Broken Hill is one of Australia's longest-lived mining towns. However, it is not only a mining town, it is a vibrant tourist destination offering aspects of the city's history, including pre-pastoralist Aboriginal occupation, mining activity, commercial and organised labour activity and the unique corrugated iron housing.

The built heritage of the city is of national significance and for over 20 years, the city has been reinvented as a "living museum" where visitors can experience both past and present.

The city is actively involved in the preservation and restoration of its buildings. In particular, the reintroduction of post-supported verandahs has re-established the original character of the city centre.