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 premier arts destination spanning three heritage-listed buildings in the Cairns CBD. Entry is free and the gallery displays an ever-evolving exhibition program and offers 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.

Herberton Historic Village
Herberton Historic Village

Cairns Art Gallery
Cairns Art Gallery

Crystal Caves
Crystal Caves

Janbal Gallery
Janbal Gallery
Get cultured
Tropical North Queensland is saturated with art and history.
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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.
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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
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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
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art galleries & museumsTanks Arts Centre
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accessibleHistoric Village Herberton
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art galleries & museumsJanbal Gallery
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art galleries & museumsGab Titui Cultural Centre
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accessibleThe Crystal Caves
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art galleries & museumsYarrabah Arts and Cultural Precinct
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art galleries & museumsNature’s Powerhouse
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art galleries & museumsThe Australian Armour & Artillery Museum
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art galleries & museumsCooktown Museum
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art galleries & museumsNorthSite Contemporary Arts
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art galleries & museumsHerberton Spy and Camera Museum
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art galleries & museumsNganyaji Interpretive Centre
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accessibleHerberton Mining Centre and Great Northern Mine
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art galleries & museumsWik and Kugu Art Centre
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art galleries & museumsUMI Arts
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art galleries & museumsGirringun Aboriginal Art Centre
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art galleries & museumsCairns Art Gallery
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art galleries & museumsMareeba Heritage Museum
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art galleries & museumsCairns Museum
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art galleries & museumsThe Babinda Museum
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art galleries & museumsFar North Queensland Aviation Museum
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art galleries & museumsDidi La Baysse Art Studio & Gallery
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