This contemporary museum features four well-curated galleries covering the history of Cairns and Far North Queensland in pictures, exhibits and local stories. It offers a refreshing glimpse into the region's soul beyond the touristy glitz.

The Cairns Historical Society research centre is located here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Cairns attractions

1. KickArts Contemporary Arts

0.02 MILES

These galleries showcase cutting-edge local and regional artworks, plus touring exhibitions. KickArts has moved to the School of the Arts while the Centre…

2. Samurai Gallery

0.03 MILES

This unusual gallery and museum displays genuine armour, swords and arts from the Japanese samurai. Owner John Grasso has been collecting swords and…

3. Reef Teach

0.04 MILES

Take your knowledge to new depths at this fun, informative centre, where marine experts explain how to identify specific species of fish and coral, and…

4. Cairns Art Gallery

0.12 MILES

The permanent collection of this acclaimed gallery has an emphasis on local and Indigenous work. It also hosts prominent visiting exhibitions and…

5. Reef Eye

0.24 MILES

Soak up stunning views of the Coral Sea and Cairns city aboard this 35m-high Ferris wheel. The fully enclosed gondolas rotate 360 degrees (passengers…

6. Cairns Esplanade, Boardwalk & Lagoon

0.25 MILES

Sunseekers and fun-lovers flock to Cairns Esplanade's spectacular swimming lagoon on the city’s reclaimed foreshore. The artificial, sandy-edged, 4800-sq…

7. Cairns Aquarium

0.28 MILES

Cairns' multi-million-dollar aquarium is well worth a visit for its vast and gorgeously presented range of marine life, the Great Barrier Reef in…

8. St Monica's Cathedral

0.42 MILES

Cairns' main Catholic church is famous for its themed stained-glass windows, the largest of their type in the world. There are 24 windows depicting the…

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