Local Rockhampton Attractions

Welcome to cattle country. We’re not exaggerating; Rockhampton is officially the stud capital of Australia, with three million head of cattle calling the region home.

But Rocky (as it’s affectionately known) isn’t just for farmers. Yes, you can take advantage of the photo opportunities along Rockhampton's main drag, where six cow statues stand in ode to the region's roots, but there's plenty more to discover too...

If you have your kids in tow make your way to Rockhampton Zoo, which sits wedged between the Botanic Gardens and the Murray Lagoon. More than 60 different animal species reside here. Even better? The zoo is free.

You can visit between 8.00am to 4.30pm year-round, with the zoo only closed on Christmas Day.

Green thumbs will want to forgo the historic and make their way immediately to the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens. The 130-year-old oasis is considered to be one of the best provincial gardens in the country. Just don’t forget to pack a picnic rug and hamper; there are plenty of lawns here on which to sprawl and enjoy the tropical sunshine.

Blackdown Tablelands is around a two hours drive from the centre of town. The traditional homeland of the Ghungalu people, the park covers some 47,000 hectares of deep gorges, waterfalls, scenic lookouts and ancient Indigenous rock art. Take the fern-laced 4km Gudda Gumoo track to find the rock pools - perfect for a seasonal dip.

Don’t miss out on a chance to see Central Queensland’s leading natural attraction, the Capricorn Caves. Traversing these underground systems just north of Rockhampton, you’ll see a blossoming bat population living among its twisting, awe-inspiring formations. The award-winning caves are not only eco-tourism accredited but ample in their offerings.

Kershaw Gardens has been described as Rockhampton’s big backyard for all people to enjoy. These magnificent gardens stretch one kilometre parallel to the Bruce Highway and provide an attractive, peaceful setting within North Rockhampton.

Archer Park Rail Museum contains many exhibitions associated with railways and the Rockhampton Council Tramways from 1899. Rollingstock, including the Purrey Steam Tram, and rail memorabilia have been collected from a variety of sources including private collectors, former rail workers, the "Friends of Archer Park", and Queensland Rail.

Step back in time at this friendly township museum showcasing the rich, colourful history of the Rockhampton district 1850 - 1950. A 'must-see' destination for all visitors to the Region. Visitors will enjoy over 10 hectares of bushland, incorporating a charming township and timber cutters camp with original homesteads, buildings and businesses, together with great examples of vintage machinery and a range of friendly farm animals.

Uncover Rockhampton’s best angles from the lookout at Mount Archer. With views out over the city and surrounding countryside, Nurim Circuit Elevated Boardwalk offers perhaps the best way to see the district in her entirety. You can drive to the top to take the boardwalk, or stretch your legs along the Zamia Trail - a 14km hike through bushland and greenery.

Immerse yourself in the cultural beating heart of Rockhampton with a guided tour at Dreamtime Cultural Centre - the only Indigenous cultural centre in Central Queensland. You can also get hands-on with cultural activities like boomerang throwing, face painting and dance.