Cairns Botanical Gardens: Tropical Paradise in Australia’s North

Cairns botanical Gardens

Cairns Botanical Gardens is a tropical haven celebrated as one of Australia’s premier showcases of tropical plant diversity. Nestled in the heart of Cairns, it offers a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts, providing a serene environment to immerse yourself in tropical flora and horticulture.

Opening Hours

  • Flecker Gardens, along with the Watkins Munro Martin Conservatory, welcomes visitors daily from 7.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m., weather permitting.
  • All other areas within the gardens are accessible 24/7.
  • The Visitor Centre extends a warm welcome from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and 9.30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends and public holidays, except Christmas Day.

Pet Policy

While the Cairns Botanic Gardens is a haven for plant enthusiasts, pets, except for registered assistance animals, are not permitted within the premises. If you have a legitimate assistance animal, kindly carry appropriate documentation to validate their status.

Admission

The best part is that admission to this tropical paradise is free, making it an accessible and delightful experience for everyone.

Location

You’ll find this botanical gem on Collins Avenue in Edge Hill. Conveniently, the Freshwater and Saltwater Lakes can be easily accessed from Greenslopes Street. On-street parking is available along Collins Avenue and Greenslopes Street, ensuring a hassle-free visit.

Accessibility

For those with mobility needs, please be aware that some paths in Flecker Garden may not be suitable for wheelchairs and prams. However, most gardens, including Centenary Lakes, are fully accessible.

Guided Walks

Join in on one of the garden’s guided walks and discover the fantastic variety of animals, birds, and reptiles that have made the gardens their home.

Botanic Gardens Restaurant and Cafe

Relax and catch up with friends at the Botanic Gardens Restaurant and Cafe inside the gardens.  The Botanic Gardens Restaurant and Cafe feature a delicious menu.  While you are there, choose the famous Eggs Benedict or delicious waffles.

Open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

Library and Friends House

The Friends of the Botanic Gardens run the Botanic Garden Library, opposite the Botanic Gardens Restaurant and Cafe.

Cairns Botanical Gardens

Events

The Cairns Botanical Gardens provide a beautiful location for weddings and corporate events.

Several times of the year, the Friends of the Gardens host a Starry Night Cinema experience featuring family favourites, new releases, and old favourites.

Plants Sale

The Botanical Gardens hosts a plant sale throughout the year featuring hard-to-find tropical plants.  Gardeners, add this to your calendar and don’t miss this event.

  • Pre-Easter is always on the Sunday before Easter on the lawn in front of the conservatory.
  • Father’s Day: Carnival on Collins, first Sunday in September
  • The Christmas Plant Sale is held on the first Sunday in December on the lawn in front of the conservatory.

Cairns Botanical Gardens

Nearby, you will find the Cairns Nature Playground and access to Cairns walking tracks on the Red, Blue, and Green Arrows.

CAIRNS BOTANIC GARDENS FAQ’S

Q. What are the opening hours of Cairns Botanic Gardens?
A. The Flecker Gardens, including the Watkins Munro Martin Conservatory, are open daily from 7.30 am to 5.30 pm, weather permitting. Other garden areas are accessible 24/7.

Q. Is there an admission fee to enter Cairns Botanic Gardens?
A. No, admission to Cairns Botanic Gardens is absolutely free, making it an affordable and enjoyable destination for all.

Q. Are pets allowed in the gardens?
A. Except for registered assistance animals, pets are not allowed within the gardens. Please ensure you have appropriate documentation for assistance animals.

Q. How can I reach Cairns Botanic Gardens?
A. The gardens are conveniently located on Collins Avenue in Edge Hill. You can easily access the Freshwater and Saltwater Lakes from Greenslopes Street. On-street parking is available along Collins Avenue and Greenslopes Street.

Q. Is the Cairns Botanic Gardens wheelchair and pram accessible?
A. While some paths in Flecker Garden may not be suitable for wheelchairs and prams, most of the gardens, including Centenary Lakes, are fully accessible. Refer to the accessibility map for details.

Q. Are there guided tours available?
A. Yes, Cairns Botanic Gardens occasionally offers guided tours and educational programs. Check the official website or contact them for tour availability and schedules.

Q. Can I have a picnic in the gardens?
A. Yes, you are welcome to enjoy a picnic in the gardens. There are designated areas where you can relax and savour the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Q. Are there any special events or exhibitions held at the gardens?
A. Cairns Botanic Gardens often hosts special events, workshops, and exhibitions related to plants and horticulture. Keep an eye on their website or social media for updates on upcoming events.

Q. What is the contact number for enquiries?
A. For any questions or additional information, contact the Cairns Botanic Gardens team at 4032 6650.

Q. Is the Visitor Centre open on weekends and public holidays?
A. Yes, the Visitor Centre is open on weekends and public holidays, with varying hours. Please refer to the posted schedule for specific times.
Getting there

Hop onboard Sunbus 131 to visit the Cairns Botanical Gardens.

For self-drivers, parking is available nearby on Collins Avenue and Greenslopes Street.

Walking from the Cairns Tourist Information Centre on Abbott Street in Cairns city is four kilometres to the Cairns Botanical Gardens.

 

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