Plan Book Travel Australia

Main Attractions

Echuca's interesting history, old paddlesteamers and picturesque setting have contributed to it becoming a thriving tourist destination. Echuca Wharf, built of red gum in 1865, was once 5 times its present size and is still a massive structure built on 3 levels to accommodate the rise and fall of the Murray River. There are also a number of paddlesteamers moored at the wharf, including the Pevensey, once used in a TV mini-series. The paddlesteamers are all available for cruises. A museum in the Cargo Wharf Shed houses dioramas portraying the life and activity of the port and runs a 10min audiovisual presentation on Echuca's history. The Bridge Hotel, built by the ex-convict founder of Echuca, Henry Hopwood, has some rooms furnished in period-style, the most interesting is the squatter's suite. Echuca Historical Society Museum is located in the old Police Station and gaol (1867). Fun attractions for families include the Echuca Farmyard, which has only small animals; the Murray River Aquarium; Sharp's Magic Movie House and Penny Arcade; World in Wax; National Holden Museum; and Oz Maze. Echucha hosts several festivals, including the Heritage Steam Festival in October, and the Riverboat Jazz and Wine Festival in February.