Old Tailem Town

Is it worth driving an hour out of Adelaide for a really cool retro photo of your kids?

Erm heck yes if they come out as cool as these ones did!

Just past Murray Bridge, about 90kms from the CBD you’ll find Old Tailem Town Pioneer Village. Opened to the public back in 1987 it’s Australia’s largest Pioneer Village and is a fun little spot to spend a couple of hours and show the kids what life was like for settlers of SA from 1860 – 1960. There are over 100 buildings to explore, lots of cool cars, trucks and tractors, themed displays and a few (little bit scary??) life like costumed mannequins to really set the vibe.

Sure, the place gets quite a mixed reviews on Trip Advisor and Facebook BUT our advice is to visit with no expectations and you’ll probably be pleasantly surprised. It’s a really quirky, hands on, up close experience and if you’re into history you’ll love wandering around for a few hours. It’s not all hidden away behind glass which is pretty rare these days. Grab a map when you arrive, or just wing it and make your own adventure.

Our highlights and tips.

The Old Town Hall where we stopped to have a little play on the old piano.
The old music that’s played over the PA system while you’re wandering around really adds to the feel of the place.
Check all the doors – you never know what’s waiting for you on the other side that you might miss if you don’t go in
Bring your pram – it’s mostly very pram friendly
Bring food. There’s a small cafe on site for coffee/tea but no food. Definitely bring a bag with food for the family to avoid the hangries ruining your walk around.
Toilets with baby change facilities are available onsite.

If you’re up for something a little more spooky Haunted Horizons run evening Old Tailem Town ghost tours. Many of the buildings were once real homes and the town is touted as one of S.A’s most haunted!

An adult ticket will cost you $25, kids over 4 $11, kids under 4 are free and a family ticket (2 adults + 2 kids) is $60.