Joanna James
Located in southern Queensland's Darling Downs region, Toowoomba provides an ideal gateway for the whole family. Set amidst enchanting natural beauty, this city offers activities that can be both laid-back and fun and which will make for some memorable moments on your holiday to Australia.
A must-visit for nature lovers, the Queens Park and Botanic Gardens is in the heart of the city and is an ideal place to unwind amidst some idyllic scenery. Dating back to the 1800s, this site features wonderful pathways bordered by tall trees, lush landscapes and floral beds which burst into colour in spring; in fact, during this time you can also witness the popular Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (usually in September). Other highlights include the Vera Lacaze Memorial Park, Rose Walk, Camellia Garden and a play area for kids too.
Another nature-based attraction that makes for a fun outing for young and old alike is the scenic Picnic Point Lookout and Parkland. A short drive away for those staying at centrally located serviced apartments Toowoomba has to offer, this heritage-listed site enjoys a lofty position overlooking Lockyer Valley amidst a backdrop of the Great Dividing Range. Picnic Point Square is an ideal spot to enjoy picnics while the parkland also has facilities for BBQs, a lovely waterfall and play equipment for kids. Additionally, you will find trails for bushwalking, horse riding and mountain biking too.
Those looking to gain insights into the local heritage can head to the Cobb+Co Museum which focuses on traditional transport. Around a six-minute walk from properties such as Oaks Toowoomba Hotel, this museum features the National Carriage Collection which includes over 40 horse-drawn vehicles. You will also find interactive exhibits and games here along with heritage trade workshops where one can learn various skills be it in millinery or being a blacksmith. Kids are bound to love the Energy for Life Discovery Centre as well as the chance to dress up in traditional attire.
Spanning around 4.5 hectares, this picturesque area is home to the country's biggest traditionally designed Japanese Gardens. It can be found at the University of Southern Queensland and one of the most relaxing things to do in Toowoomba is to enjoy a stroll here. Reminiscent of the old gardens of Japan, it features a Dry Garden, waterfall, mountain stream, central lake and over 200 species of trees and plants native to Australia and Japan. There are plenty of paths too for those looking to explore the gardens.
The Toowoomba nightlife offers a chilled-out vibe to enjoy. One of the most popular spots for a drink is Fitzy's Toowoomba, a well-known bar which offers craft beers, fine wines, delectable dishes and live music. If you love partying or dancing, then head to Society Nightlife which has full-service bars at different rooms that host live performances or music courtesy of resident or guest DJs. For something different, you can look to catch a theatrical performance at the Toowoomba Repertory Theatre Society or see what's playing at the heritage-listed Empire Theatres.
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