what to do on a weekend trip to townsville
In previous years Townsville has garnered a bit of an unfair reputation as an oversized country town with not as much to do as Cairns. However this North Queensland city packs an enormous punch and is perfect for a weekend getaway to the tropics!
We’re going to pass on our top recommendations on things to do in ‘the capital of the North’ including some underrated stops!
Townsville’s history
Many people don’t realize that Townsville is one of the newer cities in Australia.
If you’re interested in learning more about Townsville’s history, we definitely recommend taking some time to visit the Museum of North Queensland for some facinating exhibits on maritime and modern history. We’d also suggest taking the Jezzine Barracks walk to learn more about the xx people who have acted as custodians of the land.
THINGS TO DO IN TOWNSVILLE
(THAT AREN’T JUST GOING TO MAGNETIC ISLAND OR CLIMBING CASTLE HILL)
Pick up some local goodies at Warrina
If you’ve never heard of Otto’s before coming to Townsville, you’d be forgiven. However it is an absolute crime to leave town without trying one of their incredible homemade goodies! The Warrina hub is a brilliant collection of deli, seafood, coffee shops and excellent gift shopping at Renegades Vintage. Our top tip? Grab a Vietnamese Iced Coffee from Annees, a fresh Donut from Ottos and spend the morning browsing the vintage goodies.
You can reach Warrina from Townsville City by taking the number xx bus, driving (free parking on site) or taking a taxi.
WALK THE JEZZINE BARRACKS TRAIL
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WHERE TO STAY IN TOWNSVILLE
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 incredibly comfortable rooms and we were so impressed with the property’s dedication to acting sustainably. When booking through the website, you have an option for a serviced or unserviced room. If you’re staying for a short time and don’t need your room refreshed, the hotel will take the cost of this and donate it to a local charity. Doors leading to balconies automatically turn off the air-conditioning and thoughtful signs remind you to reuse your towels where possible.
The hotel’s located in Palmer Street, which is well known for its range of dining options. You can easily walk the path along the riverside. We loved the complementary secure parking on site.