Looking for things to do in Cairns City centre? From cheap massages, to zip-lining over a crocodile, Cairns city has activities for everyone!
Here’s our ultimate guide of things to do in Cairns City centre. All the activities are in walking distance of each other, so you don’t even need to hire a car!
1. The Night Markets
Whether you’re looking for the ultimate Aussie souvenir, or you fancy a 15 dollar massage (yes really), the night markets has you covered!
The night markets also has a range of yummy food options, including churros, gelato and pancakes. Perfect for dessert!
The night markets are open every night from 5PM and are located in an indoor complex near the esplanade.
2. Take A Dip In The Lagoon
With all-round warm weather, Cairns is made for swimming! The Esplanade Lagoon is a 4800 square metre saltwater lagoon overlooking the picturesque Trinity Inlet.
Relax on the timber decking or the sandy beach and cool off under the streaming water from the iconic fish sculptures.
3. Zipline Over a Crocodile at Cairns ZOOM
If you are looking for things to do in Cairns City centre with a side of adrenaline, look no further than Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome!
Located on the roof of the Reef Hotel Casino, this unique spot is the world’s first high ropes course within a wildlife exhibit.
You can enjoy a bungee-style jump, walk on the outside of the top of the casino and zipline over a giant saltwater crocodile!
4. Cafe Hop on Grafton Street
Grafton Street is the home to a smorgasbord of quirky cafes, so we recommend heading here for brunch!
Pop across the road to Rusty’s Markets for some scrumptious street food and try the Vietnamese coffee at the iconic Annee’s Caphe.
5. St Monica’s Cathedral
The stunning St Monica’s Cathedral is home to the world’s largest themed stained glass windows. The windows depict the story of creation from the Book of Genesis.
You can visit St Monica’s Cathedral, Palm Cove and other iconic attractions in Cairns City and its surrounds on Cairns City Tour and Surrounds.
6. Cuddle a Koala
Having your photo taken holding a koala should be on everyone’s list and at Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome you can cuddle a koala in Cairns city!
The koala photo experience includes a digital and printed copy of your photo.
7. Get Your Fitness Fix
Cairns Esplanade has free fitness classes 5 days a week. Choose from a range of fun activities including zumba, volleyball, yoga and more.
8. Unleash Your Inner Art Critic
Cairns Art Gallery is a free public venue that has works and exhibitions by local, national and international artists.
9. Shop, Shop, Shop
From local boutiques, to Australian brands, Cairns is truly a shopping mecca.
Cairns Central shopping centre, located on McLeod Street, is home to a number of large Australian brands including Myer, Sportsgirl and Lorna Jane.
If you after something a little bit quirky, head to Oceana Walk on Grafton Street. Search for treasures in vintage stores, browse locally-owned children’s stores and more.
10. Jet Boating
Head out to explore the Trinity Inlet on the action-packed Bad Fishy jet-boat! It’s pretty much a roller-coaster on the water.
11. Enjoy The Theatre
The newly-build Cairns Performing Arts Centre is the ultimate venue to catch a play, enjoy a concert or be blown away by a film festival.
12. Muddy’s Playground
Located on the Esplanade, Muddy’s Playground is sure to provide hours of entertainment for the little ‘uns.
This modern, fun playground has a water play areas, seasaws, rope bridges, slides and more.
13. Visit Trendy Bars
Watch out Melbourne: Cairns is seriously upping it’s bar game!
If you’re looking for things to do in Cairns City centre at night, check out the cities trendy bars.
We recommend checking out the sweeping city views from Rocco, which is located at the top of the Riley Crystalbrook Hotel. Alternatively, grab a wood-smoked “Smoke on the water” cocktail at lane way bar Three Wolves.
14. See The Best Views In Cairns From The Top Of A Building!
Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome’s Dome Climb offers stunning city views with a side of adrenaline!
Enjoy an external walk around a 60cm wide platform on the outside of the roof of the Dome and enjoy 365 degree stunning views. See the beautiful Trinity Inlet flowing out to the Great Barrier Reef, the marina and gorgeous city views sweeping out to the green mountains!
Book Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome for the ultimate fun experience right in the middle of Cairns City!
