The unofficial capital of North Queensland, Townsville is home to a fantastic variety of shops, attractions and cultural sights. Visit the city’s enormous aquarium, soak up the lively atmosphere on the picturesque seafront promenade or enjoy a meal out in one of Townsville’s excellent restaurants. The spectacular Great Barrier Reef is an easy day trip from the city and you’ll find a fantastic choice of beaches within a stone’s throw of Townsville city centre.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Townsville
Townsville CBD – The city’s bustling centre is a great place to start your exploration of Townsville. Home to many of the city’s bars, restaurants and shops, the CBD is a great destination for a meal out or afternoon of retail therapy. For panoramic views of the city centre, head up the 938 ft high Castle Hill that dominates the Townsville skyline.
Magnetic Island – Clearly visible from Townsville’s promenade, Magnetic Island boasts a wide choice of picturesque walking routes, pristine beaches and diverse flora and fauna. Famous for its koalas, birds and marine life, head to Magnetic Island to get close to nature.
The Strand – One of Townsville’s most popular attractions, The Strand is a long park and tropical beach area on the city’s waterfront. Spend an afternoon relaxing on the golden sands or, if you’re travelling with children, spend a day in The Strand’s colourful play areas.
Ross River – Running through the centre of the city, the Ross River offers lots of opportunities for sports and leisure. Explore the Riverway, a parkland area that’s home to an art gallery, a culture centre, swimming lagoons and a café. In other parts of the river you’ll find wakeboarding, fishing and water skiing.
Things to See in Townsville
Townsville has a number of prominent sights spread across the city centre. The most obvious landmark in the city is Castle Hill, a granite monolith that looms over the CBD. Hike to the top for great views of the surrounding area. The Strand, the Ross River and the aquarium are all important sights in the city and you should put at least a day or two aside to explore them properly. Further afield, you’ll find the stunning Magnetic Island, the fascinating Billabong Animal Sanctuary and Lake Paluma, a man-made lake surrounded by a World Heritage Rainforest.
Things to Do in Townsville
From arts and culture to sports and entertainment, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in Townsville. To learn about the city’s past, visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland, the Perc Tucker Regional Gallery or the Townsville Museum and Historical Society. To get up close and personal with the region’s wildlife, go for a hike on Magnetic Island or have a go at diving in the clear waters that surround the city. For shopping, visit one of the many markets and shopping centres that dot the city centre. If you want to experience an authentic slice of Aussie life, take in a match at one of the local sports stadiums.
