Things to see and do in Outback Queensland

Time is the only thing you’ll want to pack plenty of out here because this place is BIG. We’re talking more than 65% of Queensland’s footprint big. From the rugged charm of Mount Isa in the north-west to Birdsville’s iconic outback races, Charleville’s starry skies to Longreach’s pioneering past - this place has a story at every turn (and a pub to go with it). 

By day, uncover ancient dinosaur bones, explore landscapes straight out of a painting, and dip your toes in natural springs older than your great-great-great grandparents. By night, kick back and watch the outback put on a light show with more stars than a Hollywood red carpet. 

And if you time your visit right, you might just land smack-bang in the middle of an outback event where the dust flies, the boots are worn in, and the good times roll long after the sun sets. 

For those who like their history with a side of goosebumps, check out the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach and tip your hat to Australia’s aviation pioneers. Or, if you prefer your history prehistoric, follow the Dinosaur Trail and meet the big fellas who roamed here long before us. 

And out here, you don’t need deep pockets to have a ripper time. Catch a sunset from the top of Big Red, wander through Outback Queensland’s own Grand Canyon, Porcupine Gorge, lace up the hiking boots to explore Isla Gorge National Park, Expedition National Park and Kroombit Tops or cool off at an outback swimming hole.  

To chat face-to-face with a local about all the best things to see and do in Outback Queensland, step into a Visitor Information Centre (or just strike up a conversation with the bloke at the bar - he’ll have some ripper recommendations too). 

How to get to Outback Queensland  

Outback Queensland might be remote, but getting here is easier than catching a barra in a well-stocked dam. With roads that stretch further than a campfire yarn and skies as wide as your weekend plans, this place is tailor-made for road trippers. 

Pick a route, any route - Matilda Way, Capricorn Way, Overlander’s Way, Warrego Way, Savannah Way, Adventure Way … the list goes on. Just make sure you’ve got a solid playlist and a co-pilot who knows how to navigate (or at least read a map when the GPS gives up). 

Short on time? No worries. Planes touch down in Mount Isa, Longreach, and Charleville, thanks to Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Rex. If you prefer your travel old-school, take the train - Queensland Rail’s Spirit of the Outback, Westlander, and Inlander services all roll through some of the best outback scenery you’ll ever see from a window seat. 

For more tips on making the most of your outback adventure, check out our ‘How to plan your trip to Outback Queensland’ guide. Then, dust off your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the real Queensland - red dirt, warm smiles, and all. 

Because out here, it’s not just about the destination. It’s about the stories, the characters, and the kind of memories that stick to you like outback dust.