Richmond, a captivating town in Queensland, Australia, is a treasure trove of natural wonders, fascinating history, and unique experiences. Located approximately 500 km west of Townsville, this charming destination offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its stunning landscapes, rich fossil heritage, and welcoming atmosphere.
Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and reveal the top things to do in Richmond, QLD, a captivating destination that promises unforgettable adventures. Immerse yourself in the area’s natural splendor, delve into its cultural treasures, and embark on a remarkable journey through the captivating world of Richmond, QLD.
Things To Do In Richmond, QLD
1. Kronosaurus Korner – A Journey Through Time
Step back in time at Kronosaurus Korner, Australia’s premier marine fossil museum, where you can explore the region’s rich fossil history. The museum showcases an impressive collection of fossils, including the famous Richmond Pliosaur, a massive marine reptile that once ruled the ancient inland sea. Interactive displays and informative exhibits make this attraction a must-visit for history buffs and curious minds alike.
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Source: Tourism and Events Queensland
Join a guided tour to learn about the fascinating stories behind the fossils and the prehistoric creatures they represent. For a more hands-on experience, participate in a fossil preparation workshop, where you can try your hand at uncovering and preserving fossils. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to pick up a unique souvenir to remember your visit.
- Address: 91 – 93 Goldring St, Richmond QLD 4822, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Richmond
- Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm
2. Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre – Discover the Region’s Past
Immerse yourself in the history of the region at the Cambridge Downs Heritage Display Centre. This fascinating attraction features exhibits and displays that tell the story of Richmond and its surrounding areas. Learn about the early pioneers, the development of the local cattle industry, and the role of the railway in shaping the town’s growth.
The centre also houses a replica of the original Cambridge Downs Homestead, providing a glimpse into the lives of the early settlers. Take a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s past, or explore the centre at your own pace. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this informative and engaging attraction.
- Address: 56 Goldring St, Richmond QLD 4822, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Richmond
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9 am to 12 pm
3. Lake Fred Tritton – A Haven for Water Enthusiasts
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Lake Fred Tritton, a popular destination for water sports and recreational activities. This picturesque lake offers a range of activities, including swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The sandy beach and shaded picnic areas make it an ideal spot for a relaxing day out with family and friends.
The lake is also home to the annual Richmond Fishing Classic, a popular fishing event that attracts visitors from all over Queensland. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, this event offers a fun and exciting opportunity to test your skills and maybe even win a prize. With its stunning scenery and diverse range of activities, Lake Fred Tritton is a must-visit destination in Richmond.
- Address: Lake Fred Tritton, Richmond QLD 4822, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Richmond
- Best time of the year: April to October, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
4. Outback at Isa – Uncover the Secrets of the Underground
Delve into the heart of the Australian Outback at Outback at Isa, an award-winning tourist attraction in Mount Isa. This multifaceted destination offers a range of experiences, including a museum, an underground mine tour, and the Riversleigh Fossil Centre. Learn about the region’s mining history, explore the fascinating world of fossils, and gain insights into the unique flora and fauna of the Outback.
The Hard Times Mine Tour takes you deep underground, where you’ll don a miner’s helmet and lamp to explore the workings of a real mine. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll discover the challenges and rewards of life as a miner in the Outback. Outback at Isa is a must-visit attraction for those seeking an authentic and immersive Outback experience.
- Address: 19 Marian St, Mount Isa QLD 4825, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Mount Isa
- Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm
5. Reef HQ Aquarium – Dive into the World of Coral Reefs
Explore the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium at Reef HQ Aquarium, located in Townsville. This incredible attraction offers a unique opportunity to discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet. With over 150 species of fish and 120 species of coral, the aquarium showcases the incredible diversity and beauty of this natural wonder.
Join a guided tour to learn about the complex ecosystems of the reef, the challenges it faces, and the conservation efforts underway to protect it. Don’t miss the daily shark and turtle feeding shows, where you can witness these fascinating creatures up close. Reef HQ Aquarium is an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
- Address: 2-68 Flinders St, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Townsville
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm
6. Billabong Sanctuary Townsville – Get Up Close with Australian Wildlife
Experience the wonders of Australian wildlife at Billabong Sanctuary Townsville, an eco-tourism park dedicated to the conservation and appreciation of native animals. This 27-acre sanctuary is home to a diverse range of species, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, wombats, and crocodiles. Enjoy interactive presentations and feeding shows, where you can learn about the unique behaviors and habitats of these fascinating creatures.
Get up close and personal with the animals through hands-on encounters, such as cuddling a koala or holding a snake. The sanctuary also offers a range of immersive experiences, including ranger-guided tours and behind-the-scenes access. Billabong Sanctuary Townsville is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families alike.
- Address: 17km south of Townsville on the Bruce Highway, Nome QLD 4816, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 17 km south of Townsville
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
7. Museum of Tropical Queensland – Discover the Region’s Rich Heritage
Immerse yourself in the region’s natural and cultural heritage at the Museum of Tropical Queensland, located in Townsville. This engaging museum features a range of exhibits and displays that showcase the diverse history, flora, fauna, and geology of the region. Learn about the Great Barrier Reef, the rainforests of North Queensland, and the fascinating stories of the area’s Indigenous peoples.
One of the museum’s highlights is the HMS Pandora Gallery, which tells the tragic tale of the ship that sank off the coast of Queensland in 1791. The gallery features artifacts recovered from the wreck, as well as interactive displays that bring the ship’s history to life. The Museum of Tropical Queensland offers a captivating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
- Address: 70-102 Flinders St, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Townsville
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm
8. Porcupine Gorge National Park – Explore Stunning Landscapes
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Porcupine Gorge National Park, located near Hughenden. This natural wonder features stunning landscapes, towering sandstone cliffs, and diverse flora and fauna. The park offers a range of walking tracks that cater to all fitness levels, allowing you to explore the gorge and its surroundings at your own pace.
One of the park’s highlights is the Pyramid, an impressive sandstone formation that offers panoramic views of the gorge. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, including wallabies, echidnas, and a variety of bird species. With its awe-inspiring scenery and opportunities for adventure, Porcupine Gorge National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
- Address: Porcupine Gorge National Park, Lynd Highway, Hughenden QLD 4821, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 70 km north of Hughenden
- Best time of the year: April to September, when the weather is cooler and drier
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
9. Australian Age of Dinosaurs – Unearth Prehistoric Giants
Journey back in time at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, a museum in Winton that houses Australia’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils. This fascinating attraction offers a range of experiences, including guided tours of the fossil preparation laboratory, the collection room, and the Dinosaur Canyon exhibit.
Learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the region, such as the massive sauropods and the fearsome theropods. Participate in a fossil preparation workshop, where you can try your hand at uncovering and preserving fossils. With its captivating exhibits and hands-on experiences, the Australian Age of Dinosaurs is a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious minds alike.
- Address: Lot 1 Dinosaur Dr, Winton QLD 4735, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 24 km southwest of Winton
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
10. Winton’s Waltzing Matilda Centre – Experience the Spirit of the Outback
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Australian Outback at Winton’s Waltzing Matilda Centre. This iconic museum is dedicated to the famous bush ballad “Waltzing Matilda,” penned by Banjo Paterson in 1895. Through interactive displays and engaging exhibits, the centre tells the story of the song, its origins, and its enduring significance in Australian culture.
The centre also explores the broader history of Winton and the Outback, showcasing the region’s pioneering spirit, Indigenous heritage, and natural wonders. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Qantilda Pioneer Place Museum, which is part of the centre and offers insights into the lives of early settlers. Winton’s Waltzing Matilda Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to connect with the heart and soul of the Australian Outback.
- Address: 50 Elderslie St, Winton QLD 4735, Australia
- Distance from town: Located within Winton
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
11. Cobbold Gorge – Discover a Hidden Gem
Experience the unique beauty of Cobbold Gorge, a hidden gem located near Forsayth. This stunning destination features towering sandstone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. Join a guided tour to explore the gorge, with options including boat cruises, guided walks, and scenic helicopter flights.
Learn about the region’s geological history, Aboriginal heritage, and the unique ecosystems that thrive in this secluded oasis. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Cobbold Gorge Village offers accommodation and camping facilities, allowing you to fully appreciate the tranquility and beauty of this remarkable destination. Cobbold Gorge is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
- Address: Cobbold Gorge Tours, Agate Creek Road, Forsayth QLD 4871, Australia
- Distance from town: Approximately 42 km south of Forsayth
- Best time of the year: April to October, during the dry season
- Opening Hours: Tours operate daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Towns Nearby Richmond, QLD
Here are some nearby towns/suburbs around Richmond, QLD, Australia, along with their highlights, attractions, distance from Richmond, and reasons why they are worth visiting:
- Hughenden, QLD (110 km from Richmond): Hughenden is a charming town known for its dinosaur fossils and stunning landscapes. The Flinders Discovery Centre showcases the region’s rich fossil history, while the Porcupine Gorge National Park offers breathtaking views and walking trails. Hughenden is worth visiting for its unique attractions and natural beauty.
- Winton, QLD (216 km from Richmond): Winton is another stop on the Queensland dinosaur trail and is a must-see for families with dinosaur lovers. The town is home to the Australian Age of Dinosaurs museum, which houses Australia’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils. Winton’s Waltzing Matilda Centre is also a must-visit attraction, celebrating the history and culture of the Australian Outback. Winton is worth exploring for its fascinating history and prehistoric wonders.
- Charters Towers, QLD (498 km from Richmond): Charters Towers is a historic gold-mining town located east of Richmond. The town boasts well-preserved heritage buildings, such as the Stock Exchange Arcade and the World Theatre. Visitors can also explore the Venus Gold Battery, a remarkable example of industrial heritage. Charters Towers is worth visiting for its rich history and charming architecture.
- Mount Isa, QLD (406 km from Richmond): Mount Isa is a bustling mining city situated west of Richmond, with a range of attractions. The Outback at Isa offers a museum, underground mine tour, and the Riversleigh Fossil Centre. The city also hosts the annual Mount Isa Rodeo, the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere. Mount Isa is worth visiting for its unique attractions and vibrant atmosphere.
These towns and suburbs offer a variety of attractions and experiences, making them worth visiting during your stay in Richmond, QLD, Australia.
Getting To Richmond, QLD
To get to Richmond, QLD from common destinations or origins as a local tourist, you have several options for both public transport and driving.
From Townsville:
- By bus: Catch a bus from Townsville to Hughenden, which takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. From Hughenden, you can take another bus to Richmond, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Check the Bus Queensland website (https://www.busqld.com.au) for schedules and ticketing information.
- By car: Drive west on the Flinders Highway (A6) from Townsville. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and covers a distance of around 500 km.
From Mount Isa:
- By bus: Catch a bus from Mount Isa to Richmond, which takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. Check the Bus Queensland website (https://www.busqld.com.au) for schedules and ticketing information.
- By car: Drive east on the Barkly Highway (A2) and then take the Flinders Highway (A6) to Richmond. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes and covers a distance of around 406 km.
From Winton:
- By bus: Catch a bus from Winton to Richmond, which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Check the Bus Queensland website (https://www.busqld.com.au) for schedules and ticketing information.
- By car: Drive north on the Winton-Richmond Road (State Route 86) from Winton. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and covers a distance of around 216 km.
For public transport options from other nearby towns, use the Queensland Government’s Journey Planner (https://jp.translink.com.au/plan-your-journey/journey-planner) to plan your journey, as it provides detailed information on bus routes, schedules, and ticketing.
