Things to do in Townsville

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Castle Hill featuring a sunset, landscape views and a city
The Strand showing a sunset
Castle Hill featuring a sunset, a small town or village and a bay or harbor
Castle Hill which includes landscape views and a city
Castle Hill showing general coastal views, landscape views and a sunset

Townsville Attractions

Curious about how to fill your days in Townsville? Relax. We've put together some terrific recommendations for you. Awesome food, an interesting history and spectacular sights — this energetic city has the lot.

Explore the best sights in Townsville with some popular tours & day trips, or try out our list of {32 fun activities in Townsville fun activities in Townsville}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can rest easy and concentrate on planning your perfect vacation.

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Most popular activities in Townsville

Tours & day trips

See all 23 activities
Palm Island Scenic Helicopter Flight

Palm Island Scenic Helicopter Flight

Activity duration is 1 hour
Free cancellation available
Price is $586 per traveler
Palm Island Scenic Helicopter FlightOpens in new tab

Cruises & boat tours

See all 7 activities
SeaLink Magnetic Island Ferry return trip from Townsville

SeaLink Magnetic Island Ferry return trip from Townsville

Activity duration is 16 hours
9.2 out of 10 with 13 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $27 per adult
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History & culture

See all 5 activities
Magnetic Island Private Tour

Magnetic Island Private Tour

Activity duration is 5 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $469 per traveler*
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Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 4 activities
Palm Island Scenic Helicopter Flight

Palm Island Scenic Helicopter Flight

Activity duration is 1 hour
Free cancellation available
Price is $586 per traveler
Palm Island Scenic Helicopter FlightOpens in new tab

Wildlife & nature

See all 3 activities
Magnetic Island Discovery Tour with Snorkeling & Paddle Boarding

Magnetic Island Discovery Tour with Snorkeling & Paddle Boarding

Activity duration is 5 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $104 per adult
Magnetic Island Discovery Tour with Snorkeling & Paddle BoardingOpens in new tab

What to do in Townsville

Free Things to Do in Townsville

There's no need to give your credit card a workout in Townsville. The following won't cost a cent.

Army Museum North Queensland - Chat to the staff or curator and learn all about the collections on display at this museum.

Cultural Centre Townsville - Strike up a conversation with a few locals and find out why many tourists drop by this place.

Catholic Diocese of Townsville - Enjoy some quiet contemplation and learn a few things about this site's religious importance.

Strand Park - Keep your eyes peeled for delicate shells and other seaside treasures dotted along the coastline here.

Castle Hill - Bring your camera and let the natural surrounds awaken awe and wonder in you.

Queens Gardens - If you enjoy spending time in the garden, this place will captivate your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Townsville with Kids

If you're taking a break with the kids, you'll find plenty of fun things to do together in Townsville. These family friendly experiences will put big smiles on faces both young and old:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Townsville? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Townsville

Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal featuring a ferry as well as a small group of people

Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal

This easy-to-navigate and very scenic transport hub is the gateway to the beaches, bush walks and wildlife of one of Queensland’s most idyllic islands.

Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal
North Ward which includes military items and interior views

The Strand Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at The Strand Beach during your travels in Townsville? While in this relaxing area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

The Strand Beach
Castle Hill featuring landscape views, general coastal views and tranquil scenes

Castle Hill

Catch the sea breezes on this pink granite landmark in the city’s heart and enjoy 360-degree views of the city’s harbor and across to Magnetic Island.

Castle Hill
The Stand overlooking Magnetic Island #sunset #myhome #thisistownsville #queensland

Strand Park

Strand Park is just one of the places to see in Townsville, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Strand Park
Museum of Tropical Queensland showing heritage elements and interior views

Museum of Tropical Queensland

Set out on a discovery tour of the cultural and natural heritage of North Queensland in this interactive waterfront museum with ever-changing exhibits.

Museum of Tropical Queensland
Queens Gardens featuring forests and a park

Queens Gardens

Walk beneath ancient hoop pines, navigate a maze, see the Australian cockatoos or have a picnic in the lush setting of these tropical gardens.

Queens Gardens

Queensland Country Bank Stadium

Catch an event at Queensland Country Bank Stadium during your trip to Townsville.

Queensland Country Bank Stadium

James Cook University

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at James Cook University during your stay in Townsville. Check out the charming cafes or top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

James Cook University

Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre

Catch an event at Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre during your trip to Townsville. Wander the riverfront and beautiful beaches in the area.

Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Townsville

The Strand which includes hiking or walking, a sunset and general coastal views

The Strand

Go for a swim, enjoy a meal with a view, take a Jet Ski tour or just stroll beneath the palm trees on Townsville’s scenic waterfront.

The Strand
Queens Gardens featuring forests and a park

North Ward

North Ward is known for its pristine beaches, and you can make a stop by Strand Waterpark and The Strand Beach while in the area.

North Ward
South Townsville showing heritage elements and interior views

South Townsville

Visitors highly recommend South Townsville for its abundant dining options, and you can make a stop by Maritime Museum of Townsville while you're in town.

South Townsville
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Kirwan

If you're spending some time in Kirwan, 1300SMILES Stadium and Aboriginal Reserve are top sights worth seeing.

Kirwan
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West End

Travelers like the historic sites in West End, and National Trust Heritage Centre is a top attraction you might want to visit.

West End
Castle Hill which includes a city and general coastal views

Castle Hill

Castle Hill is well-liked for its parks. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Townsville area, you might plan a trip to Townsville Sports Reserve or Catholic Diocese of Townsville.

Castle Hill
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Townsville

Nome which includes a pond and forest scenes

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Frequently asked questions

Is Townsville worth visiting?
Renowned for its coastal beaches and views, discovering fun things to do in Townsville is easy. Remember to add Magnetic Island National Park to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Townsville?
The Strand Beach and Strand Park are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Remember to check out the retail and dining options in Townsville while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Townsville?
Magnetic Island National Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Townsville and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Townsville?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off popular city attractions, like The Strand Beach, Strand Park and Museum of Tropical Queensland. The average stay in Townsville is three days. If you have the time to extend your getaway, Nelly Bay isn't far away.
Is Townsville a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Townsville, including The Strand Beach and Strand Park, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 1 mile from the city center of Townsville is North Ward and South Townsville is 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Townsville with kids?
Deciding what to do in Townsville with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're traveling with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly activities to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Townsville for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor adventurer, there are plenty of things to do in Townsville for adults including Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre and Arcadia Village.
Are there free things to do in Townsville?
In Townsville, The Strand Beach is a popular spot for anyone looking to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a good way to find out about the best free things to do in Townsville.

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