Interwoven into the very fabric of Townsville is our expansive arts and culture scene. it's a well-known fact that the Townsville region simply overflows with cultural experiences and it's why we're known as the culture capital of regional Australia. From intimate and engaging indigenous experience to absolute 'wow!' moments at our many galleries and museums, discover why the Townsville region should be your first stop when seeking an in-depth and outstanding culture and art experience. 

Engage with Townsville North Queensland Must Do Indigenous Experiences

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the world's oldest living culture. The traditional owners and custodians of our land are the first people to have lived in the Townsville region and here are many opportunities to engage with and understand their incredible stories. 

Head north to Mungalla Station to immerse yourself in the culture and 45,000-year history of the Nywaigi Aboriginal People. Here you'll listen to their ancient tales marred by the stories of the often-brutal conflict between the Aboriginal people and European settlers, which shaped this area to how it is today. Learn how to throw a boomerang before enjoying a traditional Kup Murri feast. Mungalla Station is best visited via group tour or camping. 

Afterwards head south to visit Gudjuda Country and join Gudjuda Tours' Bush Tukka and Rock Art Tours. Learn from the elders of the traditional owners about seasonal bush tucker and rock art across the Townsville region, starting with a Welcome to Country and a traditional smoking ceremony, uncover how different fruits, leaves, bark, and bushes have been (and continue to be) used for medicine, food, weapons, canoes and more. 

Immerse yourself in Townsville North Queensland Museums and Galleries 

The Townsville region is teeming with museums and galleries, suitable for a range of artistic tastes. 

For those interested in Queensland's natural and cultural heritages, you'll want to make your way to the Queensland Museum Tropics. Found in the heart of Townsville, Queensland Museum Tropics displays a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions, with more than a million items in their collection. 

If local history is more your style, the Townsville Museum and Historical Society displays the objects that tell the stories of Townsville from the early 1860's and onwards and you can examine photographs, plans, and journals of our area. 

For those interested in galleries, you'll want to admire the work of local and Australian artist at the Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts. Priding itself on bringing together diverse voices, the Umbrella Studio has a continuous rotation of thought-provoking pieces plus many workshops and programs on offer. 

Be sure not to leave Townsville, without visiting the Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. Located within one of Townsville's heritage buildings, this gallery is home to a considerable collection of North Queensland art as well as hosting national and international exhibitions. 

And we simply can't forget the Pinnacles Gallery. A part of the Riverway Arts Centre, Pinnacles Gallry presents local and touring exhibitions and has a strong focus on the Townsville community while also hosting numerous public events. 

Townsville North Queensland Must See Thriving Theatre Scene 

Townsville theatre and performing arts scene is well regarded across Australia, mixing local performing art organisations with visiting national and international artist.

Putting Townsville on the map as a premier cultural destination is the Townsville Civic Theatre, which boasts a year-round calendar of theatre, dance, comedy and music. If the sheer variety and quantity of the Townsville Civic Theater doesn't immediately grab you, the Burdekin Theatre, located in Ayr, also hosts hundreds of live performances, festivals, local events, exhibitions and more each year. Whichever you choose be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment! 

The Outback Way of Life 

Townsville's culture extends far beyond the cities and coasts. If you want to submerge yourself in the outback's way of life, you'll need to put Charters Towers at the top of your list. Get your Australian Outback Experience on at the Miner’s Cottage where you can pan for gold and explore the fully functional blacksmith shop before visiting the Texas Longhorn Tours where you'll enjoy one of the last horse-drawn wagon ride experiences in Australia and enjoy a cup of billy tea.

So, whether you're interested in art, theatre, museums, outback experiences or immersing yourself in our celebrated Indigenous culture, the Townsville region has something for everyone.