City of Cairns
Cairns is the capital city of Far North Queensland. The 16th largest city in Australia, with a population of over 140,000 people, Cairns is continuing to be a favoured destination - for its rare mixture of ecological environments and its cosmopolitan, colourful coastal character.
Cairns' location is absolutely magnificent. Located 400km from the northernest part of the State of Queensland, it lies on the warm waters of Trinity Bay.
No matter which direction is taken you will come across a World Heritage listed site The Great Barrier Reef or the Daintree Rainforest.
| To the North: | Wet tropics rainforest and World Heritage National Parks. |
| To the South: | Rugged Ranges and numerous Waterfalls & Lakes. |
| To the East: | The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Coral Cays and Tropical Islands. |
| To the West: | The mountainous Rainforest and the plains of the Atherton Tablelands. |
Cairns continues to develop & modernise - as can be appreciated from endeavours such as the Cairns Convention Centre, Cairns Reef Casino, Cairns City Council Chambers and major shopping complexes - whilst preserving sweet touches from its pioneering days, such as The Pioneer cemetery on McLeod Street or the Cairns City Library on the corner of Abbott/Aplin streets. These are just some of the unique structures that help to add a sense of living history to this relatively young 123 year old coastal city.
The Esplanade
The Esplanade is peaceful during the day with visitors catching the early morning rays and watching the unique bird life feeding along the mudflat's. Palm trees line the length of the Esplanade highlighting the Tropical feel of this warm city. After the sun goes down, the Esplanade is a hive of activity with traders and restaurants preparing for the hundreds of people who flock to embrace the almost carnival atmosphere.
The aroma of pasta, seafood and steaks are in the air as restaurants and eateries feed hungry visitors and locals. Tour booking agencies are busy with tourists booking the next few days of activities.
More information about the Cairns Esplanade
Cairns Regional Art Gallery
The Cairns Regional Art Gallery is located in the City Centre. The Building itself is a work of art. The Gallery is housed in what used to be the Cairns Courthouse. This is a classic example of the nostalgic architecture found in Cairns.
Whilst at the Cairns Regional Art Gallery you may wish to enjoy a cup of coffee or a light snack at Perrotta's in front of the Gallery. From here you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere of Cairns.
More information about the Cairns Regional Art Gallery
Reef Casino
Apart from all the gaming you would expect from an Internationally operated Casino, you will be enchanted with the architectural and interior design of this modern complex.
On the rooftop, The Cairns Rainforest Dome is a spectacular all weather wildlife exhibit which is considered by many to be a rainforest tour. Encased by a 20 metre high glass dome on the rooftop of the prominent Reef Hotel Casino. Situated right in the heart of Cairns, approximately 60 species of animals are able to wander and fly freely throughout the enclosure that replicates their natural environment.
The Casino lobby often displays the work of prominent artists for visitors.
Inside the Casino you be pleasantly surprised by the deco of the gaming tables and beautiful ceilings. The only thing you are guaranteed to lose is your breath.
More information about the Cairns Reef Casino
Cairns Convention Centre
Another new addition to Cairns, the Convention Centre is the venue to national and international performing artists. It is also the home of the Cairns Taipans, our national basketball league team.
The design of this building is once again a highlight to Cairns, its unique shell-like design incorporates into the Tropical theme of Cairns. It boasts state of the art facilities, for small conferences under 100 to large conventions for over 3000.
More information about the Cairns Convention Centre
City Place
The heart of the City of Cairns, you will find assorted retail shops, tour booking agencies, Internet access, restaurants and free entertainment. The sound shell regularly offers free entertainment with Island dancers and local artists performing free for the public.
The architecture is that of the old and new Cairns with buildings from a bygone era side by side with the new. Here you will also find the Cairns Museum where visitors and locals can learn about Cairns and how it became the International destination it is today.
Cairns Civic Theatre
The Cairns Civic Theatre is owned and operated by the Cairns City Council, and it has been presenting some of the best arts and entertainment available in Australia, since it was opened in 1974.
More than 100 shows are presented at the theatre each year, ranging from local amateur shows to national and international touring extravaganzas. Whether your interest is in comedy, dance, drama, circus or another form of live entertainment, the chances are you can see it at the Cairns Civic Theatre
More information about the Cairns Civic Theatre
