Up For Unexpected? 8 Things That Will Surprise You About Townsville

When you picture Townsville, we won’t blame you if army personnel, mining projects and the Great Barrier Reef are the first things that come to mind. However, there’s so much more to this North Queensland city than meets the eye.

In fact, Townsville is the perfect holiday spot for adventurers who are Up For Unexpected! To get you excited for your trip, here are eight things that might just surprise you about Townsville.

Tropical island paradise is just 20 minutes away

Palm-fringed beaches, clear sapphire waters and vibrant fringing reefs. No, this isn’t Fiji or Hawaii; this is Magnetic Island! Just a 20-minute ferry from Townsville, this tropical island paradise is one of Australia’s greatest hidden gems and the perfect holiday spot for some fun in the sun. Swimming, snorkelling, sailing, water sports, hiking, biking and wildlife spotting are just a few of the many experiences Maggie has to offer, and with 300 days of sun each year, there’s never a bad time to visit!

The views in Townsville are unreal

If you love soaking in a beautiful view, there is no shortage of vantage points across the Townsville region. Castle Hill is a giant pink granite monolith standing proudly in the centre of Townsville, with numerous walking tracks leading to 360-degree city vistas, complete with Magnetic Island in the background. Speaking of Magnetic Island, you can’t miss the views at Forts Lookout, which also happens to be a prime location to spot wild koalas! Interestingly, both of these lookouts are steeped in military history, so be sure to check this out when you visit.

Townsville is the cultural capital of regional Australia

We bet you didn’t know that Townsville has a cultural and performing arts scene that rivals Australia’s biggest cities. As the cultural capital of regional Australia, you’ll find a host of acts, live shows and exhibitions regularly presented throughout Townsville’s creative spaces and galleries. Perc Tucker Regional Gallery is the city’s premier art space, specialising in works by North Queensland artists. However, you’ll find vibrant art at every turn while exploring Townsville, thanks to the inner Street Art Walking Trail.

There’s a burgeoning fine dining scene

Who knew that Townsville had not one, but two hatted restaurants? This region is quickly cementing its place as a premier dining district, with several world-class venues offering fresh ingredients, top chefs and an oh-so-inviting tropical atmosphere. If fine dining’s what you’re after, opt for the five-course degustation, complete with masterfully curated wine pairings, at Bridgewater or feast on award-winning modern Australian fare at JAM. For those wanting an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of North Queensland, head north to Ingham, a town dubbed ‘Little Italy’, thanks to over half of the population identifying as Italian or Italian descent.

Townsville is home to Australia’s only underwater art museum

A Townsville holiday offers a chance to explore the Great Barrier Reef a little differently. In 2020, the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) – the first in the Southern Hemisphere – opened, which has transformed part of the world’s largest coral reef system into an art gallery. MOUA features a series of installations by world-famous underwater sculptor, Jason deCaires Taylor, including the Coral Greenhouse, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest underwater art sculpture. To visit the MOUA, you’ll need a boat, some dive and snorkel gear, and a sense of adventure. Luckily, several tour operators can take you there.

The Great Barrier Reef isn’t the only nearby World Heritage Site

Tick not one, but two World Heritage-listed sites off your bucket list when visiting Townsville. Just an hour from the city is Paluma Range National Park, which marks the southern end of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Not only is Paluma home to Little Crystal Creek, perhaps Townsville’s best swimming hole, but it’s also a great spot for a barbeque or picnic. Head a little further north and you’ll reach the Hinchinbrook region, home to untouched beaches, Jurassic-like islands and Australia’s largest single-drop waterfall, Wallaman Falls.

You can experience a taste of the Aussie Outback

Despite its location along the coast, you don’t have to travel far from Townsville to experience a true taste of the Australian Outback. Venture 90 minutes west to Charters Towers, a country town rich in Gold Rush history and outback spirit. Once the largest goldfield in all of Australia, no visit to Charters Towers is complete without visiting The Miner’s Cottage, where you can learn how to pan for gold and keep what you find! Another must-do is Texas Longhorn Tours, which features one of Australia’s last horse-drawn wagon ride experiences to get up close to a magnificent herd of Texas Longhorn cows.

Luxury accommodation is abundant

Luxury seekers will find themselves spoilt for choice when searching for accommodation in Townsville. For a high-end, boutique feel reminiscent of destinations like Palm Springs or Europe, treat yourself to a stay at The Ville Resort-Casino. Six unique eateries, a designer infinity pool with a swim-up bar, a wellness spa and Townsville’s only casino are amongst the many amenities at this pristine resort. Plus, it’s just a leisurely stroll away from Townsville hotspot, The Strand, and its restaurants, bars and cafes.

Discover the unexpected with My Queensland

From natural wonders to cultural delights, a trip to Townsville offers endless surprises. If you’re Up For Unexpected, you’ll love our perfectly packaged Townsville holidays, complete with accommodation, experiences and so much more!

Get in touch with the Queensland Experts to start planning your action-packed Townsville getaway today.

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