton's history, including mining, local sports teams from 1907, hairdressing artifacts, and items related to the town's daily life. It's much larger and more comprehensive than its name suggests.
Yes, the museum offers a glimpse into history that can be engaging for families. The Old Hundred Gold Mine in Silverton is also a unique and family-friendly adventure.
Beyond general town history, look out for specific items like an electric curler set and a bathtub, which one visitor humorously mistook for an early electric chair. The connection to 'Mad Max 2' filming is also a unique draw.
The Silverton Gaol operated from 1888 to 1892, a relatively short period. Today, it serves as the town's museum, preserving its history and that of the surrounding outback area.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the historic gaol building itself is picturesque. Inside, the diverse collection of artifacts offers many interesting details to capture. Remember the motto: 'Leave nothing but Footprints and Take nothing but Photographs'.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside museums, but it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions posted at the entrance or ask staff.
Beyond the museum, the entire town of Silverton, with its historic mining architecture, offers great photo opportunities. The scenic train journey also provides stunning mountain vistas.+1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
🎬 Film Buffs & History Enthusiasts
Ask them for stories and perhaps even directions to filming locations around the area. The historic nature of the town and the train also appeal to those who appreciate cinematic and historical settings.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
When booking, consider which side of the train to sit on for the best views. Going up to Silverton, the right side offers cliffside and river overlooks. On the return journey, the left side provides similar scenic advantages.
Pro-tip: Book your tickets well in advance, especially during peak summer months or for special events, as seats can fill up quickly.
Silverton: A Historic Mining Town
Beyond the museum, Silverton offers a unique outback experience. Visitors can explore the town, visit the historic Silverton Hotel, or even venture into the mountains for hiking and exploring.
Silverton's remote location contributes to its allure, offering a sense of escape and a connection to a rugged, historical past. It's a place where you can feel the echoes of the mining boom and appreciate the resilience of those who settled this challenging yet beautiful landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit