Things to do in Rockhampton, Queensland: The Best Nature & Parks

Rockhampton Botanic Gardens are amongst the oldest public gardens in Queensland. Entry to the gardens and zoo is FREE. They open daily from 6am to 6pm. Located within the Gardens is the Rockhampton Zoo. It is home to over 50 species of native animals from across Australia and exotic animals from around the world! Its the perfect place for families to see animals in their natural surroundings. The Gardens Tearooms is the café nestled under the 150 year old Banyan Figs and offer a range of meals and refreshments as well as catering for special events. Indoor and outdoor dining options are available. The Japanese Gardens provide tranquillity and peace, while the Cenotaph honours our Australian soldiers.

Nestled within the Botanic Gardens, Rockhampton Zoo has been at its present site since 1925. While the animal section at that time consisted of monkeys, cassowary, possums, guinea pigs and pea fowl, today you can discover more than 60 species of Australian and exotic animals. Whether it is chimpanzees and cassowaries, dingoes and otters, or crocodiles and koalas, there are an array of fascinating animals to meet and observe in their carefully recreated habitats. Local tip: Time your visit with one of the many daily feeding sessions throughout the Zoo for a more up close and personal experience.

Immerse yourself in Rockhampton's treetop boardwalk! Nurim Circuit is a must for your Rockhampton bucket list. Extending 25 metres off the side of Mount Archer, the 500 metre flat boardwalk offers spectacular views of the city and the mighty Fitzroy River. Take your time taking in the views and checking out the interpretive signage of the local Darumbal culture. The boardwalk is particularly popular with locals and tourists alike wanting to catch the spectacular sunrises and sunsets so don't forget your camera! If you're a budding photographer or would like to pick up on some tips and tricks to shooting a sunset from Nurim Circuit, check out our blog 'Mastering that Sunset Shoot'. If you're a fitness fanatic, check out the many hiking and bushwalking trails throughout the national park or hit up the mountain biking trails at the First Turkey Mountain Bike Park.

Kershaw Gardens has been described as Rockhampton’s big back yard for all people to enjoy. These magnificent gardens stretch one kilometre parallel to the Bruce Highway and provide an attractive, peaceful setting within North Rockhampton. Enjoy the spacious parklands with walking tracks, play areas for the kids and spectacular photo opportunities including a magnificent waterfall. This is THE PLACE to stop if you have children! Since 1988, the Gardens has undertaken a number of significant changes, but none more so than the redevelopment of the Central section which was finalised in the winter 2018. Built for families, parties, small events and outdoor activities the central section of the Kershaw Gardens is a must do. Don't miss: Wyatt's Wonder Web: Originally designed for New York’s Central Park, Wyatt’s Wonder Web includes five levels of play for kids and adults too. Standing at nine metres high, climb through various obstacles including climbing ropes, ladders and tunnels.

Mount Archer (Nurim) not only provides a scenic backdrop to Rockhampton, but plays home to a host of activities! From the summit enjoy the Spectacular views of Rockhampton city, deeply incised valleys, dry rainforests, fleeting glimpses of forest inhabitants and feasting cockatoos. With walks from 500m – 14km you can explore as much or little as you like! In Rockhampton, Mount Archer (Nurim) National Park forms part of the Berserker Ranges and is easily accessible by a sealed road to its summit. At 604m, it is our highest peak to enjoy the spectacular views of Rockhampton city, deeply incised valleys, dry rainforests, fleeting glimpses of forest inhabitants and feasting cockatoos. Be sure to include the Nurim Circuit in your day. Located at the summit, Nurim Circuit is a 500 metre walk with impressive views from lookouts. The circuit extends 25 metres outwards, 7.5 metres high and incorporates interpretive signage of the local Darumbal culture.