Gateway to the Darling Downs and surrounded by rolling hills and volcanic mountains, Queensland’s largest inland city boasts a vibrant street art scene and bustling cafe culture amid elegant heritage landmarks.   

Known as The Garden City, Toowoomba comes to life in springtime with superb parks and gardens and the annual, month-long Carnival of Flowers. This iconic event celebrates the beginning of spring with flower parades, exhibition gardens and gourmet food and wine events. Experience the magic of Laurel Bank Park by night on a Twilight Tour or stroll among stately trees at the Queen Park Botanic Gardens.

 

Enjoy panoramic views of the Great Dividing Range, overlooking Main Range and the Lockyer Valley, at the heritage-listed Picnic Point Lookout and parkland. Perfect for birdwatching, there are plenty of bushwalking trails to explore and a cafe serving breakfast and lunch. If you’re feeling more adventurous, try tackling the Table Top Mountain hike for more spectacular views.

For a taste of Toowoomba’s history, step back in time on a self-guided tour of the Russell Street Historical Walk and discover heritage architecture dating back to the 1860s. Visit Toowoomba’s fascinating Cobb & Co Museum and explore interactive displays, exhibits and heritage trade workshops. The museum also houses the impressive National Carriage Collection of historic horse-drawn vehicles.

 

As part of the First Coat International Arts Festival, Toowoomba’s streets and laneways have been adorned with over 100 brightly coloured murals by local and international artists. You can also see works by some of Australia’s best-loved artists at the Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery. Built in 1937, it’s Queensland’s oldest regional public art gallery.

From fine dining and food trails to traditional country pubs and acclaimed cellar doors, the Toowoomba region has everything you need for a gourmet foodie escape. Start with breakfast and coffee at The Finch Cafe, a bustling local institution, while Zev’s Bistro matches local wines with a degustation-only menu featuring locally-grown produce.

 

Meet the makers behind the region’s finest drops at cellar doors dotted throughout the region. You’ll find award-winning boutique winery, Preston Peak Wines, up high in the Great Dividing Range, looking over the Lockyer Valley. Sample a tasting paddle at 4 Brothers Brewing, Toowoomba’s first craft brewery, or get cosy over a cocktail at hidden laneway bar The Chelsea.

Toowoomba is a 90 minute drive west of Brisbane, and just over two hour’s drive from the Gold Coast. There are regular bus and train services that run between Brisbane and Toowoomba. You can also fly into Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport, with direct services from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Darwin and Townsville. Hire car, taxi and shuttle services are available at the airport.