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Mareeba Heritage Museum and Information Centre, Mareeba, Queensland — Image credit: Mareeba Heritage Museum and Information Centre, Mareeba, Queensland

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mareeba Heritage Museum

In 2023, the Mareeba Heritage Museum qualified for the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame and was also voted by Trip Advisor as the number one place to visit in Mareeba. Located with the accredited Mareeba Visitor Information Centre, the Mareeba Heritage Museum is a great place to stop to find out more about the beautiful region, chin wag with the Volunteers, grab a coffee and visit the must-see Historical Museum. The museum features nationally recognised exhibits showcased in an outdoor setting with thoughtfully created collections. There is an emphasis on Early Living and Multiculturalism, with Australia's largest Tobacco Industry exhibit and an eclectic collection of historical pieces from the Mareeba district. School and after-school groups are also catered for with special packages available that include hands-on participation. There are also function areas that can be hired for various corporate and group needs. Intimate Tours can be booked with our Museum Curator or visitors can enjoy self-guided tours at their leisure. Admission applies. Check out their Facebook for operating hours.

Mareeba QLD

3.9 km away

Where chrome meets the silver screen — Image credit: Rose Torrisi

Entertainment Venues

Mareeba Drive In

Experience an authentic slice of Australian nostalgia at the Mareeba Drive-In, one of Far North Queensland's most iconic attractions. Located just outside Cairns on the Atherton Tablelands, this retro outdoor cinema has been entertaining locals and visitors since 1962. Today, it remains one of the few operating drive-ins in Queensland, making it a must-do for families, couples, and travellers looking for unique things to do in Mareeba. The Mareeba Drive-In combines the magic of big-screen movies with the beauty of the outdoors. Guests can pull up under the stars, tune into their car radio, or borrow a classic window speaker for the full vintage experience. With camping included in your ticket price, it's more than just a movie night — it's a weekend adventure in Tropical North Queensland. Food is all part of the fun. The on-site café serves fresh popcorn, homemade burgers, and classic treats at affordable prices, using quality ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Whether you're after dinner before the show or snacks to enjoy during the film, the menu makes every visit memorable.

Mareeba QLD

7.5 km away

Far North Queensland Aviation Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Far North Queensland Aviation Museum

Discover the stories, aircraft and people that shaped the skies of Far North Queensland at the Far North Queensland Aviation Museum in Mareeba. Run entirely by passionate volunteers, this museum brings local aviation history to life through restored aircraft, captivating exhibits and hands-on displays for all ages. Step inside the hangars to explore rare World War II aircraft, vintage engines and artefacts that tell the story of Mareeba's vital wartime role and its ongoing aviation legacy. Watch restoration work in progress, meet the team behind the projects, and learn how local pilots, engineers and aircraft helped open up Australia's tropical north. From community open days and fly-in events to new exhibitions and youth involvement in aircraft restoration, the museum is always evolving. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, history lover or curious traveller, a visit to the Far North Queensland Aviation Museum offers a welcoming and inspiring glimpse into our region's remarkable connection with flight.

Mareeba QLD

9.2 km away

Sunset drinks and live music at Mt Uncle Distillery in the Atherton Tablelands

Entertainment Venues

Mt Uncle Distillery

Mt Uncle Distillery is a must-visit destination in the Atherton Tablelands, offering a memorable taste of Far North Queensland in a beautiful tropical setting. Set among lush grounds and rural scenery, the distillery invites visitors to slow down, explore and discover a unique side of the region. Guests can enjoy guided tastings of premium Australian spirits, including rum, agave spirit, whisky, gin and liqueurs, all crafted on site using local ingredients and natural spring water. The experience also offers insight into the journey from fermentation and distillation through to barrel maturation, giving each tasting a deeper sense of place and character. With its welcoming cellar door, scenic surroundings and distinctive local flavour, Mt Uncle Distillery is an ideal stop for travellers seeking authentic regional experiences, handcrafted spirits and a relaxed escape in the Tablelands.

Walkamin QLD

13 km away

The popular Emerald Creek Falls in Mareeba, Tropical North Queensland. — Image credit: Tourism Tropical North QLD

Natural Attractions

Emerald Creek Falls

Emerald Creek Falls is a stunning natural wonder located just 15km southeast of Mareeba in Tropical North Queensland, easily accessible from Cairns. The creek rushes out of the rainforest-clad heights of the Lamb Range and cascades over granite boulders, creating a series of picturesque waterfalls that tumble into serene swimming holes and placid pools below. This tranquil location is ideal for nature lovers and visitors looking to experience the beauty of Queensland’s lush rainforest. A well-maintained walking track runs alongside the creek, guiding visitors to various waterfalls and scenic lagoons, with a lookout offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and Mareeba. Whether you're exploring the falls, swimming in the crystal-clear pools, or simply relaxing in the peaceful environment, Emerald Creek Falls provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. Located within the Dinden West Forest Reserve, the falls are a perfect day trip destination from Mareeba and Cairns, offering a cool, refreshing escape from the heat of the coastal areas. The area is a popular picnic spot with ample opportunities to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings. However, note that the road to the falls includes unsealed sections, which may not be suitable for caravans or trailers. Camping is not permitted at the site, ensuring its preservation for future visitors.

Mareeba QLD

15 km away

Davies Creek Mountain Bike Park

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Davies Creek Mountain Bike Park

Davies Creek Mountain Bike Park is a network of flowing trails winding along the shadowed slopes of the Lamb Range. This park includes lengths and grades suitable for all riders to navigate granite outcrops, cross clear streams and traverse forests of bloodwoods, stringybarks, she-oaks, cycads and grass trees. Davies Creek Road is accessed from the Kennedy Highway, approximately 13 kilometres from Mareeba and is 24.5 kilometres total network of seven trails.

Mareeba QLD

21 km away

Hectic Valley Farm

Agritourism

Hectic Valley Farm

Hectic Valley Farm, nestled in Mutchilba on the picturesque Atherton Tablelands, offers an unforgettable experience with over 300 animals. Visitors can join Feeding Tours to get hands-on with friendly animals like camels, water buffalo, heavy horse, miniature cows, sheep, pigs, cattle, peafowl, ducks, chickens, and geese. Witness the joy of newborn animals such as baby goats and chicks in the Brooder Shed, where new life is always blooming. Stay overnight at charming private campsites and take advantage of scenic walking trails, a safe swimming dam, and breathtaking sunsets.

Mutchilba QLD

21 km away

Kahlpahlim Rock — Image credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland

Natural Attractions

Lambs Head (Kahlpahlim Rock)

Lambs Head isn't for the faint-hearted, but not impossible with a good set of hiking boots or trail runners to tackle the steepest of climbs! At approximately 1300 metres above sea level, Lambs Head, otherwise known as Kahlpahlim Rock, is the highest point on the Lamb Range in the Davies Creek National Park. There is a choice of two steep but beautiful trails (Kahlpahlim Rock and Ridge trails) which lead to the spectacular granite boulders of Kahlpahlim Rock. The trails converge near the top allowing hikers to walk the track as a circuit. It's recommended to start the walk early, to take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures and allow time to return as the round journey can take up to several hours. It's best to avoid the walk when the top of the mountain is covered in cloud or after wet weather. Water is not available along the trails so come prepared with extra water bottles and always inform a friend of your plans.

Lamb Range QLD

25 km away

Hayride — Image credit: KUR-Cow

Amusement and Theme Parks

Kur-Cow Barnwell Farm

Located in Kuranda, a 35-minute drive from Cairns, Queensland, covering over 626 hectares and surrounded by tropical rainforest tablelands. A true working cattle station experience awaits. KUR-Cow Farm has Ultimate Aussie Farm Experience and Adventure Options include: Mini Animal Farm – With all the farm animals you’d expect plus more! Hands-on experience – hand-feed their poddy calves, pet their ponies and alpaca, etc. Hayride – Enjoy their unique Hayride where you can hand-feed their gentle cattle, learn more about their varied range of beef cattle. KUR-Cow Steak House – There are more than one signature dishes, such as Wagyu Steaks, and Wagyu Charcoal Barbecue. Also, enjoy overlooking a picturesque mountain range. Horse Riding – Take a guided horse ride with their experienced handler around the KUR-Cow trail. ATV – Quad Bike From beginner to experienced rider, their KUR-Cow quad bike leader will take you on a thrilling trail ride through the rainforest and the open plain.

Kuranda QLD

29 km away

Tinaroo — Image credit: Tourism Atherton Tablelands

Natural Attractions

Lake Tinaroo

Lake Tinaroo is a very popular spot for swimmers, skiers, walkers, fishing (permit required), red clawing, ideal for picnics with barbecues available and has five camping areas located around the back of the dam in the Danbulla State Forest. Tinaroo has developed into one of the shire's most popular tourist locations. It is one tourist spot that has so much to offer everyone. Enthusiasts in sailing, skiing, swimming, fishing, red clawing, bird watching, walking, are all attracted to this town. If you're looking to do something less active, take a relaxing stroll along the jetty to see the dam spillway or just relax at one of the many picnic spots in the area. You certainly won't be disappointed.

Lake Tinaroo QLD

30 km away

Crystal Cascades

Natural Attractions

Crystal Cascades

Crystal Cascades is a series of water holes and waterfalls in a section of Freshwater Creek only a short 20 minute drive from Cairns Central Business District. Shaded by rainforest canopy and surrounded by impressive granite boulders, the pools stay cool throughout the year even in the warmer months! There's a short 1.5 kilometre paved trail that leads to several swimming holes culminating at a waterfall at the end of the track. There is also a barbecue and picnic area with toilet facilities, all maintained by Cairns Regional Council. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, both in the water and on the banks. Most animals will steer clear of visitors, but the goannas might snatch food if they get the chance! Warning: There may be hidden submerged rocks in nearby pools. Remember to always obey the signs and warnings.

Lamb Range QLD

30 km away

Fairy Falls — Image credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland

Natural Attractions

Fairy Falls

Fairy Falls is a picturesque waterfall, found tucked away in the dense rainforest close to Crystal Cascades. The track begins just to the left of Crystal Cascades car park. Follow the path along for approximately 15 minutes. When the track forks, be sure to stick to the creek and don't head uphill. Keep a look out for stinging plants that are found along the track, there are warning signs in place to help identify these plants. With its diverse wilderness and abundant national parks, Tropical North Queensland is home to many beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes. It's important to always follow the advice from Queensland Parks and never venture into out of bounds areas, flooded waters or dangerous areas to prevent serious injury or death.

Redlynch QLD

31 km away

Interactive experiences at Birdworld Kuranda — Image credit: Birdworld Kuranda

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Birdworld Kuranda

Home to the largest single collection of free-flying birds in Australia, Birdworld Kuranda displays no less than 60 species of the most spectacular birds from all corners of the planet - as well as from the earth's fast-diminishing rainforests. Visitors are free to wander through the lush, tropically landscaped aviary to observe the birds in their own specific - yet natural - habitats. Two lakes connected by a tumbling waterfall are home to waterbirds such as stilts, herons and Australia's own unique Black Swan. In the rainforest canopy overhead, blue, gold and scarlet Macaws dazzle with colourful brilliance as they soar above the treetops. One outstanding Birdworld denizen not to be missed is that rare avian giant, the Southern Cassowary - now officially enlisted as endangered. Designed to 'create a centre where birds would be showcased in their natural environment without the barriers of cages coming between them and their admiring public', Birdworld is a photographers paradise. (And without those barriers, visitors often find a feathered friend nestling on their shoulder - a golden photo opportunity!).

Kuranda QLD

31 km away

Barron Falls (Din Din)

Natural Attractions

Barron Falls (Din Din)

Barron Falls (Djabugay: Din Din) is a dramatic rocky waterfall in the Barron River near Kuranda Village. During the wetter months of summer and autumn, the falls transform into a roaring spectacle, and the volumetric flow rate of water can reach almost 265,000-megalitres in a day Barron Falls can be seen from the Din Din Barron Falls Lookout, which is reached via a short, wheel-chair accessible walkway. The Kuranda Scenic Railway stops at Barron Falls Station, giving guests a chance to hop off and enjoy views of the falls. Skyrail Rainforest Cableway soars directly over Barron Falls, giving a beautiful aerial perspective. It can also be viewed from Skyrail's The Edge lookout. With its diverse wilderness and abundant national parks, Tropical North Queensland is home to many beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes. It's important to always follow the advice from Queensland Parks and never venture into out of bounds areas, flooded waters or dangerous areas to prevent serious injury or death.

Kuranda QLD

31 km away

Din Din Barron Falls lookout, Barron Gorge National Park — Image credit: Qld Govt

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Barron Gorge National Park

Rugged rainforest-clad mountains and gorges, tumbling waterfalls, varied wildlife, easy access and a fascinating history make Barron Gorge National Park one of Queensland's most popular parks. The park extends from the coastal lowlands (Lake Placid) to the elevated regions of the Atherton Tableland (near Kuranda), and lies within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The Barron River dominates the park. Rising from the rainforests of Mount Hypipamee, the river winds 60 kilometres across the Atherton Tableland and enters the deeply-incised Barron Gorge, where it falls 250 metres onto the coastal lowlands before flowing into the Coral Sea. Barron Falls is best viewed from the Din Din Barron Falls lookout near Kuranda. The park is part of the traditional lands of the Djabuganydji Bama (local Aboriginal people) who maintain a close spiritual connection with this country. Their historic walking trails now form sections of an extensive network of walking tracks throughout the park. Visit the upper sections of this park to view the scenic Barron Falls and stroll along an elevated walkway through the rainforest. Set out on one of the half or full-day walks on the extensive network of walking trails throughout the park.

Kuranda QLD

31 km away

Stoney Creek Cairns

National Parks and Reserves

Stoney Creek

Stoney Creek is located in Barron Gorge National Park in Cairns. To get there, drive to Kamerunga and turn off onto Stoney Creek Road from Cairns Western Arterial Road just before the Barron River, Kamerunga Bridge. Follow the road through the valley to the Stoney Creek car park at the end. From the car park, it’s a short walk to the creek where you will find a small footbridge. You can swim below the bridge or cross over and follow a track that runs parallel to the creek to discover many private swimming holes. After approximately 20 to 25 minutes, you will reach the Old Weir Falls. From Stoney Creek, you can also take the Douglas Track up to Glacier Rock with the option to continue onto Speewah on the Atherton Tablelands. The trailhead starts to the right just after you’ve crossed the footbridge. With its diverse wilderness and abundant national parks, Tropical North Queensland is home to many beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes. It’s important to always follow the advice from Queensland Parks and never venture into out of bounds areas, flooded waters or dangerous areas to prevent serious injury or death.

Barron Gorge QLD

32 km away

Family amazed at butterfly landing on the mother's hand at Australian Butterfly Sanctuary in Kuranda

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Butterfly Sanctuary

Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is the largest butterfly flight aviary and exhibit in Australia. The all-weather attraction is home to over 1,200 butterflies. Only a short walk from Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the Kuranda Scenic Railway station, the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is located in the heart of Kuranda. Experience the magic of butterflies fluttering all around by taking a stroll through the aviary's gardens and boardwalks. Join a tour behind the scenes in the breeding laboratory, housing up to 4,000 caterpillars, or download a free audio tour. Learn more about these magical creatures with educational exhibits. Observe a butterfly wing through a microscope, Silk Moth caterpillars, the massive Hercules Moth, and the insects in the Mini Beasts display. See through the eyes of a butterfly in the UV Room, explore food plants on the new walk, witness the butterfly lifecycle from eggs to daily aviary release and be amazed at butterflies from all over the globe in the museum displays.

Kuranda QLD

32 km away

Giant Amethyst Geode over 3 metres tall

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Crystal Caves

The Crystal Caves will rock your world! Just one hour from Cairns on the Atherton Tablelands, this unique cave-like museum showcases one man's passion for crystals and fossils. Explore 300 square metres of tunnels and grottos, built by René to showcase his incredible collection of over 600 crystals, fossils and minerals from all over the world! Enjoy a self-guided adventure with hands-on displays where you're encouraged to touch, photograph, and connect with these natural wonders. Then crack open your very own geode and reveal the crystals hidden inside for millions of years.

Atherton QLD

32 km away

Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park

Natural Attractions

Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park

Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park is a network of purpose-built, single-track mountain bike trails located in the Herberton Range State Forest. Trails meander through an open forest of gums, bloodwoods, mahoganys, she-oaks, grasstrees and cycads and some of the trails pass former forestry experimental plots of teak, blackbutt and tallowwood trees.

Atherton QLD

32 km away

Friendly Python hold. (Optional Extra) — Image credit: Kuranda Koala Gardens

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Kuranda Koala Gardens

This award-winning boutique-style wildlife experience, Kuranda Koala Gardens, is in Kuranda Village right at the Heritage Markets. This is the only place in Kuranda village where you can enjoy the 'Pat a Koala' opportunity. A fee applies and this includes a digital souvenir photo. Friendly python photo is also option for an extra cost. Also visit Kuranda's only walk in Noctarium, called 'Nocturnal Wonders' and discover rare species including bettongs, bilbies and gliders. Meet tame wallabies, see wombats, freshwater crocodiles, lizards and more. Visit the 'Pioneer Display' that depicts some of the early history of the owners' family in the Kuranda region. It's a great attraction for those with limited time in the region (if you have more time, they also recommend visits to Hartley's Crocodile Adventures). Kuranda Koala Gardens is also part of the 'Kuranda Wildlife Experience'. This combines Kuranda Koala Gardens, Birdworld and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. These are ideal for independent travellers and small groups.

Kuranda QLD

32 km away

The pirates Beach on the way to the secret garden inside The Magical Lane — Image credit: Jenny Lane

Amusement and Theme Parks

The Magical Lane

An experience you'll remember for life. Immerse yourself in a land made of fairy wishes and learn the magic of nature in a tea party or magical quest with Fairy Jenny. Find adventure in a unique escape room style quest room to find the fairies by living in harmony with nature.

Kuranda QLD

32 km away

Honey packaging range — Image credit: Honey House Kuranda

Shopping and Markets

Honey House Kuranda

Established in 1959 to showcase and promote the many distinctive kinds of honey from North Queensland, Honey House Kuranda continues today to bring you the pick of the area's famous varietal honey. Enjoy watching bees make honey in their glass-fronted observation hive. Sample their seasonal kinds of honey at the tasting bar. Ask the resident beekeeper, Trish, all about the amazing world of the honeybee. All Honey House Kuranda honey is sourced locally, direct from their apiaries and from reputable local beekeepers. Each harvest is individually cold-extracted and hand-bottled, so every purchase is unique. The region is home to the widest variety of flora in Australia – perfect for keeping the bees happy and your tastebuds tantalised with new varieties all year round! All their honey is personally selected for quality and taste and sold with a smile by their knowledgeable hosts. Honey House only offers Small Harvest RAW kinds of honey that retain the natural healing properties of their bees' hard work.

Kuranda QLD

32 km away

Didi La Baÿsse Art Studio & Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Didi La Baysse Art Studio & Gallery

Didi La Baÿsse Art Studio & Gallery is a beautifully presented and delightful working studio with original paintings and unique 'Objets d'art' created on location by flamboyant Kuranda artist Didi La Baÿsse. Meet the artist, art studio combined art gallery where you can admire and purchased original paintings directly from the artist - Didi La Baÿsse Art Studio & Gallery is the perfect place for you. The gallery also features 'Haute Couture' from Leah Kelly by Design, artworks from local artisans. If you are looking for a unique souvenir, Australian Made gift or anything special, Didi's Art Studio and Gallery is a must see! Come in and enjoy.

Kuranda QLD

32 km away

Arts Cooperative — Image credit: C Harvey

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Kuranda Arts Co-op

Kuranda Arts Co-op Limited is a not-for-profit organisation showcasing a wide variety of quality local artwork in many mediums from its members. In 2021, the Arts Co-operative moved to a new location in the old Kuranda RSL building, and continues to promote local artists through networking, exhibitions and workshops. The Kuranda Arts Co-operative had its beginnings in 1996 when a small group of experienced artists and craftspeople joined together in the Kuranda markets to support each other in the sale of their work. The following year saw the opportunity to take up a large retail space in the main street, where work could be displayed in a gallery setting that more befitted the quality of the work than a market setting. This necessitated the formation of a more formalised legal entity and so the Kuranda Arts Co-operative Ltd came into being. Over the past 25 years there have been many successes including major exhibitions at the Cairns Regional Gallery, Hobart University Visual Arts Department, facilitating displays for members work at the Sydney Gift Fair, being represented in trade displays for Tourism Qld and Tourism Australia in Singapore, major exhibitions at the Tableland Regional Gallery and numerous workshops on marketing and professional development. The Kuranda Arts Co-operative continues to operate as a support network for both fine art and craft artists.

Kuranda QLD

32 km away

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