by Dawn Teh
posted on February 20, 2024
With an eclectic mix of quaint country town and big city vibes, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Toowoomba. Key highlights in the “Garden City” include its renowned parks where you’ll find carefully manicured lawns and vibrant floral displays. For history buffs, there are several museums showcasing local history along with stunning heritage buildings attesting to the town’s rich past. There are also plenty of family-friendly Toowoomba attractions that are suitable for all ages like the nearby national parks and Darling Downs Zoo.
If you need some itinerary inspiration, keep reading to learn more about what to do in Toowoomba — Queensland’s largest inland city!
An overview of the best things to do in Toowoomba
If you’re short on time, here are the top 10 things to do in Toowoomba that you shouldn’t miss.
- Attend some of the floral displays and community events during the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers — Australia’s longest-running floral festival.
- Stroll through the tranquil Japanese Garden at the University of Southern Queensland, which features a mix of native Australian and Japanese landscaping.
- Explore the rich history of Toowoomba at the Cobb+Co Museum, showcasing the region’s transport heritage.
- Visit Toowoomba’s iconic parks (like Laurel Bank Park and Queens Park Botanic Gardens) for a relaxing picnic or a scenic walk.
- Get a panoramic bird’s eye view of the city at Table Top Mountain and Picnic Point.
- Attend an event at the Empire Theatre, a historic performing arts venue with a diverse program of shows.
- Enjoy delicious local produce at the Toowoomba Farmers Market, held every Saturday at the Cobb+Co Museum.
- Make friends with the local animals at the Darling Downs Zoo.
- Take a self-guided tour to explore Toowoomba’s grand heritage buildings that are scattered around the city. They include historical icons like Glen Alpine and Toowoomba Courthouse.
- Visit one of Toowoomba’s craft breweries, such as 4 Brothers Brewing, for a taste of their unique brews.
Now that you have an overview of the main attractions, let’s dive into more places of interest in Toowoomba. You’ll discover the best attractions organised according to different types of travel needs (for families, couples, and more). By the end of this blog, you won’t have to worry about what to do in Toowoomba as you’ll have an itinerary packed full of interesting local sites and activities.
Keep reading to discover:
- Popular things to do in Toowoomba
- Free things to do in Toowoomba
- Unique things to do in Toowoomba
- Sights to see in Toowoomba
- Things to do in Toowoomba for families
- Things to do in Toowoomba on the weekend
- Things to do in Toowoomba at night
- Fun things to do in Toowoomba for adults
- Romantic things to do in Toowoomba
- Toowoomba tourist attractions
Popular things to do in Toowoomba
With its sprawling gardens and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder Toowoomba has been dubbed the “Garden City”, and its parks usually make it to the top of itineraries. You can take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil Japanese Garden or marvel at the vibrant colours of the Laurel Bank Park floral display. If you’re looking for something more adrenaline-pumping, hiking and camping at the nearby Ravensbourne National Park and Crows Nest National Park will satisfy your thirst for adventure. This little city is also bursting with cultural activities. Head to the Cobb+Co Museum to explore the rich history of the region, or take yourself on a self-guided tour of the city, where you’ll find many magnificent heritage buildings with beautiful architecture and interesting pasts.
Free things to do in Toowoomba
There’s plenty to see and do in Toowoomba even if you’re on a tight budget. From cultural attractions to local markets, these are the top free things to do.
Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery
Immerse yourself in the local art scene when you visit the vibrant Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery. It’s home to three permanent collections along with several regular contemporary displays like the Contemporary Wearables Biennial Jewellery Award and Exhibition.
Laurel Bank Park
Get ready for a spectacular display of neatly manicured lawns, lush greenery, and tranquil lakes at Laurel Bank Park. Most well known for its vibrant and colourful flower displays, don’t forget to admire the meticulously organised blooms from the viewing platform. Picnic tables are also scattered throughout the park for you to enjoy a leisurely lunch in this botanical oasis.
Toowoomba Farmers Market
Held every Saturday morning, this bustling local market is where you’ll find the freshest of fruits, vegetables, meat, and other local produce. But food isn’t the only reason to stop by. If you’re looking for a truly unique memento, the local artisan stalls selling handcrafted homewares and trinkets are not to be missed as well. Plus, the vibrant atmosphere of the place is a good enough reason for a stroll amongst the stalls.
Historic Toowoomba City Walk
Immaculately-preserved historic buildings line the streets of Toowoomba, and the best thing about it is that you can take your own self-guided tour to admire the architecture and learn more about this city’s rich history. Each building tells its own story, from the grandeur of the former post office on Margaret Street to the sobering Soldiers Memorial Hall. Simply use the online map available on the Toowoomba Region website to begin your journey.
Unique things to do in Toowoomba
Ready to explore some lesser-known attractions in Toowoomba? Toss out the usual tourist guidebook and head over to these unique places that will show you a different side of the city.
Toowoomba Salt Caves
Step into a world of tranquillity and healing at Toowoomba Salt Caves. Focusing on natural therapies, the purpose-built cave is most famous for salt therapy — a process where dry salt aerosol is sprayed throughout the room in high concentrations. It’s purported that this form of therapy is highly effective for treating respiratory and skin conditions.
The Danish Flower Art Complex
If you’re into art and DIY projects, stop by The Danish Flower Art Complex which has an interesting collection of gourd art designed by local and international craftsmen. You can also buy raw gourds here to create your own art piece. They also have an impressive collection of jewellery, bead kits, and beading classes.
DownsSteam Tourist Railway and Museum
Experience Toowoomba through a different lens as you hop onboard a restored Heritage Westlander Diesel train and journey through the lush countryside. The museum also houses an impressive collection of steam engines and vintage railway memorabilia, making it a must-visit destination for any train enthusiast. This one-of-a-kind attraction will take you back to the golden era of rail travel.
Australian Army Flying Museum
Located just outside Toowoomba’s city centre, the Australian Army Flying Museum hosts an extensive collection of vintage aircraft and related memorabilia from Australia’s military flying history. As you admire the collection, be inspired by the brave tales of Australia’s soldiers from all eras — from the ingenuity of the country’s pioneers to the dedication of their modern air force.
Sights to see in Toowoomba
Your Toowoomba sightseeing itinerary won’t be complete without a visit to its renowned gardens, lookouts, and nearby national parks. After all, this city is nicknamed the “Garden City”. So be prepared to experience breathtaking botanical displays and untouched natural scenery. Here are the top picks not to miss.
Bunya Mountains National Park
Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or simply love immersing yourself in nature, you’ll find plenty to do and see in the breathtaking Bunya Mountains National Park. From leisurely strolls on easy tracks to challenging hikes that will test your stamina, there’s something for everyone. The natural beauty of the area is showcased by lush rainforests that are teeming with wildlife and picturesque waterfalls. Camping sites are available if you’d like to spend more time soaking in the beauty of this national park.
Crows Nest National Park
After heavy rainfall is when the natural attractions of Crows Nest National Park really shine. This includes the cascading Crows Nest Falls and meandering creeks that flow through the eucalypt forest. With a variety of well-equipped camping sites, you can extend your adventure and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this unique landscape, where you’ll find majestic granite outcrops.
Picnic Point Lookout
For breathtaking views of Toowoomba and its picturesque surroundings, head to Picnic Point Parklands. Located on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, this lookout offers panoramic views of Main Range National Park and Lockyer Valley. It also has BBQ facilities, a café, and play equipment for the kids, so why not pack your picnic blanket and enjoy a day out at this iconic spot?
Table Top Mountain
If you’re up for a fitness challenge, head up Tabletop Mountain for spectacular views of the surrounding area. Come prepared with the right equipment and be careful on the path as you might encounter unstable rocks. See the Toowoomba Region website for more details.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers
If you’re around in Toowoomba in September, head over to the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers for a variety of events held throughout the city over four weeks. You can expect spectacular horticultural displays at the city’s various parks, food festivals, parades, and more.
UniSQ Japanese Garden
Step into this tranquil space and admire the beautiful mix of native and Japanese plants, the central lake, and the serene walkways at the Japanese Garden. It’s located on the grounds of the University of Southern Queensland and is a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with friends and family.
Things to do in Toowoomba for families
If you’re worried about being able to please everyone in the family while planning your Toowoomba itinerary, fear not. Whether you’re looking for a day out at the local zoo to see some amazing animals or delightful treats to appease little tummies, you’ll find plenty of activities and sights in Toowoomba that cater to all ages. Don’t miss out on these top spots.
Darling Downs Zoo
From adorable meerkats to towering giraffes, you’ll get to admire a diverse range of wildlife at the Darling Downs Zoo. For a real hands-on experience, the zoo offers a range of animal encounters and feedings that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
The Chocolate Cottage
Set within a restored schoolhouse, The Chocolate Cottage is a wonderful immersive space where families can come to relax. With its beautifully handmade chocolate, quirky decor, lush gardens, and quaint architecture, it’s a spot that’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.
Crows Nest Soft Drinks
Since 1903, Crows Nest Soft Drinks has been dedicated to producing high-quality, locally-made soft drinks and cordials using traditional methods and recipes. Come try out their 16 old-fashioned soft drink flavours including the best-seller — double sarsaparilla. They even come in old-school, refreshing glass bottles.
Things to do in Toowoomba on the weekend
From leisurely strolls in Queens Park Botanic Gardens to a full-on adventure in the nearby Ravensbourne National Park, you’ll find a wide variety of activities to fill your weekends in Toowoomba.
Queens Park Botanic Gardens
Located in East Toowoomba, the Queens Park Botanic Gardens is the perfect setting for a tranquil stroll or romantic picnic amongst specially curated floral displays and neatly manicured lawns. Various historical sites like the Alfred Thomas Memorial and Naval Cannon are located throughout the park, and horticultural hubs such as the Rose Walk and Camellia Garden are not to be missed.
Cobb+Co Museum
Step into the Cobb and Co Museum and admire the National Carriage Collection, which showcases Toowoomba’s history through interactive displays and exhibits, including horse-drawn carriages, traditional crafting workshops, and a replica of an old-fashioned general store.
Ravensbourne National Park
Just an hour’s drive away from Toowoomba city centre, Ravensbourne National Park makes for a perfect weekend day trip with plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching. You’ll find 100+ species of bird here as well as lush picnic spots and hiking trails (don’t miss Palm Creek Circuit).
Lockyer Valley
Known for its rich, fertile farmland, Lockyer Valley has been hailed as the “food bowl” of the nation. To get a real taste of the region’s famous produce, skip the supermarkets and shop at the farm sheds along the roadside or stop by the local markets like Laidley Village Markets and Mulgowie Markets. There are also many cultural and historical sites to visit, including the Pioneer Village and Museum, along with the Spring Bluff Railway Station.
Things to do in Toowoomba at night
As the day winds down, watch as this regional city comes to life with a good variety of activities to enjoy. Relax and unwind with mates at one of the many pubs in the city, treat yourself to a night of culture with a concert, or hop over to a trendy restaurant to enjoy a fine dining experience. There’s plenty to do at night in Toowoomba!
Volcanic Brewing
Come try a wide selection of locally crafted beers at Volcanic Brewing. You won’t be disappointed with the relaxed atmosphere and the tasty pub grub.
The Empire Theatre
With its stunning art deco façade, The Empire Theatre is in itself a sight to behold. Once you’ve walked through its doors, you’ll be treated to a diverse selection of shows, ranging from theatre performances to live music concerts. A great spot if you’re keen to soak in the local arts and culture scene.
Fitzy’s Toowoomba
Step into Fitzy’s and you’ll be treated to a delightful array of dining spaces, bars, and lounging spots. Each of the several rooms in this hotel has its own unique vibe and tastes for you to explore. From enjoying your meal while live music plays to trying your luck in the gaming rooms, you’ll find all kinds of dining experiences here.
Fun things to do in Toowoomba for adults
From fine-dining restaurants to craft breweries, there’s plenty of fun to be had for adults in Toowoomba! Here are the top activities not to miss.
Tick Tock Escape Room
Put your detective and puzzle-solving skills to the test at the Tick Tock Escape Rooms. In this exciting and immersive adventure, you’ll enter themed rooms filled with puzzles and clues that you have to solve in order to get out. To add to the suspense, the challenges follow a storyline that is full of plot twists to keep you guessing.
4 Brothers Brewing
This unpretentious brewery is all about providing patrons with high-quality beers and scrumptious grub. Whether you’re on the hunt for a smooth and creamy Dark Ale, or a crisp and refreshing Pale Ale, 4 Brothers Brewing promises a wide range of tastes to delight any palate.
Gips Restaurant
This iconic local restaurant serves up modern Australian cuisine with a focus on using fresh, local produce. It’s the perfect setting for an intimate dining experience as you savour the unique dishes amidst the charming historical architecture of the building and beautiful gardens.
Romantic things to do in Toowoomba
With a multitude of beautiful gardens, boutique cafes, and stunning architecture, it’s not hard to find that romantic vibe in Toowoomba. Here are some top suggestions:
- Stroll through the captivating floral displays at Queens Park Botanic Gardens, where you’ll get to see large swathes of these symbols of love.
- Stargaze on a picnic blanket at Picnic Point Lookout.
- Ride the historic railway at the DownsSteam Railway Tourist Railway and Museum for a charming vintage experience.
- Get to know one another over a calming hot chocolate or barista-made coffee at one of Toowoomba’s charming cafes like Park House Cafe or Urban Grounds Cafe.
- Enjoy a local performance together at the iconic Empire Theatre.
Toowoomba tourist attractions
There’s an abundance of natural attractions, cultural hubs, and historical sites that will appeal to all kinds of tourists in Toowoomba. For those who want to appreciate the city’s natural beauty, take a stroll through the meticulously maintained gardens of Laurel Bank Park or marvel at the panoramic city views from the iconic Picnic Point Lookout.
Uncover the fascinating history of the local area with a visit to the Cobb+Co Museum, where you’ll find old horse-drawn carriages and workshops to learn about heritage trades of the past. If you’re up for a walk, take a self-guided tour around the city to discover the many preserved heritage buildings that are a reminder of times past.
Finally, adventure seekers won’t want to miss a trip to the neighbouring Bunya Mountains National Park and Crows Nest National Park, where you can enjoy an abundance of hiking trails, breathtaking views, and secluded camping spots to reconnect with nature.
Explore Toowoomba by car
To see all that this stunning destination has to offer, hire a car that can take you on your own personal adventure through the city and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a 4WD to explore the surrounding national parks or a people mover to transport your large group, you’ll find the perfect ride for your trip on Turo. Plus, there are many convenient add-ons (like GPS systems), and you can even get your car delivered straight to you.
Hire a car on Turo today and start exploring the beauty of Toowoomba!
Dawn Teh
Dawn, an ex-psychologist and avid travel writer, blends her expertise in human behaviour with her passion for adventure. Her writing reflects a unique perspective on personal growth, wanderlust and what it is that helps humans thrive. Her current mission is to live the van life and tour the Australian outback with her family.
