Stopping at the Walkabout Creek Hotel felt like stepping straight into Aussie film history. Made famous by Crocodile Dundee, the pub still holds the charm that put it on the map. We couldn’t sit at the original bar, it’s now a preserved piece of history, but we were able to get up close and check out the incredible movie memorabilia that lines the walls.
The original bar, worn and full of character, sits frozen exactly as fans remember it. Around it, posters, photos, and props tell the story of how this tiny Queensland pub became a Hollywood icon. The highlight? Seeing the knife from the famous “That’s not a knife…” scene. Hot tip: You have to ask nicely to see it!
Film fame aside, the Walkabout Creek Hotel is still a classic outback pub at heart. We grabbed a cold drink, chatted with the friendly staff, and soaked up the easy, laid-back atmosphere that keeps travellers lingering longer than planned.
And because outback Australia never misses a chance to outdo itself, we were treated to one of the most “only-in-the-outback” moments we’ve ever seen. A local casually dropped into the pub in his mustering helicopter to pick up a slab. He touched down out the front as if he were pulling into a driveway, grabbed his beer, and lifted off again. It gave a whole new meaning to a drive-through bottle-o, and we were still laughing about it hours later.
While we were in McKinlay, we also ducked into Queensland’s smallest library. A tiny, one-room treasure tucked neatly into the main street. It’s barely big enough for a handful of people at once, but that’s half the charm. Inside, shelves of well-loved books line the walls, and the whole place feels like a community hug in miniature form. Just outside, we stopped to admire the Coolabah Tree art piece, a striking sculpture made entirely from scrap metal. It’s a creative local project that celebrates the spirit of the region, turning discarded materials into something meaningful and quietly beautiful. Little touches like this remind us why we love outback towns, they’re full of personality and unexpected creativity.
Outside, the open landscape stretches as far as you can see. Standing there, it’s not hard to understand why filmmakers chose McKinlay. The scenery practically does half the storytelling on its own.
If you’re passing through, make the stop. Whether you’re a film buff, an outback wanderer, or just someone chasing a cold one on a hot day, the Walkabout Creek Hotel delivers a little slice of Aussie cinema history.
Curious about the offbeat stops between? Join our Top Secret Travel Dispatches and come behind the scenes with us:e
What Is the Walkabout Creek Hotel?
A small outback pub in McKinlay, Queensland, made famous by Crocodile Dundee. The original bar and memorabilia are preserved on-site, drawing travellers from around the world.
How to Get There
Located in McKinlay on the Landsborough Highway, the pub sits between Winton and Cloncurry with easy access for caravans, motorhomes, and travellers heading west or east.
What to See & Do
What we did:
Toured the original bar from Crocodile Dundee
Checked out the movie memorabilia collection
Grabbed a cold drink and soaked up the atmosphere
Wandered outside to explore the surrounding open landscape
McKinlay township
Other nearby highlights:
The Three Sisters lookout (short drive)
Roadhouse stop for travellers continuing west
When to Visit
Dry season (April to October) offers the most comfortable temperatures, but the pub welcomes travellers year-round.
Final Thoughts
The Walkabout Creek Hotel delivers more than nostalgia; it captures that laid-back, no-fuss spirit that travellers love about the outback. Come for the movie connection, stay for the atmosphere.
What’s Nearby
Heading west? Winton, Cloncurry, and the Dinosaur Trail.
Heading east? Longreach, Barcaldine, and some of Queensland’s best outback museums.
Curious about the offbeat stops between? Join our Top Secret Travel Dispatches and come behind the scenes with us:
Fast Facts
Location: McKinlay, Queensland
Distance: 100 km south of Cloncurry
Traditional Owners: Kalkadoon People
Access: Easy access from the Landsborough Highway
Facilities: Pub meals, drinks, memorabilia, basic accommodation
Walking Track: None, but plenty of open space to wander
Best Time to Visit: Dry season
Dog Friendly: Yes (on leash)
Things That Could Kill You (Probably Won’t)
A semi-serious guide to surviving Australia. Mostly common sense, occasionally luck.
Heat: Proper outback sun. Hats aren’t optional.
Roadtrains: Give way unless you want a very bad day.
Movie Quotes: Use them sparingly unless you want eye-rolls from the locals.
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