Cairns Museum, Cairns

Steeped in the stories and heritage of this bustling city, the Cairns Museum is housed within the picturesque heritage-listed School of Arts Building, exuding charm and character.

A visit to the Cairns Museum is an immersive journey through time, offering a captivating insight into the diverse layers of Cairns' past. As you step inside, you'll be surrounded by a captivating array of artifacts, photographs, and narratives, each telling a tale that weaves together the intricate history of this coastal city.

The museum's intimate size does not diminish its impact; instead, it adds to the sense of wonder as you meander through the exhibits, each one bringing Cairns' history to life. From the ancient legacy of the Indigenous people who have inhabited these lands for thousands of years to the arrival of European settlers in the 1800s, the museum traces the city's growth and development over the years.

One of the museum's highlights is a captivating exhibit dedicated to the Cairns Wharf, once the lifeblood of the city. Here, the importance and impact of the wharf on Cairns' development are showcased, providing a glimpse into the past when bustling trade and maritime activity shaped the city's identity.

Another not-to-be-missed exhibit immerses visitors in the history of the Great Barrier Reef, a natural wonder that has played an integral role in the region's narrative. Through a mesmerizing collection of artifacts, photographs, and stories, the exhibit details the discovery of the Reef and the efforts to preserve its ecological marvels.