Choose from 889 Fun Things to Do in Australia And The Pacific
ShowingFilter 281-300 of 889 listings.
Henty Sand Dunes
Rising from the coastline of western Tasmania like soft, shapeshifting mountains, the Henty sand dunes are natural wonders on the outskirts of the town of Strahan. Trek to the top of these wind-sculpted pinnacles for sweeping views of the shoreline, and then feel the rush of wind in your face as you race down the dunes on a sandboard. Tall, dusty and with a soft cushion for landing, the largest dunes can create heart-pumping runs as you slide your way toward the shoreline.
Or, to really explore the depths of the dunes as they stretch inland toward the interior, rev the engine of a 4WD quad bike and bounce away from the coast. Along the way you can drink in the views of Tasmania’s largest dune structure, and given the otherwise lush surroundings of the rainforest-laden west coast, you’ll see that the desert-like pinnacles are beautifully out of place. At the end of the day, stick around to watch the sun go down beneath the distant western horizon, and enjoy the isolated, elevated perch from the top of your very own dune.
Practical Info
The Henty sand dunes are seven miles from Strahan, a popular destination on the west coast of Tasmania located 185 miles from Hobart. West coast winters can be rainy and brisk, so the best time to visit the Henty sand dunes is during the summer and fall. There is no admission charge to visit the dunes should you decide to see them on your own. Sandboarding tours and quad bike tours depart from the center of Strahan.
Address: Zeehan Road, Strahan, Tasmania, Australia
From $ 323
Old Melbourne Gaol
Old Melbourne Gaol is a former prison turned museum at the top of Russell St in Melbourne’s CBD. A solid and formidable looking bluestone building, the jail is famous for having housed many of Victoria’s most notorious and infamous criminals, including the bushranger Ned Kelly.
During the Gaol’s operation as a prison between 1845 and 1924, a total of 135 people were hanged here and today’s museum displays the death masks, information and memorabilia that belonged to the prison and its unfortunate inmates.
Rumored to be haunted, the Gaol capitalizes on its reputation by offering night tours and stages a live performance each Saturday relating to the life and death of its most famous inmate, Ned Kelly.
The Old Melbourne Gaol also gives visitors the chance to ‘stand in the shoes’ of a prisoner or a judge inside the City Watch House and the Old Magistrates’ Court. The City Watch House Experience is the chance to be ‘arrested’ and locked in a cell for a short period, while in the Old Magistrates’ Court you can be play at being the accused, judge or jury.
During the Gaol’s operation as a prison between 1845 and 1924, a total of 135 people were hanged here and today’s museum displays the death masks, information and memorabilia that belonged to the prison and its unfortunate inmates.
Rumored to be haunted, the Gaol capitalizes on its reputation by offering night tours and stages a live performance each Saturday relating to the life and death of its most famous inmate, Ned Kelly.
The Old Melbourne Gaol also gives visitors the chance to ‘stand in the shoes’ of a prisoner or a judge inside the City Watch House and the Old Magistrates’ Court. The City Watch House Experience is the chance to be ‘arrested’ and locked in a cell for a short period, while in the Old Magistrates’ Court you can be play at being the accused, judge or jury.
Address: 377 Russell St, Melbourne, Australia
Hours: Open 9:30am-5pm daily. Closed Good Friday and Christmas.
Admission: Adults $25; Children $13.50
From $ 20
Hill Inlet
Often described as one of the best views in all of Australia, Hill Inlet is a must-visit in the Whitsunday Islands area. Its a feature of countless tours throughout the region and sits on the large Whitsunday Island at Whitehaven Beach.
If you travel along Whitehaven Beach to the north, you'll run into Hill Inlet. Try to be there when the tides are retreating, as this is when you'll have the luxury of watching perfect white sands appear in a twist among the clear blue waters. From the air, it almost looks unnatural, like a water-color painting or a colorful piece of sand art.
Most people arrive by boat and take a dingy ashore. To truly appreciate the view, however, you'll want to make your way to the most popular lookout point over Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, a spot called Tongue Point. It's here that the magnitude of the beach and inlet are best experienced.
Practical Info
Most visitors come to Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday cruises or via a powerboat. However, if you're in a self-sufficient boat, you can anchor just off the beach as well. Another great way to see the amazing beach and inlet is via flightseeing or helicopter tour.
Address: Whitsunday Island National Park, Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia
From $ 97
Ku-ring-gai Chase
Located in northern Sydney, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is the second-oldest national park in the country and a favorite among campers, hikers and nature lovers. Its lush rainforest landscape, quiet creeks and mountain passes lead visitors to forget Ku-ring-gai Chase is still within Sydney city limits, but its incredible views, thick mangroves and scenic drives make it the perfect escape from center city hustle.
The park is on the Australian National Heritage List, and travelers often wander its well-kept walking paths that wind through the Australian jungle. Driving may prove the easiest way to navigate the area, but many visitors prefer to call upon bicycles and horses to explore. An ideal day trip, Ku-ring-gai Chase offers public picnic spaces, paddle and sailboats and scenic overlooks like the Barrenjoey Lighthouse.
Practical Info
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is accessible by car from Turramurra, Mt Colah, Terrey Hills and Church Point. It is open from sunrise to sunset but may close in inclement weather, so it’s best to call ahead during poor conditions. Gates near Bobbin Head and Appletree Bay are closed between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. daily, and gates to West Head are closed from 8:30 p.m. until 6 a.m. Entry fees are $11 per vehicle per day.
Address: Bobbin head Road, North Turramurra, New South Wales, Australia
Hours: Daily
From $ 37
Hobbiton
There’s something exciting and wildly intriguing about touring the set of movie, where you get to stand in the exact same spot as some of your favorite characters. That sense of intrigue is heightened, however, when your favorite characters are hobbits—the little people with epic quests in The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings trilogies. Here in the rolling pasturelands and hills of Matamata, the set of Hobbiton, home of the hobbits, is masterfully maintained and exceptionally preserved, down to the smallest detail. Stand in the home where Bilbo hosts a party for his wizard friend, Gandalf, and grab a drink at the Green Dragon Inn, the local Hobbiton watering hole. Along with an exceptionally knowledgeable guide, wander the foot trails that weave through the village past rows of real-life hobbit holes, and soak up the pastoral beauty of The Shire—a hobbit village come to life.
Even for those not familiar with the films, the attention to detail when building the set is reason enough to visit, and learn the backstory and all the work required to transform this emerald pasture to a real-life Hobbiton village. Since the attraction is so popular, you can save time and get an up-close experience by booking a VIP, beat the crowds tour where you have The Shire to yourself.
Practical Info
Whether visiting independently or as part of a tour, all tours meet at The Shire’s Rest where you’ll board a bus for the short drive through the sheep pasture to Hobbiton. Sturdy footwear is recommended, and all visitors must arrive for their tour at least 15 minutes before departure.
Did You Know? The location of Hobbiton was found when the director, Peter Jackson, was searching the North Island by helicopter.
Address: 501 Buckland Road, Hinuera, New Zealand
Hours: Tours available from 9am-4:30pm with extended hours in summer.
Admission: Adults: $79; Child: $39.50. Children under 8 years old are free with a paying adult.
From $ 58
Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre
Because of its remote, isolated location and the fact it’s surrounded by water, New Zealand houses species of birds found nowhere else on the planet. Unfortunately, decades of growth and introduced species have had drastic effects on their habitat, with many species having gone extinct from hunting, disease, and predation. One place the birds are thriving, however, is the Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Center, located 2 hours north of Wellington in the Wairarapa region. When visiting this captive breeding sanctuary, you’ll see rare birds like takahe, stitchbirds, saddlebacks, and kokako, and this is the only place in New Zealand where many of these birds are living in captivity. Follow along with daily talks as staff discuss the bird species, and get the chance to feed playful kaka at one of the numerous feeding stations. You can also see New Zealand’s only white kiwi that’s currently found in captivity, and venture inside the nocturnal house for a look at its brown-feathered cousins. You’ll also find slippery, long filled eels and learn their fascinating history, and maybe even lend a hand in planting some native trees.
Practical Info
General admission includes daily talks as well as access to the aviaries. For an added fee, you can also experience multiple tours that range from foraging for tuatara food to wandering the center at night.
Trains are available from Wellington to Masterton, where you can rent a car, take a taxi, or board a Tranzit bus for Palmerston North and disembark at the wildlife center.
Address: 85379 SH 2, Mount Bruce 5881, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily 9am-4:30pm
Admission: Adults: $20; Children: $6
From $ 14
Puffing Billy Railway
Chugging its way through the rugged bushlands, fern gullies, and ancient woodlands of the Dandenong Ranges, the Puffing Billy Railway is one of Australia’s most scenic train journeys. The spectacular views of the Yarra Valley are just part of the experience—the historic steam engines, Victorian-style interiors, and open-air carriages that allow for dangling legs make it a fun and memorable activity for the whole family.
The Basics
It’s possible to ride the Puffing Billy steam train in either direction, but most passengers start at Belgrave Station. From there, it’s 15 miles (25 kilometers) or 1 hour and 50 minutes one-way to Gembrook Station, with passage over the Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge and stops at Menzies Creek, Emerald, Lakeside, and Cockatoo. Tours from Melbourne often combine a ride on the historic railway with other regional highlights such as the Healesville Sanctuary, wine tasting at Yarra Valley wineries, a Melbourne city tour, or a visit to Penguin Parade on Phillip Island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets sell out, especially during the summer holidays, so book ahead to avoid disappointment.
- All stations have parking, restrooms, and a cafe or snack bar.
- Luggage space is limited, so bring a small day bag and opt for a fold-up stroller.
- Steam locomotives are sometimes replaced with diesel locomotives during Total Fire Ban (when dry weather increases the risk of forest fires).
- Wheelchair access is available at all stations, but spaces are limited and must be booked in advance.
How to Get There
The Puffing Billy Railway runs from Belgrave to Gembrook through the foothills of the Blue Dandenong Ranges in the Yarra Valley. The starting point of the railway is at Belgrave Station, 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Melbourne. Trains run to Belgrave from Flinders Street Station in the city—just follow the blue line from Belgrave Station that leads to Puffing Billy Station, a short walk away. If you’re driving, it's around an hour's drive from downtown Melbourne.
When to Get There
The Puffing Billy Railway runs around four times daily, with both morning and afternoon departures from Belgrave. Trains run year-round, but they get crowded in summer, so it’s best to book ahead.
Special Events Aboard the Puffing Billy
For something more, book tickets for the special Steam & Cuisine journeys and dine aboard the century-old steam train, or enjoy a themed Jazz or Murder Mystery train ride by night. Those with kids in tow can treat the little ones to a Day out with Thomas, when Puffing Billy is transformed into Thomas the Tank Engine, or ride on the Santa Special Christmas trains.
Address: Puffing Billy Station, 1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave 3160, Australia
Hours: Open daily, except Christmas Day
Admission: varies
From $ 76
High Court of Australia
Anyone standing in the Parliamentary Triangle will notice the High Court of Australia. A towering building of concrete and glass that rises 130 feet, the court is an award-winning piece of architecture on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. The glass is meant to symbolize transparency in Australia’s judicial process, and visitors are welcome to sit on proceedings whenever court is in session. Many of Australia’s most notable cases have been conducted here in this building, and the laws that govern the entire nation are handed down from these halls.
Three different courtrooms and a public hall are accessible to courthouse visitors, and even during times when court isn’t in session, the public hall can host cultural events or even afternoon concerts. Informative placards highlight events that have shaped the court system’s past, and with the exception of marble that has been imported from Italy, all of the timber and beams in the courthouse are made from Australian wood. Part functioning legal facility and part design attraction, the High Court of Australia is a noble stop when visiting downtown Canberra.
Practical Info
The High Court of Australia is open for visits on Monday-Friday, 9:45am-4:30pm, and admission is free. Court is usually in session for two weeks out of every month, with the exception of January and July when the court is in recess. For visitors who do end up sitting in court, it’s customary to bow upon entrance and exit and to sit for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Address: Parkes Pl, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:45am-4:30pm
From $ 140
Kuranda
The picturesque mountain town of Kuranda is tucked into forest-clad hills 16 miles (25 kilometers) northwest of Cairns in Queensland, Australia. The journey to Kuranda is part of its appeal; visitors get spectacular views of lush forests and towering waterfalls, whether traveling there by train, skyrail, or road. The laid-back town is known for its outdoor markets, eateries, wildlife tours, and alternative vibe.
The Basics
Kuranda is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Cairns. Shoppers can browse art galleries, boutiques, and open-air markets for handicrafts, didgeridoos, and Aboriginal art, while nature lovers can explore Australian wildlife in parks and nature preserves nearby. (Both Kuranda National Park and Barron Gorge National Park form part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.) Many travelers opt to ride an enclosed gondola on the 4.5-mile (7.5-kilometer) Skyrail Rainforest Cableway from Kuranda to Smithfield (1.5 hours with stops at its rain forest stations) or round-trip. Among Kuranda’s other popular attractions are the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Kuranda Koala Gardens, the Reforestation Nature Park, and Birdworld Kuranda.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kuranda is a kid-friendly destination with activities for all ages, from animal lovers to souvenir shoppers.
- Wear sturdy shoes for strolling around Kuranda and nearby park attractions, where most, but not all, paths are well-maintained with wheelchair-accessible facilities.
- Although Kuranda tends to be cooler than the coast, summers are still hot, with January the warmest month.
How to Get There
To get to Kuranda from Cairns in style and enjoy the scenery, ride 90 minutes one-way on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. The 1-hour and 45-minute train trip chugs from downtown Cairns through Barron Gorge National Park to Kuranda, offering clear views of landmarks such as Barron Falls and Stoney Creek Falls. By car or bus, it’s about 30 minutes to Kuranda from Cairns.
When to Get There
Kuranda’s mild climate allows for year-round activity, but the summer wet season from January to March is considered the best time to see Kuranda’s rain forest. The winter months span June to August.
Wildlife in Kuranda
To see wildlife in Kuranda, head to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, which shelters thousands of butterflies, or the Rainforestation Nature Park, which offers boat tours and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. At Kuranda Koala Gardens, travelers can get close to koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles under the supervision of trained professionals. Head to the Barron River from Kuranda’s town center to take a wildlife-spotting cruise and see freshwater crocodiles, water dragons, and tropical birds.
Address: Condoo Street, Kuranda 4881, Australia
From $ 15
Hervey Bay
Referred to as the “Whale Watching Capital of the World,” Hervey Bay is blessed with tranquil beaches and a mild sub-tropical climate that make it a delight to visit year round.
It’s a relaxed and charming city that is popular with tourists who come to whale watch, swim, fish and explore the surrounding countryside including catching the ferry to Fraser Island.
There are plenty of activities for the whole family in Hervey Bay especially on those calm blue waters that are perfect for sailing, jet skiing, fishing and diving. There are plenty of activities inland as well such as golf, horse riding and sky diving. During the winter months from August to October there are the whales who use Hervey Bay as their winter playground.
It’s a relaxed and charming city that is popular with tourists who come to whale watch, swim, fish and explore the surrounding countryside including catching the ferry to Fraser Island.
There are plenty of activities for the whole family in Hervey Bay especially on those calm blue waters that are perfect for sailing, jet skiing, fishing and diving. There are plenty of activities inland as well such as golf, horse riding and sky diving. During the winter months from August to October there are the whales who use Hervey Bay as their winter playground.
Practical Info
Hervey Bay is 3.5 hours drive from Brisbane or under 1 hour by airplane. Plenty of bus companies pass through Hervey Bay and there is also a high-speed tilt train from Maryborough. If you're traveling to Fraser Island, you can catch the ferry or book a tour from here.
Address: Hervey Bay, QLD, Australia
From $ 131
Mitre Peak
Set smack in the middle of Milford Sound, Mitre Peak is the undisputed star in an already impressive show. Craggy, lonely and often shrouded in mist, this iconic spire thrusts a mile upwards from the placid waters of the Sound. When you arrive in Milford Sound after the serpentine road through the mountains, Mitre Peak rises before you like a sentinel to congratulate you on making the journey. This is easily one of the most oft-photographed sites in New Zealand—and when you stare at its stoic profile against the water you can immediately
understand why.
To get a closer view of Mitre Peak, crane your neck upwards at the 5,500-foot summit during a cruise of Milford Sound. Or, paddle beneath its alpine shadow as you kayak in search of marine life.
Practical Info
Mitre Peak is located in Milford Sound about 73 miles from Te Anau. You can view the peak as part of a guided tour from either Te Anau or Queenstown, or drive yourself on the winding road that weaves its way toward the Sound. The summer months of December through March are the most popular time to visit, and while this can also be the wettest time of the year, it makes for dozens of wispy waterfalls that seem to cascade from the sky.
Address: Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand
From $ 33
Hillarys Boat Harbour
Hillarys Boat Harbour is one of Perth’s most popular seaside playgrounds. Everyone here, from shoppers to whale watchers, can find an activity along the boardwalk that teems with hundreds of visitors. Enjoy the smell of salt on the breeze while cycling along the coast, or relax with a coffee at an outdoor café that looks out over the water. In spring, book a ticket on a whale-watching cruise to watch playful, aerial humpbacks, and birdwatchers can board the ferry to Rottnest Island during any time of the year.
Even if you don’t actually get on a boat, simply strolling the marina docks is a popular Hillary’s pastime. This harbor, after all, was built as part of the America’s Cup in 1988, and world-class yachts and finely polished sailboats still make the marina their home. On sunny days, leave some footprints in the Australian sand on the popular and sheltered beach, and there’s also a playground where families with children can relax along the coast.
Practical Info
Hillary’s Boart Harbor is located 15 miles north of Perth in the coastal town of Hillary’s. The Marina is set on Southside Drive, and with 2,700 parking stalls, there is rarely a problem finding a place to park. Or, to reach the marina by train and bus, take the Joondaloop Line from downtown Perth and exit at the Warwick or Sterling stations. From here, bus 423 will take you directly to the harbor. For whale watching, the best season is from September-early December.
Address: Perth, Western Australia, Australia
From $ 15
MJ Savage Memorial Park
Michael Joseph Savage is often regarded as the most popular Prime Minister of New Zealand. Not only did Savage lead the nation into the depths of World War II, but he was the founder of many of the social programs which still exist to this day.
Although he passed away in 1940 at the age of 68, his memory lives on near the Auckland waterfront at the park which bears his name. At MJ Savage Memorial Park, not only can you pay your respects to one of New Zealand’s most loved politicians, but you can enjoy the ornately-landscape surroundings and drink in the stunning view.
Located a five minute drive from downtown Auckland, the park sits along a stretch of waterfront which lies just east of the city. The view from the park gazes out over the water towards symmetrical Rangitoto Island, and the famous skyline of Waitemata Harbor occupies the view to the west. From this vantage point, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best views of Auckland you’ll get from along the waterfront.
Once you’ve walked the grounds, toured the mausoleum, and snapped photos in front of the reflection pool, you can walk down the hill to Mission Bay and enjoy the popular eateries and cafés. While tour buses occasionally make stops at the MJ Savage Memorial Park, this is somewhat of a removed attraction you’ll be more than happy you stumbled upon.
Although he passed away in 1940 at the age of 68, his memory lives on near the Auckland waterfront at the park which bears his name. At MJ Savage Memorial Park, not only can you pay your respects to one of New Zealand’s most loved politicians, but you can enjoy the ornately-landscape surroundings and drink in the stunning view.
Located a five minute drive from downtown Auckland, the park sits along a stretch of waterfront which lies just east of the city. The view from the park gazes out over the water towards symmetrical Rangitoto Island, and the famous skyline of Waitemata Harbor occupies the view to the west. From this vantage point, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best views of Auckland you’ll get from along the waterfront.
Once you’ve walked the grounds, toured the mausoleum, and snapped photos in front of the reflection pool, you can walk down the hill to Mission Bay and enjoy the popular eateries and cafés. While tour buses occasionally make stops at the MJ Savage Memorial Park, this is somewhat of a removed attraction you’ll be more than happy you stumbled upon.
Address: MJ Savage Memorial Park, Auckland, New Zealand
From $ 37
Mitai Maori Village
Travelers don’t need to venture all the way to the bush for a taste of traditional New Zealand life thanks to the conveniently located Mitai Maori Village. This authentic cultural destination showcases the famed warriors in traditional attire and grants visitors unlimited access to their unique ways of life.
From hand-carved canoe rides to an evening hike through a glowworm forest, to a stop at a sacred freshwater spring a Mitai Maori Village trip features all the highlights in a single evening of fun. Travelers can sample a hangi meal cooked in the earth and enjoy a night of entertainment that includes poi dancing, hand-to-hand combat performances and traditional ta moko tattooing.
Practical Info
The village is located on Fairy Springs Road in Ngongotaha. Shows usually start at 6:30 p.m. and last for three hours.
Address: 196 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua, New Zealand
Hours: Open every evening except for Christmas Day
Admission: Adults: $116 NZD; Child (10-15) $57.50 NZD; Child (5-9) $22.50 NZD
From $ 83
Old St Paul's Cathedral
Wellington’s first Anglican cathedral, the classic Gothic Revival Old St. Paul Cathedral’s is a picture-book wooden church built in 1845. The building was designed by the parish vicar, the Reverend Frederick Thatcher.
The simple white-painted exterior leads to a dramatic interior featuring bold use of native timbers. The piers of wood form trusses that curve upwards to meet in the roof’s center, a bit like the hull of an upturned boat.
Another highlight of this popular building is the lovely stained glass, particularly the windows surrounding the apse and south alcove.
While the church no longer hosts regular Sunday services, it’s a popular venue for weddings and funerals.
Practical Info
Old St. Paul Cathedral's is north of the waterfront near Wellington’s central train station.
Address: 34 Mulgrave Street, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
Hours: Open daily, closed Christmas Day
Admission: Free
From $ 42
Hollyford Track
In a nation which offers some of the world’s best trekking, the case could be made that the Hollyford Track is New Zealand’s most underrated hike. What’s better, given its relatively flat terrain and easily accessible route, you can hike the Hollyford during most times of the year and still find comfortable conditions.
Located two hours north of Te Anau on the road towards Milford Sound, the Hollyford Track is often overlooked in lieu of the Routeburn, Kepler, or Milford tracks. Whereas these more popular hikes weave their way through the mountains of the Southern Alps, the Hollyford meanders along the length of a valley which winds towards the Tasman Sea. It’s an area that Maori once used as a trade route for harvesting and selling pounamu (jade), and much of the wilderness remains entirely unchanged since the Maori once wandered this valley.
Following the length of the Hollyford Valley, the trail makes its way over multiple bridges which span the Hollyford River. It’s a corner of New Zealand which is much less frequented than many of the surrounding hikes, and it’s the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking to avoid the crowds.
Given its length, however, anyone planning to hike on the Hollyford Track should be sure to arrive prepared. This 34-mile trek from the trailhead to the sea is often completed in four nights, but nearly all trekkers must turn back around and hike back the way they came. Along the way are six different huts which offer primitive backcountry bunks, and camping is allowed outside of the huts for those who have packed their own gear. Whereas the majority of hikers return along the same route, the truly intrepid can return to the trailhead along the rugged Pyke-Big Bay Track. There are also huts along this route to accommodate visiting trekkers, although the trail itself is best reserved for the most accomplished of backcountry navigators.
Even though hiking the Hollyford can be a logistical challenge, however, rewards for the effort can literally be found around every bend in the trail. Watch the sunrise over the waters of Lake Mckerrow, and walk in the shadow of glacially-formed mountains which pierce upwards towards the sky. Trek to a beach which is inaccessible by road, and scan the shoreline for Fiordland crested penguins or even the occasional seal. The Hollyford Track offers long-distance trekking away from all the crowds, and it’s the lone conduit through a segment of the South Island which has rarely been touched by man.
Located two hours north of Te Anau on the road towards Milford Sound, the Hollyford Track is often overlooked in lieu of the Routeburn, Kepler, or Milford tracks. Whereas these more popular hikes weave their way through the mountains of the Southern Alps, the Hollyford meanders along the length of a valley which winds towards the Tasman Sea. It’s an area that Maori once used as a trade route for harvesting and selling pounamu (jade), and much of the wilderness remains entirely unchanged since the Maori once wandered this valley.
Following the length of the Hollyford Valley, the trail makes its way over multiple bridges which span the Hollyford River. It’s a corner of New Zealand which is much less frequented than many of the surrounding hikes, and it’s the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking to avoid the crowds.
Given its length, however, anyone planning to hike on the Hollyford Track should be sure to arrive prepared. This 34-mile trek from the trailhead to the sea is often completed in four nights, but nearly all trekkers must turn back around and hike back the way they came. Along the way are six different huts which offer primitive backcountry bunks, and camping is allowed outside of the huts for those who have packed their own gear. Whereas the majority of hikers return along the same route, the truly intrepid can return to the trailhead along the rugged Pyke-Big Bay Track. There are also huts along this route to accommodate visiting trekkers, although the trail itself is best reserved for the most accomplished of backcountry navigators.
Even though hiking the Hollyford can be a logistical challenge, however, rewards for the effort can literally be found around every bend in the trail. Watch the sunrise over the waters of Lake Mckerrow, and walk in the shadow of glacially-formed mountains which pierce upwards towards the sky. Trek to a beach which is inaccessible by road, and scan the shoreline for Fiordland crested penguins or even the occasional seal. The Hollyford Track offers long-distance trekking away from all the crowds, and it’s the lone conduit through a segment of the South Island which has rarely been touched by man.
Address: Hollyford Track, New Zealand
From $ 1,407
Princess Theatre
Melbourne is a large, vibrant city with hundreds of things to do, but none of its attractions are quite as spectacular as historic Princess Theater. Built in 1857 and remodeled in 1886, the theater has hosted many of the world’s top musicals, operas, and shows. The theater’s famously exquisite façade is on par with the best in Europe, and the 1,488 seat theater is adorned in chandeliers.
Perhaps more famous than the building itself—and even some of its shows—is the legend of Frederick Federici, the friendly ghost who’s inhabited the theater since his death in 1888. In a curious end to a theater performance, Federici died of a heart attack while descending through a stage door, and frequent sightings of the actor’s ghost continue up to this day. Aside from the legends and legendary shows, the Princess Theater also hosts the Federici Bistro, where visitors can enjoy both dinner and a show for the best date night in town.
Practical Info
The closest train station to Princess Theater is the one at Parliament Station. It’s also accessible by trams 86, 96, and the free circle city tram. Since the performance lineup is always changing, inquire directly on the theater’s website to find what’s currently on.
Address: 163 Spring St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Admission: Check website for show prices
From $ 41
Kuranda Koala Gardens
When compared to bustling, coastal Cairns, the village of Kuranda is truly a magical getaway into the forest. At the small but popular Kuranda Koala Gardens, you can infuse your day trip from Cairns to Kuranda with a wildlife adventure, where you can walk through the snake house, observe wombats and ‘roos, and perhaps catch a glimpse of toothy, freshwater crocodiles as they cruise the Kuranda waters. Although Viator tours do not include this activity, visitors can also spend a few seconds holding a koala for an additional fee of $20.
Insider Tip: Crowds tend to be lighter in the morning and the animals are usually more active.
Practical Info
The Kuranda Koala Gardens is located by the Kuranda Heritage Markets, about a ten-minute walk from Kuranda village, or a 40-minute drive northwest from Cairns. You can also reach the gardens by Skyrail or the Kuranda Railway. A free shuttle bus operates between the Skyrail station and gardens, and buses depart every 15 minutes between 10:30am and 3pm. The gardens are open every day from 9am to 4pm, and admission costs $18 for adults and $9 for children.
Koala encounters are supervised by park staff, and comply with the Australian Government’s Code of Practice. You are welcome to bring your own camera for photos, but you only have a couple of seconds to snap a pic with a koala.
Address: Heritage Markets/ 2-4 Rob Veivers Drive, Kuranda QLD 4881, Australia
Hours: 9am–4pm daily
Admission: Adult: $18, Child: $9
From $ 24
Herberton Historical Village
What do you imagine it would be like to live in Queensland in the 1880s, when pioneering settlers were pushing farther north and establishing towns along the way? Would life be difficult here in the hills, where meat had to be butchered, clothes had to be sewn, and boots were all made by hand, or would you welcome a simpler time that was free of our fast, modern day stress? These are questions you can ask for yourself at Herberton Historical Village, a phenomenally preserved example of life in 19th century Queensland. Wander the dusty village streets past 50 different buildings that date to the town’s original founding, when tin was suddenly discovered in these hills and miners flocked in droves. For over 90 years the town of Herberton boomed as a tin mining town, and at one point even had 17 pubs where the miners could drink and get loose. Today tourism drives the town, the most popular sight being the historical village where you can stroll past the chemist’s shop, peruse the frock shop, or admire the carriages and old time cars inside the wooden garage. Grab a scone at the Bakersville tea rooms or a pint at the Tin Pannikin Pub, and experience firsthand was life was like out here on the Queensland frontier. At an elevation of 3,000 feet in the rolling Atherton Tablelands, Herberton is Queensland’s highest town—and also one of its coldest—and the site of the best Australiana found anywhere in the country.
Practical Info
Guided tours are available from Cairns, or visitors with their own transport can visit independently. Plan to spend at least 3 hours exploring the entire village.
Address: 6 Broadway Street, Herberton, Queensland, Australia QLD 4887, Australia
Hours: Open daily 9am-5pm in high season, 9am-4pm in low season
Admission: Adults: $28; Children: $12
From $ 166
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Winding its way through the ancient rainforests, dramatic gorges, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes of Queensland’s tropical north, the Kuranda Scenic Railway is one of Australia’s most spectacular train journeys. Running 23 miles (37 kilometers) from Cairns in the south to Kuranda in the north, the route is a thrilling one. As it passes through an impressive 15 tunnels and across 37 bridges, the railway affords panoramic views of the Barron Gorge National Park.
The Basics
Most tours set out from Cairns, Port Douglas, or the northern beaches, from where it’s a two-hour one-way journey to the end of the line at Kuranda. Passengers can choose standard heritage carriages or the more luxurious Gold Class or Royale Class service, in which refreshments are served. For the best value, combine your tour with other North Queensland activities such as a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, an Army Duck tour of the Rainforestation Nature Park, a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef, or a visit to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.
Things to Know Before You Go
- English-language commentary is provided on the train.
- Luggage space is limited, so bring a day bag and be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes if you plan on exploring the rainforest.
- Wheelchair access is available at all stations except Barron Falls station, but it must be requested in advance.
How to Get There
It’s possible to ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway in either direction, starting your journey at Cairns Station, Freshwater Station, or Kuranda Station. Cairns Station is located right in the center of Cairns, about five miles (eight kilometers) or a 1-hour train ride south of Cairns Airport.
When to Get There
The Kuranda Scenic Railway runs twice daily, with morning departures from Cairns and afternoon departures from Kuranda. Trains run year-round, but with no air-conditioning on-board the historic trains, it can get hot in summer.
Natural Landscapes of the Wet Tropics
The Kuranda Scenic Railway runs right through the heart of the UNESCO-protected Wet Tropics, climbing through the jungle-clad mountains of the Barron Gorge. Jump off along the way to marvel at the Barron Falls, admire Stoney Creek Falls, or take a hike through the ancient woodlands, looking out for wildlife such as rainbow lorikeets, wild orchids, and Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos.
Address: Bunda St, Cairns, Queensland 4870, Australia
Hours: Open daily 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Admission: Varies
From $ 22