Cairns Museum, Cairns Travel Guide

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Discover Cairns' captivating history at the Cairns Museum, exploring the people, places, and events that shaped Far North Queensland.

Located in the heart of Cairns within the heritage-listed School of Arts building, the Cairns Museum offers a captivating journey through the region's history. Exhibits showcase artifacts, photographs, and stories that have shaped Cairns and Far North Queensland, from its Indigenous roots to its development as a modern city.

A brief summary to Cairns Museum

Cairns School of Arts building, Cnr Lake and Shields St, 93/105 Lake St, Cairns City, QLD, 4870, AU
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Monday 10 am-4 pm
Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cairns Museum.

Take a guided tour to get an overview of the museum's highlights and learn insider stories from knowledgeable volunteers.
Look out for the NEMO trail, an interactive and hands-on experience designed especially for kids.
Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and school holiday programs.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Munro Martin Parklands

Cairns Botanic Gardens

Cairns Koalas & Creatures

Cairns Art Gallery

Michiko Memorial Garden

Explore Cairns Museum on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cairns Museum, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Cairns Museum is centrally located at the corner of Lake and Shields Streets, making it easily accessible on foot from most locations within the Cairns CBD. From the Cairns City Library, walk one block east along Shields Street. The museum will be on your right, housed within the historic School of Arts building.
Public Transport

The Cairns City Bus Station is located a short walk from the Cairns Museum. From the bus station, walk west along Lake Street towards the city center. The museum will be on your left, at the corner of Lake and Shields Streets. Bus fares within Cairns are $0.50 for a single trip.
Taxi/Ride Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Cairns. Simply request a ride to the Cairns Museum at the corner of Lake and Shields Streets. A short taxi ride from Cairns Central Shopping Centre will typically cost between $6 and $8.

Discover more about Cairns Museum

Housed in the iconic Cairns School of Arts building, the Cairns Museum is a treasure trove of stories, artifacts, and photographs that bring the history of Cairns and Far North Queensland to life. The museum's exhibits delve into the region's diverse past, highlighting the stories of the Indigenous people, the arrival of European settlers, and the development of key industries like sugar cane and railways.Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the unique ecosystems of the region, including the Great Barrier Reef, and learn about the challenges and triumphs of life in the tropics. From cyclones and cane fields to the evolution of tourism, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the social, cultural, and environmental forces that have shaped Cairns.The Cairns Museum is known for its friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable volunteer guides, who are passionate about sharing their insights into the city's history. With interactive displays and engaging exhibits, the museum offers something for visitors of all ages. It's an ideal place to escape the tropical heat and discover the stories behind this vibrant city.