5 things you must do when you visit Rockhampton

Published on 09 March 2023

Open your eyes to Rockhampton

The locals will tell you that if your fishing cast is big enough, you could catch a barra from your hotel balcony.

A mum or dad will say it’s a cooling swim, and bike rides.

Others will say it’s the early morning fresh air, garden picnics, the silence in our caves, our bushland, and that moment before your drink is poured.

There are those who will wax lyrically about Rockhampton’s iconic heritage.

And of special significance, the cultural heart of our city that beats to the sounds of the traditional custodians of the land – the Darumbal people.

No matter what your age, whatever the occasion, fireside or five star, feeling the grass between your toes, or the fresh mountain air on your face, you’ll never be bored, because we never are.

Open your eyes to Rockhampton!

Rockhampton Museum of Art

Take some time to wander through RMOA, the largest gallery in regional Queensland and home to one of the most nationally significant collection of works.

This is not just an art gallery, it is a modern institution and full cultural experience in one of the newest and advanced buildings in Rockhampton.

Sitting majestically on the Rockhampton riverfront, it is the jewel in the crown of our Riverside Precinct and features exhibitions for all different ages. For example the 'Wrestlemania' exhibition, one of the 2023 highlights at RMOA proved popular among all audiences.

Following your visit, grab a tea or coffee or tea from the Hummingbird Café, located within the museum.

While you're exploring the cultural precinct, be sure to check out Rockhampton riverside precinct's public art, with self-guided tours available on the Explore Rockhampton app.

RMOA Website

Mount Archer (Nurim) Elevated boardwalk

Mount Archer National Park is a must see when you visit Rockhampton.

With a treetop boardwalk extending 25 metres off the side of Mount Archer (Nurim), the 500 metre Nurim Circuit boardwalk offers spectacular views of the city and the mighty Fitzroy River (Tunuba).

Looking out across the region while eating some local cheese and produce - the amphitheatre is the perfect spot for a sunset barbecue. You can set one up yourself, or for special occasions you can take advantage of a local event organiser to do the hard work for you. Find all of the top barbecue spots and the best places to get your supplies in this blog.

With a kids playground and plenty of green space, you can spend a whole afternoon and stay for sunset and an evening picnic. There are barbecues, picnic tables and bathroom facilities at the peak so stay as long as you like! There are also several other playgrounds around the region to burn off that travelling energy.

Find out more

Meet the Meerkats at Rockhampton Zoo!

Take part in an intimate meerkat encounter which will have you up close and personal with the mischievous mob of 6 and includes a feeding session and private keeper talk.

Home to almost 100 animals spanning more than 30 species of native and exotic animals, Rockhampton Zoo is set on 10 acres within the stunning Rockhampton Botanic Gardens, located in the leafy suburb of The Range.

Afterwards you can take a stroll through the heritage-listed Botanic Gardens, a lush green setting with trees over 150 years old with a quaint tearoom onsite.

Rockhampton Zoo Website

Bag a barra on a fishing charter

Rockhampton is known as Australia’s Home of the Barramundi, where you can try your hand at catching a metre-long barramundi or king threadfin within an hour of disembarking your plane!

Fish from one of the many land-based fishing platforms, or book a local charter for a great day out on the river. Even if you are a fishing novice, we have put together all of the things you need to know to snag that monster barra!

Find out more

MTB the First Turkey Trails

Get ready to send it! Rockhampton’s premier mountain bike trail network, First Turkey, is situated on the side of Mount Archer National Park offering 33 trails for all skill levels. From gravity enduro to cross country trails through diverse terrain, you can easily pick the ride you’re chasing.

Not flying with bikes? No dramas! Hire your mountain bikes from Giant Rockhampton for a hassle-free ride without the extra luggage.

To make the most of your time in Rockhampton, visit our website to find all of the thigs you can do to...

Explore Rockhampton for the Mates

Explore Rockhampton for Families

Explore Rockhampton for the Nomads