Botanic Gardens

Established in 1869, the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens is one of the oldest public gardens in the country, spanning 33 hectares of meticulously landscaped grounds. The site has been heritage listed since 1999 and is home to a state-of-the-art, all-abilities playground that was reopened in 2023.

Botanical Collections
The gardens showcase an extensive collection of tropical and subtropical plant species, making it a hub for both horticultural enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil environment for relaxation and exploration. The gardens are home to an impressive assortment of palms, cycads, bromeliads, tropical fruit trees, and native Australian flora.

Japanese Gardens
The Japanese-themed garden is a serene and picturesque area within the botanic gardens. It offers a tranquil escape with ornamental bridges, bonsai displays, and meticulously landscaped gardens, reflecting the principles of Japanese garden design.

Historical and Cultural Significance
Originally developed as a facility for trialling plants for their commercial potential, the Gardens today retain their historical significance with a number of iconic plantings including the 150 year old canopy of Banyan figs and avenue of Bunya pines. The rich, colourful history of the gardens expands to the tranquil Japanese Gardens, designed by leading Japanese landscape designer the late Kenzo Ogata, as part of a Treaty of Friendship signed after World War II.

Playground
Rockhampton Botanic Gardens boasts a redeveloped state-of-the-art, all abilities playground and BBQ facilities, making it the perfect spot to take the kids. The playground features play pieces inspired by our beloved zoo animals; boasting a 4.6 metre tall dingo play tower as the centrepiece of the playground. Children of all ages and abilities are able to enjoy the play elements on the accessible ramp.

Rockhampton Zoo
The Rockhampton Zoo is situated within the Botanic Gardens and proves a very a popular family destination. It features a wide range of animals, including native and exotic species, such as koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and a diverse array of birdlife. Entry to the zoo is free, making it an ideal attraction for visitors of all ages.

Entry

The Rockhampton Botanic Gardens are open to the public, and admission is free.

Transport and Parking

Getting here

Walk, skip, bike, scoot or drive yourself here.

From the South: When you reach the Rockhampton roundabout, follow the Bruce Highway onto Upper Dawson Road, then turn left at Spencer Street
From the North: Follow the Bruce Highway over the Fitzroy Bridge heading South, turn right onto Upper Dawson Road, then turn left at Spencer Street
Public bus: Take the 404 bus to get to the entrance of the Botanic Gardens in Spencer Street. Visit the Queensland Government website for timetables.

Parking

Free parking is available for buses, caravans, cars and motorcycles
Free bicycle racks are located just inside the main entrance)

Additional parking is also available

Phyllis Street (near the Japanese Gardens)
Blackall Street entrance (along Yeppen Lagoon)

Event Bookings

If you would like to host an event at Rockhampton Botanic Gardens, please visit our Book a Park page.

Pets

No pets or domestic animals are permitted at the Botanic Gardens.

Accessibility

Sections of the gardens are wheelchair accessible, with well-maintained paths and ramps to ensure visitors can enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of this historic site.