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Adelaide House Museum: A Glimpse into Outback History

Step back in time at Alice Springs' first hospital, now a museum dedicated to the history of outback healthcare and pioneering spirit.

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Adelaide House Museum, located in the heart of Alice Springs, was the first hospital in the town, established in 1926 by Reverend John Flynn. Today, it stands as a museum showcasing the history of healthcare in the outback and the pioneering spirit of early settlers.

A brief summary to Adelaide House Museum

  • Monday 10 am-1 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-1 pm
  • Friday 10 am-1 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Take the guided tour to hear fascinating stories about the history of the building and the people who worked there.
  • Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with the volunteers after the tour and learn more about the museum.
  • Check out the unique cooling system designed to cope with the harsh desert climate.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Adelaide House Museum is located in the center of Alice Springs on Todd Mall, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Alice Springs Visitor Information Centre, walk south on Todd Street. The museum will be on your left, next to the John Flynn Memorial Church.

  • Public Transport

    The Alice Springs bus interchange is located a short walk from Adelaide House Museum. From the interchange, walk south on Todd Street. Adelaide House Museum will be on your left, next to the John Flynn Memorial Church. Public bus services in Alice Springs are free as of July 1, 2025.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-share services are available in Alice Springs. A short trip from the Alice Springs Airport or the outskirts of the town center to Adelaide House Museum will typically cost around $15 - $25 AUD.

Unlock the Best of Adelaide House Museum

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Discover more about Adelaide House Museum

Adelaide House Museum, situated on Todd Mall in Alice Springs, offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of the town and the development of healthcare in the Australian outback. Built in 1926, it was the first hospital in Alice Springs, designed by Reverend John Flynn, the founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The two-story stone building was designed to cope with the harsh desert climate, featuring wide verandahs, a ventilated roof, and a unique underground cooling system inspired by Coolgardie safes. This innovative system drew air into an underground cellar, cooled it, and then circulated it through the building. Adelaide House was also the first building in Alice Springs to have electricity. Adelaide House played a crucial role in providing medical care to the isolated communities of Central Australia. It was also the site of one of Australia's first successful outback radio experiments, where Alfred Traeger, Flynn's radio expert, transmitted and received a field-radio telegram in 1926. Traeger later invented the pedal radio, which revolutionized communication in remote areas. Today, the museum is run by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about preserving the history of the building and the people who served the outback. Visitors can explore the historic rooms, view exhibits on the Royal Flying Doctor Service and early medical practices, and learn about the life and work of John Flynn. The museum also features a collection of artifacts, including a pedal radio and Presbyterian Moderator General's Robes.

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