Come for the Polo, stay for Rocky's Ritzy Experiences

Published on 27 April 2023

The world's fastest ball has landed in Rockhampton

Pop the champagne cork and get dressed in your glamorous best - it's Pop-Up Polo time!

Now in its fifth year, the ever popular Rockhampton Jaguar Land Rover Pop-Up Polo, held Saturday, 3 June, 2023, is one regional event not to be missed.

Enjoy a boujee day out with your besties while you soak up the award winning entertainment, glamour, excitement and premium catering the day has to offer.

Beyond the enthralling adrenaline-packed polo action, you can also expect a number of other fun thrills throughout the day including:

• The Divot Stomp
• Fashions in the Field Competitions
• Car V's Pony Race
• Men's and Women's Dash

During your visit to Rockhampton, we invite you to make the most of your stay by taking on some of our unique and stylish experiences, indulging your senses and enjoying all our beautiful city has to offer.

Your days (and nights) will be packed with plenty to do before, during and after the event, from iconic art exhibitions, ancient caves, relaxing river cruises and picturesque picnic spots to adorable animals, quirky cafes, ritzy restaurants and boutique shopping.

Explore Rockhampton and share your visit with us by tagging @ExploreRockhampton and #ExploreRockhampton.

Cuteness Overload

Our cheeky mob at Rockhampton Zoo are keen to meet you!

100 Spencer Street, West Rockhampton, QLD, 4700

Featuring more than 30 species of native and exotic animals, Rockhampton Zoo is a must to tick off your bucket list during your stay. From cheeky chimpanzees, adorable otters, mischievous meerkats, dingoes, wedged-tail eagle and more, you can enjoy learning all about the animals that call this zoo home during the zookeeper talks throughout the day. Alternatively you can Meet the Crew at Rockhampton Zoo and discover more about our amazing animals from the comfort of your apartment by downloading our FREE Explore Rockhampton Self-Guided Tour app.

For an experience like no other, why not book an animal encounter.

Meerkat Encounter The cheeky meerkat mob at Rockhampton Zoo is waiting to have an encounter with you. Your encounter will include a feeding session that's guaranteed to have meerkats climbing all over you, as well as a private keeper talk.

Otter Encounter Are you someone who's otterly obsessed? Come and meet Tomio and Misumi, our cheeky otters! Your encounter will have you getting to know these cute little critters through the mesh, feeding them afternoon tea while having a private keeper talk to learn more about these playful creatures.

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Get lost amidst nature's beauty

Visit Rockhampton's Historical Botanic Gardens

100 Spencer Street, West Rockhampton, Qld, 4700

Next door to the Zoo is the impressive Rockhampton Botanic Gardens - one of the oldest and most established public gardens in Queensland. These gardens sprawl across 33-hectares and feature a stunning arrangement of beautifully landscaped greenery, winding pathways, tranquil Japanese Gardens and expansive Murray Lagoon, where you can spot turtles! If you’re looking for your next selfie opportunity, the iconic 150-year-old Banyan Fig Trees, which surround the Garden Tearooms cafe in the middle of the gardens are the ideal spot. Kick back under the shaded canopy and enjoy a bite to eat from the nearby Gardens Tearooms.

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Summits and spectacular sunsets

Walk the treetops of Mount Archer National Park (Nurim)

Pilbeam Drive, Mount Archer, QLD, 4701

If fresh mountain air and spectacular views make you weak at the knees, then Mount Archer (Nurim) is a must see when you visit Rockhampton. Wander through the trees on the Nurim Circuit elevated treetop boardwalk, sit back and relax with a picnic in the amphitheatre or take a stroll along the many bushwalking trails throughout the area. Extending 25 metres off the side of Mount Archer, the 500 metre flat treetop boardwalk offers spectacular views of the city and the mighty Fitzroy River (Tunuba). Soak up the views and check out the interpretive signage of the local Darumbal culture. The boardwalk is particularly popular with locals and tourists alike wanting to catch the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, so don't forget your camera!

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Where creativity and community come together

Be inspired at Rockhampton Museum of Art

220 Quay St, Rockhampton QLD 4700

Featuring an ever-changing array of exhibitions to inspire and amaze, Rockhampton Museum of Art (RMOA) is the largest gallery in regional Queensland. Located on Rockhampton’s iconic Quay Street, the museum is free to visit and open daily from 9am to 4pm. Take a journey through the eye-catching exhibitions, programs and workshops and browse the gift shop downstairs. RMOA’s collection is regarded as one of the finest in regional Australia and is the only regional gallery in Queensland to hold a representative collection mid-twentieth century Australian art.

Current Exhibitions

Man of Letters: Derek Lamb and The Officina Athelstane | Now - 25 June

The Officina Athelstane, led by internationally recognised printmaker Derek Lamb, is a private press workshop based in Rockhampton’s Walter Reid Cultural Centre since 2011. Lamb’s impress practice is devoted to traditional, pre-digital letterpress techniques, created from vintage machines and founded in historical research. Lamb’s fine press editions are held by the National Library of Australia; Oxford and Cambridge University Libraries; the National Library of Ireland; and several state libraries and universities across Australia.

From a Burdekin Studio: Works by Cutler Footway | Now - 2 July, 2023

This major survey exhibition of Burdekin-born artist Cutler Footway - also known as the former art critic Bruce James - offers a vision of the body filtered through a variety of genres, all created from the modest studio in Ayr. In Footway's work, flesh seeps beyond itself to find expression in landscape, still life, portraiture, figural subjects and life drawing, all of which answer the carnal call of the body. Curated by Emily Wakeling.

Easton Dunne: Welcome to Paradise | 20 May - 23 July

Central Queensland-based artist Easton Dunne's breakthrough works on paper and sculptural installations express the unique experiences, frustrations and joys of living Queer in regional Australia. Symbols, colours, shapes and turns of phrase that will be familiar to many people who live rurally and regionally are deconstructed and put together again in quick-witted and Queer-coded contexts.

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EYE-CATCHING PUBLIC ART

Stroll Rockhampton's Riverside Precinct

Quay Street, Rockhampton, QLD 4700

While you’re soaking up the artistic beauty at Rockhampton Museum of Art, you can continue your art exploration along Rockhampton’s Riverside Precinct and CBD. Rockhampton’s Public Art Trail can be admired along Quay Street with eye-catching installations and incredible street art displayed on the walls of the city’s buildings.

Did you know: You can discover even more about Rockhampton’s Public Art Trail through our free Explore Rockhampton Free Self-Guided Tour App.

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Say Beef!

Snap a selfie with a bull

Lower Dawson Rd, Allenstown QLD 4700

It’s not a trip to the Beef Capital of Australia without snapping a bull selfie with one of our the iconic statues. You’ll find them scattered around the city, usually on the median strips of the major roads. For an easy insta-worth snap, we recommend the bull at Frank Forde Park, which is only a few minutes’ drive away from the Rockhampton Zoo and Botanic Gardens.

Satisfy your hunger

Grab a mouthwatering meal

Foodies are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out. And while you are always guaranteed a great sizzling steak to sink your teeth into, Rockhampton also delivers a wide range of international cuisine, quirky cafes, restaurants with aesthetically stunning views and pubs topped with loads of character. Why not try some of our suggestions our locals regularly enjoy.

Feeling hungry?

Coldies and Crocodiles

Kick back with a river cruise

Departing from 80 Reaney St, The Common QLD 4701

Our River Cruises set an incredibly relaxing tone for you and your friends who wish to enjoy the riches of Rockhampton from a different perspective. Kick back with a cold drink and enjoy the ride as the sun sets over the horizon and the colourful lights along Quay Street’s Heritage Listed Buildings come to life. The popular 90-minute sunset cruise, which includes complimentary nibbles and drinks available for purchase offers breathtaking views of the city - you might even be lucky enough to spot some of the amazing wildlife along the banks including crocodiles!

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It's Showtime

See it live at the Pilbeam Theatre

Victoria Parade &, Cambridge St, Rockhampton QLD 4700

From national and international touring acts to local theatrical and musical productions, the Pilbeam Theatre is Central Queensland’s performing arts centre. Book a show and be entertained during your stay in the region.

School of Rock | Friday, 9 June, 7pm

Based on the hilarious hit movie, join Dewy Finn as he turns a class of straight-A students into a guitar shredding, bass slapping, mind blowing rock band. But can he get them to the Battle of the Bands without anyone finding out? Featuring a lead cast rocking with talent, and only three big shows; this is a performance not to be missed!

Peter Pan | Friday, 26 May, 7pm

Peter and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinkerbell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night and, with a sprinkle of pixie dust, begin a magical journey across the stars that none of them will ever forget. In the adventure of a lifetime, the travellers come face to face with a troupe of lost boys, a ticking crocodile, a fierce Indian tribe, a band of bungling pirates and, of course, the villainous Captain Hook.

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Go your own way

Dreams - THE Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Experience

Stanley St & Denison St, Rockhampton QLD 4700

The Great Western Hotel will come alive Saturday, 27 May with an event that will ignite your inner gypsy spirit. Dreams – THE Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Experience is making its way to Rockhampton to pay tribute to one of the world’s best-selling bands of all time and the solo career of their leading lady Stevie Nicks. Expect to hear great harmonies, all the Nicks’ outfits and moves as well as iconic songs including Go your Own Way, Gypsy, Edge of Seventeen, Landslide, Don’t Stop and more.

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All aboard!

Make tracks to Archer Park Railway Museum

51-87 Denison St, Rockhampton QLD 4700

Take a ride upon one of a fully restored one-of-a-kind Purrey Steam Tram and discover the wonders of Rockhampton’s train history. Constructed in 1899, the architecturally impressive Archer Park was the central railway station for Rockhampton until the mid-1920s. Today the Archer Park Rail Museum is one of Rockhampton’s iconic historic locations you will surely love! The museum is open Monday to Thursday, 10am to 3pm and Sunday 9am to 1pm.

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Stop, drop and sizzle

Beef it up with a barbie surrounded by beauty

Nothing beats the great outdoors in Rockhampton during winter. Make a day of it with a relaxing picnic at one of our beautiful locations? The hypnotic sounds of prime local meat sizzling on the hot grill, the scent of the seasoned spices wafting through the fresh outdoor air, the colourful medley of salad placed gently alongside of condiments, fizzy soft drinks and freshly baked bread rolls from the hot bread shop - just thinking about it makes your mouth water, doesn’t it? Whether you’re after a scenic view of the mighty Fitzroy River (Tunuba) or a tranquil garden setting to relax and unwind, the Rockhampton Region has it all. Discover how you can host the ultimate barbecue picnic experience right here in Rockhampton, from the best butchers, farmers markets and bakeries to our favourite picnic locations our locals know and love!

Rocky's Top BBQ Spots

Step back in time

Visit the Rockhampton Heritage Village

Boundary Rd, Parkhurst QLD 4702

Authentically capturing a generous slice of an earlier generation's way of life, the Rockhampton Heritage Village is a wonderful place to enjoy. Experience life before electricity with a tour through the many homesteads, vintage cars, tractors, fire engines, horse drawn vehicles and wagons on display. Watch how a 1950's print press works and visit the Blacksmith Shop and take in the traditional skills from a bygone era. You even have the unique chance to try a range of transport options including horses and ponies, a horse and cart, vintage double-decker bus, vintage fire engine and several other vintage vehicles plus an adorable farm animals. The Village is set on 11.4 hectares of bush land and incorporates a charming township from yesteryear with original and recreated homesteads, buildings and businesses. The Heritage Village is open from 10am - 4pm daily (excluding public holidays).

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Retail therapy is the cure

Browse beautiful boutique shops in Rockhampton's CBD

Nestled among the quirky cafes, restaurants and micro-brewery, Rockhampton's shady tree-lined East Street is a great spot to get your boutique shopping fix. Venture a little further out of the CBD to William Street and Wandal and you'll be even more surprised. Grab a coffee from one of the cafes and spend a morning or afternoon wandering through these fantastic shops, all while admiring the heritage architecture along the way.

Shop till you drop

Fresh from the farm

Make your way to Rocky's markets

Rockhampton's local markets boast a wide variety of fresh and tasty seasonal produce for the picking. Discover delicious, locally grown produce sourced direct from the farmers who grew them. Your next edible masterpiece is only limited by your imagination.

Explore our farmers markets

• Berry Good Produce, Parkhurst
• Doblo's Farmers Markets, North Rockhampton
• Rocky Sunday Markets, North Rockhampton

It's 5 o'clock somewhere

Enjoy our local microbrewery or whisky lounge

Prefer to relax in a heritage-listed micro-brewery or funky whiskey lounge? We've got that too! For a real taste of Rockhampton, check out our very own micro-brewery with locally crafted beers at Headricks Lane. Quench your curiosity and your thirst with their delicious range of local brew. Alternatively, Cocobrew’s very own whiskey lounge offers an opulent cigar lounge feel that’s perfect for any function or just a peaceful retreat to savour your favourite drop of single malt.

Take a wellbeing escapade

Holistic wellness for every body

104 William St, Rockhampton QLD 4701

Balance out your day of thrilling polo action, champagne and celebrations with a day of self-care and rejuvenation. From Pilates to sustainable fashion, a wholefoods cafe and so much more, Rockhampton’s dedicated health & wellness collective, Wellness on William will leave you feeling good!

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Art attack

Unleash your creative side with a Paint 'n' Sip Studios

Shop 2/138 George St, Rockhampton QLD 4700

For the budding artists, nothing is more therapeutic than being inspired by paint and canvas. Paint and Sip Studios offer regular classes and private occasions for those wishing to get their creative streak on and take home a memorable, personalised work of art.

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Explore a 400 million year old cave

Tour the ancient Capricorn Caves

30 Olsens Caves Rd, The Caves QLD 4702

A short drive north of Rockhampton will take you to the ancient chambers of Rockhampton’s oldest playground – the Capricorn Caves. The Capricorn Caves offers a range of daily tours from the mesmerising Cathedral Cave Tour to something more challenging like the Explorer and Adventurer Tours.

Book a tour

 

Written by Explore Rockhampton #ExploreRockhampton @explorerockhampton