Take some time to discover Tropical North Queensland through its fascinating history on the Cairns Arts and Culture Map.
There are scores of museums that explore the development of the region and its people. Museums range from small-town volunteer-operated and private collections of everything from aviation and military history, Indigenous culture, geology and art to the expansive and detailed collections in the Cairns Museum in the heart of the city. The Cooktown Museum in Cooktown is housed in a 19th-century former convent and holds a significant collection of artefacts of its namesake’s voyages of discovery. There are plenty of hands-on or living museums, too. Step back into the 19th century by walking around 50 restored period buildings from the 1860s at the Historic Village Herberton, or explore an early 20th-century Chinese temple, once part of a thriving Chinatown. From the mainstream to the eccentric, whatever your particular passion, you’re more than likely to find a museum to cater for it.
The vibrant hues of Tropical North Queensland are reflected nowhere better than in its thriving art scene. From traditional Indigenous artworks to contemporary styles, the tropical north is a hotbed of artistic talent. Visit the Cairns Art Gallery, a three-story public gallery in the heart of the CBD displaying ever-evolving exhibitions and offering a variety of classes for both adults and children. Then move on to NorthSite, a cache of homewares, jewellery, fashion and artworks. Find more contemporary works at the artist-owned Underart Gallery and an eclectic calendar of exhibitions at Bulmba-ja arts centre. Head off the beaten track to the Bana Yirriji Art and Cultural Centre in Wujal Wujal near Cooktown. This small outpost is a hot bed of talent, rewarding those who undertake the adventure with everything from textiles to wearable art and paintings. Or journey west across the cape to the home of the famous Aurukun camp dogs at the Wik and Kugu Art Centre. If this all ignites your own inner artist, Brian “Binna” Swindley of Janbal Gallery in Mossman holds intimate workshops to help you produce your own masterpiece.
Get cultured
Tropical North Queensland is saturated with art and history.
Top 10 spots to see street art in Cairns
Want to photo bomb the best public art in Cairns? Or capture that crazy holiday selfie that puts you in the picture? Check out this guide for an easy ‘must see’ photo bombing list for your snap happy, arty holiday pics.
Five Ways to Visit Aboriginal Rock Art
Tropical North Queensland features some of the most historically important Aboriginal rock art galleries in the world. Feel dwarfed in time and connected to Country in the presence of rock art created tens of thousands of years ago.
Discover Educational & Cultural Experiences in Tropical North Queensland
Where better to get an education than while on holidays? Explore Tropical North Queenslands best experiences that will enrich your mind.
Experience an incredible Aboriginal rock art tour
Discover what true connection to country feels like at a 20,000-year-old Aboriginal rock art gallery with Jarramali Rock Art Tours. Fly in via a scenic helicopter or jump in a 4WD with a Traditional Owner guide for the full overnight experience.
War history & memorials near Cairns
Tropical North Queensland has a rich war history spanning from World War I to more modern conflicts. Here’s how you can learn more about war history in Cairns & Tropical North Queensland.
Explore Art Galleries and Museums
-
art galleries
Tanks Arts Centre
View product -
accessible
The Crystal Caves
View product -
accessible
Historic Village Herberton
View product -
art galleries
Janbal Gallery
View product -
art galleries
Gab Titui Cultural Centre
View product -
art galleries
Cairns Museum
View product -
art galleries museums
The Australian Armour & Artillery Museum
View product -
art galleries
Australia.Gallery
View product -
art galleries
Court House Gallery
View product -
art galleries museums
Cooktown Museum
View product -
art galleries
NorthSite Contemporary Arts
View product -
art galleries museums
Herberton Spy and Camera Museum
View product -
art galleries
Kuranda Arts Cooperative Gallery
View product -
art galleries museums
The Ted Elliott Mineral Collection
View product -
art galleries
Nature’s PowerHouse Visitor Information Centre, Gallery and Cafe
View product -
art galleries museums
Nganyaji Interpretive Centre
View product -
accessible
Herberton Mining Centre and Great Northern Mine
View product -
art galleries
Yarrabah Arts and Cultural Precinct
View product -
art galleries
Wik and Kugu Art Centre
View product -
art galleries
UMI Arts
View product -
art galleries
Girringun Aboriginal Art Centre
View product -
art galleries museums
Riversleigh World Heritage Site, Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park
View product -
art galleries
Cairns Art Gallery
View product -
art galleries
Mareeba Heritage Museum
View product -
art galleries museums
Hou Wang Chinese Temple and Museum
View product -
art galleries
Babinda Museum
View product -
art galleries museums
FNQ Aviation Museum
View product