Mount Isa has a mining heritage and many people are surprised how close the mine is to town. The surrounding countryside is hilly and surprisingly green for the outback. There are many water holes off the beaten track and the bird life is abundant and varied.
Visit Outback @ Isa (2km) and go down an authentic mine replica. Visit the Riversleigh Fossil Centre or check out the Isa Experience showcasing the region's rich cultural, indigenous, pioneering and mining hertitage.

Also 2km away is the underground Hospital built as a temporary hospital during WW2 in case Mount Isa was bombed, and the Beth Anderson Museum housing old medical equipment. Makes you glad they don't use some of that gear these days.

3km away is the National Trust Tent House, one of the original dwellings that housed Mount Isa's miners. An ingenious solution to the summer heat. Lots of memorabilia.
At 3km is the Royal Doctor Visitor Centre. See the vital link that this service provided in the outback.
Just around the corner visit the School of Distance Education. Watch a school lesson in action. Just the logistics of getting school books etc out to the children is mind boggling.
15km out of town is lake Moondarra, the city's water supply and recreation area. Catch a barra, bird watch, take a walk or just enjoy the scenery.

A must see at night at the town lookout.  The mine looks fabulous and the lookout is very interesting in its own right.

After that visit one of the city's fabulous clubs for a great meal and either a quiet time or some great entertainment - depending on your mood.  

Surrounding Mount Isa and up to 50 km away are several water holes, aboriginal rock art spots, fossicking areas and bird watching places.  Ask our staff for directions after checking out pictures at the Office.  Great day or half day trips.