Visited Rocky Lately? There’s Plenty To See In Rockhampton Queensland

Rockhampton, or Rocky as it is affectionately named by Queensland locals, is the fourth largest city in the Sunshine State, boasting a substantial 80,000+ residents. You will find Rockhampton on the Capricorn Coast, 616km north of Brisbane and 720km south from Townsville. Considering a holiday in Rocky? There’s plenty to do! Packed with natural attractions and cultural must-sees, Rockhampton is ideal for a vacation or as a stopover on your next Queensland road trip. Here’s why!

Things to do in Rockhampton

The weather in Rockhampton is consistently hot, experiencing some 300 days of sunshine each year. This makes it an attractive destination for tourists seeking a tropical climate. You’ll find a lively international population passing through, as well as Australian tourists escaping the southern winter! Rocky is known as Australia’s ‘beef capital’ and some 2.5 million cattle can be found within a 250km radius of Rockhampton city. Take the opportunity to learn about this significant Australian industry while you’re in town. Otherwise, Rockhampton tourism attractions include:

Wander around the streets of the city and take in Rockhampton’s Victorian era buildings

Visit the Capricorn Caves, a natural phenomenon and popular tourist destination

Step back in time and visit the Rockhampton Heritage Village

Visit the Archer Park Rail Museum or Rockhampton Art Gallery

Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo

One of the must-dos in Rocky is a visit to the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo. Arguably one of the best tropical Botanic gardens in the Sunshine State, this tourist spot not only boasts stunning gardens but is also home to a charming little zoo. In the grounds of the Botanic Gardens, you can while away the hours meandering through the fruit orchard or enjoying the waterfall in the Japanese Gardens. Have lunch in the cafe or find a shady spot beneath a beautiful Banyan tree. There’s a playground for the kids to burn off some steam, too. “Love it! The free zoo, the walk around the gardens. Lovely food in the cafe and reasonably priced. Check out the animal talks, take a picnic or just relax on a blanket in the shade.” Joanne E, Trip Advisor You’ll find 70 species of Australian and exotic wildlife at the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo, including crocodiles, koalas, kangaroos and wallabies. Don’t miss the water buffalo and the impressive bird aviaries! Best of all, the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo is completely free to enjoy - although donations are welcomed.

Rockhampton Australia is easy to reach on the Bus Queensland network. Save money by booking passes in advance. Book Your Ticket Now