Rockhampton

The best 10 things to do while visiting Rockhampton

Looking for a fun and exciting holiday in Queensland? Look no further than Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia! Rockhampton is a great destination for families, with plenty of fun activities and attractions to keep kids of all ages entertained. Located in Central Queensland, Rockhampton offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and entertainment for all ages.

Here are some great family-friendly holiday activities to help you explore the Rockhampton region:

1. Capricorn Caves Adventure

Get ready for an adventurous weekend at the Capricorn Caves. Located just 23km north of Rockhampton, Capricorn Caves is a natural wonderland that offers an incredible underground experience. Explore the stunning limestone caves, go fossil hunting, or take a guided adventure caving tour. The caves are also home to a colony of bats, and you might even get a chance to see them up close! The caves are open every day except for Christmas Day, and bookings are essential.

Image via Tourism and Events Queensland

2. Great Keppel Island Getaway

Escape to the beautiful Great Keppel Island for a relaxing beach getaway. Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Rockhampton, Great Keppel Island boasts 17 pristine beaches and crystal clear waters. Enjoy snorkelling, fishing, hiking, whale watching (in season) or simply relax on the beach with a good book.

Image via Tourism & Events Queensland

3. Explore Rockhampton’s Botanic Gardens and Zoo

For a more relaxing long weekend, explore the stunning Rockhampton Botanic Gardens. Established in 1869, the gardens boast a collection of over 3,000 species of plants from around the world. Take a stroll through the Japanese Gardens, the Tropical Wetlands, or the Australian Plant Communities. The gardens also have a children’s playground and a café.

The Rockhampton Zoo is a must-visit for families, and it’s free to enter! The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, monkeys and birds. The zoo also has a playground and picnic area, making it a great spot for a family day out.

 

4. Take the kids to Kershaw Gardens

Kershaw Gardens is a beautiful parkland located in the heart of Rockhampton, and it’s a great place for families to explore. The park has a large playground, a mini-golf course, and plenty of walking paths. There’s also a lagoon for swimming and paddle boating, and the park is home to a variety of birdlife.

Image via Tourism and Events Queensland

5. Visit the Rockhampton Art Gallery

For a more educational outing, head to the Rockhampton Art Gallery. The gallery has a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, and it’s a great place to introduce kids to art and culture. Plus, the gallery often hosts workshops and activities for kids, so be sure to check their schedule.

6. Watch the sun set at Mount Archer National Park

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, take a hike in Mount Archer National Park. The park has a variety of walking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, and the views from the top are spectacular – especially at sunset. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wallabies and echidnas.

 

7. Rockhampton River Festival

The Rockhampton River Festival is one of Central Queensland’s premier cultural events. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Fitzroy River, this festival transforms the riverbank into a vibrant tapestry of entertainment, arts, and culinary delights.

From live music performances that echo through the night to captivating street theatre acts that surprise and delight, there’s an electric atmosphere that permeates every corner. One of the festival’s highlights is the mesmerizing fireworks display that illuminates the night sky over the river.

8. Explore Mount Etna Caves National Park

Just a short 30 minute drive North of Rockhampton, Mount Etna Caves National Park is a geological wonder that captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring limestone formations and rich biodiversity. This park showcases striking caves adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, formed over millions of years.

Guided tours offer a fascinating glimpse into this subterranean world, revealing the secrets of ancient chambers and unique rock formations. Above ground, the park’s lush eucalyptus forests and pockets of rainforest are home to an array of wildlife, including wallabies and a diverse range of bird species.

Picnic facilities and walking trails provide opportunities to soak in the natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for a day of exploration and appreciation for the wonders that lie beneath the surface of Rockhampton’s landscape.

9. Fishing the Fitzroy River

The Fitzroy River in Rockhampton is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. The Fitzroy River Fishing Competition is an event that brings together anglers from all around to test their skills and compete for impressive prizes. Anglers gather along various points of the Fitzroy River, known for its diverse range of fish species. Participants can compete in various categories, including catch and release, largest fish, and specific species. Prizes often include cash awards, fishing equipment, and vouchers from local sponsors.

In addition to the fishing competition, the event often features a range of family-friendly activities, entertainment, food stalls, and live music. This creates a lively atmosphere and offers something for everyone, even those who may not be avid anglers.

10. Discover the Capricorn Coast National Park and Yeppoon

Discover the stunning Capricorn Coast, located just a 45 minute drive from Rockhampton. The coastline offers access to great beaches, including Yeppoon Main Beach and Lagoon, Farnborough Beach, and Rosslyn Bay. Take a scenic drive along the coast, stop at the lookout points, or visit the local markets. The Capricorn Coast is also home to the Keppel Bay Marina, where you can book a fishing charter or take a sunset cruise.

The coastal volcanic headlands of the Capricorn Coast National Park offers nature lovers great hiking tracks ranging from 21 to 103m in elevation gain. Visit scenic lookouts and intriguing rock formations as you traverse along the coastline.

Rockhampton Accommodation

If you’re planning a long weekend getaway in Rockhampton, there are plenty of great accommodation options to suit your needs and budget. Here are two great options to consider:

The Stirling Motel:

The Stirling Motel is a comfortable and affordable accommodation option located in the heart of Rockhampton. The motel offers a range of room types, including standard queen suites, family rooms, queen villas and a 1 bedroom apartment. Each room is equipped with air-conditioning, a smart TV, and tea and coffee making facilities. The motel also has a swimming pool and BBQ facilities for guests to use. The motel is also conveniently located within walking distance to the city centre and local attractions.

Coffee House Apartment Motel:

For a unique and stylish accommodation option, check out the Coffee House Apartment Motel. This boutique motel offers spacious and modern apartments, each with its own private balcony or courtyard. The 1 bedroom apartments are fully self-contained with a kitchen, laundry facilities, and a separate living area. The motel has its own coffee house café, which serves up delicious breakfasts, lunches, and coffee. The motel is conveniently located close to the city centre, shops, restaurants and the river.

Rockhampton offers such a great variety of family-friendly activities and attractions, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. No matter what your family’s interests are, there’s sure to be something to keep everyone entertained! Pack your bags and head to Rockhampton for an unforgettable experience!