At its peak, Charters Towers was dubbed by locals as "The World". While it's not the big bustling place it used to be, it is an enthralling destination for tourists to explore.  Dive straight into the history of this gold-loving town and wander the streets of yesteryear on your next holiday in Northern Queensland.

Where is Charters Towers located?

Charters Towers is located in northeastern Queensland, Australia. It is situated approximately 130 kilometers southwest of Townsville, making it easily accessible for visitors 

What is the historical significance of Charters Towers?

Charters Towers holds immense historical significance in Australia's gold rush history. During the late 19th century, it was one of the largest and most prosperous gold mining towns in the world. The discovery of gold in 1871 led to a massive influx of fortune seekers, transforming the once sleepy town into a bustling hub of activity.
The town's rich history can be seen in its well-preserved buildings, many of which date back to the gold rush era. Walking through the streets of Charters Towers is like stepping back in time, with grand architecture and ornate facades that harken back to a bygone era. The town's heritage is proudly showcased in its museums and attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past.

GOLD MINING AT VENUS BATTERY

Image: Venus Battery in Charters Towers; Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

Find out more: Venus Gold Battery

To gain a deeper understanding of the gold mining process and the hardships faced by early miners, a visit to the Venus Gold Battery is a must. Walk through the various sections of the battery, from the crushing and stamping area to the cyanide vats, and see how the precious metal was separated from the rock. Gain a newfound appreciation for the perseverance and ingenuity of the early miners as you witness the machinery in action.

SPOOKY EVENING TOUR

Caption: Prepare to get spooked by stories told in the glow of lantern light.

Find out more: Charters Towers Ghost Tours

Some of us love the thrill of a cursed house or an experience of a door slammed closed - with no one else around. If spooky stories are your bread & butter, the Charters Towers Ghost Tour is a full 90 minutes of freaky "facts". The guide will meet you in period costume carrying a flickering lantern, taking you through the town's most haunted spaces. 

RIDE A GENUINE TEXAS CHUCK WAGON

Image: Texas Longhorn in Charters Towers; Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland and Melissa Findley

Find out more: Texas Longhorn Wagon & Safari

It's our own slice of Texas in Australia. Go on a wagon ride to see the biggest herd of Texas Longhorns in the country (and meet JR, the Guiness World Record-breaking cow for longest horns). Or choose the safari tour and view the American Bison and water buffalo roaming the outback - like something out of a Western. Who can say no to hot damper and a peaceful couple of hours on the plains. 

HISTORICAL WALKING TOURS 

Image: City Hall in Charters Towers; Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

Find out more: Charters Towers Guided Tours

Charters Towers has many guided tours on offer. To breathe in the history of this town, a historical tour is a must. On this tour, you’ll spend 90 minutes with a guide that really knows their stuff! There are many heritage-listed buildings throughout Charters Towers, each with their own colourful backgrounds and stories. One of our favourite parts of the tour? Visiting the original place gold was discovered in Charters Towers that kickstarted the rush.

GOLD PANNING AT MINERS COTTAGE

Image: Miners Cottage at Dusk; Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

Find out more: The Miners Cottage

It's your chance to strike gold! Run by a former prospector, the Miners Cottage is an unbeatable opportunity to learn the tricks of gold panning. Hear the stories of the town's mining history and try your hand at uncovering your own gold specks (may even be enough to buy a bag of mixed lollies). 

DRINK THE LOCAL WHITBREAD'S FIZZY

Caption: Whitbread’s is the surefire way to quench a thirst in Charters Towers.

Find out more: Whitbread's

Since 1896, Whitbread's has brought you over a dozen flavours of fizzy bevvies and cordials for your backyard BBQ: strawberry, lime, sarsaparilla, and b-cool to name a few. Did you know that your favourite drink is also from Charters Towers? While you can't visit the factory, it'd only be right to pick up a Whitbread's drink when you're in the area. Nothing goes down quite like their lemonade on a hot day. 

MOVIE UNDER THE STARs

Find out more: Tors Drive-In

Pack your Whitbread's, then pull into one of the oldest drive-in movie theatres in Queensland. Consider yourself to be a bit of a MacGyver? You'll be happy to know that the drive-in was built almost entirely from second-hand supplies. Now in its 52nd year in operation, this nostalgic space is fun for families and couples alike to watch the latest flicks under the stars.

OTHER IDEAS

So much to do, so little time! Visit the iconic Charters Towers Stock Exchange, which is a beautifully restored building. Head up owers Hill Lookout, offering panoramic views and see if you can spot a historic World War II bunker.  For a refreshing dip on a hot day, head to the historic Centenary Park Pool. The Zara Clark Museum is housed in the former residence of Zara Clark, the daughter of a prominent local family, and offers a comprehensive look at the town's past. For those seeking outdoor adventures, a 42km trip to Dalrymple National Park is a must. Located just a short drive from Charters Towers

Interested in events? From the Charters Towers Country Music Festival to the annual Miners' Ball, you can plan a trip to coincide with a range of events in this lively little town.

Looking for Accommodation? 

As you can see, Charters Towers is bursting with rich history and captivating attractions. So now is the time to plan ahead for your holiday in Northern Queensland. Stay at Discovery Parks - Townsville to explore the Great Barrier Reef and nearby Charters Towers.