What to do and see in Rockhampton, Queensland: The Best Things to do Good for a Rainy Day

Rockhampton Art Gallery was established in 1967 and houses a group of mid-twentieth century paintings and works on paper that is arguably the finest in regional Queensland, and one of the most significant in regional Australia. Artists include Charles Blackman, Arthur Boyd, Sidney Nolan, Russell Drysdale, John Brack, Fred Williams, Grace Cossington Smith and Jeffrey Smart. The Gallery manages two art awards: the Gold Award, an acquisitive art prize worth $50,000 for contemporary Australian paintings; and the Bayton Award, a non-acquisitive prize worth $5,000 for Central Queensland residents. Through these Awards, the Gallery has re-energised its collection of paintings to now include works by contemporary artists Michael Zavros, Sally Gabori, Victoria Reichelt and Ben Quilty. The Gallery offers an innovated exhibition program, with displays drawn from the Gallery’s collection, and through hosting touring exhibitions from international, national, state, regional and university galleries. A diverse range of education and public programs are offered to visitors of all ages, from toddlers through to lifelong learners. The Gallery has a gift shop, and is supported by Rockhampton Regional Council; Rockhampton Art Gallery Trust and; Friends of Rockhampton Art Gallery.

Archer Park Rail Museum tells the story of rail in the Rockhampton district. Housed in Archer Park Station, built in 1899, it features displays of rail memorabilia, a variety of rolling stock including carriages and engines, and the only working Purrey Steam Tram in the world (operating Sundays, March to October). Experience a steam train arriving at the station with the Digital Soundscape system. Open Monday to Friday and Sundays, 9am to 4pm. Archer Park Rail Museum is owned by Rockhampton Regional Council. Rockhampton Region - gateway to Central Queensland.

The Saleyards Distillery is a boutique Distillery & Brewery based in Rockhampton. An Australian & family owned business, the Saleyards Distillery prides itself on high quality spirits and is fast becoming a vibrant tourist attraction for Spirit lovers from near and far. It's also home to Billy Goat’s Gin, Capricorn Rum, Clovendoe Vodka & Botanical concentrates. Located in the historic Saleyards Hotel, dating back to 1885. We invite you to come on a tour to see how the spirits are made and sample our range of delicious, award winning spirits. https://saleyardsdistillery.com/

Stockland Rockhampton is one of the largest shopping centres in the Central Queensland region, located on the corner of Yaamba Road and Bruce Highway, North Rockhampton. Anchored by 4 major stores; Coles, Kmart, Woolworths and Big W, there are also over 170 specialty stores including JB Hi-Fi, Harris Scarfe, Birch Carroll & Coyle & H&M. The indoor/outdoor dining precinct which opened in 2016 hosts eateries such as Rozzis, Burger Urge, Guzman y Gomez, Schnitz, Max Brenner & Gelatissimo.

Named after Rockhampton's former long-serving mayor, RBJ Pilbeam, the Pilbeam Theatre is located on the corner of Victoria Parade and Cambridge Streets, Rockhampton, overlooking the Fitzroy River. It is the focal point of a variety of events throughout the year including drama, dance, music, comedy and more. With seating for almost 1000 people (depending on configuration) the Pilbeam Theatre is the ideal venue for theatrical productions, small to large conferences, product demonstrations and launches, intimate cabarets and more.

The Tropic of Capricorn Spire Visitor Information Centre is located at the Tropic of Capricorn Spire on Gladstone Road, at the southern entrance to Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia. This visitor information centre offers a one stop shop for travel information including maps, brochures, and itineraries. Staffed by skilled and knowledgeable volunteers, the Spire can provide advice on the things to see and do, where to eat in the Rockhampton Region, that only the locals would know about.