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Palace Hotel Broken Hill

4.2
·939 reviews·Broken Hill, Australia

Iconic outback hotel famed for vibrant murals, 'Priscilla' movie fame, and uniquely themed rooms.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Palace Hotel Broken Hill - Image 1

Palace Hotel Broken Hill

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic outback hotel famed for vibrant murals, 'Priscilla' movie fame, and uniquely themed rooms.

4.2
(939 reviews)

"Marvel at the intricate, colorful murals by Indigenous artist Gordon Waye, a true artistic spectacle."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Art

Don't miss photographing the incredible murals; they're a major draw!

🍽️ Reserve Your Table

Booking ahead for meals is wise, especially on busy nights.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Priscilla Connection

The Priscilla Connection

Throughout the hotel

Relive iconic movie moments at the hotel famously featured in 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert'.

Gordon Waye Murals

Gordon Waye Murals

Interior walls and ceilings

Marvel at the intricate, colorful murals by Indigenous artist Gordon Waye, a true artistic spectacle.

Themed Suites

Themed Suites

Guest rooms

Experience the hotel's famously kitschy and unique themed accommodation options.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Kitsch

The Palace Hotel Broken Hill is famous for its vibrant, eccentric murals and themed rooms, a nod to its role in 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert'. Prepare for a unique visual experience that's a true outback icon.

Book Ahead for Dining

While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking a table, especially for dinner, is highly recommended. This ensures you don't miss out on experiencing the hotel's culinary offerings, which can be a highlight for many visitors.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Brunch a la carte at San Francisco's Palace Hotel costs about the same as a large bowl of pho + app + boba avocado shake at Kevin's. (edit: *it can be as simple as a pastry & coffee - closer to the $20-25 range, while something like an omelette will cost closer to ~$30. but check the menu for updated prices given the cost of groceries these days.) The buffet option is about $55+depending on which ...
@sliceoflifetrips
14.5K likes • 94.7K views

📸 Capture the Art

Don't miss photographing the incredible murals; they're a major draw! Instagram+1

🍽️ Reserve Your Table

Booking ahead for meals is wise, especially on busy nights. Reddit

Broken hill gets a free show with strippers tonight palace hotel !!!!
paulyfenech
584 likes • 21K views
#karaoke The Palace Hotel #brokenhill #wednesdayvibes
thepalacehotelbrokenhill
3 likes • 436 views

🛏️ Unique Stays

Consider staying overnight to fully experience the themed rooms. Instagram

🎶 Check for Events

Look out for live music or karaoke nights for extra fun. Instagram

Thanks to an amazing friend, I recently had the ultimate experience at the iconic Palace Hotel in Broken Hill, as seen in my favorite movie - Priscilla, Queen of the Desert! Not only did I enjoy a drink, meal and night out with friends at this legendary spot, but I also got to spend the night in one of their FABULOUS rooms! This was a dream come true, and it felt like a scene straight out of t...
aimeehannan
18 likes • 359 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Art

Don't miss photographing the incredible murals; they're a major draw! Instagram+1

🍽️ Reserve Your Table

Booking ahead for meals is wise, especially on busy nights. Reddit

🛏️ Unique Stays

Consider staying overnight to fully experience the themed rooms. Instagram

🎶 Check for Events

Look out for live music or karaoke nights for extra fun. Instagram

🎬 Movie Buffs Rejoice

Fans of 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert' will find plenty to love. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.2
(939 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Palace Hotel Broken Hill is celebrated for its incredibly unique and vibrant murals, its connection to 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert', and its famously eccentric themed rooms. While the atmosphere and decor are consistently praised, some diners find the food quality and pricing to be inconsistent or a bit high for the offering.

"The food for me was hit and miss. There were mistakes on the order docket at the end (added sides that we didn't order and forgot to charge us for other things we ordered). It's was overpriced for the quality and the amount. The eggplant schnitzel was a bit too oily and small, thin cut. Compared to the chicken schnitzel. The decor is fantastic and the rooms look amazing. The service was generally okay. Recommend to book even if just for the restaurant."

Anthony Gagliano

"We had 2 lovely meals here and would recommend the food at your establishment. The vegan pasta and eggplant schnitzel were superb. The murals are wonderful. One minor whinge was that we wished you had more vegan options."

Andy Smith

"Service was absolutely lovely, very friendly staff and professional procedures. The atmosphere was also great! Unfortunately the food was quite mediocre, we got the schnitzel and chips, which was bland and boring. Sicilian pasta was also quite bland, the sauce was overly sour with not alot of flavours other than sourness. Cheesy garlic bread (no photos) was delicious. Definitely recommend!!"

Daniel

What People Like

Unique murals
Priscilla movie fame
Themed rooms

What People Dislike

Inconsistent food quality
Overpriced meals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Palace Hotel Broken Hill is located in the heart of Broken Hill, NSW. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is generally available nearby. If you're arriving in Broken Hill by bus or train, a short taxi or rideshare will get you to the hotel. Reddit

Yes, the hotel is a prominent landmark in Broken Hill and is situated on Argent Street, making it straightforward to locate. Its distinctive facade is hard to miss!

Absolutely! The hotel's restaurant and bar are open to the public, so you can visit for a meal or a drink even if you're not a guest. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general entry to the public areas like the bar and restaurant is free. However, if you plan to stay overnight, you'll need to book accommodation. Instagram

Opening hours can vary, but the restaurant typically serves lunch and dinner. It's best to check their official website or call ahead to confirm current hours, especially if you plan to visit on a specific day or for a particular meal. Reddit

There is no separate entry fee to view the murals. They are an integral part of the hotel's atmosphere and are visible throughout the public areas. Instagram+1

While there isn't a formal 'tour' in the traditional sense, many visitors enjoy exploring the hotel's unique decor and learning about its history, particularly its connection to 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert'. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Palace Hotel Broken Hill is renowned for its vibrant, eccentric murals painted by Indigenous artist Gordon Waye, its unique themed accommodation, and its starring role in the iconic Australian film 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert'. Instagram+2

Expect a lively, colorful, and somewhat kitschy atmosphere. It's a place that embraces its unique character, offering a fun and memorable outback experience. Instagram+1

The hotel often hosts events like karaoke nights and live music. It's worth checking their schedule or social media for any upcoming entertainment during your visit. Instagram

Originally built in 1889 as a coffee palace, it later transformed into the iconic hotel known today. Its history is intertwined with the mining boom of Broken Hill and its cinematic fame. Instagram

Yes, families can enjoy the unique decor and the hotel's lively atmosphere. The visual spectacle of the murals can be particularly engaging for children. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The restaurant offers a menu with generous portions, often featuring pub classics and some more contemporary dishes. Reviews mention schnitzels, pasta, and seafood, with some vegan options available. InstagramReddit

Yes, vegan options are available, such as vegan pasta and eggplant schnitzel. However, some reviewers suggest that the variety of vegan choices could be expanded. Reddit

Pricing can be perceived as a bit high for the quality and quantity by some, while others find the generous portions and good food make it worthwhile. It's advisable to check the menu for current prices. Reddit

Absolutely! The hotel has a bar where you can enjoy a drink, often accompanied by a lively atmosphere. Instagram+1

Reviews are mixed, with some praising the schnitzels and Sicilian pasta, while others found them bland. The cheesy garlic bread received a positive mention, and special requests like a cheese platter have been accommodated. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire interior is a photographer's dream, especially the vibrant and detailed murals by Gordon Waye. The themed suites also offer unique photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is generally encouraged, especially to capture the unique artwork and decor. Just be mindful of other guests and hotel operations. Instagram

While generally permitted, it's always a good idea to be respectful of privacy and avoid intrusive photography, especially in guest rooms or during private events. Instagram

Its fame from 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert', the incredibly detailed and colorful murals, and the quirky, themed rooms all contribute to its highly photogenic nature. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Palace Hotel Broken Hill will find a visually stimulating environment that can captivate younger travelers. The vibrant murals are a major draw, offering plenty to point out and discuss. The hotel's quirky and themed rooms can also add an element of fun and adventure to a family stay. While the dining experience might require some flexibility with picky eaters, the overall atmosphere is generally welcoming and lively. Instagram

Consider visiting during the day to explore the public areas and enjoy a meal. The hotel's connection to 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert' might be more appreciated by older children or adults, but the sheer visual spectacle of the art is universally engaging. It's a great spot for memorable family photos! Instagram

🎬 Movie Buffs & Pop Culture Fans

For fans of 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert', the Palace Hotel Broken Hill is an absolute must-visit. This iconic film used the hotel as a key filming location, and stepping inside feels like stepping onto the set. You can soak in the atmosphere that inspired some of the movie's most memorable scenes. Instagram+1

Beyond its cinematic fame, the hotel's unique murals and eccentric decor also appeal to those who appreciate distinctive pop culture landmarks. It’s a place that celebrates individuality and flair, making it a pilgrimage site for anyone interested in Australian film history or unique roadside attractions. Instagram+1

🎨 Art & Design Enthusiasts

The Palace Hotel Broken Hill is a treasure trove for art lovers, primarily due to the extensive and intricate murals by Indigenous artist Gordon Waye. These artworks are a significant cultural and artistic feature, transforming the hotel into an immersive gallery. Visitors can spend hours admiring the detail, color, and storytelling within these unique pieces. Instagram+1

Beyond the murals, the hotel's overall design aesthetic, with its themed suites and vibrant decor, offers a fascinating study in kitsch and outback Australiana. It’s a place that boldly embraces its visual identity, providing a rich backdrop for photography and appreciation of unconventional design. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Gordon Waye

The Palace Hotel Broken Hill is a canvas for the extraordinary talent of Indigenous artist Gordon Waye. Over several years, Waye adorned the hotel's interior with a breathtaking collection of murals. These artworks are not just decorative; they are a vibrant narrative, rich with symbolism and local storytelling. Visitors often spend considerable time admiring the intricate details and the sheer scale of his work, which transforms the hotel into a living gallery. The murals are a significant draw, offering a unique cultural and artistic experience that sets the Palace Hotel apart. Instagram+1

These murals are a testament to the hotel's commitment to celebrating local art and culture. They contribute significantly to the hotel's eccentric and memorable atmosphere, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. The visual impact of Waye's art is consistently highlighted in visitor feedback, underscoring its importance to the overall experience. Instagram+1

A Star on the Silver Screen: 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert'

The Palace Hotel Broken Hill gained international fame as a filming location for the iconic 1994 Australian film, 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert'. This cult classic brought the hotel's unique character to a global audience, cementing its status as a landmark. For fans of the movie, visiting the hotel is a pilgrimage, offering a chance to step into the world of Bernadette, Mitzi, and Felicia. The hotel embraces this connection, and many visitors come specifically to experience the magic of the film firsthand. Instagram+1

The film's association with the Palace Hotel adds a layer of nostalgia and glamour to the outback setting. It’s a key part of the hotel's identity and a major talking point for guests. The hotel's vibrant decor and theatrical flair perfectly complemented the movie's themes of self-expression and celebration, making it an ideal backdrop. Instagram+1

Accommodation: Beyond the Ordinary

When it comes to staying at the Palace Hotel Broken Hill, expect anything but ordinary. The hotel offers a range of accommodation, from unfussy rooms to spectacularly themed suites. These suites are where the hotel's eccentric personality truly shines, each decorated with unique motifs and vibrant artwork, often inspired by the hotel's history and its cinematic fame. Staying here is an experience in itself, offering a playful and memorable escape from the everyday. Instagram

Guests often rave about the novelty and fun of the themed rooms, describing them as 'fabulous' and a 'dream come true'. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the hotel's distinctive character. While the decor is certainly a highlight, the comfort and service also contribute to a positive guest experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking something different in Broken Hill. Instagram

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