Things to do in Rockhampton when it's raining - for the mates

Published on 29 November 2022

Things to do in Rockhampton when it's raining - for the mates

Just because it’s pouring, doesn’t mean your day should be boring. Sure, it can be easier to stay curled up under your covers on a rainy day, but there are so many fun ways to seize it – don’t let the rain dampen your spirit to explore Rockhampton. If a day of fun not without the sun is what you’re after, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve listed a range of things to help you shake the rainy-day blues, get out and carpe diem! Grab your friends and grab your sweet self and try some of our suggestions below.

Cook up a storm at home

For the ‘master chef’ who loves to create edible masterpieces, put your culinary skills to the test and try one of our Best of Beef recipes shared by our local chefs throughout the Rockhampton Region. These 1-2 minute videos provide step by step details on some of the most mouth-watering beef dishes you’ve ever laid eyes on. So, what are you waiting for? Watch the videos, download the recipes, get inspired and get beefy in the comfort of your own home. Invite and impress your friends with a delicious dinner party they won’t soon forget.

Self-Guided Tours from the comfort of your own home

If you’re not feeling particularly adventurous, but still want to explore the sights of Rockhampton, why not take a self-guided tour from the comfort of your couch or bed? Our self-guided tours are a great way to visit the regions highlights while still staying dry. Best of all, the app is a great way to pre-plan your next adventure outdoors for when the weather clears up. With more than 10 to choose from, you'll have plenty of tours for the picking!

Download the Explore Rockhampton App

Rockhampton Museum of Art

Rockhampton is not only a town full of fine art, it’s also home to the largest gallery in regional Queensland. The Rockhampton Museum of Art (RMOA) boasts an ever-changing, breath-taking display of inspirational exhibitions. There is always something new to discover.

View our exhibitions

See it Live at the Pilbeam Theatre

Offering a diverse range of productions from the best local, national and international entertainers, the Pilbeam Theatre is a great place to pass the time when it’s wet. There’s something for everyone.

What's on at the Theatre

Walter Reid Cultural Centre

The Walter Reid Cultural Centre is home to many art, craft, music and leisure groups that you can join. Visiting the centre is a great way to make new friends and become involved in activities including arts and crafts workshops, movie programs, photography, pottery, woodwork and rail modelling. The centre also hosts several art exhibitions and performances throughout the year.

What's on at the Walter Reid

Rockhampton Regional Library

Offering an extensive range of great reading, programs, and more, the Rockhampton Regional Library is an adventure for all. Escape from the rain and immerse yourself in a good book, or explore their wide range of programs including craft, origami, cake club and music.

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Mount Morgan Railway Museum

Take a trip up the Burnett Highway to the charming town of Mount Morgan and discover the history of the Railway Museum. The museum is a must do when visiting the area. Officially opened in 1898 as the town’s Railway Station, the building today now not only houses the museum, but the Mount Morgan Visitor Information Centre as well.

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Mount Morgan Historical Museum

A trip to Mount Morgan would be nothing without dropping into the Historical Museum. Take a step back in time as you view the impressive collection of relics from the town’s earliest years of existence.

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Archer Park Rail Museum

Take a ride upon one of a fully restored one-of-a-kind Purrey Steam Tram and discover the wonders of Rockhampton’s rain 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 in the region.

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CQ Military Museum

The Central Queensland Military and Artefacts Museum is truly one of a kind. Browse through their extensive collection ranging from the 1900s through to present day.

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Capricorn Caves

Rain, hail and shine, the Capricorn Caves are ready and awaiting your next visit. Embark on the adventure of a lifetime as you explore the ancient chambers of Rockhampton’s oldest playground, 390 million years in the making. The Capricorn Caves intimate tours have been designed to take guests into some of the Caves best kept secrets and are an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

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Grab a mouth-watering meal

Keen for a few cold ones with the mates? Located on the corner of historic Quay Street and Fitzroy Street, the Criterion Hotel is one of Rockhampton’s most iconic watering holes, having been built in 1889. And it’s still known for serving up much-loved traditional country hospitality and fare. Hang out in the Newsroom and kick back with a coldie, or make your way to the dining area and tuck into a mouth-watering steak. While you're there, why not delve into the building’s fascinating history. Did you know that this three-storey, Heritage-listed masonry building was built in 1889. However, Rockhampton’s first hotel, the Bush Inn, was constructed of iron-bark slabs and shingle roof on the same site in 1867. The existing building is said to be home to a ghost. Some stories claim it is a chambermaid who committed suicide in room 22 after being jilted by her lover, while others believe that it is former owner Mrs Parker who died at The Criterion in 1889.

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Put your health and wellbeing first

Rainy weather can redirect our focus to more self-care. So, why not book yourself in for a yoga class, sauna, Pilates or massage. It’s no secret that looking after our health and wellbeing can bring out the best version of ourselves. Go on, you deserve it!

Relax & Unnwind

Friends at the Flicks

Who doesn’t enjoy a good movie on a rainy day?

And the big screen delivers the ultimate experience for the latest blockbusters. Grab your mates, load up on the popcorn and kick back and watch your favourite flick on the big screen.

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Stockland Rockhampton

Has the rain given you the retail therapy itch? Grab the girls and satisfy your craving to shopping with a visit to Stockland Rockhampton. With more than 150 stores to choose from, including a wide variety of mouth-watering food venues, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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Paint and Sip

For the budding artists, nothing is more therapeutic than listening to the rain and putting paint to canvas. Paint and Sip Studios offer regular classes and private occasions for those wishing to get their creative streak on.

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Ten Pin Bowling & Putt Putt Golf

Your family will be bowled over with excitement with a game or two – why not strike up the conversation and see where it goes? Ten pin bowling is the ultimate entertainer among families and friends, so grab them all and head to the alley! While you’re there, why not stay for a round of putt-putt golf – glow up style?

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Geek out pop culture style

Pop Culture geeks will feel right at home with a visit to Millennium Comics and Collectables. It’s the perfect escape from the wet and dreary weather. We can’t even begin to describe just how extensive their collection is, but for the avid comic book and collectable fan, it’s worth the trip! While you’re there, enjoy a snack and a drink at their Dungeons and Dragons (Dnd) themed pop culture bar and cafe Milliwayz serving all sorts of “geeky” drinks.

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