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Cairns History Walking Tour

67 Reviews 4.91 out of 5 stars Based on 67 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 99% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Cairns & the Tropical North, Australia
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
German
Instant confirmation

Overview

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!

What's Included

  • Tour Guide

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    Cairns School of Arts building
    Cnr Lake and Shields St, 93/105 Lake Street, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

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    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    What To Expect

    Book Online

    Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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    Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

    Cairns Museum

    Discuss the historic meeting place for traditional owners and colonial settlers.
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    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Cairns Art Gallery

    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.
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    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

    The history of the reef and rainforest as World Heritage Sites is discussed. The history of early settlers, including pirates, is discussed.
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    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Cairns Tourist Information Centre

    The history of early government in Cairns is discussed in front of Mulgrave Shire building, the original local government headquarters for the colony.
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    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    The Reef Hotel Casino

    The war memorial next to the Casino is visited and the role of the wars in Cairns life, especially World War 2, is explored.
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    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    The Chambers

    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.
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    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Crystal Ball Bookstore

    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.
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    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Hides Hotel Cairns

    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.
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    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Show 7 more stops

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

    Frequently Asked Questions (8)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Cairns History Walking Tour?

    A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (AEST).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-173382P3

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    4.91
    67 reviews

    Average 4.91 out of 5 stars based on 67 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

    5 stars
    64
    4 stars
    2
    3 stars
    0
    2 stars
    0
    1 star
    1
    Don't miss out!
    On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

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    What's Included

    Activity name

    • Tour Guide

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers

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