Weekend in Gladstone

Two-in-one venue: local history museum on the ground floor and rotating art exhibitions upstairs. Covers the region's indigenous history, early settlement, and industrial growth.

Tip: Check the gallery's Facebook page before going – they often host free artist talks or children's workshops on weekends. Allow 45 minutes.

Paved walkway stretching from Spinnaker Park around the marina, past the yacht club and pontoons. Great for jogging, dog walking, or watching boats come in.

Tip: At low tide you can spot small fish in the rocks near the yacht club. The boardwalk is fully lit until midnight so it's safe for an after-dinner stroll.

Large park along the Gladstone Marina with playgrounds, picnic tables, a flying fox, and waterfront walking paths. Good spot for families or a quiet lunch by the water.

Tip: Go early morning to see the sun rise over the marina and spot seabirds. The coffee van turns up around 7am on weekends.

Reclaimed industrial waterfront now turned into public parkland with an old wharf crane, interpretive signs about the port's history, and a man-made beach (if you don't mind industrial backdrop).

Tip: The free electric barbecues near the water are rarely busy on weekdays. Bring your own firewood if you want to use the designated fire pits (seasonal permits apply).

Botanic gardens specialising in native Queensland plants, with a small lagoon, boardwalks, and a free electric barbecue area. Less crowded than the coastal parks.

Tip: Bring insect repellent in summer – mosquitoes are aggressive near the lagoon. The garden nursery sells rare natives cheaply on Saturday mornings.