48 hours in Townsville
In previous years Townsville has garnered a bit of an unfair reputation as an oversized country town with not as much to do - and that you may as well go straight to Magnetic Island. While Magnetic Island is incredible in its own sight, there are so many things to do in Townsville without having to jump on the ferry. The North Queensland city is perfect for a relaxing weekend away (with fantastic food to boot). Here’s what to do in Townsville: Queensland’s unexpected hotspot, over a quick a 48 hour trip.
9am
You’ve arrived! Whether by coach, train, air or private vehicle - welcome to the gateway city of Tropical North Queensland. Decide how you’re going to get around the city; public buses remain at 50c making it a great way to move around. Parking is readily available if travelling by car. The major sites in the city are within walking distance but be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen; it gets hot in the tropics. However you’re going; you’ll want to make your way down to ‘The Strand’; with a detour via Castle Rock for spectacular views.
Welcome to the north! Credit - Megan Mackinnon
11am
Townsvillians LOVE a brunch, and up here you will be spoilt for choice. Townsville’s best brunches include vegan delights at Sirens Bayside, homecooked pancake stacks at Grandmas and the traditional all day breakfasts from the Happy Place Cafe. And don’t forget the coffee! Coffeeworks, Chubby Magpie and Freelance Roasting all sell local beans you can take home to enjoy.
Credit - Townsville Enterprise
1pm
Escape the afternoon heat by heading over to the Museum of North Queensland. The massive (air conditioned!) space includes a scaled replica of the HMS Pandora’s hull, and a constantly changing selection of natural, historical and cultural exhibits. Occasionally there will be paid events that are well worth attending; from archaeologists who work on maritime preservation, to first nations artists and everything in between.
credit Museum of Tropical Queensland
3pm
Head back to your hotel to check in, followed by a refreshing swim in the on-site pool. No need to worry about stingers and ‘bitey things’ here! If you’re staying at our recommended property, the Grand Hotel and Apartments (and you should - more info below!); Palmer Street has a great selection of cafes and eateries around if you’re feeling peckish and want some nibbles to enjoy by the poolside, or from the comfort of your balcony.
Credit - Grand Hotel and Apartments
6pm
Take a walk across the Ross Creek to one of the newly opened breweries and bars that line the riverbanks. Townsville Brewing or Flinders Street Whaves are great locations to watch the sun set, turning Castle Rock an array of colours.
Credit - Townsville Enterprise
7:30pm
Where to go for dinner in Townsville? City Lane, just off of Flinders St, comes alive in the evening. Here, Melboune laneway dining meets the NQ tropics; you will find a selection of cusines to suit. Our favourites include the fried chicken from Zizigo and the fiesta dining at Poloa. Restauraunts are particularly busy on weekends so reservations are suggested to avoid wait times.
Credit - Townsville Enterprise
7am
Start your morning on the northern end of Townsville’s esplanade - home to several local cafes. Coffee in hand, make your way up to Kissing Point battery; a perfect lookout to enjoy your morning cuppa After, follow the boardwalk down towards Rowes Bay. Here you’ll pass by Garabarra lawn and the art installations there that tell the stories of Townsville’s traditional custodians.
Credit - Townsville Enterprise
10am
Check out of your hotel - though your adventure doesn’t end yet. Swing by Ottos Delicatessen (3 outlets across Townsville) and pick up some tasty goodies before your flight, train or drive back home. The stores sell an incredible selection of local and imported goodies - but above all the homemade donuts are a local favourite!
Where to stay in Townsville?
Credit - Grand Hotel and Apartments
If you’re looking for a splurge, The Ville and Ardo have great waterfront rooms overlooking Magnetic Island and The Strand.
However, we have another favourite - Grand Hotel and Apartments.
This small, locally-operated hotel has modern rooms with facilities rivalling international brands with the addition wonderfully helpful staff. Located in Palmer Street, guests are a stone’s throw from all of the excitement of Townsville (and most of it walkable if not hiring a car). The Grand also has some excellent sustainability initiatives - you can read our review of the Grand Hotel and Apartments here.