The 10 best things to do in Rockhampton

Rockhampton packs a punch when it comes to raw, natural beauty, surrounded by many national parks well worth exploring.

A favourite is Blackdown Tableland, around 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.

Read more about what to do in Blackdown Tableland National Park here.

Go fishing on Fitzroy River

Rockhampton's Fitzroy River (Tunuba) is famous for barramundi, and it's known as one of the best spots to bag prize catch in the region. Join the recreational fisherman who cast a line in close to town, or head out a boat and find your spot for the morning. 

Get all the info about barramundi fishing in Rockhampton here.

Learn about Indigenous culture

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. 

Peruse local art

Rocky's art scene goes well beyond the cow statues. Regarded as one of the finest regional art galleries in Australia, Rockhampton Museum of Art is in the heart of the Riverside Precinct and houses a collection of works from some of the country’s most adored creatives.

Take a historic tour

History buffs take note; the city of Rockhampton rose quickly back in the 1880s thanks to gold being discovered on Mount Morgan. Today, a collection of 26 buildings fit the National Trust’s classification.

Settled on Quay Street bordering the Fitzroy River sit the bulk, including Customs House (1900), the Supreme Court house (1888), and the Post Office (1892). The historic railway system will also tempt lovers of the past; Archer Rail Park Museum and Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum are stand-outs. Rockhampton Heritage Village will also thrill those seeking a step back in time.

Explore the Gardens

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.

Travelling with kids? Kershaw Gardens holds wide wonders for little ones, namely Wyatt’s Wonder Web - a huge playground with five levels of obstacles, ropes, ladders and tunnels.

Take in the views at Mount Archer

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.

Mountain bikers take note: First Turkey Mountain Bike Park is right here too, with trails open year-round. 

Go to the zoo

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.

Island hop in the Southern Great Barrier Reef

Want to spend a day navigating the neighbouring Great Barrier Reef.

Well within reach of Rockhampton’s borders are Great Keppel Island and Pumpkin Island. Both nestled just a short boat ride from Yeppoon, the waterborne duo boast pristine waters for snorkelling and swimming, with a series of different accommodation options for those who want to stay put for a few days.

Venture underground

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. Choose to the adventurous route and abseil, or follow a more relaxed wheelchair-friendly cave tour. Throughout the year Capricorn Caves also host weddings and Underground Opera events.

If you loved these caves, be sure to add Mt Etna Caves National Park to your must-visit list.

Once you've worked your way through this list of best things to do in Rockhampton, why not feast your way through the best restaurants in town, take a day trip somewhere special, or road trip to the coast.