Port Pirie Things to Do

Walking is the best way to see Port Pirie’s heritage buildings. Most are in the main city center, so pick up the self-guided heritage walk leaflet from the tourist information centre located on main road, near the Silos.

Self-Guided Tour

Walk the main street and admire the lovely architecture of the town’s heritage buildings.

The Court House, built in 1880, became the Custom’s House in 1964. The Post Office is next door, built on the site of the former Telegraph station in 1910, another lovely building. The Public Library, built in 1932, is a few steps away. The library is good if you want free internet access. You will need to join the library, so be prepared to show ID.

Also in the main street, and across the road from the Court house, is a marvelous old Butcher’s shop. Built in 1864 as a shipping and butcher shop, it is now Sampson’s Cottage, a sweet little inn. The Family Hotel, further down the road, was built in 1904 and is now an official heritage building.

Railway Station Museum

This building is constructed in beautiful Victorian pavilion style architecture. It was the Port Pirie railway station up till 1967, and then became the central police station in 1992. The building is owned by the national trust and is now a Museum featuring all kinds of artificats including railway and shipping items, displays about the town’s smelting history, police memorabilia, even bridal wear.

Fish and Chips

There’s an old church that is now a busy fish shop. The upstairs section in this converted building makes a welcome change from the usual mass takeout establishment and is much more classy.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Port Pirie, Australia.