Mount Isa Underground Hospital and Museum: Discover Australia's Only WWII Underground Shelter

Step back in time to 1945 and discover Australia’s only WWII underground shelter at the Mount Isa Underground Hospital and Museum. Uncover the hidden history and immerse yourself in a multi-sensory experience.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Underground Hospital and Museum - Uncover the story behind Australia’s first and only underground hospital on a fully guided tour with an experienced local guide. Learn of the extraordinary efforts made by local miners who volunteered their time during construction. Explore the four tunnels, fitted out to resemble the 1942 original layout. Step…
What's Included
  • Tea and coffee included
Additional Information

For those exploring the outback, the Mount Isa Underground Hospital and Tent House provides an intriguing journey back to 1945, soaking in the memories and tales of individuals who excavated Australia’s single World War II subterranean hospital air raid refuge and resided in canvas domiciles.
Through this comprehensive guided exploration, you will…

Location
63 Deighton St
Deighton Street
Check in at the ticket office (corner of Joan Street)
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(115 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Nivinj2025
Apr 26, 2025
Review of Mount Isa Underground Hospital - Today, I had the opportunity to visit the Mount Isa Underground Hospital, and it was truly a moving experience. Walking through its narrow corridors and seeing the preserved wards, it felt like stepping back in time — into a world shaped by resilience, fear, and hope during the uncertain days of World War II. The hospital is a real tribute to the people who lived through that era. Every wall, every artifact, and every story echoed the struggles and sacrifices made by those who prepared to protect their community against the worst possibilities of war. It’s incredible to think about the spirit and determination it took to build an entire hospital underground, in secret and under pressure. The guides were knowledgeable, the displays were authentic, and the atmosphere carried a quiet dignity that words can hardly describe. Visiting the Underground Hospital is not just a history lesson — it’s a reminder of human strength, courage, and unity during times of fear. I would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Mount Isa. It’s more than just a tourist spot — it’s a living memory, and an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ivor
Mar 22, 2025
Must do, give yourself half and day in the Outback at Isa centre, lots to do and a nice cafe - Guide Susanne was passionate, knowledgeable and professional Safety was ensured The Tent House and above ground hospital were bonus’
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Fipearce23
Jan 24, 2025
Best tour in Qld - Absolutely brilliant, while the above ground museum and videos were interesting, the way they make the underground museum come alive and tell a story was incredible. Would recommend it to everyone young and old. Will definitely return.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
512elizabethk
Jan 23, 2025
Interesting part of Aussie history - This was a very interesting adventure. The history of this hospital was also very interesting, The fact that it was undiscovered for many years was of interest to us also. A great piece of Aussie history
Review provided by Tripadvisor
A1612kljudyh
Jan 23, 2025
Value for money - As a former Nurse we were very interested in the history of the Underground Hospital. very informative & well presented. Worth the admission cost.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
122debbied
Sep 30, 2024
Excellent enjoyable experience - Very interesting, well presented and well looked after, definitely worth a visit if you are in town. For a community initiative with bare minimum funding or financial assistance the result shows the dedication of the history of Mount Isa and the care by the staff and tour guides.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Irisbw8802ah
Sep 29, 2024
Well preserved piece of history. - What a fantastic piece of history. Our tour guides were so knowledgeable and friendly. It was great to see how the underground hospital was set up. We thoroughly enjoyed seeing the Old Maternity Hospital and Tent House. Some of the equipment used back in those days was a bit of an eye opener. I thoroughly recommend doing this tour if you have the opportunity.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Compass29278935271
Sep 27, 2024
My Isa Underground Hospital Tour - Absolutely fabulous! Ella, our guide, was knowledgeable and friendly. The history of this place is very interesting. We also enjoyed the old maternity ward museum and mine tent house above the ground located at the same site.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sonyams3571tr
Sep 23, 2024
Grey Nomads on a Harley Trike around Australia - When we first arrived we were greeted by Suzanne and told we could help ourselves to tea and coffee before our tour. Before our underground tour we looked around the hospital museum and an informative talk about the war years. Going into the underground hospital was like stepping back in history. Being the only one of it's kind in Australia it's a must do for anyone visiting Mt Isa. Highly recommend 👌
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Skippa1
Sep 26, 2024
Excellent morning - Excellent morning spent at the Museum and in the underground hospital. Friendly and knowledgeable guides. Highly recommend
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $15
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).