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Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland © Tourism Australia

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• Top things to do
• Getting to Queensland

From the bright lights of the Gold Coast to the technicolour underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland has a slice of paradise to suit every traveller.

Home to more than 1,000 ecosystem types and five World Heritage-listed sites, there’s something altogether magical about the beauty of Queensland. Here, islands of white sand dot aqua waters in the Whitsundays, colourful coral bursts to life with fish and turtles on the Great Barrier Reef, and lush green canopies dance in the sun in the Daintree Rainforest.

Queensland may be best known for its sparkling coastline and idyllic islands dotting the wonderous Great Barrier Reef, but the state also features rugged outback landscapes and ancient rainforests which are home to some of the world's most unusual animals. Explore this state to see just how unique it is.

• Snorkel or scuba dive with The Great Eight on the Great Barrier Reef
• Experience Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture in the Daintree ; the world's oldest living rainforest
• Enjoy an oceanside escape on K'gari (Fraser Island), the Sunshine Coast , the Gold Coast or The Whitsundays

Queensland has international airports in  Brisbane , Cairns, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, with direct flights from many global hubs, as well as major and regional Australian cities. 

Regional airports in ports like  Hamilton Island  and  Bundaberg  offer regular domestic flights that will help you explore more of Queensland’s diverse destinations. With well-maintained routes and endless adventure, the Sunshine State is also ideal for road trips – the Great Barrier Reef Drive, the  Pacific Coast Way  and Matilda Way are a few of the best.

Popular destinations in Queensland

The Great Barrier Reef

The Gold Coast

The Southern Great Barrier Reef

The Daintree Rainforest

The Sunshine Coast

Trips and itineraries.

10-day coast to coast itinerary

14-day Tropical North Queensland drive

9 days of family fun on the Gold Coast

Sunshine Coast: 8-day family road trip holiday

13-day itinerary for foodies and design lovers

6-day family adventure around Cairns

4-day road trip through the Scenic Rim

3 days on the Great Sunshine Way

16-day family road trip: Gold Coast to Cairns

The Pacific Way: Gold Coast to Cairns

10 days of shopping, design and art

4 days on the Great Beach Drive

Things to do in queensland.

The best day trips from Brisbane

Best places to scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef

Unforgettable Great Barrier Reef experiences

Looking for more inspiration? Go to queensland.com

Travellers' stories, explore australia's states and territories.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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*Product Disclaimer:  Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

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Queensland Attractions

Things to do in queensland.

Cape Tribulation Beach

Cape Tribulation

Daintree Rainforest Park

Daintree River

Mossman Gorge

Cairns Harbour

Babinda Boulders

Malanda Falls

Lake Tinaroo

Mangrove Boardwalk

Cairns Esplanade

Cairns Botanic Gardens

Jorgensen Patch

Osprey Reef

Breaking Patches

Norman Reef

Michaelmas Cay

Hastings Reef

Four Mile Beach

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

North Stradbroke Island

Noosa Everglades

Natural Arch

Springbrook National Park

Mt Tamborine Skywalk

Fraser Island

Atherton Tablelands

Green Island

South Coast Queensland

Whitsundays

Tropical North Queensland

Great Barrier Reef

The Daintree Rainforest

Beautiful one day, perfect the next. So the former slogan goes for tourism in Queensland, and it is (almost) always true. Queensland’s capital city Brisbane boasts an unbelievable average of 283 days of sunshine per year, making it the perfect destination for holiday makers all year round. There is plenty to see and do in and around Brisbane, with destinations including the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coasts not far away. Head north to Cairns where it gets even hotter, and take a boat out to visit one of Australia’s most famous attractions – the Great Barrier Reef .

Best Places to Visit in Queensland

Next to Sydney and Melbourne , Brisbane is quite often an overlooked city. But the capital of Queensland has a lot to offer to visitors and plenty of things to do. Moreton Island and Stradbroke Island are two great destinations that are accessible within a day of Brisbane, and worth visiting to take advantage of the city’s great weather. Just a few hours drive north and you arrive in another one of Queensland’s best places to visit, Sunshine Coast, your gateway to Fraser Island and the Noosa Everglades . Heading south will take you to the Gold Coast, where the golden beaches and spectacular Hinterland make this area another place to add to your Australia bucket list.

But of course, if you have come to Australia and made it to Queensland the number one place you have to visit is Cairns. No trip to Queensland is complete without a visit to the Great Barrier Reef, and Cairns is the perfect place to make your dream to find Nemo a reality. Cairns is also home to the unbelievable beauty of the Daintree Rainforest , another World Heritage Listed site destined to blow you away, and the remarkable Atherton Tablelands . Make sure you leave enough time in your itinerary to see everything Cairns has to offer.

More Attractions in Queensland

There is so much to see and do in Queensland, and the beautiful weather means you can get out there and do things pretty much all year round. From Brisbane you can head to Moreton or Stradbroke Island to discover these pretty destinations and enjoy the water based activities there are to do there. From the Gold Coast the best attractions include the magical Glow Worms , the Hinterlands and the awesome Mount Tamborine Skywalk . From Noosa you can explore the Everglades by kayak or journey to Fraser Island to discover the unforgettable attractions including McKenzie Lake and Rainbow Beach.

Cairns offers a plethora of activities and things to do. A tour to the outer reef to snorkel amongst the array of outstanding aquatic life is a must, as is a trip to the Daintree Rainforest. But other essential things to do include a day trip to Green Island and a waterfall tour of the Atherton Tableland. Queensland is definitely not a state short of exciting things to do!

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🍉 150+ BIG Things in Queensland (Map & Printable Checklist)

We spent about 18 months travelling the sunshine state, moving from the coast to the Outback and everywhere in between. During our travels across Queensland, capturing Big Things along the way (and creating a huge list) really added to our adventure!

It’s always fun to stop at the different Big Things along the way. The kids love to check them out and climb them if they can, plus they provide a great excuse to stretch your legs in a random and quirky way.

Checking Big Things in Queensland off the list while travelling has become a fun addition to many Aussie road trips.

The oversized sculptures are often found attached to a business as a way of promotion, so stopping for an obligatory photo and having a look at the business is a great way to support local Aussies along the way.

We’ve personally spotted over 150 BIG Things in Queensland, from the famous iconic structures to the obscure and lesser-known sculptures. This post shares our entire Queensland BIG Things list and map to help you with your own Big Things road trips and discoveries!

More Australian BIG Things:

• NSW & ACT Big Thing s
• VIC Big Things
• TAS Big Things
• SA Big Things
• WA Big Things
• NT Big Things

Queensland BIG Things Map

Check out the interactive map including all Big Things in Queensland and across Australia. Don’t forget to download your printable checklist below to start ticking off your finds along your way!

QLD BIG Things Checklist

( DIGITAL & PRINTABLE )

150+ Big Things to find across Queensland!

150+ Queensland BIG Things

Here you’ll find every BIG Thing that I’m aware of in Queensland. Each one has been categorised alphabetically with a photo where possible (I’m still yet to visit a few myself).

If you know of any others (or of any detail changes), please let me know! I aim to keep this list as up to date as I can.

For road trip preparation, head to this handy travel packing essentials list .

BIG Aboriginal Woman ‘Kowaha’ & Her Baby

The Leap is a site in the Mackay area with a dark history. Back in 1867 a large group of 200 Aboriginal men, women and children were pursued by the Native Police Force after being accused of spearing cattle. They sought refuge in the caves at the top of Mt Mandarana. They were forced to jump off the cliffs of several hundred feet, rather than be captured.

The story of one woman (who died) still lives on as she was holding a baby in a blanket. Remarkably, the baby survived and still has living descendants in the area today.

The statue is called the BIG Aboriginal Woman ‘Kowaha’ & Her Baby , which lays tribute to all who lost their lives in the massacre.

There are some pretty awful stories of how the Native Police Officers were recruited, used to do the dirty work of some of the local officials, then framed or punished for the crimes committed. You can read more on the history of Australian Native Police here .

Visit ‘Kowaha’ & Her Baby at the Leap Hotel , which is along the Bruce Highway 21km west of Mackay. The hotel offers Free Camping for 24 hours for those who support the pub.

BIG Ammonite

The BIG Ammonite is one of those unexpected random finds, which is located in Hughenden, Outback QLD.

Hughenden is part of the Dinosaur Trail where ancient dinosaur bones are being discovered all the time. Just up the road from this oversized fossil is the Flinders Discovery Centre filled with real-life relics.

BIG Animals

At the Carrara Markets on the Gold Coast are three Big Things:

• BIG Kangaroo ‘Kat’
• BIG Shark ‘Steve’
• BIG Snake ‘Rob’

Out the front of the Big Apple Shopping Centre sits the actual BIG Apple . It’s not super dooper big and the shopping centre isn’t either. It looks like the apple needs some TLC, a bit of a letdown really.

Also known as the BIG Apple of Stanthorpe, this fella is actually just up the road at Thulimbah.

Vincenzo’s is the business that used to be at the site of the Big Apple, but apparently it suddenly closed down in May 2018. It used to be a Cafe and Deli with local produce, wine and gifts available. Who knows what the future holds for the building.

Out the front of Nashy’s Compleat Angler store in Mackay is the BIG Banana . It seems to be a strange icon for a fishing shop, but there is a bit of history behind this guy. Michael McEvoy who made this Big Banana ended up trying his luck with another Big Banana in Carnarvon, Western Australia. However it never met the same success as this guy in Mackay did.

Initially, half of the building was a fruit shop and the owner always had plans to open up a few mores stores around the country. The giant banana has been a local icon in the area for over 30 years. In May 2017, the owners of Nashy’s revamped the banana by giving him a new paint job and some sunnies.

BIG Barramunidi

The Big Barramundi Garden is home to the 6-metre BIG Barramundi in the Daintree Village. You’ll find a range of different foods available on the menu, such as Crocodile, Kangaroo, sea food and tropical salad.

BIG Barramundi

This BIG Barra can be spotted on the side of the road amongst the green backdrop of Minbun, in Far North QLD. The big fish stands just outside of the Tarzali Lakes, a great recreational fishing spot.

If you’re looking for the Barramundi Capital of the North, you’ll find it in Normanton. They even host an annual Barra Comp.

So I guess it makes sense to have a 6-metre tall BIG Barramundi in front of the local Motel. Just remember, there’s a reason why the town is also host to the Big Crocodile . Let’s just say that it’s best to stay away from the waterways!

For many years, the BIG Barrel at Maleny has showcased local craft wines and brews, including Maleny Mountain Wines. Out of the blue in February 2019, the Big Barrel has shut down, with the closure being shrouded in mystery. Customers are now greeted by a sandwich board sign at the entrance stating, “The Big Barrel is permanently closed, sorry.”

BIG Bee Hive

Superbee Honeyworld at Currumbin has the coolest BIG Beehive entranceway!

• Learn about the process behind honey-making
• Chat to professional Beekeepers
• Taste test different types of honey
• Range of honey products on sale (jarred honey, royal jelly, beeswax products, cosmetics, honeycomb)

BIG Billiard Balls

On top of the Billiard Shop in Toowoomba are 14 BIG Billiard Balls . In store you’ll find everything to cater to your billiard needs – tables, repairs, accessories, removals and more.

BIG Bolt & Nut

Located in front of Banks Bolts & Fasteners is the BIG Bolt & Nut . These days it’s bright red and propped in the air. In days gone by it was gold and sitting in a garden.

We can only gather that it’s all about marketing the business – not a bad way to put yourself on the map.

BIG Boomerang

Sitting somewhere in Boulia is the BIG Boomerang . Boulia is a tiny outback town famous for its annual Camel Races and Min Min Light. The town is about 305 km south of Mount Isa.

BIG Boomerangs

At the entrance to the Girringun Aboriginal Art Centre in Cardwell is where you’ll find two very BIG Boomerangs . In fact they frame the entrance to the building just beautifully.

An Aussie film ‘The Paperback Hero’ was filmed in 1999 at the Nindigully Pub. The BIG Boomerangs , which were in the movie, are still perched out the front for visitors to see.

If you look closely to your right, as you turn into the road leading to the Nindigully Pub, you’ll spot another BIG Boomerang hiding in the bushes.

On top of the Car Mine used car business sits the BIG Boot . The fibreglass boot was originally built in honour of the Morris Boot Factory, which was built in 1930 in Paddington.

In 1990 the boot moved to Chermside when the Morris Boot Factory was demolished. The boot was bought by the Boots Camping Shop, which is now long gone. The boot itself was constructed in 1976.

Legend has it that the BIG Blue Boot in Mount Tarampa is the other half of the pair to the one at Chermside. This doesn’t seem to be the case though as the Queensland Boys Brigade received it in the early 1990’s from Alan Sherlock who apparently used it in the 1989 State Election as advertising.

The boot was originally brown, but the Boy Brigade changed it to their own colour of blue. It’s mounted on a trailer, which was ferried around from the Redlands Strawberry Festival to Toowoomba’s Flower Carnival.

As it wasn’t cost effective to keep the trailer registered, it was decided to leave it parked at the front of the Glengarry Educational Centre site at Mount Tarampa, which is where it still sits today.

BIG Bowl & Pen

A local Proserpine Woodturning group fashioned a BIG Bowl back in 2002 to promote the groups annual Turnout. The huge wooden bowl is over 2.5 metres in diameter and was made using standard woodturning tools.

Then came the BIG Pen , which was built in competition to someone in America claiming to have the ‘biggest pen in the world’ at 6 feet (1.8 metres) long. So, the determined woodturners created an even bigger pen, which is 12 feet 8 inches (3.9 metres). It was turned out of a single Red Cedar tree trunk.

Both the BIG Bowl & Pen can now be found on display at the Proserpine Museum. Unfortunately it was closed when we were travelling through, so check the opening hours before you visit.

The BIG Brolga had been greeting travellers at the Townsville Information Centre since 1988. These days you won’t find it there anymore. It now sits out the front of the Murray’s Sporting Complex, also in Townsville.

A Brolga is a large Australian Crane, with many Aboriginal legends and dances based around the bird. They are well-known for their beautiful courting dance, where they jump up to a metre in the air and follow with head-bobbing, wing-beating, strutting, bowing and trumpeting.

BIG Bulls of Rockhampton x 6

The iconic BIG Bulls of Rockhampton have hung around the local streets for almost half a century! For as long as locals can remember, theft of the bulls’ testicles has been an ongoing issue. The council even employ someone to make replacements for the fellas.

In the lead up to the 2018 Beef Australia Expo, the council spent $15,000 revamping the bulls. Rockhampton is known as the Beef Capital of Australia so having a herd of bulls standing around the city makes complete sense.

The 6 Big Bulls include:

• 3 x Brahman Bulls
• 1 x Santa Gertrudis Bull
• 1 x Romagnola Bull
• 1 x Droughtmaster Bull

In fact as we zigzagged our way across the city in search of the 6 Big Bulls, we found quite a few more than that, so keep your eyes peeled.

BIG Bulldog

The BIG Bulldog can be found at Theo Hansen Park, the home of the Brothers Bulldogs Junior Rugby League Club. I guess we can assume that the Bulldog is their mascot.

BIG Bundaberg Barrel

You can’t visit Bundaberg without snapping the BIG Bundaberg Barrel and the BIG Rum Bottle .

We were curious to see what was actually inside the Bundaberg Barrel, so I poked my head in to talk to the staff. Turns out you can do a really cool and interactive tour based around the production of the famous Bundaberg Soft Drinks and even get a complementary 6-pack to take home.

The pricing is pretty reasonable too – $18 per adult (including the 6-pack) and $6 for the kids.

BIG Bundaberg Rum Bottle

One of the most iconic things about Bundaberg is its BIG Bundaberg Rum Bottle . Even if you don’t do the factory tour, visitors are more than welcome to come and get their photo with the huge bottle out the front.

Yep, another BIG Bundaberg Rum Bottle . This one is is Haigslea on the outskirts of Ipswich. The Sundowner Hotel, which is where the Big Bottle sits, was originally built in 1870.

Yep, there are more than one BIG Bundaberg Rum Bottles in Queensland, in fact there are three that I know of. This one sits out the front of a drive-through bottle shop and isn’t as big as the original one in Bundaberg.

Over the past five years (from around 2014) the Townsville Cultural Festival has created a range of large sculptures as part of the lead up to their 25th anniversary. Each year the sculptures are ceremoniously paraded through the streets of Townsville on trailers and lead to the festival.

The sculptures include:

• BIG Mother Earth
• BIG Slim Dusty
• BIG Johnathan Thurston

BIG Ned Kelly

• BIG Aussie Swagman
• BIG Aboriginal Elder King Bundawal

Don’t you just love those random Big Thing finds! Well, the BIG Camel was one of those for us.

We were actually on our way back to Rockhampton from Yeppoon and we decided to take a different route back. Low and behold, there’s a huge camel on someone’s property with a sign saying Big Camel.

We did drive in and get a photo, but didn’t see anyone around to talk to.

Check out the BIG Can on the roof of Liquor Legends in Home Hill! Home Hill is predominantly a sugar cane growing area in the Burdekin region of North Queensland.

BIG Cane Toad “Buffy”

‘Buffy’ is the fondly nicknamed BIG Cane Toad found in the main street of Sarina.

The original toad was fashioned out of paper mache back in 1983 as a float for the sugar cane festival. Further down the track it was cast in fibreglass to become a permanent statue for the town, based around the local farming history.

Although it’s only a small town, there are still a handful of things to do in Sarina for some family entertainment as you’re travelling up or down the coast.

BIG Captain Cook

The BIG Captain Cook stands tall and proud in Cairns. I’m still yet to capture this guy myself. He apparently used to stand outside the Captain Cook Backpackers Hostel since the 1960’s and is a huge 10 metres tall.

BIG Cartoon Characters

Spotted around a park in Mackay are four big characters for kids to play around:

• BIG Fred Flintstone
• BIG Mother Hubbard’s Shoe

BIG Crocodile

Big cassowary.

If you’re visiting the Cassowary Coast, you may be lucky enough to spot the elusive Cassowary. They’re a large, flightless bird, native to the northern tropics of Australia with a striking blue neck and large crest of their head.

Be aware that they can be very dangerous and can disembowel a human with their large talons, so don’t get too close! The BIG Cassowary is about 5 metres tall and sits behind a local shopping village.

Here’s a random find we spotted while visiting Townsville. This BIG Chair sits out the front of SunCity Harley-Davidson motorcycle shop as bright orange advertising for the business.

BIG Cheese & Milk Can

Outside the Maleny Cheese Factory you’ll find two Big Things. The first one that you’ll probably spot is the BIG Cheese , which sits on the roadside with an ‘Open/ Closed’ sign advertising the business. If you head into the driveway you’ll also find a BIG Milk Can outside the factory.

The Maleny Cheese Factory is well known for it’s boutique cheeses and yoghurts, which are produced with fresh milk from suppliers in the local area.

Cicadas are a rather noisy bug typically found in trees. You can hear them singing their song during the day in the warmer months of year, particularly in the more temperate and tropical climates.

‘Hiding’ in the middle of a busy road in South Brisbane is the BIG Cicada with its rainbow translucent colourings.

BIG Coat Hanger

The BIG Coat Hanger is the perfect advertisement for Oz Wardrobes in Wacol, which is pretty self explanatory.

BIG Cockatoo

In front of the Mossman Hotel Holiday Villas sits the BIG Cockatoo on its perch.

BIG Corn Cob & BIG Mango

Out the front of the Sweet Corn & Mango Place in Aye are the BIG Corn Cob & BIG Mango . They’ve been nicknamed ‘Ollie the Sweet Cobb’ and ‘Henry the Mango Man.’

The BIG Cow sat at Kulangoor in the Sunshine Coast for years. It was originally built to advertise a working dairy farm in the 1970’s and attract tourists into the business.

Hugh Anderson, the very same sculptor who created the Big Bulls of Rockhampton, is the artist responsible for the Big Cow. It’s seven times bigger than an Ayrshire Cow, which is what it’s based on. These days the Big Cow can be found at Highfields Pioneer Village.

Cardwell is a coastal town that is proud of its seafood, as you’ll see driving along the main street. Seaview Deli Cafe is not only famous for it’s Mud Crab Burgers, but it’s also the home of a very BIG Crab . You can even sit on the oversized chair below the crab to get a selfie.

Sitting on top of the Shell Service Station in Miriam Vale is the BIG Crab , which is 2 metres high. It was created in 1979 by the owner of the day who wanted to promote his Crab Sandwiches.

Guests visiting the popular Australia Zoo will be able to check out the BIG Crocodile , which is inside the park. ‘Cameron’ the croc was created at the park in 2004, weighing in at 930 kg and sits 8.23 metres in length.

The replica is based on the potential size of a real saltwater crocodile that could still exist today if the conditions were perfect for them. As they weren’t almost hunted to extinction in the 1970’s, it’s very rare to find such big crocs in the wild.

Nome is known to be a hotspot for saltwater crocodiles in Townsville, hence why it’s also home to a BIG Crocodile outside the Visitor Information Centre. The area of Nome is surrounded by a large marshland full of fish, which of course brings in the crocodiles.

BIG Crocodile – ‘Krys’ the Savannah King

There once was a 8.6 metre saltwater crocodile that lived in the waters near Normanton in the far north. It was the 1950’s, croc hunting was rife and crocodiles skins were worth a mint.

A Polish crocodile hunter by the name of Krystina Pawlowski shot this guy dead, but lived to regret it. It turns out that we was too big to move and his skin was too old to use. She then turned conservationist and both her and her husband were instrumental in the protection of crocodiles and helped put an end to their hunting.

To commemorate the whole series of events, the BIG Crocodile stalks the main street of Normanton as a reminder of his past and to show just how big he is said to have been. Speculation still surrounds the truth of his size to this day.

BIG Crocodile on a Boat

Here’s an unlikely find that we came across as we wandered into St Lawrence looking for a dump point and some water. As we stopped at the pub to ask for some local advice, we realised we’d parked right next to this BIG Crocodile on a Boat !

It’s super cool and a little bit random. Apparently the publican is always adding things to it in the spirit of enticing tourists in from the highway.

BIG Crocodile Head

As the Daintree is home to a large population of salt water crocodiles, it’s only fitting that the BIG Crocodile Head lives there. It’s quite large at about 2 metres high and I believe it’s one of the cool ‘Bigs’ that you can walk through to enter a doorway.

BIG Cunnamulla Fella

The BIG Cunnamulla Fella is a tribute to the famous Aussie bush character and song, which was written by Stan Coster and performed by Slim Dusty. The statue is made of bronze and is double that of life size.

BIG Deckchair

Out the front of Newlife Upholstery, a furniture recovery and redesign shop in Arundel, sits the BIG Deckchair . I mean, it’s not huge, but it’s certainly bigger than a regular deckchair.

BIG Deckchair (World’s Biggest)

The BIG Deckchair , which now sits in the old Open Air Theatre in Winton, was originally built by Freemasons Task Force Victoria for an event. It was donated by a member that was passing through Winton and saw the deckchair theatre.

Although it hasn’t been officially recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records , it is still 7 times the size of a normal deckchair – so that counts for something, right?

BIG Dinosaur

The BIG Dinosaur was originally built for an apple and grape festival float in 1998. It was nicknamed ‘Fruitisforus’ due to its popularity and now sit refurbished outside the Ballandean Railway Station.

Inside the Dreamtime Cultural Centre in Rockhampton lies the BIG Dugong . When I say big, I mean big – this guy is 22 metres long!

For those who don’t know, a Dugong is a marine mammal which can weight up to about 300kg. Dugongs are generally found in warm, coastal waters and feed on seagrass.

To view the Big Dugong, you’ll have to pay admission into the Dreamtime Cultural Centre.

One of the most iconic sculptures of the Gold Coast would have to be the BIG Eagle made of iron. It sits atop the Kirra Hill lookout, which affords the most spectacular views over the surrounding beaches and headland. It’s also a popular spot for sunrise and sunset viewing.

This BIG Easel is particularly special. It’s said to be the world’s biggest painting in the world on an easel.

Emerald is one of seven sites around the world where artist Cameron Cross chose to put a reproduction of Van Gogh’s painting ‘Sunflowers.’ Each of the sites are chosen due to their significance to sunflowers or Van Gogh himself. Emerald was chosen for its growing of sunflowers, plus its annual Sunflower Festival.

BIG Fishing Reel

On top of the Fisherman’s Warehouse in Gympie is the BIG Fishing Reel . There is no associated information behind the large fishing reel, so it’s obviously marketing material for the fishing store.

Another BIG Fishing Reel is located at Davo’s Northshore Bait & Tackle in Marcoola.

BIG Fishing Rod

A BIG Fishing Rod was added to the Wyaralong Dam Sculpture Park in 2015. The local artist is named Silvio Apponi.

The whole sculpture park is estimated to be worth around $180,000 with much of the money being raised at a local festival ‘Arts in the Olives’, held annually in the nearby Lost World Valley.

BIG Frilled-neck Lizard

Eulo is the tiny Outback town where you can experience the annual Lizard Racing event. As the town has adopted the Frilled-neck Lizard as their symbol, they’ve erected a 6 metre BIG Frilled-neck Lizard for all to gaze upon.

Inside the Laidley Landscaping Supplies yard is a BIG Frog with a top hat to boot! The business was closed when we visited, but we could still capture a snap of the green creature from the roadside.

There doesn’t seem to be much information around the meaning behind the BIG Frog at Yungaburra. We can tell you that it’s out the front of a petrol station/ mechanics workshop in the Atherton Tablelands called Pit Stop.

BIG ‘G’

The BIG ‘G’ at the entrance to the Gracemere Industrial Estate in Rockhampton now has a spot on the Queensland Big Things list.

It was designed by Gibb Group, the developers of the Gracemere Industry Park, with the ‘G’ actually being an oversized version of their logo. The oversized G was created in 2015 out of 5 tonnes worth of steel and is 5.5 metre wide x 6 metre high. At night it looks pretty cool as it’s lit up with LED lights.

BIG Gem (Sapphire)

Roger Chapman is the guy behind the BIG Sapphire Gem in Anakie, Central Queensland.

The story goes that he ventured out to Australia from England in 1969 and fell in love with the place. He lived in Sapphire from 1971 to 1975 mining sapphires, which funded his future travels. He reckons he was earning about $1,500 a week back then.

From The Gemfields he moved to Gladstone where he owned a fibreglass manufacturing business. The owner of the Anakie Post Office had a grand idea of creating a Big Sapphire to help attract business. Mr Chapman was approached with the idea and took it on.

BIG Gilbert’s Dragon

As you enter Croydon from the east you’ll probably notice a big yellow entry sign with symbolic bits and bobs. One of those things is a BIG Gilbert’s Dragon .

The Gilbert’s Dragon is also known as a Shaky Paws Lizard, which is a reptile found in the local region. The oversized sculpture has been around since mid 2016.

BIG Gingerbread Man

Yandina hosts The Ginger Factory , which is where the BIG Gingerbread Man lives. In fact he’ll greet you as you walk up to the entrance out the front.

The Ginger Factory offers lots of things for tourists to get stuck into:

• Factory Tour & Tasting
• Ginger Town
• Ginger Train
• Overboard Boat Ride
• Kids Play Area
• Ginger Shop
• Ice Creamery
• Live Bee Show & Tastings

See the Ginger Factory website for current pricing and information.

BIG Giraffe

I was a bit sceptical about the BIG Giraffe in Bororen. I mean, it doesn’t look that big in the photos. But to stand underneath (or beside it), it was actually really big! Is the Big Giraffe larger than a regular-sized giraffe? I’m not sure, but it’s pretty cool nonetheless.

BIG Girl & Her Bear

Perched on the hill sit the BIG Girl ‘Maddie’ & Her Bear. There she sits with a prime view of the world as it passes her by.

BIG Gold Nugget

Croydon was once a booming Gold Rush town back in the 1800’s. As you walk through town it’s hard to imagine that it once had so many thousands of people living there that no less than 36 pubs were called for!

It’s well worth taking a wander through the old Town Hall and other buildings still preserved for tourists and locals. Outside of the Croydon Visitor Information Centre is a BIG Gold Nugget .

BIG Golden Gumboot

Tully, along with the neighbouring town of Babinda, are infamously known as the wettest towns in Australia, with over 150 days of rainfall each and every year. There’s been a tradition since 1970, that whichever towns receives the most rainfall gets presented with a golden gumboot.

The BIG Golden Gumboot pays tribute to the Tully’s highest recorded annual rainfall of 7.93 metres in the year 1950! It’s almost 8 metres tall and was erected by the Tully Lions and Rotary Clubs at a cost of around $90,000.

This would have to be one of our favourite Big Things so far because you can actually climb the spiral staircase inside and check out the views from the top. It’s totally free to enter.

BIG Golf Ball

BIG Golf Balls are one of those super common Big Things. We decided pretty early on in our Big Things Tour to only count them if they’re absolutely huge or special is some other way.

This one at the House of Golf in Hervey Bay was pretty big and tickled our fancy. It advertises the business, which is a Driving Range as it sits perched on top of a tee.

Another one of Gold Coast’s iconic figures is the BIG Guitar at the Hardrock Cafe . The giant guitar has sat on the corner of Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Boulevard since 1996.

You can’t miss the 25 metre neon Gibson Les Paul Standard replica as you cruise down the main drag. It’s estimated to be worth $500,000!

This is a good example of a Big Thing that we don’t reckon should make the list. Just because the shopping complex is named The BIG Gun and they have a regular sized military gun on the roof, doesn’t really make it a Big.

But… it does seem to be on many Big Thing lists, so we’ll include it here anyhow.

BIG Hand Cane Cutters

This pair of BIG Hand Cane Cutters in Home Hill are ginormous, weighing in at 20 tonnes and are 3.5 metres high. They are both made from steel and cement.

Back in May 2016, the sculptures were put into place to represent the multicultural history of the sugar cane in Australia. The industry as we know it today has all been made possible by Indigenous, South Sea Islander and European Australians. The Burdekin area is the largest sugar producing region in Australia today.

In Benaraby you’ll find the BIG Hands with a barramundi in between. The sculpture is aptly named, “It was that big.” The big workers hands are made from rusted metal (showcasing the earthy colours of the area), while the barramundi is made from aluminium.

It Was That Big!

The Big Hands were constructed in Melbourne by Chris Vassallo (sculptor) with the cost coming in at over $100,000. Apparently it (almost) looks better at night when it’s lit up, than it does during the day.

Out the front of the Lift Art Gallery in Maleny is a gorgeous silver BIG Harp . While it’s not huge, it’s a pretty cool novelty and worth checking out if you’re in the Maleny area.

BIG Hot Water System

Here’s a Queensland Big Thing that I cannot find any information about. The BIG Hot Water System in Owanyilla.

My ex had seen it on the side of the highway loads of times, so when drove past together I had my phone ready to snap it as we zoomed past. If you look very closely there is a sticker around the front reading “Quantum,” so I can gather that it was originally put there as advertising for a business.

BIG Jam Jars

Out the front of Jamworks in Glen Aplin are two BIG Jam Jars . These were kind of a random find, but pretty cool!

BIG Jim Beam Can

Beside the drive through bottle shop at the Park Ridge Tavern is the BIG Jim Beam Can . The Tavern is quite big and has all of the usual offerings – meals, grog, pokies and regular entertainment.

BIG Kangaroo

The BIG Kangaroo in Charleville is called Matilda, a bit like the one at Kybong. I can’t find anymore information connected to the ‘why’ or ‘how’ of this sculpture.

BIG Kangaroo ‘Matilda’

‘Matilda’ the BIG Kangaroo was Australia’s official mascot for the Commonwealth Games in 1982. She was famous for winking at the crowd when she did her lap of honour in Brisbane at the Opening Ceremony.

The 13-metre high marsupial currently stands behind the Puma Service Station in Kybong. Before making home at the Petrol Station and Rest Area in 2011, she spent 20 years at Wet ‘n’ Wild on the Gold Coast.

BIG Kookaburra

Shane Christensen (sculptor) carved a gorgeous BIG Kookaburra into a tree trunk, which now lives at the Mons Playgroup in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

BIG Kronosaurus

Kronosaurus Corner is a part of the Australian Dinosaur Trail, with this museum being dedicated to ancient marine life. Richmond might sit on dust and dirt these days, but once upon a time it used to be a thriving inland sea.

The BIG Kronosaurus adds a lovely splash of colour to the town and guards the entrance to the museum.

BIG Lawn Bowl

The Manly Bowls Club has a pretty cool BIG Lawn Bowl as part of its advertising out the front. It offers barefoot bowls, club membership, food and drinks.

BIG Lungfish

John Olsen is the sculptor behind the BIG Lungfish made from recycled metals in Bundaberg. The idea is for your mind to fill in the gaps. He hangs out on the Burnett River boardwalk.

BIG Macadamia Nut

The BIG Macadamia Nut was built at the Big Pineapple park by the owners six years after the Big Pineapple itself came about.

It was originally part of the Nut Country Tour, before being converted to the Rainforest Creatures of the Night exhibit in 2000. As of 2013 the building sits vacant.

BIG Magpie & Nest

Sitting atop the Miriam Vale Sporting Complex roof is the two-metre high BIG Magpie & Nest . He’s fondly named ‘Owe’e’ and serves as the official mascot for the Miriam Vale Magpies (rugby league team) and the town as a whole.

Dave Halloran from the Bororen Furniture Shop constructed the big bird and nest with a fibreglass mould. Owe’e is said to be the icing on the cake for the town who’ve created a fantastic Sporting Complex through fundraising, grants and community support.

BIG Mandarin

The BIG Mandarin can be found at the Big Mandarin Caravan Park in Mundubbera. It’s about 9 metres high which doubles as a kiosk for the caravan park.

It was fashioned based on the Ellendale Mandarin and was made from fibreglass.

The BIG Mango of Bowen is one of Queensland’s most iconic Big Things, although it’s only been around since 2002. It’s made from fibreglass and cost around $90,000 to construct the 7 tonne sculpture.

Back in February 2014, the giant mango was stolen! Apparently thieves turned up in the middle of a night and loaded it into the back of a truck. It appeared not too far down the road, hidden under some branches and a tarp. It turns out it was merely a publicity stunt by Nando’s.

As they say, any publicity is good publicity!

It was a fair bit bigger than I was expecting and had a cute little ant painted on it.

BIG Mango (small)

Following the great Nando’s Mango Heist of 2014, they actually gifted the town a mini BIG Mango . This smaller protege lives at the entrance to the jetty.

BIG Mango Man

Heidi and Alf are the owners of the Frosty Mango in North Queensland, which is where you’ll find the BIG Mango Man .

Ten years before the oversized mango was added to the front of the ice cream store, Heidi designed him as their logo and he’s been used for all advertising and merchandise since then.

They made the decision to make a real life version back in 2014. He cost the couple nearly $30,000, including the delivery from Townsville. He’s also cyclone-proof and sits on a 3 metre deep concrete foundation.

The BIG Marlin , standing 8 metres high, lives outside the Stockland Shopping Centre in Cairns. The coastline from Cooktown to just south of Cairns is known as the ‘Marlin Coast,’ so this guys serves as a reminder that you’re in Marlin territory.

BIG Meat Ant

We first thought the the BIG Meat Ant in Augathella was all about the millions of Meat Ants in the area. Turns out that’s not the case at all. The oversized sculpture on a pole is the local footy teams mascot.

The BIG Miner sits outside Bobby Dazzler Mine in Rubyvale, The Gemfields.

At Bobby Dazzlers you can fossick for sapphires at the Fossicking Park, browse the Gift Shop full of beautiful pieces, take an Underground Sapphire Mine Tour, take guided Boot Camp Fossicking Workshop or have a coffee at the Cafe. There are loads of things to do in The Gemfields of Central Queensland.

A BIG Mower is the perfect marketing tool for the the Big Mower store in Beerwah. It originates back to 1974 and 11m x 3.6m.

BIG Murray Cod

Goondiwindi Lions Club celebrated their 50th anniversary with the unveiling of a BIG Murray Cod in September 2015. It’s said to be the town’s famous local fish.

The giant statue is made from fibreglass and is 6.5 metres tall. A company called ‘Natureworks’ are the creators, who’ve also created models for Sea World.

BIG Muttaburra Dinosaur

Muttaburra is the site of the discovery of the Muttaburrasaurus in 1963, which is one of Australia’s largest dinosaurs. The towns hosts a full-sized replica which we call the BIG Muttaburra Dinosaur .

They believe that the dinosaur was 12 metres long and 2 metres high, weighing in at 15 tonnes! The species lived 100 million years ago in herd and was a herbivore.

BIG Muttaburrasaurus

In the main street of Hughenden stands the BIG Muttaburrasaurus out the front of the old Grand Hotel. Inside the Flinders Discovery Centre is a life-size skeleton of the Muttaburrasaurus.

A BIG Ned Kelly stands tall out the front of Kelly’s Motel in Maryborough.

As far as we’re aware, Ned Kelly and his gang never came to Queensland, but there are a few rumours going around as to how and why there’s a giant Ned Kelly there.

Some of the rumours include:

• Kelly’s Motel used to have a restaurant, both of which were very well-known in the town. Sometime in the 1960’s or 1970’s, the Big Ned Kelly appeared as a promotion for the business.
• The Kelly’s Motel owner was a Ned Kelly enthusiast and thought the giant Ned would attract tourists.

The Motel’s slogan – “Where you’re treated as one of the gang!”

The BIG Orange in Crowley Vale is about the same size as the Big Apple at Acacia Ridge. It’s no surprise that the sculpture advertises a fruit & veg shop.

Since Gayndah is known as the citrus capital of Queensland, it’s only fitting that it’s the home of the BIG Orange . Visitors stopping by from April to October can taste the fresh citrus juice grown on the property.

The cool thing about the Big Orange is that you can walk inside and read more about the history of the region, with old newspaper clippings and more.

Every two years Gayndah hosts a week-long orange festival filled with street parades and markets, plus citrus eating, throwing and packing competitions. The festival is usually held in April/ May and has been going for over 60 years.

In the Atherton Tablelands is the BIG Peanut in Tolga. He stands out the front of the Peanut Place , producers of Hi Oleic peanuts and peanut products. Pop in and grab some locally produced goods while you’re there.

BIG Pelican

‘Pelican Pete’ (as he was known to the locals) is a BIG Pelican sculpture which was built in 1977 to be a part of a council float for the Festival of the Waters street parade.

It was constructed out of paper mache over a metal frame. He was able to rotate his head, blink his eyelashes, open and shut his bill, flap his wings and wiggle his tail.

Two people would sit inside to operate the pelican with levers, pulleys and a cable. There is also a seat in the back for a passenger to ride and wave to the crowd. ‘Pelican Pete’ evolved into ‘Percy the Pelican’ (possibly after ‘Mr Percival’ from Storm Boy).

In the 1980’s he sat in front of the Noosa Lakes Motel. These days he rests near the Pelican Boat Hire business on Gympie Terrace.

BIG Pick, Shovel & Sieve

Outside the Blue Gem Caravan Park and Service Station in Sapphire is the BIG Pick, Shovel & Sieve . Being a sapphire mining community, these items represent the tools of the trade.

The artistic creators are Barry Richardson and David Gould.

Yatala is famous for its pies and rightfully so. They are not your average bakery pie and were my favourite when I lived in the area in my 20’s!

The pie shop was always an iconic roadside attraction when traveller between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, purely because of the BIG Pie on the roof.

Then the highway expanded and the pie was obscured by barriers. The pie was moved to sit on top of a pole, which made it easier to spot, but these days the vegetation growth around the statue still hides it from view.

The pie shop originates back to 1914.

BIG Pineapple

The BIG Pineapple at Woombye originates back to 1971. In its heyday it used to be known as Australia’s most popular tourist attraction.

It did close down for some time, but it’s current owners are working hard to bring it back.

At the moment there’s a Visitor Centre, Historic Train, Zoo, Treetop Challenge, Cafe and annual Pineapple Music Festival. Entry is free, but the train, treetop challenge and zoo are for a fee.

See the Big Pineapple website for more details.

BIG Pterodactyl

A BIG Orange Pterodactyl is situated at the entrance to Thunderbird Park at Tamborine Mountain.

Thunderbird Park offers guests the chance to fossick for treasures at the world’s largest thunderegg mine. Thundereggs are similar to a geode formed within volcanic ash layers. They’re usually around the size of a baseball.

There is a range of accommodation available at the park, as well as a Treetop Challenge, Mini Golf, Horse Riding, Laser Skirmish, Bird Feeding, Swimming and Bush Walking.

More info available here for Thunderbird Park .

BIG Pumpkin

The BIG Pumpkin produce shop opened its doors in Beaudesert in 1984, with the original owner retiring on Christmas Eve 2017.

The massive pumpkin, which sits on top of the store, is looking very sad and desperately needs some TLC!

At a roadside farm produce stop, you’ll find the BIG Pumpkin . Don’t forget to checkout the BIG Watermelon slice while you’re there!

BIG Question Mark

Randomly, you’ll find the BIG Question Mark in the park in Home Hill. I can’t find any information surrounding the reason behind the sculpture. Maybe it’s just a quirky reason to get tourists to stop and stretch their legs in this tiny town… it worked for us.

BIG Red Chair

A BIG Red Chair sits outside the Queensland Bedding and Furniture store in Withcott. Obviously, it’s a marketing ploy to attract the attention of potential customers. After all, that’s usually how Big Things come about.

BIG Red Elephant

On the side of the Warrego Highway in Plainland you can’t miss the BIG Red Elephant from your car. While technically, it’s probably just the size of a normal elephant, it’s still a cool roadside icon.

BIG Redback Spider

Randomly, there’s a BIG Redback Spider on the top of a house (?) in Toogoolawah. Very strange. I can’t find any further information about it other than the address, which is in the checklist at the bottom.

BIG Remote & Hand

Sitting in front of a business in Kunda Park is a BIG Hand holding a BIG Remote . It’s the perfect advertisement for the business East Coast Garage Doors & Gates .

The BIG Rig in Roma pays tribute to the first town in Australia where natural gas was discovered. You’ll find a museum, self-guided walk, night show and cafe, which are all located at the Visitor Information Centre.

BIG Rooster

Out the front of a produce and rural supplies store in Barcaldine is a rather ugly BIG Rooster . This was a chance find as it wasn’t on our list, we just saw it as we drove past.

Don’t forget to check out the Tree of Knowledge in the main street of Barcaldine.

The Biggenden BIG Rose was unveiled in 2016 at the Apex Rose Festival and weighs almost 2-tonne! A local artist by the name of Craig Nelson created the sculpture, which was paid for through RADF funding.

Biggenden is known as The Rose of the Burnett (region) in reference to the town’s impressive range of roses in the main street.

BIG Rosella

It’s at the Petersen’s Farm in Woolooga that you’ll find a BIG Rosella . I’m not talking about the Rosella bird, but the edible Rosella hibiscus plant.

But Petersen’s is more than just a farm, it’s also the home of CC’s Kitchen . A range of homegrown products that come out of the farm’s harvest. Some of the specialties include jams, chutneys, pickles, sauces and vinegars. Products are available at the farm gate, markets and local retailers.

If you happen to be passing through around May, you can head to the farm for their annual Rosella Festival. On offer will be displays, cooking shows, games, farm tours, homemade food and face painting.

BIG Sapphire Ring

Adorning the entrance to Pat’s Gems in Sapphire, Central Queensland, is the BIG Sapphire Ring . Pat’s Gems is not only a Jewellery Store, but also a Fossicking Park and Cafe.

The Sapphire Gemfields, encompassing Sapphire, Rubyvale, Anakie and Willows, are one of the largest sapphire fields in the world.

BIG Sardine Can

The other random find in Home Hill is the BIG Sardine Can . It’s in the same park as the Big Question Mark . No idea what the significance of this Queensland Big Thing is, but it’s very cool.

BIG Scout Hat

The BIG Scout Hat was added to a military building in Cairns in 1982. The building was always known as the Cairns Control Room and was built in 1942 for the second world war. Later, it was passed over to the Scouting Organisation of Queensland and became their local headquarters.

The hat and the military building are both now on the Queensland Heritage Register.

BIG Scrabble Tiles

Sitting at one of the main intersections in Mackay are 6 very BIG Scrabble Tiles . They spell out the word ‘Imagine’ with the ‘i’ missing.

Jackie Howe was locally born (in nearby Killarney) in the 1860’s. It was in this southern part of Queensland that he learnt his trade of blade shearing, before making the move to Central QLD.

After an insult, he was determined to set his critic in his place by beating his personal best, which stood at 100 sheep per day. He well and truly blew that out of the water by shearing 211 sheep! It became a record that fellow shearers around the country and the world attempted to beat.

In 1892 he won a gold medal for breaking his own record with 321 sheep sheared in 7 hours 40 minutes. The following year he set yet another record using machine shears this time – his number was 237 sheep.

That record didn’t get broken until 1950 with a mechanical shearer. To this day, he still holds the record for the most sheep sheared in 7 days (1,437 head).

Now it makes sense as to why there are a set of BIG Shears in the Warwick rest area, which are testimony to this great man’s achievements.

** The Big Shell has recently been removed. **

Born in the 1960’s, the BIG Shell still stands in the same place it always has – at the entrance to the Big Shell store, Tewantin. Inside you’ll find all things shells, coral, vintage items and collectables.

It was created by the Anderson family and has only seen two more owners since then.

BIG Slouch Hat

The BIG Slouch Hat sits atop a government building in Mackay in memory of all of Australia’s fallen soldiers.

Platation Park in Ayr is the resting place for the Gubulla Munda 60-metre BIG Snake , which is a giant Carpet Snake. It serves as the totem for the local Jura people. Ayr is a small sugar cane town north of the Burdekin River.

We absolutely loved the sheer size of this larger than life snake. Even the big kids had fun walking up the back of the snake starting right down the end at the tail.

BIG Snake & Brolgas

Man, we had so much trouble finding the BIG Snake & Brolgas in Bowen! I can tell you that they’re at Mullers Lagoon (which is huge), so put your walking shoes on and get ready for a snake hunt!

BIG Soccer Ball

We can’t find any background information behind the BIG Soccer Ball in Gladstone, but can tell you that it sits perched out the front of the Brian Niven Park (sporting fields).

BIG Spanner

Out the front of a mechanical workshop is the BIG Spanner in Sapphire. It’s 2 metres long and was apparently the first Big Thing in the area.

This would have to be the creepiest Big Things we’ve found in Queensland I reckon. It’s a BIG Spider  that hangs in a web over one of the main streets in Townsville.

She’s a giant Silver Orb Spider named ‘Spinderella’ who serves as the Townsville icon and mascot for the Museum of Tropical Queensland.

2005 is the year she was unveiled and it’s believed to be one of the world’s largest anatomically correct spider replicas. It’s 6m x 4m, which is 600 times the normal size of its true arachnid counterpart.

It was actually constructed by Phillip Smith, a Museum of Tropical Queensland display officer, taking two months in total. Spindererella cost $29,750 to create. The materials include resin and foam, coated in fibreglass with aluminium tubing as a frame inside the spider’s legs.

Townsville is home to a second BIG Spider . This one is named ‘Oralia’ and she’s a Golden Orb Spider. Orb spiders in general are very common in the northern parts of Queensland.

It sits atop a pole at the Riverway development in Townsville, where the Thuringowa River Festival was held for a few years. During one of the festivals a Fibre and Fabric Artist made a web for ‘Oralia,’ which lasted about 18 months.

Before the park was redeveloped to the Lagoons that it is today, it used to be Pioneer Park, which was also fondly known as Spider Park.

Atop the sign for the Brightview Tavern in Regency Downs is the BIG Steak . Not surprisingly there are steaks on the menu, along with plenty of other dishes.

BIG Stethoscope

On the corner of the new Wellness Way and Healthcare Drive in Springfield and a random find that we came across. It’s the BIG Stethoscope ! This is set to be the medical precinct of Springfield as it grows.

BIG Stockman

The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame pays tribute to pioneers of the Outback and the Stockmen and Aborigines who’ve shown bravery and courage. The BIG Stockman’ s name is ‘The Ringer’ and was sculpted in 1988 by Eddie Hackman.

BIG Strawberry

Rolin Farms at Elimbah is home to the BIG Strawberry . You no doubt guessed that it’s a Strawberry Farm with local produce and pick-your-own experiences available.

A smaller BIG Strawberry represents the Strawberry Fields at Palmview. This on sits on a trailer and can be moved around, so keep your eyes peeled.

BIG Sugar Cane Stick

The BIG Sugar Cane Stick was a completely random find that we happened to stumble across. It’s a funny story actually.

We’d just been for a wander around Home Hill, spotting the other Big Things there (Big Question Mark, Big Sardine Can and the Big Can). As we were walking back to the car, Indii said, “I wonder if there’s a Big Sugar Cane.” Low and behold, the pole we were looking at, right across the road from us, was in fact a pretty sad looking Big Sugar Cane Stick!

I couldn’t believe the synchronicity! This Big Things needs a new paint job to bring it back to it’s glory though.

BIG Sunflower

The BIG Sunflowers in Toowoomba were unveiled in March 2012. The 5.4 metre structure was created out of steel, with a local school student drawing the first sketch.

Toowoomba is one of the many southern country Queensland towns to bloom when the summer sunflower season is in full swing. We wish we were there during that season!

BIG Surfboard

Surf World on the Gold Coast is Queensland’s only surf museum. You can’t miss it with the BIG Surfboard out the front.

Inside you’ll find a large collection of surfboards showcasing their evolution from the 1930’s to today. There’s also photography, art works, movie posters, album covers and cinematography.

The BIG Tap at Greenslopes advertises it’s Bathroo m Kitchen Home store. This one is pretty cool as it genuinely looks like a water tap for a giant.

Apparently there sits another BIG Tap at North Coast Plumbing in Maroochydore. I haven’t seen this one myself, so let us know if it’s not there any more.

Millmerran is known as the rendezvous capital of Australia! At one stage there was a teepee erected as a rendezvous spot for a local club, which is how the 4 metre BIG Teepee sculpture came about. You can find Millmerran in the Toowoomba region, west of Brisbane.

BIG Tennis Racquet

Frew Park in Milton used to be the iconic Milton Tennis Centre. It started out as the Queensland Lawn Tennis Association in 1915 and ran until 1999.

These days it plays host to the BIG Tennis Racquet , playgrounds, sculptures, a cafe, picnic areas and exercise equipment.

BIG Termite

This BIG Termite is great! He’s part of a residential letter box in a suburban street in Townsville. Maybe he used to be part of a pest control business?

BIG Thermometer

Did you know that Stanthorpe is the coldest town in Queensland? Yep and they put in a huge BIG Thermometer to prove it!

Residents are really hoping that BOM ( Bureau of Meteorology ) will use the fancy equipment, that has been built to support the thermometer, to record Stanthorpe’s temperatures. The government body had been using the temps from a nearby town of Applethorpe.

This big tourist attraction cost about $100,000 to build.

At the Calen Hotel, north of Mackay, you’ll find the BIG Thongs resting against a bunch of palm trees. There’s plenty of room to get in there and get your photo with the oversized footwear.

Hidden along the leafy forest walk at Plantation Park in Ayr sits the BIG Turtle . Don’t forget to check out the Big Snake out the front of the park as well.

While technically the BIG Turtle in Bargara is actually a kids oceanside playground, many people include this in their Big Things list, so we thought we would too.

BIG Turtle Shell & Aboriginal Man

I can’t find any information online surrounding the significance of the BIG Turtle Shell & Aboriginal Man at Home Hill, but you can find them at the Showgrounds, along with the Big Hand Cane Cutters .

BIG Watermelon

Through a 2018 competition on Wotif.com, Chinchilla won the massive prize of having a BIG Watermelon  added to their town.

It was a tough contest between the four competing towns:

• GLEN INNES for the BIG Kilt
• KINGAROY for the BIG Peanut
• MITTAGONG for the BIG Tulip

Over 15,000 people travel to the Melonfest in Chinchilla every second year, which is known as the Melon Capital of Australia.

The giant melon weighs in at four tonnes and sits 9 metres wide and 3 metres tall. The fibreglass sculpture took five weeks to build in Sydney before being delivered up north to Chinchilla.

The BIG Watermelon slice sits out the front of a roadside produce stop, just down from the BIG Pumpkin in Gumlu. They’re right on the highway, you can’t miss them!

Kinka Beach is home to the BIG Whale , which is located at the old abandoned Coral Life Marineland. It’s 6m x 12m and was is owned by Kevin Logan, who lives just next door.

The biggest BIG Whale in Hervey Bay is one of our absolute favourites! He’s just gorgeous – constructed with shiny stainless steel on the underbelly and timber planks across his topside.

‘Nala’ the breaching whale weighs in at 22 tonne and is mother to a smaller Humpback Whale in the roundabout at the intersection of Main Street and Esplanade.

The real Nala is a female humpback that has been coming to Hervey Bay every year since 1992. She’s not the only whale sculpture you’ll see as you’re driving around the area. We spotted quite a few, but none as big as this one.

This fella looks like the original BIG Whale in Hervey Bay. He’s jumping out of the ground at the Marina where all of the Whale Watching Tours take off from.

BIG Whiting

Out the front of the Hervey Bay Historical Village is the BIG Whiting . Underneath sits the words “bigger than it looks.”

BIG Wine Bottle

Another ‘Big’ for Mount Tamborine is the BIG Wine Bottle . It hangs out in the garden out the front of Mount Tamborine Vineyard & Winery .

‘William’ the BIG Wombat is a critically endangered Hairy Nosed Wombat. This big guy is 2 metres high by 3.5 metres long.

It’s one of the world’s most endangered mammals with just 250 remaining. There are 240 at Epping Forest National Park (near Clermont, QLD) and just 10 at Richard Underwood Nature Reserve (just north of nearby St George).

Make sure you check out the gorgeous Painted Silos while you’re passing through Thallon in Outback QLD.

BIG XXXX Beer Can

Koumala Hotel, in the Mackay region, has a cool BIG XXXX Beer Can alongside it. Actually it looks like it’s an old water tank that’s been painted up as a beer can.

On the front of the hotel is a sculpture of a saltwater crocodile, which is uncannily lifelike!

BIG Yellow Belly Fish

The BIG Yellow Belly in Charleville was very underwhelming. My thoughts, as I stood there looking at it, were, “Is this even a Big Thing?”

No doubt it’s bigger than a regular Yellow Belly, I’m sure…

QLD Big Things Checklist

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Over 150 Big Things to find in Queensland!

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• NSW & ACT Big Things

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23 thoughts on “🍉 150+ BIG Things in Queensland (Map & Printable Checklist)”

I looked everywhere for the BIG Shell at Tewantin… the business closed and it was ‘just a house’ but the shell stayed and it seems they still allowed tourists to come and take photos with the shell etc but on my Big Things trip last month it was gone… I asked a local and she said they took it away when the house was sold and renovated… wonder where it went.

Oh no! That Big Shell has been there for as long as I can remember. I’ll have to update the list, thanks so much for sharing.

Such a great and detailed list of the big things in QLD. The best I have seen yet!

I don’t think there’s anything you’ve overlooked in preparing this list! The big cicada freaks me out a bit, but daughter would L-O-V-E to see the big ‘gators! (They are one of her favorite animals!)

There are quite a few big crocs around the country her, you daughter would love it!

I had no idea there were so many BIG things in Australia. I especially love the big animals like the giraffe and the kangaroo. What a great resource and so fun for family travelers.

It has been great fun. We’ll see what we can find in the next state now.

Wow and I thought everything was bigger in Texas… looks like Queensland has it beat! Love those sunflowers and would love to check out this part of Australia one day!

Likewise, I’d love to get to Texas and check it out.

What a fun way to spend 18 months and find BIG things – and to know there are 150 that you captured them, that would be quite the undertaking. My favourite is the scrabble tiles- I think because it can be interactive! I am sure your kids had a great time discovering all of these.

That was just one State. Now we’ve moved onto the second one (New South Wales)! It’s like a big treasure hunt.

Wow so much to see, I think my families favorite would be the cartoon characters in Mackay park, we love Snoopu and the Flintstones.

They’re popular with the kids 😉

Some of these Big things are hilarious. I’m impressed you found so many! The big kangaroo, Matilda, is cute but the big spider is scary. I wonder why Queensland has a fascination with big things.

It’s an odd thing, but lots of towns around the whole country are getting ‘Big Things’ installed to help bring in the tourists.

What a cool and fun list! And how fitting for a country as BIG as Australia! We spent some time in Queensland but I have to confess that we did not pay attention to any of these BIG things! We will certainly do it from now on! That’s quite an impressive list and makes you wonder whether what might come next!

Haha that’s so true. Big things for a big country. I believe that the US has quite a few Big’s as well.

I can’t believe how many “BIG” things you’ve found! I love finding the “biggest, smallest, etc” things around so this would definitely interest me. The Big Apple (being from the US) made me laugh. I liked the Big Fred Flintstone and the big crab on top of that shell station!

Tiny things are rather cute aren’t they. There are some really odd Big Things here that don’t even make sense to us.

Gosh, these sculpture are big – i still cannot decide if my favourite is Banana or Wombat. But i think Wombat, great post !!!

Haha some of them are really cool… and some are really crappy.

Wow! Who knew there were so many big things in Queensland’s. It looks like to much fun driving around to find them all!

It’s definitely fun, the kids love the hunt.

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• Top 10 Queensland Tourist Attractions

Queensland is an incredibly exciting state to holiday in. From 4 wheel driving adventures to theme parks, spectacular beaches, unique wildlife and the largest coral reef on the planet, there are so many attractions that there is bound to be something for everyone.

Because we don’t want you to miss out we’ve put together a list of the best attractions throughout Queensland.  Don’t get me wrong, you could spend months travelling around this beautiful state and still never have a dull day, but these are the things you can't miss.  So check out our top ten Queensland attractions (in no particular order) and plan your holiday around what stands out to you - no matter if you'd like a relaxing, scenic, nature or adventure holiday!

The Great Barrier Reef

• More information about the Great Barrier Reef

Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

• Book a combined Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Railway Tour .

Whitsundays Islands

Swim in the sparkling blue waters of the Coral Sea, relax on bright white sandy beaches and explore the kaleidoscopic world which lies beneath the water.

• More information about the Whitsundays

Gold Coast Theme Parks

• Want to book? Buy  theme park tickets & multi-park passes  and save.

Daintree National Park

• More information about activities available at Daintree Rainforest .

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a popular camping and 4WD spot where visitors can sand board, swim the beaches and pristine freshwater lakes, hike through ancient forests or enjoy a spot of fishing. There are plenty of 4WD tours to help you explore the Great Sandy National Park.

• More information about Fraser Island

Australia Zoo, Sunshine Coast

• Want to book? Buy Australia Zoo tickets  at the lowest prices  online.

Ettamogah Pub

Based on a popular pub in an Australian cartoon strip, you can’t miss the quirky 18m high building when you’re driving between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

• More information about Ettamogah Pub & Aussie World .

South Bank Parklands, Brisbane

Take a walk through the vine covered arches, dine with a view of the Brisbane River or visit the museums and art galleries nestled in the Cultural Centre.

• More information about South Bank

Longreach, Central Queensland

• More information about Longreach

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Places to Visit in Queensland

Here are the top 21 places to visit in queensland in 2024:, 1. brisbane.

1 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland 48 Tourist attractions

Brisbane, the vibrant capital of Queensland, Australia, is a flourishing urban hub renowned for its dynamic city life and thriving cultural scene. It boasts a laid-back yet energetic atmosphere, offering a blend of bustling city attractions and serene natural landscapes. The South Bank Parklands, a ...

Best Time: May to October. Winter season.

2. Gold Coast

2 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland 31 Tourist attractions

The Gold Coast, a coastal city in Queensland, Australia, epitomizes the quintessential beach lifestyle with its sun-kissed shores and vibrant urban atmosphere. Known for its pristine beaches, such as Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads, the city offers a plethora of water sports, from surfing to sno...

Best Time: Throughout the year, except monsoon

3 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland 49 Tourist attractions

Situated in Far North Queensland, Cairns is synonymous with Australia's tropical climates and oceanic bliss intertwined. Popularly known as the gateway to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, this city is the home base for those who wish to explore the abundant tropical riches...

Best Time: June to August

4 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Home to pristine beaches and lush greenery, Noosa is considered the main highlight of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. It is also home to the Noosa Everglades, an exotic labyrinth of lakes and rivers among lush wetlands, one of the only two everglades in the world.

Best Time: September to November

5. Fraser Island

5 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island, and a World Heritage-listed island. It is abundant in Australian natural beauty, boasting of vast sandy beaches, pristine lakes and dense rainforests.

Best Time: September to November, March to May

6. Townsville

6 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Nestled in tropical North Queensland, Townsville is a vibrant city where coastal living meets cultural richness. Life here revolves around the iconic Strand, offering a picturesque waterfront with cafes and recreational areas. Magnetic Island, just a ferry ride away, invites exploration of coral ree...

Best Time: May to September

7. Port Douglas

7 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

The beautiful seaside town of Port Douglas, located around 60 km north of Cairns, is the staging point when visiting Australia's famous Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. A swanky resort town in its own right, it is home to five-star properties, fine-dining restaurants, golf courses and lar...

8. Airlie Beach

8 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

The beautiful resort town of Airlie Beach is considered a popular gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. The budget accommodation, relaxed atmosphere and incredible natural beauty makes it a popular spot for backpackers and road-trippers exploring the scenic East Coast of Australia.

Best Time: June to October

9. Surfers Paradise

9 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Surfers Paradise, one of Australia's most iconic beachside destinations, is as exciting and vibrant as it is beautiful. Located on the Gold Coast, in Queensland, it is a paradise for beach lovers, offering stunning beaches, an array of attractions, and plenty of activities for travelers.

Best Time: April - May, September - October

10. Bundaberg

10 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

The city of Bundaberg is the birthplace of Bundaberg Rum, one of the most famous rums in the world. The Bundaberg Rum Distillery has stood in the city since 1888, where visitors can explore more about this exquisite spirit. The region’s coast is considered the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier R...

Best Time: Mid-November to February

Best tourist destinations & places in Queensland

11. hamilton island.

11 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Hamilton Island is a beautiful tropical destination located in the Whitsunday Islands of Queensland, Australia. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations for tourists and travelers alike. Hamilton Island boasts stunning white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts, making it a...

Best Time: April - November

12 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Mackay, Australia is a popular destination for travelers seeking an outdoor paradise. Nestled in the heart of the Whitsundays, Mackay offers visitors a range of activities, attractions, and sights to explore. Located on the central east coast of Queensland, Mackay is a great starting point for explo...

Best Time: June - August, September - November

13. Toowoomba

13 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Toowoomba, located in the Darling Downs region of Queensland, Australia, is a paradise for travelers looking for a unique experience. The city, known for its breath-taking views of the Great Dividing Range, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Its lush green parks, botanical gardens, and u...

Best Time: September - November, March - May

14. Hervey Bay

14 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Hervey Bay is a picturesque city in the Wide Bay-Burnett region of Queensland, Australia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, fringing coral reefs, and whale-watching opportunities. It is the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxed getaway with plenty to explore and discover.

Best Time: July - November

15. Gladstone

15 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Gladstone is a coastal city located in Queensland, Australia. It is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions and activities to keep any traveler entertained. With its stunning harbour views, pristine beaches, and abundance of wildlife, there is something for everyone to explore. From snorkeling and...

Best Time: April - October

16. Rockhampton

16 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Rockhampton is a vibrant city in Queensland, Australia, known for its stunning natural beauty, and its unique cultural and historical attractions. The town is located between the tropical rainforest-covered mountains of the Great Dividing Range and the beautiful Fitzroy River, making it a perfect ho...

Best Time: May - September

17. Kingscliff

17 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Kingscliff, Australia, is a small coastal town located in the Tweed Valley of northern New South Wales. It is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning coastal views. It is the perfect place to get away from it all and relax. The main reason to visit Kingscliff is to take advantage of its stunnin...

18. Maroochydore

18 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Maroochydore, situated on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, embodies a vibrant coastal lifestyle surrounded by pristine beaches and a bustling urban center. Its golden shores, including Maroochydore Beach and Alexandra Headland, invite visitors to bask in the sun and partake in various water sports. The ...

19. Mooloolaba

19 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Mooloolaba, nestled on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, epitomizes a laid-back beach town lifestyle embraced by pristine sands and azure waters. The renowned Mooloolaba Beach invites visitors to soak up the sun and partake in a variety of water activities, including swimming and surfing. The vibrant Esp...

20. Palm Cove

20 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Palm Cove, nestled along the tropical coastline of Far North Queensland, offers a serene escape where palm-fringed beaches meet laid-back luxury. Life in Palm Cove centers around its pristine white sands, inviting visitors to relax beneath swaying palms or embark on water adventures. The picturesque...

Best Time: May - October

Best Tourist Attractions in Queensland

South Bank Parklands

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Riverlife Adventure Centre

Queensland Cultural Centre

Roma Street Parklands

21. Caloundra

21 out of 21 Places to visit in Queensland

Caloundra, situated on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, radiates a relaxed coastal lifestyle blended with natural beauty. Life here revolves around pristine beaches like Kings Beach and Bulcock Beach, offering ideal spots for sunbathing and water activities. The lively town center, with ...

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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 15 Best Places to Visit in Queensland (Australia)

15 Best Places to Visit in Queensland (Australia)

With stunning scenery ranging from forests and mountains to pristine white beaches, and from reef to outback, Queensland boasts a diverse range of attractions, making it a favorite for tourists from throughout Australia and all over the world.

You can relax with a craft cocktail on an island beach resort, hike through lush rainforests, enjoy exotic flora and fauna like you’ve never seen before, or enjoy the urban buzz of the vibrant metropolis Brisbane.

With 7000km of stunning coastline, Queensland is a beach-lover’s paradise, but there’s so much to see and do in this tourist mecca that after you you’re your appetite with these 15 best places, you’ll just want to come back to the Sunshine State for more!

Let’s explore the best places to visit in Queensland :

1. Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef in the world, and it’s the only living thing visible from space – it’s even larger than the Great Wall of China! The Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s widely considered the jewel in Queensland’s crown.

If you’re visiting Queensland, this extraordinarily beautiful and unique site is a must-see.

Teeming with marine life, it’s a great place to do some scuba or snorkelling, and get some stunning snaps for your Snapchat!

2. Daintree Rainforest

The breathtakingly beautiful Daintree Rainforest boasts exceptionally diverse flora and fauna, including 90% of Australia’s bat and butterfly species.

Like the Great Barrier Reef, most of the Daintree Forest is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site (Wet Tropics of Queensland), listed under the , and for good reason: it’s fascinating for nature-lovers and scientists alike, as it presents a uniquely detailed record of the processes by which Australian flora and fauna have evolved, with living relics of the Gondwanan era in the form of the closest surviving relatives to many ancient marsupials; also, its flora is considered to be the nearest example to what a Gondwanan forest would have been like.

Tours are available to give you some fascinating insights into the science and history of the Daintree Rainforest, but you can also enjoy relaxing walks and soak up the gorgeous scenery: waterfalls, wild rivers, and forest and coastal vistas.

It’s a wonderful example of the beauty of the Australian landscape.

Cairns is the gateway to the Daintree Forest and the Great Barrier Reef, and it’s a wonderful little resort town that’s very popular in its own right with backpackers from all over the world.

Its mild climate in winter makes it a beloved getaway for Sydney-siders and Melbournites.

This tropical paradise caters well for its tourists, with a buzzing café scene, beach markets, and even a platypus park!

4. Surfer’s Paradise

Surfer’s Paradise is the ultimate beach tourism town, and a very popular spot for travelers to QLD to base themselves.

The beach itself is one of Australia’s most well-known, and many (surprisingly affordable!) hotels are situated just across the road, so it’s just a short walk to be able to relax and enjoy the Aussie summer.

The town itself is very built up, with great nightlife and cuisine, and it boasts many tourist attractions such as the futuristic Infinity maze, a Ripley’s Believe it or Not, a Hard Rock Café and Dracula’s Haunted House.

You might even see one of Surfer’s Paradise’s famous bikini-clad meter-maids!

5. Lamington National Park

Named after Lord Lamington (who is also the namesake of the delicious Australian dessert!), this national park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The park is teeming with unique flora and fauna, some of which is found nowhere else on Earth.

The park is particularly known for its birdlife, wildflowers, ancient trees and waterfalls, and it’s easy accessible: you’ll find some of Australia’s best bushwalking here, with over 160km of walking tracks catering to all levels of fitness.

It’s also a great place to do some adventure sports: abseiling, archery and a flying fox are all available.

A particularly popular tourist attraction in the park is O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, the home of 230 species of birdlife, and where the very tame rosella parrots will eat right out of your hand or even perch on your head.

6. Gold Coast theme parks

The Gold Coast’s four theme parks – Warner Brothers’ Movie World, Dream World and Wet’n’Wild – are must-dos for anyone who loves theme parks, rollercoasters, and kitsch.

Sea World offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with Australian marine life, and the monorail system (Australia’s first!) and cable cars make it easy to get around the complex while enjoying stunning views.

Movie World is full of cheesy Warner Brothers’ fun; take a photo of you with all your favorite characters, and enjoy top-quality, hi-tech themed rides such as the Scooby Doo Spooky Coaster.

Dream World is the biggest theme park on the Gold Coast, with a great diversity of attractions (such as Tiger Island) and rides (the Giant Drop is a favorite with thrillseekers). Wet’n’Wild is an aquatic theme park with some of Australia’s greatest waterslide fun, including some extreme waterslides such as the Kamikaze which gives you the sensation of zero-gravity as you plunge down 11 metres at a 70 degree angle.

Whether you like your theme parks relaxing or adrenalin-pumping, the Gold Coast has something for you!

7. Tamborine Mountain

Tamborine Mountain boasts a gorgeous little town high up on a mountain, nested neatly between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

The town has stunning views of the mountain, but it’s also worth spending a day walking around and enjoying the atmosphere of this eclectic town: Tamborine Mountain is famous for its wineries, delicious cheeses, gourmet restaurants, vibrant art scene, and adorable vintage stores.

You can also enjoy the Rainforest Skywalk, visit the glowworm caves, or stay in one of the romantic B&Bs – there’s something for everyone!

8. Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo is a must-do if you want to experience Australia’s most famous wildlife! The zoo was started as the passion project of the late Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter.

The Irwin family are still very involved in making a reality of Steve’s vision: making the Australia Zoo the world’s biggest and best conservation facility.

There’s plenty of fun to be had at the zoo: get up close and personal with Australian animals such as wombats and kangaroos, and even get a dingo kiss! There’s also plenty of more exotic animals, so if you’ve ever wanted to hand-feed a tortoise or pet a tiger, this is the place to go.

9. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a quieter alternative to Australia Zoo, with more affordable entry, and more of a focus on Australian wildlife.

There’s also cute performances for the kids including the Australian icon Blinky Bill, as well as a flying fox over the treetops, a Segway safari, and the chance to feed a crocodile.

10. South Bank

Located on the south bank of the Brisbane River, South Bank is known for its beautiful floral walkway, its inner-city artificial beach, and a wide variety of fine dining options.

You can also see freshwater turtles wandering around! If you enjoy museum and gallery-hopping, make sure to visit the Cultural Precinct, which is the home of the Performing Arts Centre, the Art Gallery (don’t forget to check out their exceptionally high-quality gourmet restaurant!), the QLD Museum Science Centre and the Maritime Museum.

South Bank also has a gorgeous Rainforest Walk, a Nepalese Pagoda, and a botanical garden.

It’s best to plan to spend an entire day at South Bank, as there’s plenty to keep you entertained here!

11. West End

West End is a fun, quirky precinct that’s popular with the indie and hipster crowds; it’s a great place to do some vintage clothes shopping, enjoy one of Brisbane’s best cafes, or treat yourself to a delicious, unique cocktail at the exotic Lychee Lounge.

The weekend markets are a perfect introduction to Australia’s creative scene, followed by a stroll through Orleigh Park while enjoying lovely views of the Brisbane River.

12. Story Bridge

Brisbane is a city where the river is such a part of your life: with 25 ferry stops, and bridges criss-crossing the river, the locals get to enjoy stunning views on a daily basis, and the river is a beloved part of Brisbane’s culture.

One of the river bridges, Story Bridge, is particularly iconic: the heritage-listed steel bridge connects Fortitude Valley to Kangaroo Point, and has been operating since 1940. Almost 100,000 commuters cross over the bridge every day, and it’s also the home of the Riverfire (a gorgeous fireworks display wrapping up Riverfestival). Story Bridge is lit up at night, making a postcard-perfect backdrop for your holiday memories.

If you’re a dare-devil, you can even climb the bridge!

13. Roma Street Parkland

Situated high above the Brisbane city centre, Roma Street Parkland offers gorgeous urban views, as well as a garden that is considered one of the two best in Australia.

The Spectacle Garden is particularly beautiful, with a lovely year-round floral display.

It’s a large garden, so be prepared to spend a few hours relaxing and wandering around enjoying the immaculately-kept grounds.

14. Fraser Island

Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s a great spot for whale-watching, fishing, 4WD-ing, a romantic getaway, or a soothing nature walk.

The island is a beloved getaway for tourists and locals alike, and well worth adding to your Queensland itinerary.

15. Whitsundays

The Whitsundays area offers everything from extreme luxury (Hamilton and Hayman Islands) to a backpacker mecca (Airlie Beach). Of the 74 Whitsunday islands, most are uninhabited national park islands, but four offer tourist accommodation.

The scenery of the Whitsundays is so stunning that it needs to be seen to be believed, and visitors to the area include the rich and famous from Australia and beyond.

There’s plenty of activities available (jet-ski, seaplane, helicopter), but the best thing about the Whitsundays is just enjoying the moment as you relax on the snowy-white beaches and count yourself lucky to be somewhere so special.

15 Best Places to Visit in Queensland (Australia):

• Great Barrier Reef
• Daintree Rainforest
• Surfer’s Paradise
• Lamington National Park
• Gold Coast theme parks
• Tamborine Mountain
• Australia Zoo
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
• Story Bridge
• Roma Street Parkland
• Fraser Island
• Whitsundays

18 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Brisbane

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Karen Hastings and photographer Brian Hastings love visiting Brisbane for a culture fix when they're based on the Sunshine Coast. They last visited in December 2022."

Brisbane (or "Brissie" as Aussies affectionately call it) offers sophisticated big-city attractions in a sun-splashed riverside setting. In every season, you'll find countless things to do in this clean, green Queensland capital. Lush parklands punctuate the city, bike and walking paths radiate throughout, and the city hums with innovation and creativity.

River cruises are the best way to sightsee in the city. Brisbane is linked by bridges, with elegant historic buildings peeking out amid the gleaming skyscrapers. Hop aboard a cruise or ferry for an overview, then focus on your favorite spots later on foot.

In the Cultural Centre, you can ogle Indigenous art and cutting-edge contemporary creations alongside works from European masters.

East of the city, the blue waters of Moreton Bay hold even more allure. You can head out on rewarding day trips from Brisbane to subtropical islands. Families also appreciate the city's abundant free attractions and kid-friendly adventures .

Discover the best places to visit in this relaxed riverside city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Brisbane.

See also: Where to Stay in Brisbane

1. Explore South Bank Parklands

2. cuddle a koala at lone pine koala sanctuary, 3. hop on a brisbane river cruise, 4. visit the museums & galleries in the cultural centre, 5. stroll through brisbane botanic gardens mount coot-tha, 6. admire the views from the brisbane lookout mount coot-tha, 7. find inspiration at the queensland art gallery & gallery of modern art (qagoma), 8. bike or stroll along the brisbane riverwalk, 9. take the kids to roma street parklands, 10. feast at eat street northshore, 11. ride the wheel of brisbane, 12. shop at queen street mall, 13. climb the story bridge, 14. take a day trip to moreton island, 15. learn about the city's history at the museum of brisbane, 16. take a tour of customs house, 17. learn about aboriginal culture at spirit of the red sand, 18. catch a show at suncorp stadium, where to stay in brisbane for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to brisbane, map of attractions & things to do in brisbane, brisbane, australia - climate chart.

One of the best places to visit in Brisbane is South Bank Parklands. Strolling through the riverfront precinct on a sunny day is a great way to soak up the spirit of the city. This was the original site of World Expo in 1988, and it still buzzes with activities and events today.

Parklands, plazas, and promenades encourage you to linger in this popular pedestrian area. It sits directly opposite the CBD, with Streets Beach at its center, and a swim in the man-made lagoon here is a popular choice on a warm Brisbane day.

You'll also find a diverse array of restaurants at South Bank, and the precinct hosts some exciting Brisbane events and film screenings.

Ready to shop? The Collective Markets at South Bank sell everything from hand-made crafts and crystals to jewelry, vintage clothing, collectibles, and more. You'll find them on Little Stanley Street every Friday (5pm to 9pm), Saturday (10am to 9pm), and Sunday 9am to 4pm.

Other popular things to do in South Bank include working out at the free fitness classes, visiting the Epicurious Garden, and biking or strolling along the trails. You can also sign up for a host of free children's programs and tours .

Ever wanted to cuddle a koala ? At Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary , you can tick this lifelong dream off your bucket list.

You can also get up close with more than 70 species of other lovable Aussie animals. Hand-feed kangaroos, cackle with kookaburras, and watch as flocks of rainbow lorikeets descend during a feeding. Wallabies, wombats, dingoes, snakes, and even crocodiles also live in this compact sanctuary nestled on the Brisbane River.

Keeper talks and interactive demonstrations keep animal lovers engaged. Daily encounters and experiences include bird of prey flight demonstrations, platypus feeding, sheep dog and shearing shows, Tasmanian devil keeper talks, and barn animal encounters. Not surprisingly, visiting this famous Brisbane attraction is one of the top things to do in Brisbane with the family.

In addition to the ultimate cuddling a koala photograph, you can also take home a souvenir snap of you with a dingo or snake.

A popular way to travel here is on the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Admission with Brisbane River Cruise . The cruise departs from Brisbane's Cultural Centre Pontoon.

Address: 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket, Queensland

One of the best ways to go sightseeing in Brisbane is aboard a river cruise. The Brisbane River runs through the heart of the city, and many of the city's top attractions line its banks. This is an excellent way to gain a fresh perspective of Brisbane landmarks such as the Story Bridge , Kangaroo Point Cliffs , and even some of the wildlife, like the fruit bats that gather along the mangroves on the riverbank.

Once you experience a scenic overview of the city on the water, you can get your bearings, and pinpoint places to spend more time during your visit.

River City Cruises run some of the most popular tours. They range from 90-minute morning or afternoon cruises to sunset cruises and longer excursions. A great choice is the 3.5-hour Cruise to Lunch Package . Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories about Brisbane's history, and point out key Brisbane sites, all while you enjoy Devonshire tea with glittering river views.

Kookaburra River Queens offers lunch, high tea, and dinner cruises aboard their multi-tiered timber paddle wheelers. You can also hop aboard a Miramar Cruise to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

Prefer to captain your own boat? GoBoat Brisbane rents eco-friendly electric picnic boats for up to eight people. You don't need a boat license, and picnic tables are included.

Alternatively, hop aboard a CityCat . Gliding the twists and turns of the Brisbane River seven days a week, the fleet of CityCats and City Ferries offer 24 hop-on, hop-off terminals with a range of different cruises. Many include informative narration about the history and sights of the city. From the magnificent University of Queensland to the North Shore, the route takes in redeveloped industrial sites, riverside mansions, bridges, and parklands.

In the Brisbane city core, the CityHopper ferry service offers free cruises , stopping at attractions like South Bank 3 and the Maritime Museum.

On the banks of the Brisbane River, the heritage-listed Cultural Centre in South Bank is a fantastic, family-friendly destination for a day out. Here, you'll find an impressive collection of museums, galleries, and performance venues. Award-winning architecture adds to the precinct's beautiful setting on the river near picturesque parklands.

You'll find plenty of things to do here for the whole family. Browse the excellent collections at the State Library of Queensland ; keep the kids entertained with the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre's interactive exhibits; or admire thought-provoking, cutting-edge art at the popular Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA).

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) here stages world-class performances of everything from opera and ballet to comedy shows and contemporary music concerts.

Right nearby are the South Bank Parklands , where you can relax on the riverfront amid the lush lawns and gardens, or take a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane .

Address: Grey Street, South Brisbane, Queensland

Green thumbs are spoiled for choice when it comes to gardens in Brisbane. Lush parks and gardens punctuate every corner of the city, and Brisbane's botanic gardens are renowned for their impressive collections of subtropical plants.

First stop should be the stunning Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha (Mt. Coot-tha Road, Toowong) , about seven kilometers from the city. Offering panoramic city views, this top tourist attraction is a favorite place to visit with locals and visitors alike. Plus, it's one of the top things to do in Brisbane for free.

Diverse themed gardens take you on a journey through 128 acres of horticulture. Highlights include the beautiful Japanese gardens and the largest collection of Australian rainforest trees in the world , as well as sections dedicated to fragrant plants, bamboo, cactus, indigenous plants, and more.

Budding botanists will love the Hide 'n' Seek Children's Trail through the rainforest, and you can take advantage of the free guided walks and minibus tours. Best of all, entry to the gardens is free.

While you're in the area, stop by the Brisbane Lookout Mount Coot-tha , about a four-minute drive from the gardens.

Garden lovers should also save time to check out the 17-hectare, heritage-listed City Botanic Gardens (147 Alice Street, Brisbane). This serene oasis and prime picnic spot sits smack bang in the center of the city. Lily-topped ponds, fountains, bamboo groves, river views, and giant fig trees provide the perfect escape from the city buzz.

For one of the best views of Brisbane , drive up to the Brisbane Lookout Mount Coot-tha. Here, you can breathe in a breathtaking panorama over the entire area, with the city skyscrapers sprouting in the distance. Walking tracks weave through the national park, and a restaurant serves up delicious food with superb views.

If you're looking for things to do in Brisbane at night, many locals and tourists come here in the evening for views of the city at sunset.

The lookout is only about a four-minute drive from the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha, and it makes a perfect complement to a garden tour.

The excellent — and free — Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) occupies two adjacent but contrasting buildings along the waterfront in the South Bank Cultural Precinct . Together, they display more than 1,700 works of art from around the world, with a special focus on Australia, the Pacific, and Asia.

This bold collection is sure to spark animated conversations between art lovers of all stripes. Even the Gallery of Modern Art's award-winning, glass-encased building makes a statement.

Permanent exhibitions at the Queensland Art Gallery include the International and Asian Collection, with classic and contemporary works; the Indigenous Australian Collection; and the dramatic sculptures gracing the grounds. The interior is beautiful. Water features and giant chandeliers reflect the light that floods in through floor-to-ceiling windows.

At the Gallery of Modern Art , exhibits span all mediums, including sculpture, painting, video, film, and photography. Special exhibits mean there's always something new to see here. Don't miss the fascinating contemporary art installations.

Also within the complex, Australian Cinémathèque screens stimulating films from around the world, and the interactive exhibits at the Children's Art Centre keep little hands busy.

Before you leave, pop into the gallery's River Lounge for beautiful city views.

Address: Stanley Place, South Brisbane, Queensland

Paralleling the Brisbane River, the 5.3-kilometer Brisbane Riverwalk is another great way to see the city. You can stroll, jog, or bike along the Riverwalk — cycling and pedestrian lanes are separate — and the promenade perches right over the water, providing beautiful water views across to Kangaroo Point and beyond.

Officially, the route starts at Riverview Court in New Farm, one of Brisbane's hip inner city suburbs, and stretches all the way to Howard Smith Wharves . Here, you can relax at one of the many restaurants and cafés.

Feel like more of a workout? Continue walking all the way around the river to the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens . And if you're a couple looking for free things to do in Brisbane at night, this is the perfect place for a romantic stroll with the lights of the city shimmering on the river.

Looking for things to do in Brisbane with kids? Let them run wild at Roma Street Parklands. This 39-acre city park is the perfect spot for pint-sized travelers to get their wiggles out — especially if you have a busy day of museum- and gallery-hopping planned.

Playgrounds, climbing equipment, and swings tempt the tiniest members of the family, and they'll also love checking out the herb and veggie patch.

Roma Street Parklands are also the perfect place for a picnic. Spread out your blanket under one of the towering fig trees and soak up the botanical beauty around you. The park hosts one of Australia's finest contemporary display gardens . Mass plantings of palms and bamboo form a lush backdrop, and color-themed flower beds catch the eye.

Free guided walks provide insight into the park's history and horticulture, and a year-round lineup of events offer even more ways to enjoy this lush oasis in the heart of the city.

Address: 1 Parkland Blvd, Brisbane, Queensland

Eat Street Northshore is like a party for your taste buds. You can eat around the world at this nightlife hot spot , soak up the carnival-type atmosphere, and listen to rockin' good live music at the same time. Eat Street is a pedestrian precinct, and you can wander around here with the whole family - even your pooch.

Food is a highlight . Hundreds of vendors dispense treats from around the globe, from Malaysian to Mexican cuisine, and Peruvian to paella. It's not haute cuisine by any measure, but if you're looking for some international comfort foods - and creative versions of them - this is your place.

Mac and cheeseburger, anyone? Japanese pizza? Deep-fried camembert? You'll find it all here. The mind-boggling array of foods can be a little overwhelming. A great strategy is to buy some plates to share and taste a little bit of all your favorites. Kids will love the giant clouds of fairy floss (cotton candy).

This is not a great place to come if you're on a diet. That said, some vendors do cater to celiacs. Eat Street strives to be sustainable - all the vendors are in colorful shipping containers, fresh produce is grown on-site, packaging is compostable, and as much waste as possible is recycled.

Several stages host live musicians and novelty acts, so you can find a table based on your music tastes, and move around throughout the evening.

Parking is free, but a fun way to arrive here is by catching a ferry to Northshore Hamilton Ferry Terminal, a short 250-meter walk away. Wear your walking shoes - and stretchy pants.

You can't miss it. The Wheel of Brisbane rises 60 meters above the riverfront and is one of the top tourist attractions in South Bank. It opened in 2008 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the state of Queensland.

Hop aboard for an exciting 10- to 12-minute ride with a bird's-eye view over the river and city. Each enclosed, air-conditioned gondola seats up to eight people.

You can ride the giant Ferris Wheel during the day; at sunset, when the Brisbane skyline ignites with fiery colors; or at night as the city lights twinkle and reflect on the river. Your ride includes an audio tour of the Brisbane landmarks you can see far below.

You don't need a reservation to ride the Wheel of Brisbane. Just show up and buy a ticket, or pre-purchase one online before you arrive.

Address: Russell Street, South Brisbane, Queensland

When it comes to shopping in Brisbane, you have plenty of choice. The vibrant Queen Street mall in Brisbane's Central Business District is home to more than 700 retailers showcasing local, national, and international designs and labels.

You'll find everything here from Aussie favorites like R.W. Williams, Lorna Jane, and Zimmermann to high-end labels like Chanel, Dior, Tiffany & Co., and Louis Vuitton. The six-level Myer Centre department store anchors the mall.

Cafés buzz with shoppers throughout the day, and a labyrinth of heritage-listed arcades make it rewarding to explore the complex. On a budget? Don't worry, H&M and other discount retailers live along here, too.

Most Wednesdays, the area at the bridge end of the mall transforms into the bustling Brisbane City Markets selling local produce, flowers, and artisan products.

If you're on a mission to explore more of the best shopping in Brisbane, don't miss the high-end designer and home decor stores in Fortitude Valley . For vintage treasures, thrift stores, and antiques head to Paddington . It's also a popular breakfast spot.

Address: Queen Street, Brisbane, Queensland

Constructed during Australia's Great Depression in the 1930s, the attractive steel Story Bridge is a much-loved Brisbane landmark. As one of only three bridge climbs in the world (after Sydney and Auckland), this one also offers something totally unique: the choice to abseil the descent .

Catering to people of all fitness levels and those 10 years of age or older, the two-hour experience takes you 80 meters above the Brisbane River for uninterrupted views of the city.

New offerings including Walk the Plank , where you can conjure your inner pirate and tiptoe out on a plank 80 meters above sea level as traffic rushes past below. Another new adventure is the Cantilever Lean Out . If you sign up for this tour, guides hold your harness as you lean out as far as you can from the dizzying heights.

The Brisbane Story Bridge Adventure Climb includes an expert guide, safety demonstration, and a complimentary group photo after your climb.

Address: 170 Main Street, Kangaroo Point, Queensland

Looking for an idyllic island escape a short hop from the city buzz? You've found it! Easily accessible via a 75-minute ferry ride, Moreton Island is the perfect Brisbane day trip and one of Queensland's best-kept secrets. It's also the third largest sand island in the world .

Azure waters lap the powdery-white beaches, backed by perfectly arching palms, and the island is a wonderland for family-friendly outdoor adventures. More than 98 percent of Moreton Island is designated as a national park, with abundant wildlife both on land and in the sea.

Hop aboard a Day Cruise to Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island to explore this pristine paradise. This full-day cruise includes sand tobogganing, a wildlife/whale-spotting cruise, snorkeling the famous shallow-water wrecks, or an ATV Quad Bike Tour.

Other bucket-list adventures here include feeding wild dolphins, kookaburra and pelican feeding, helicopter tours, Segway beach rides, and more.

Housed in one of Brisbane's premier heritage buildings, this intriguing museum was redeveloped and reopened in 2013. This "small in size, big in stories" museum occupies the top level of City Hall , and brings the history of Brisbane and its people to life through a series of state-of-the-art exhibitions covering everything from convict history to Brisbane's floods.

Temporary exhibitions mean there's always something new to see at the Museum of Brisbane , and all the exhibits are designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Adding to the experience are the sweeping views of the city from the magnificent clock tower. Best of all, entry, and most of the tours are free!

Address: Level 3, Brisbane City Hall, Adelaide Street, Brisbane

Owned by the University of Queensland, this magnificent 19th-century building offers a cultural and educational experience. Although operating as a function center, Customs House includes plenty of public spaces, including an indoor/outdoor restaurant offering unparalleled river and Story Bridge views.

The daily high tea here is popular with locals and visitors, but reservations are essential. Free guided tours of the building are available on Sundays, and free music concerts are often staged in the Long Room.

Address: 399 Queen Street, Brisbane, Queensland

At the Spirit of the Red Sand Indigenous storytelling experience , you can learn all about the Earth's oldest culture. It's about a 30-minute drive from the CBD, but it's well worth the time to gain insight into a key piece of Queensland's history.

During the day, enjoy a traditional Welcome to the Country ceremony . This 1.5-hour interactive experience incorporates Dreamtime stories and cultural activities - listen to the thrumming of a didgeridoo; taste some Aussie bush tucker (food); and take part in traditional customs, like boomerang painting.

The evening dinner and theater experience is equally enthralling. In the gardens of the Beenleigh Historical Village, you'll enjoy an evocative performance of Aboriginal song and dance. The performance portrays the culture clash between the Indigenous people and the British, and is told through the eyes of Aboriginal families. What makes this performance so moving is the fact that the performers actually experienced some of these events. Along with the entertainment, you'll enjoy a delicious three-course meal spotlighting Indigenous ingredients.

Address: 205 Main Street, Beenleigh, Queensland

Official site: https://spiritsredsand.com/

Attending a concert or sports game at Suncorp Stadium is one of the top things to do in Brisbane for music lovers and sports fans. This is Brisbane's main events venue. Rock concerts, international soccer (football) matches, rugby league, and rugby union games are just some of the events you can see at this world-class 52,500-seat stadium.

If you're planning a visit to Brisbane, it's a good idea to check the schedule of events to see if anything takes your fancy. You can attend a Brisbane Broncos rugby match or watch performances by international mega-stars — Elton John, Justin Bieber, and Ed Sheeran are among the many performers on the star-studded lineup.

To find out more about Suncorp Stadium, consider booking a stadium tour. You'll learn all about the history of this popular entertainment venue, and even find out what's involved in staging a top sporting event or concert.

Address: 40 Castlemaine Street, Milton, Queensland

For first-time visitors to Brisbane interested in experiencing all the city's top attractions, the best place to stay is in the city center. Within walking distance are the parklands, promenades, and restaurants of South Bank; the Cultural Centre, with its museums and galleries; and Queen Street Mall. Here are some highly rated hotels in these areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• In Brisbane's CBS, the new Emporium Hotel South Bank oozes elegance and style - think curvaceous sofas, gold-leaf mirrors, and marble bathrooms. Highlights include the rooftop infinity pool, pillow menus, and dazzling views of Brisbane.
• A little farther out but still within walking distance of the city's top attractions is The Inchcolm by Ovolo . Decor is eclectic, with dramatic black accents and "Neo-Georgian design," and echoes the history of this heritage building - with a contemporary twist.
• Echoes of mid-century modern Hollywood design make The Calile Hotel a great new boutique choice in Fortitude Valley. Stroll to nearby Brisbane shopping, relax in a cabana by the sparkling pool, or unwind at the wellness spa.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In Kangaroo Point, Il Mondo Boutique Hotel offers friendly service in a convenient location - the Story Bridge and free City Hopper ferry is a short stroll away. Choose from four different room types, ranging from motel-style rooms to one-bedroom apartments and penthouses with full kitchens. Take advantage of the free parking and sun-splashed swimming pool during your stay.
• In a superb location, close to public transport hubs and an easy stroll from Queen Street Mall, the Cultural Centre, and South Bank, Meriton Serviced Apartments Brisbane on Herschel Street , offers exceptional value - especially for extended stays and families.
• In an Art Deco-inspired heritage building, Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane is a short stroll from Queen Street Mall and South Bank. Decor strikes a pleasing balance between classic and contemporary, and accommodations range from studios to three-bedroom apartments with full kitchens.

Budget Hotels:

• The family-owned and run Riverview Motel sits in a handy Hamilton location, a two-minute walk from the Brisbane River and a stroll from the cruise terminal and Eat Street. Rooms are cute and homey.
• Clean, bright, and recently refurbished, the George Williams Hotel is a great budget choice in the CBD. Stroll to Queen Street Mall in five minutes or cross the river to South Bank in 15 minutes.
• See the Sights: The small-group Brisbane Segway Sightseeing Tour is a great way to see the main tourist attractions in just over two hours. Cruise along the Brisbane River, through South Bank Parklands, and capture photos of Kangaroo Cliffs. Segway instruction is included, and you can choose either a morning or afternoon departure.
• Springbrook & Tamborine Forest Day Trip : Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the breathtaking beauty of a World Heritage-listed wilderness on the Springbrook and Tamborine Rainforest Tour . This full-day wilderness adventure includes a visit to Springbrook National Park, where you'll see beautiful waterfalls and the Natural Bridge. The tour also includes a stop at the Tamborine Mountain glow worm caves and a scenic drive and hike through the Numinbah Valley. This is a small-group tour, with a maximum of 21 people, and includes expert guides, coffee and tea, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, national park fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

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Places to Visit in Queensland

• Places To Visit

Places to see in Queensland

Here's the list of best places to see in queensland:.

Cairns is a city in the Queensland State of Australia and a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier reef . Its beautiful landscapes, fantastic skylines, great mountains, and waterfalls makes it a great place to visit. Nature enthusiasts can visit Cairns Botanic Gardens , Australian Butterfly Sanctuary or even Barron Gorge National Park allowing themselves to see and learn about wildlife. Plan your trip to other prominent attractions of the city like Cairns Esplanade or Fitzroy Island and get lost in the resplendent beauty of the city. The city is also known for its adventure sports because of the presence of the opulence water sources where one can enjoy activities like snorkelling, river rafting and more. Thrill seekers have a good time while trying other adrenaline pumping activities such as ziplining, bungy jumping and skydiving. Cairns has a tropical climate, with the weather being usually hot and humid during summers and mild dry during winters. The best time to visit and explore the city is during the winter season, between the months of June to August, when the city has pleasant weather with mild temperatures.

The city of Gold Coast is located on the east coast of Australia , in the state of Queensland. It is the second-largest city in Queensland and the sixth-largest city in Australia. The Gold Coast is a major tourist destination, with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and surfing conditions. With its beautiful beaches, stunning hinterland, and vibrant city life, the Gold Coast has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a laid-back beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, the Gold Coast has it all. And with so many things to see and do, you'll never be bored. If you're looking for fun in the sun, head to one of the Gold Coast's many beaches. The Gold Coast is home to some of Australia's best beaches. Surfers' paradise is one of the most popular beaches on the Gold Coast. The beach is known for its waves and surfing conditions. Other famous beaches include Broadbeach , Burleigh Heads, and Coolangatta .  If you're feeling adventurous, take a walk along the coastline and explore what Surfers Paradise offers. Another great activity in Gold Coast is checking out the local markets. From fresh produce to handmade goods, there's something for everyone at the markets.

The beauty and richness of Tourist places in Brisbane are what make this great city a magnet that attracts people from all around the globe. One of the best things about Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland is how the government has recognized the city’s value as a heaven for tourists. The wonderfully maintained beaches, the natural attractiveness, the food, the vineyards, and a lot of other aspects of the city will surely satisfy your senses. The cultural scene of Brisbane includes adventure, traditions, and the ever growing metropolitan itself. Located along the Brisbane River, this third largest city of Australia is a home to a huge variety of wildlife. The coexistence of nature only adds to the great diversity of Brisbane, which makes it a city you must visit.

In last decade, Brisbane has become one of the fastest developing cities of Australia . The modern restaurants and bars, the unconventional architectural progress, and the traditional sense of Brisbane offer a perfect tourist destination. Your traveling goals will never be fulfilled if you do not plan to make a trip to this city. And, if you like adventure and danger then Brisbane will be even more attractive to you. Like any other city in Australia, the people here too are always hunting for thrill. This is why the adventure sports are popular as activities in Brisbane and you must take a taste of it.      

The gentle subtropical weather makes the city really comforting. This has made the beaches even more popular among the tourists as there cannot be a better way to spend a sunny day than to lazing around on the sand. The beauty of Brisbane was almost undiscovered until 1982 when the city hosted the Commonwealth Games. The world suddenly came to know about this gem of a tourist destination and it has been busy being so since.  

Nestled at the mouth of Ross Creek on the Bay of Cleveland, Townsville is one of the largest urban cities and a prime port on the north-eastern coast of Queensland. Founded back in 1864 and designated as a town in 1865, Townsville is named after Robert Towns. At present, Townville is home to a number of business administrative offices, government buildings, and industries. Presenting the perfect amalgamation of a contemporary metropolis and and a peaceful coastal town, Townsville has a unique charm of its own. With tropical islands, breathtaking national parks, and lush rainforests sheltered across its length and breadth, this city is one of the scenic places to see in Queensland. Townsville is packed with a host of stunning attractions that propel tourists from across the globe. The prime landmarks of this city include The Strand, Castle Hill, Billabong Sanctuary, the Museum of Tropical Queensland, and Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens. On your to Townsville, you can go on whale watching tours, dive to see the SS Yongala Wreck on the Great Barrier Reef, and enjoy a BBQ picnic at the Riverway on the banks of the Ross River. You can also visit the Army Museum North Queensland and stroll through the tropical orchard of Anderson Garden. Townsville experiences a tropical savanna climate with hot and rainy summers and warm winters. The most ideal time for visiting Townsville is between the months of May and September, when the evenings are cool and the days are warm.

The mining city of Mount Isa is located in the Gulf Country region of Queensland, at the northern end of the Selwyn Range. Discovered back in 1923, this city was formed due to the huge mineral deposits found in this region. The name ‘Mount Isa’ can be accredited to John Campbell Miles, who named one of his silver-lead ore leases after Isabelle, his sister. The beauty of Mount Isa is well described by its rich history and glorious culture. The picturesque Lake Moondarra adds an element to the scenic natural beauty of the city. The ever-charming city of Mount Isa is packed with a host of important places of tourist interest. The most recommended places to look out for in Mount Isa include Riversleigh Fossil Centre, the Mount Isa Underground Hospital & Museum, the Mount Isa School of the Air, Lawn Hill National Park, and the The Cloncurry-Mount Isa Road. While you are in Mount Isa, you can spend time taking a mining tour, exploring indegenous plants at the Outback Park, and fishing at Lake Boondara. You can also enjoy canoeing, hiking, and bird watching at Lawn Hill Gorge. Mount Isa experiences a local steppe climate with cool, dry clear, windy, and short winters and humid, sweltering,cloudy, and long summers.

Counted among the best places in Queensland, the port city of Bundaberg is nestled on the Burnett River, in Queensland state. Bundaberg city is located around 239 miles north of the capital of the state, Brisbane. This city is named after the original inhabitants of this place, the people of  the Taribelang Bunda tribe. The beauty of the ancient sugarcane city of Bundaberg lies in its cultural treasures and rich biodiversity. Flaunting 140 kilometres of sparkling white sand beaches and sheltering a unique colony of nesting turtles and coral cays, this place is naturally beautiful. The green botanical gardens, stunning heritage buildings, and intriguing museums add to the charm of this city. Bundaberg is home to an extensive array of national parks including the Cania Gorge National Park, the Burrum Coast National Park, the Mt. Walsh National Park, and the Mon Repos Conservation Park. Other top attractions of Bundaberg city include the Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery, Children's Art Space, Bundaberg Port Marina, and Woodgate Beach. On your tour to Bundaberg, you can take a gin sampling tour at Kalki Moon Distilling and Brewing Company, drive to the top of The Hummock, walk through the Australian rainforest in the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, and encounter the emus and wallabies at the Alexandra Park. The climate of Bundaberg is classified as warm and temperate. The summers are warm and wet and the winters are cool and dry and there is a significant amount of rainfall during the year.

Maryborough

Lying on the Mary River, Maryborough happens to be a city in the Fraser Coast Region in southeastern Queensland. Established back in 1843, Maryborough is named after Mary River, which is named after the consort of Gov. Sir Charles Fitz Roy, Mary. Maryborough became a town in 1861 and a city in 1905. Nicknamed as the 'Heritage City', Maryborough boasts a host of brilliantly architectured historic buildings. Its lush riverside parks, intriguing museums, and charming art galleries further describe the beauty of this boisterous city. The city also flaunts colonial vibes, lush trees, and bountiful wildlife, all of which make it even more appealing. Maryborough is packed with renowned places of interest, spread across the length and breadth of the city. The Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum, the City Hall, St Paul's Anglican Church and Tower, Australian Joint Stock Bank and Mary Poppins Statue, the Maryborough Heritage Centre, and the Queens Park are the popular attractions of Maryborough. While you are in Maryborough, take a drive tour of the city and explore the Rosehill Homestead, the Pioneer Graves, Baddow House, and the Maryborough Cemetery. You can also take a walk through the iconic Maryborough Mural Trail and explore quirky past stories of the city presented in the form of impressive murals.Maryborough enjoys a warm and temperate climate with a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. The summers are warm, wet, muggy, and long, while the winters are cool and short.

The Hervey Bay is nestled in the Fraser Coast Region, in Queensland. Known popularly for its humpback whales, this place was declared as the First Whale Heritage Site in the world, owing to its initiatives for sustainable dolphin and whale watching. Protected by the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, the coastal Hervey Bay town offers a relaxed atmosphere. Perched lazily along the charming bayside shorefront, Hervey Bay is a scenic beach side town. The elegant restaurants, jazzy pubs, and boisterous streets add to the never-ending beauty of this place. Hervey Bay is packed with a host of pleasing places of interest. The attractions that you need to definitely check-out here include the Dundowran Beach, the Hervey Bay Botanic Garden, WetSide Water Park, Arkarra Lagoon, Torquay Beach & Reef, and Hervey Bay Boat Club. On your visit to the town of Hervey Bay, you can shop for crafts at the Pier markets, take a walk through the Coopers broadwalk, take a seaplane to the picturesque Lady Elliot Island, and go bird watching at the Arkarra Lagoon. Hervey Bay is blessed with a sub-tropical climate, with the average temperature being 30 °C in summer and 22 °C in winter. The south east trade winds keep the temperatures high in winter and low in summer.

Nicknamed as ‘The Garden City’, Toowoomba is located in the Darling Downs, southeastern Queensland, on the Great Dividing Range, about 2,300 feet above sea level. Founded back in 1849 as a village, this place was turned into a town in 1858. In 1860, it was turned into a municipality and in 1904, it became a city. The beauty of the largest inland City of Queensland, Toowoomba is described perfectly by its impressive street art and urban coffee culture. The charming sunflower farms, colourful gardens, lush parks, and quiet hamlets add to the scenic beauty of this city. One of the best places in Queensland, the city of Toowoomba is packed with a myriad of attractions, ranging from parks and restaurants to breweries and museums. The top places to visit in Toowoomba include Cobb & Co Museum, Lake Annand Park, Empire Theatre, First Coat Outdoor Gallery, Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery, and Toowoomba Salt Cave. On your tour to Toowoomba you can go shopping at the Toowoomba Farmers' Market, enjoy bird watching at the Queens Park, sample some good beers at Volcanic Brewing, and relish exotic Turkish pizzas at the Sofra Turkish Cuisine. Toowoomba is blessed with a warm and temperate climate with a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. The summers are warm, partly cloudy, and long, while the winters are mostly clear, cold, and short.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is perched on the Fitzroy River, around 600 kilometres north of Brisbane, the state capital. Lying in Central Queensland, Rockhampton happens to be the fourth-largest city in the state. Established back in 1858, Rockhampton is considered to be one of the oldest cities of Queensland and Northern Australia. The rustic beauty of Rockhampton is well-defined by the stunning Victorian buildings that showcase the 19th century beef-rearing and mining heyday of the region. The cane trains being driven down the wide streets, add to the old world charm of this city. The coastal breezes and stunning regional galleries add to the quaint beauty of Rockhampton. The city of Rockhampton is packed with a myriad of prime places of interest, starting from theatres and galleries to parks and restaurants. On your tour to Rockhampton, you can plan to visit the Pilbeam Theatre, the Rockhampton Art Gallery, the Rockhampton Zoo, the Rockhampton Heritage Village, Emu Park Anzac War Memorial Boardwalk, and Keppel Bay Islands National Park. While you are in Rockhampton, go rock climbing in Mount Archer National Park, experience fossicking at the Capricorn Caves, and explore the galleries and gem shops in The Gemfields. You can also relish fine wines and delicious desserts at the Bliss By Night Restaurant. Rockhampton is blessed with a humid subtropical climate, with wet summers and dry winters. The average annual rainfall of Rockhampton is slightly more than 800mm.

The coastal city of Gladstone is located on Port Curtis, in eastern Queensland. Nestled between the Calliope and Boyne Rivers, this city is spread across an area of around 246.1 square kilometers. The Port of Gladstone happens to be the fourth-largest coal-exporting terminal in the world and the fifth-largest multi-commodity port of Australia. With lush botanical gardens, breathtaking national parks, and charming seaside villages spread across the length and breadth of the city, it is safe to say that Gladstone has a unique scenic appeal. The intriguing museums and stunning oceanfront parks add to the unending charm of this city. The nature-dominated attractions in Gladstone include the Tondoon Botanic Gardens, Lake Awoonga, and Spinnaker Park. Other renowned places of interest in the city include the Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum, the Gladstone Maritime Museum, William Golding Memorial Lookout, Heron Island, Boyne Island and Tannum Sands, Round Hill Lookout, and Mount Larcom. You can spend a lovely time in Gladstone by taking the Gladstone Harbour Cruise, exploring the seaside villages of Agnes Water and 1770, and taking a leisurely walk through the East Shores Precinct. Gladstone city experiences a humid subtropical climate. The most ideal time for visiting Gladstone is during the summer season, between the months of December and February.

Lying around 603 miles north of Brisbane, Mackay happens to be the sugar capital of Australia, owing to its whopping sugar production of over one third of the total sugar produced in the country. This city is named after John Mackay, who led an expedition into the Pioneer Valley back in 1860. Home to the longest expanse of sub-tropical rainforest in Australia and a host of lush national parks, Mackay brims in virgin natural beauty. The pristine tropical islands, impressive public artworks, stunning architectural marvels, and picturesque secluded beaches add to the charm of this quaint city. The city of Mackay is packed with a plethora of important landmarks, starting from gardens and beaches to parks and shopping malls. The top attractions of Mackay include the Mackay Aqua Park, Cape Hillsborough National Park, Keswick Island, Bucasia Beach, Greenmount Homestead,  the Artspace Mackay, Lamberts Lookout, Bluewater Quay, and the Mackay Orchid House. You can explore sub-gardens and exotic plants in the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, enjoy a refreshing swim in the Bluewater Lagoon, and go angling at Harbour Beach. You can also enjoy hiking in Eungella National Park and go shopping at Caneland Central Shopping Centre. Mackay enjoys a tropical climate, which is marked by wet and hot summers and warm and sunny winters. The winter nights are, however, cool.

Other Attractions

Moreton island.

Airlie Beach

Australia Zoo

Daintree National Park

The Daintree National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site traditionally owned by the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people and is also known as the Daintree rainforest. The two parts of the park namely Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation with a small agricultural area between them, making it one of the unique places to visit in Queensland.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed island and traditional home of the Butchulla people and is located in the Fraser Coast Region in Queensland. It is one of the most exquisite places to visit in Queensland because of the lush breathtaking rainforests growing on this sandy island.

Whitsundays Island

Magnetic Island

Noosa National Park

Sunshine Coast

Port Douglas

Cape Tribulation

Hamilton Island

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Queensland government pumps $10m into regional tourism as outback operators report 'very quiet' season

Outback Queensland tourism operators have raised concerns over a lacklustre tourism season that has them asking visitors: "Where the bloody hell are you?" 

Businesses are "cautiously concerned to pessimistic" about whether the usual midyear influx of caravanners and grey nomads is coming at all.

"If we compare it to pre-COVID visitation, it's way down," cafe owner Yvonne Tunney said.

Ms Tunney runs a cafe and accommodation in Karumba in the Gulf of Carpentaria, a small coastal town that relies heavily on tourism.

"It's been perfect weather and fishing's been great … but like everywhere else is reporting, it's very quiet as far as tourism numbers and activity goes," she said.

"For those who come out here regularly, they just can't believe it."

Alan Smith, owner of Outback Aussie Tours, was concerned about the financial impact on small, tourism-dependent towns.

"When you get a stinger like this when it's slow to start, it's really going to put them under a lot of pressure," he said.

"You can only make so much money out of two or three months."

"I think we're going to lose people out of the communities and out of the business if this stuff continues much longer."

Mr Smith said after "two of the best years of tourism" during the pandemic, the pendulum was now swinging the other way.

"The economy's been tightened and it's time to pay back that COVID debt," he said.

To the west, the Birdsville Big Red Bash is one of the outback's biggest, most iconic music events, and draws thousands to the desert dunes every year.

It kicks off in less than two weeks, but it too has been hit by reduced patronage.

Organiser Greg Donovan said ticket sales were down compared to previous years " like all other festivals at the moment."

"A lot of people are now moving back to overseas travel … particularly the demographic that comes out to the bash," he said.

So where are the tourists?

It's the Macquarie Dictionary 2023 Word of the Year: "Cozzie livs".

The cost of living — fuel, groceries, and travel have all skyrocketed, meaning for many it is cheaper to travel overseas than it is to travel within their own state.

The state government is stepping in and investing $10 million to fund 57 regional tourism projects.

The hope is these projects, which range from installing accessible footpaths to building an equine healing therapy centre in Chinchilla, will entice tourists to travel in Queensland, rather than go abroad.

Minister for Tourism Michael Healy said the money will bring nearly 300,000 additional visitors to the regions.

"We want to encourage as many people as possible to experience the wonders of Outback Queensland," he said.

Can Queenslanders afford to travel right now?

On an ABC North West Queensland Facebook post describing the slow tourism season out west, hundreds of people weighed in.

"Airports and planes are packed … cheaper to head overseas than holiday at home unfortunately," Leanne Seaton said. 

"Maybe the cost of caravan parks on top of increased fuel costs and grocery costs are making it out of reach for tourists," another commented.

"This will be a trend over the next 20+ years as the level of retirees fall due to the need to work longer just to live. The 2010-COVID days probably saw the peak in retirees and grey nomads for our era," commented Davis Walshe.

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Fewer grey nomads in outback queensland as holiday-makers head overseas.

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Items of Interest – Ordinary Council Meeting, 19 June 2024

The following items were addressed at the Ordinary Meeting of Mareeba Shire Council on Wednesday, 19 June 2024.

REGIONAL ARTS DEVELOPMENT FUND 2024-2028 PROGRAM ADOPTED

TENDERS APPROVED FOR BUSHY CREEK, JULATTEN, AND JARAWEE ROAD, KURANDA

HIGHLIGHTS OF CAPITAL WORK PROJECTS

NEW MEMBERS APPOINTED TO THE MAREEBA MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

19 June 2024

At this month’s Ordinary Council Meeting, Council adopted the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) 2024 – 2028 Program.

“By adopting the RADF program over the next four years in partnership with the Queensland Government, we will be supporting the rich heritage and artistic culture of Mareeba Shire whilst promoting tourism, economic development, strengthening communities and beautifying our towns,” explained Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin, Chair of the RADF Advisory Committee.

The RADF Program 2024-28 will feature three key components.

“First, it will support the delivery of the three final public artworks as part of the Public Mural Action Plan. These will be delivered in Kuranda, Julatten and Irvinebank and will complement the eight murals recently completed throughout the Shire,” said Mayor Toppin.

The RADF program will also provide opportunities for capacity building in the arts sector.

“Training workshops will be delivered annually to develop practical skills, build employment opportunities, and increase participation in arts and cultural activities for the wider community.

Finally, an annual Community Grant Round will be offered in all but the first year of the RADF program to cater to the diverse development and participation needs of artists, art groups and the community,” concluded Mayor Toppin.

Council is currently seeking feedback on the Public Mural Action Plan, have your say and complete the survey on Council’s website by Sunday, 30 June 2024.

TENDERS APPROVED FOR BUSHY CREEK JULATTEN, AND JARAWEE ROAD KURANDA

At the June 2024 Council meeting, tenders were approved for several key roads in the Shire following the damage caused from Tropical Cyclone Jasper and the flooding event in December 2023.

“The flooding that followed TC Jasper caused widespread damage throughout the Mareeba Shire, with over 245 roads requiring emergent works following this natural disaster,” explained Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin.

“One of Council’s key priorities is to restore vehicle access for the residents of five households that were impacted by Bushy Creek bridge washing away in flood waters. Council has recommended the tender be awarded to Davbridge Constructions, subject to the approval of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA),” said Mayor Toppin.

Council also awarded the tender for the stabilisation of Jarawee Road, Kuranda to King Concreting Pty Ltd (Alternative), subject to the approval of QRA.

“The works at Jarawee Road will repair the damage caused to the carriageway, shoulders and stormwater infrastructure,” explained Mayor Toppin.

“Undertaking the appropriate assessments in preparation for tenders can be a complex and time-consuming process and we sincerely thank residents for their patience whilst we move towards reinstating essential infrastructure throughout the Shire,” concluded Mayor Toppin.

Both projects will be delivered with assistance provided through the jointly funded Australian Government and Queensland Government Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Visit Council’s website for a gallery showing the significant impact of this weather event.

At the Ordinary Council Meeting, Council received an update on Capital Works across the Shire.

“Excitement has been building in Mareeba with the works at the southern section of the Bicentennial Lakes nearing completion,” said Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin.

“Works at the Mareeba pump track at Mason St are now complete and the kids will have a blast riding the circuit full of jumps. It will remain closed until the playground works are complete as it is still a construction site. The sand has just been placed in the playground which will feature a big flying fox, a swing set and slides featuring a hill side garden,” said Mayor Toppin.

A new toilet block has also been constructed at the site, featuring a stunning mural by Violet Shaban as part of the Regional Arts Development Fund supported by the Queensland Government and Council.

“Council is looking forward to opening this facility soon which will be enjoyed for many years by families. Stay tuned by following Council’s Facebook page or signing up to Council’s monthly e-newsletter for the date of the official opening. This project is supported by the Queensland Government and Mareeba Shire Council,” said Mayor Toppin.

“Works are well underway at Anzac Park, Kuranda. A new path will be installed to improve accessibility in the park and as well as new seating. We will also be removing low-lying branches in the park to bring in more sunlight,” explained Mayor Toppin.

Works have also been progressing well for the Mareeba Shire Water Strategy. “This strategy is part of Council’s commitment to upgrade the Mareeba Water Treatment Plant (WTP) to cater for the future growth and provide safe and reliable drinking water,” explained Mayor Toppin.

“Works have progressed well for the filtration system upgrade, with the contractor constructing new filter cell modules, installing critical pipe work and undertaking earthworks around the filtration cells. This work has been funded by the Queensland Government and Mareeba Shire Council.

At the Ordinary Council Meeting held 19 June 2024, seven new members were appointed to the Mareeba Multicultural Festival (MMF) Advisory Committee.

“Community spirit is strong in the Mareeba Shire, and we were delighted to receive an overwhelming response to our call for new members to join the MMF Advisory Committee,” said Chair of the committee, Cr Mary Graham.

The event was established in 2008 to celebrate cultural diversity, highlighting some of the 75 different cultural backgrounds represented in the Shire. It is an opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy a range of delicious cultural food and incredible entertainment.

“The new members bring with them a range of skills and experience, covering a diverse range of cultural backgrounds and ages,” said Cr Graham.

The new members are Andrew Singh, Ann-Marie Keating, Dan Bird, Deanna Maich, Cr Kevin Davies, Merrilee Frankish and Wesley Stiffle.

They will be joining the existing committee members – Fatima Metou, Millabelle Krauss, Nonoa Bejramovic, Samanthia Dooley and Tuaoivasa Ngan-Woo.

“I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the contributions of the committee members who have recently resigned from the committee – Frank Avolio, Fred Cristaldi, Iuto Patolo, Sabrina Liaver and Giuliano Cordenos whose vision brought the Festival to life,” concluded Cr Mary Graham.

The Mareeba Multicultural Festival will be held on Saturday, 31 August 2024 at Arnold Park in Mareeba and is supported by the Queensland Government and Mareeba Shire Council.

Applications are now open for stall holders and performers to take part in the Festival. Applications will close on 19 July, however we encourage everyone to sign up as soon as possible.

Visit the Mareeba Multicultural Festival website for more information.

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