From A$53 per person
Book tickets on Viator (opens in a new tab): Cairns History Walking TourYou book and pay on viator.com. Inclusable may earn a commission.
4.9 / 5 from 67 reviews on Viator
- Group size
- Up to 12
- Languages
- German, English
- Rating on Viator
- 4.9 / 5 · 67 reviews
About this tour
Walk through the heart of Cairns and journey back in time on a tour full of stories, secrets, and surprises. From the city’s early settlers to its iconic landmarks, uncover the fascinating tales that shaped Cairns into the vibrant city it is today. Along the way, experience hidden gems, hear captivating anecdotes, and see the city through the eyes of its past. Perfect for curious visitors who love history, storytelling, and a little adventure!
Accessibility, as stated by the supplier
- Wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair-accessible surfaces
- Wheelchair-accessible transport
- Stroller accessible
Meeting point: Cairns Museum. The nearest accessible public toilet to the meeting point is about 20 m away in a straight line, from the National Public Toilet Map.
Provided through Viator and not verified by Inclusable. Ask the supplier about your specific needs before you book.
Itinerary
View itinerary · 8 stopsHide itinerary
- 1
Discuss the historic meeting place for traditional owners and colonial settlers.(10 min)
- 2
Discuss the Shields Street traditional aboriginal shields street art by Paul Bong as well as the gold rush and establishment of the colony. The history of the Public Curators building, now the Cairns Regional Gallery, is explored.(10 min)
- 3
The history of the reef and rainforest as World Heritage Sites is discussed. The history of early settlers, including pirates, is discussed.(10 min)
- 4
The history of early government in Cairns is discussed in front of Mulgrave Shire building, the original local government headquarters for the colony.(10 min)
- 5
The war memorial next to the Casino is visited and the role of the wars in Cairns life, especially World War 2, is explored.(10 min)
- 6
From this position, the historic Bolands Centre as the first department store in Cairns is discussed. The Adelaide Steamship Company and the Central Hotel are also discussed from this vantage point.(10 min)
- 7
The Chinatown exhibit infront of the bookstore is visited to discuss the important role of the Chinese in Cairns history and the history of Grafton Street as the heart of Chinatown.(5 min)
- 8
Return to location of start of tour in front of Cairns Museum. Discuss the role of the School of Arts in the founding colony. Discuss the history of Hides hotel and the role of historic hotels in early colony life. Discuss the Trocadero Dance Hall across the road from Hides and role in World War 2 life for soldiers.(5 min)
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Included
- Tour Guide
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Nearest accessible public toilet to Cairns Museum
The nearest accessible public toilet to Cairns Museum is City Place, Cairns, about 20 m away.
City Place · about 20 m away in a straight line
Lake Street, Cairns, QLD (shopping centre)
- Accessible parking
Currently closed
Source: the National Public Toilet Map, data as at 1 September 2026. Distances are straight-line, not the walking route, and facilities can change — check before you rely on one. Facility record
Location & contact
- Area
- Cairns City, Cairns & the Tropical North, Queensland
- Meeting point
- Cairns Museum
- Address
- QLD, Australia
- Contact
- The tour operator’s own details aren’t published. Questions about access or your booking go through Viator, which handles the booking and passes your request to the operator.
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