Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Cairns may be a pretty face but its history is also rich and deep, going back at least 40,000 years. Explore beyond the rainforest and reef to the ancient and recent history, complete with stories and photographable architecture, art and landmarks. We look at buildings of significance from the early colony, including architectural styles, as well as indigenous outdoor artworks. You will learn about the importance of the natural features of Cairns (reef and rain forest), the oldest living culture in the world and pre-colonial lifestyle. We talk about the challenges of colonisation, pirates and opium trade, and the early gold rush, farming, business, and the cultural melting pot that makes Cairns what it is today. Historic buildings highlighted include: Cairns Museum, Cairns Art Gallery, Mulgrave Shire Office, Telegraph Office, Post Office, Chambers, Boland's Department Store, the Adelaide Steamship Company, Central Hotel, Chinatown, and Hides Hotel.

Explore Cairns at your own pace and make your own schedule on this self-guided audio tour. Download the entertainingly narrated tour and begin whenever you like. Wander along the Esplanade Lagoon while listening to stories about the impact of war and the Gold Rush on the region. Admire indigenous artwork at the Jungara Gallery while listening to background information about the Aboriginal peoples and even visit a rooftop wildlife center.

Each restaurant will showcase their Farm to Plate approach. Featuring the finest seafood and meats, sustainable, locally-grown produce and native foraged ingredients our chefs handcraft into exciting modern cuisines for you to enjoy. Our Sommeliers meticulously pair each course with fine Australian wines for the perfect, complimentary sip. This tour is perfect for anyone who loves food + wine. It's also a great way to try 3 of the best restaurants in Cairns in one day if your short on time and gives you the opportunity to return to your favourite restaurant at another time.

Cairns is amazing Town steeped in History. Famous not only for its Reef and Rainforest but also for its early history and the trials and tribulations of the early settlers. Your tour not only encompasses the natural environment of Cairns and it’s surrounds but some of its early history and architecture. Kuranda Skyrail and the Historical Train can be included by prior arrangement.