Where countryside beauty meets stately heritage, Toowoomba is known as the “Garden City” for its vast expanses of green space. Queensland’s largest and oldest inland city, Toowoomba offers plenty of charm and cultural attractions.

Things to do

With a namesake like the Garden City, the Ju Raku En Japanese Garden is a definite must-see. The country’s largest and most traditionally designed garden offers three kilometres of walking paths and over 200 species of plants. Enjoy strolling to the waterfall or relaxing on the seat by the Dry Garden.

For a journey through time, head to the Cobb and Co Museum located just north of Queen’s Park. Enjoy gazing upon Australia’s largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles and interacting with alternating science displays. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also sign up for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn blacksmithing or stonemasonry.

When you’re done at the museum, walk across to the Queen’s Park Botanic Gardens. While lovely all year-round, they are especially vibrant in spring and fall, where vast flower beds offer landscapes of red and yellow colours. You can stroll along tree-lined avenues for some peaceful reflection or plan a picnic or a barbecue.

If you're seeking out a taste of architecture and culture, the Royal Bull's Head Inn is a great place to start. This Heritage Site represents an early period of European settlement in the area and offers a glimpse into Toowoomba’s colonial past.

Getting around

Take the Westlander Train from Brisbane into Toowoomba and enjoy the sights of the countryside as you travel. Once in Toowoomba, the best way of getting around is by car or taxi. There is a bus network that operates throughout the city if you prefer public transportation.