Museum of Tropical Queensland

About this activity

The Museum of Tropical Queensland is a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Australian state of Queensland. It is housed in a building that was originally constructed as a cinema in 1928. The museum is located in Townsville, which is the largest city in North Queensland.

The permanent exhibitions of this gorgeous museum focus on the natural and cultural heritage of North Queensland including a significant display representing the HMS Pandora, the ship sent by British Admiralty to capture the well known HMS Bounty and her mutinous crew.

The exhibitions range from indoor rainforest environments to a replica of a Great Barrier Reef shipwreck with interactive elements designed for children, including undersea soundscapes and other atmospherics.

The Museum of Tropical Queensland was established on July 1, 1982, by the then-Townsville City Council to house its collection of art and artifacts. The museum's exhibits cover various aspects of life in North Queensland from Aboriginal times through to the present day.

Besides this, the exhibits include an extensive collection of Aboriginal bark paintings from Arnhem Land, as well as artifacts from Torres Strait Islander cultures. The temporary exhibitions vary regularly but include such offerings as optical illusions, dinosaurs and wildlife photography, so usually emminently suitable for families.

Residents of Townsville and the surrounding area can take advantage of discounted admission. What does it cover? Admission includes access to every exhibition. Whether you live in this area or come from a distant place, take the time and try to discover as many exibitions as you can. It is well worth your time!

Enjoy a coffee, snacks, or light meal while you visit the Galley Cafe to unwind and recharge the waterside. The Museum Shop offers a distinctive selection of goods, modern home goods, jewelry, a range of educational games, as well as a full selection of mementos to make your stay memorable!