Experience Broome’s Chinatown Like a Local: A Small Bar Walking Tour Review
If you’re looking for a way to truly get to know Broome’s Chinatown beyond just wandering the streets, a guided small bar walking tour might be just what you need. Though we haven’t participated ourselves, this particular tour by Salty Plum Social promises a well-balanced mix of history, socializing, and local tastings—all wrapped into a manageable three to four-hour package. What’s appealing here? First, the combination of storytelling with visits to three carefully selected venues. Second, the chance to learn about Broome’s heritage in a lively, informal setting.
One possible consideration? The tour covers about 1.5 km of walking — so it’s not overly strenuous, but comfort with walking is recommended. This experience suits travelers who enjoy engaging guides, local drinks, and a bit of history without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for those who prefer a social evening with a group, rather than a solitary museum visit. If you’re a curious explorer eager to meet fellow travelers while uncovering Broome’s past, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.
Key Points

- Authentic blend of history and social fun in Chinatown, Broome
- Visit three venues, each offering drinks and snacks along the way
- Knowledgeable guides bring Broome’s stories to life with engaging commentary
- Flexibility with transportation — pickup option available, making logistics easy
- Small group size (max 18 guests) ensures an intimate experience
- Offers a balanced mix of walking and socializing over about 3 hours
A Walk Through Broome’s Heritage with a Sociable Twist

Broome’s Chinatown is a vibrant, historically significant part of the town, and this walking tour offers a fantastic way to explore it. The tour begins at the Roebuck Bay Lookout, which offers stunning views of the waterfront — a perfect spot to gather before heading into the heart of Chinatown. From there, you’ll stroll roughly 1.5 km through the historic precinct, encountering heritage-listed sites that tell stories of Broome’s multicultural past, pearling industry, and unique coastal character.
The tour isn’t just about looking at buildings — it’s about learning the stories behind them. Guides like Chris and Robyn bring their knowledge and storytelling skills to life, as confirmed by numerous reviewers who praise their engaging commentary. One reviewer called Chris a “natural storyteller,” emphasizing how he makes Broome’s history compelling and memorable. This personalized approach makes the walk feel like exploring with a knowledgeable friend rather than a scripted tour.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Broome.
The Stops: Food, Drinks, and Heritage

Throughout the walk, you’ll stop at three venues along the way, each carefully chosen to showcase Broome’s social scene. At each venue, travelers are served a drink — whether wine, beer, or soft drink — and a small food offering, often described as canapés or tapas-style treats. The reviews repeatedly mention the delicious culinary offerings and how they complement the local drinks.
Guests frequently highlight the quality of the drinks and the relaxed atmosphere. As one reviewer put it, “Stopped at 3 venues for food & drinks that hit the spot.” The combination of tasting local beverages and sampling snacks makes the experience feel like an evening out with friends, while also soaking in local flavor.
The venues themselves often have heritage significance, adding to the experience’s authenticity. With the physical walk through Chinatown and stops at various historical sites, you get a sense of walking not just through streets but through Broome’s past.
Why Visitors Love This Tour
According to reviews, the guides are a standout feature. Multiple guests describe Chris and Robyn as “wonderful hosts,” “knowledgeable,” and “passionate about sharing Broome’s stories.” Their engaging commentary has been repeatedly praised for bringing the town’s history to life, making it more than just a sightseeing walk.
Participants also love the “stunning views,” especially at the starting point at Roebuck Bay Lookout, and the chance to meet fellow travelers. The small group size — capped at 18 people — ensures everyone gets personalized attention and can comfortably mingle during stops.
Many reviews mention the high quality of the experience: “Excellent tour,” “Fascinating and informative,” and “Very well planned,” are phrases that pop up. It’s clear that this tour offers good value, combining education with social interaction, all in an intimate setting.
Pricing and Value

At $122 per person, this tour is a considered expense, but it offers a package of history, local flavors, and social fun that’s hard to beat in Broome. When you consider that the price includes three stops with drinks and snacks, plus the guidance of expert storytellers, the value becomes evident. It’s a leisurely, well-paced experience that offers more than just a typical pub crawl — it’s an immersive cultural outing.
On top of that, the option for pickup from your accommodation adds convenience, especially if you’re staying outside the town center. This feature helps maximize your evening without worrying about transport logistics.
The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at the Roebuck Bay Lookout, you get a panoramic view that sets the tone for your exploration. From there, the walk takes you through Chinatown’s streets, where heritage-listed sites are marked by plaques and preserved buildings. The walk is about 1.5 km, which is manageable for most travelers and allows for a relaxed pace.
At each of the three venues, you’ll sample drinks and light bites. These stops aren’t just casual bars; they are chosen to highlight Broome’s local flavors and social scene. Guests have commented on the “delicious culinary treats,” which are described as hitting the spot after a day of sightseeing.
The guides provide stories and insights along the way, ensuring that each stop feels meaningful. The combination of visual storytelling using digital image projection technology and oral narration makes the history much more engaging, especially for visual learners.
You can also read our reviews of more drinking tours in Broome
Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the best parts of the tour, based on reviews, is how it brings Broome’s history alive through storytelling and curated stops. Guests love that the tour isn’t just about drinking — it’s about understanding Broome’s multicultural past, its vibrant heritage, and its modern-day social scene.
The heritage-listed sites you visit are part of Broome’s identity, and the tour’s focus on these helps you appreciate what makes this town special. Plus, the chance to sample local drinks — from wine to beer — alongside regional snacks makes the experience both enjoyable and educational.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This small bar walking tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a sociable, relaxed evening with a mix of history and local flavor. It’s perfect if you prefer small groups for a more personal experience and if you’re interested in learning about Broome’s past through engaging storytelling.
It also suits those who appreciate good wine, beer, and food, along with a bit of walking to work up an appetite. If you’re traveling with friends or want to meet fellow travelers in a friendly environment, this tour offers an excellent setting.
FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, there is an option for pickup from your accommodation, making it easier to start the tour without hassle.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 3 hours, including walking and stops, covering roughly 1.5 km.
What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and personalized.
Are drinks and food included?
Yes, at each of the three venues, you’ll receive a drink (wine, beer, or soft drink) and a small food item or snack.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.
Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The walking distance and social nature make it suitable for most, but comfort with walking is recommended.
Final Thoughts
This Small Bar Walking Tour of Broome’s Chinatown offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines local history, engaging storytelling, and convivial stops. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Broome, especially if you’re eager to learn about the town’s heritage while enjoying regional drinks and small bites.
The guides’ knowledge, the carefully selected venues, and the small group setting make this a memorable outing. It’s not just a tour — it’s a chance to connect with the local culture, meet new friends, and enjoy an authentic Broome evening.
If you’re after an experience that’s engaging, informative, and social, this tour is a top pick for your Broome visit. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or simply a lively night out, it offers good value and memorable moments in a charming setting.
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