Things to Do in Townsville

A self-guided trail of 20 historic buildings in the city centre, marked by bronze plaques. Covers landmarks like the Customs House (1880s) and the Post Office (1890s). Pamphlet available at the visitor centre.

🕐 Open access; buildings visible from street at all times

💡 Pick up the map at Flinders Street Mall visitor kiosk and do the walk on a Saturday morning when the markets are on—the buildings look great in the soft light.

A 2.2km beachfront promenade with a saltwater swimming lagoon, playgrounds, BBQ areas, and a dedicated cycle path. The rock pool at the southern end is popular for families.

🕐 Open 24 hours; lagoon open 6am-7pm daily (Oct-Mar), 6am-6pm daily (Apr-Sep)

💡 Park at the northern end near Kissing Point for quieter spots. The lagoon closes for cleaning on Tuesdays.

A formal Victorian-style botanical garden with shaded lawns, a lily pond, and a small aviary with budgies and finches. Good for a quiet picnic away from the beach crowds.

🕐 6am-6pm daily (gates close at dusk)

💡 Bring mosquito repellent after 4pm. The free guided walks start at 10am on Wednesdays (check at the visitor centre).

A 286m granite monolith with a summit lookout providing 360-degree views over Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island. Two sealed walking trails and a road to the top.

🕐 Open 24 hours; road closed 10pm-5am for maintenance

💡 Drive up 30 minutes before sunset for the best light. The Goat Track walking path (40 minutes) is steep but offers wide views; take water and a hat.

Exhibits on the HMS Pandora wreck, tropical marine life, and Aboriginal heritage. The main gallery costs $12 for adults but the rotating small gallery and the outdoor shipwreck display are free.

🕐 9:30am-4pm daily (last entry 3:30pm)

💡 Visit the free 'Get Wet' touch tank (10am-11am weekdays) where kids can handle starfish and sea cucumbers. Skip the paid area if short on time.