Queensland, Australia is a land of vibrant contrasts. From the sun-drenched shores of the Coral Sea to the rainforest-covered mountains and remote outback plains, this northeastern state offers travelers a sweeping array of iconic sights. For first-time visitors, the landmarks in Queensland are more than just photo ops—they tell the story of Australia’s rich natural beauty, cultural heritage and adventurous spirit.
The most famous landmarks in Queensland include the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Brisbane’s Story Bridge, Lamington National Park, Fraser Island, the Whitsundays, Kuranda Scenic Railway, Mount Tamborine, the Glass House Mountains and Australia Zoo.
Here are the top 10 famous landmarks in Queensland you absolutely must visit.
1. Great Barrier Reef
Spanning more than 1,400 miles along Queensland’s coastline, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system on Earth. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it's home to thousands of marine species and a kaleidoscope of colorful coral. Visitors can snorkel or dive among sea turtles, rays and vibrant fish or hop aboard a glass-bottom boat for a dry adventure. The reef’s underwater world is unlike anywhere else on the planet.
Fun Fact: The Great Barrier Reef is visible from space and contains over 2,900 individual reefs.
2. Daintree Rainforest
Located in Far North Queensland, the Daintree is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, estimated to be over 180 million years old. It’s a lush, green wilderness where vines tangle around towering trees and cassowaries roam beneath the canopy. Explore it by walking along elevated boardwalks, taking a river cruise or ziplining above the treetops. This is where the rainforest meets the reef, offering a rare double ecosystem experience.
Fun Fact: The Daintree is home to plant and animal species that existed during the time of dinosaurs.
3. Story Bridge
One of Brisbane’s most recognizable features, the Story Bridge spans the Brisbane River and offers panoramic views of the city skyline. While you can walk or drive across it, the best way to experience this Queensland landmark is by climbing it. The guided Story Bridge Adventure Climb is one of only three bridge climbs in the world and gives you a 360-degree view from the top.
Fun Fact: The Story Bridge was constructed during the Great Depression and opened in 1940.
4. Lamington National Park
Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, Lamington National Park is famous for its ancient trees, dramatic waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. It’s a haven for nature lovers, with over 160 species of birds and endless walking paths through misty valleys and dense rainforest. Don’t miss the Tree Top Walk, a suspension bridge that lets you stroll through the forest canopy.
Fun Fact: The park protects remnants of forests that date back to the time when Australia was part of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana.
5. Fraser Island (K’gari)
Fraser Island, now officially known by its Indigenous name K’gari, is the largest sand island in the world. It’s a place of surreal beauty, with crystal-clear freshwater lakes, ancient rainforests growing from sand and 75 Mile Beach doubling as a highway. You can explore by 4WD, float down Eli Creek or swim in Lake McKenzie’s striking blue water.
Fun Fact: K’gari is the only place on Earth where rainforests grow directly on sand dunes.
6. The Whitsundays
The Whitsundays are a dreamy archipelago of 74 islands nestled between the northeast Queensland coast and the Great Barrier Reef. Famous for their powdery white beaches and turquoise lagoons, they’re the ultimate sailing and snorkeling destination. Whitehaven Beach is the star, with swirls of pure silica sand and crystal waters.
Fun Fact: Whitehaven Beach’s sand is 98 percent silica, making it some of the whitest and softest sand in the world.
7. Kuranda Scenic Railway
Winding through tropical rainforest, waterfalls and steep ravines, the Kuranda Scenic Railway is one of Australia’s most beautiful train journeys. It connects Cairns to the mountain village of Kuranda, offering sweeping views of Barron Gorge National Park along the way. Step off in Kuranda to explore its markets, butterfly sanctuary and Aboriginal cultural experiences.
Fun Fact: The railway was built in the late 1800s using hand tools and dynamite and took over five years to complete.
8. Mount Tamborine
Nestled in the Gold Coast hinterland, Mount Tamborine blends natural wonder with charming village life. Explore rainforest trails, visit cascading waterfalls or browse artisan shops and distilleries. The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk and Glow Worm Caves are popular highlights. It’s a peaceful escape just an hour from Brisbane.
Fun Fact: Mount Tamborine sits on an ancient volcanic plateau that formed over 20 million years ago.
9. Glass House Mountains
Rising like jagged teeth from the flatlands of the Sunshine Coast, the Glass House Mountains are volcanic plugs that hold deep spiritual significance for the Gubbi Gubbi people. Visitors can hike scenic trails, enjoy panoramic lookouts or simply admire their silhouette at sunset. Mount Ngungun is a favorite for a short, rewarding climb.
Fun Fact: The peaks were named by Captain James Cook in 1770 because they reminded him of glass furnaces back in England.
10. Australia Zoo
Founded by the late Steve Irwin and his family, Australia Zoo is more than just an animal park—it’s a living tribute to wildlife conservation. Located on the Sunshine Coast, the zoo is home to crocodiles, koalas, tigers and more. Daily shows and interactive experiences offer a chance to connect with native Australian animals up close.
Fun Fact: The zoo spans over 700 acres and is still run by the Irwin family today.
Exploring the Most Famous Landmarks in Queensland
From coral reefs to mountain peaks, Queensland landmarks offer a world of natural and cultural richness. Whether you're snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking through ancient rainforests or riding a scenic railway through the hills, each site tells a story worth discovering. For first-time visitors, these landmarks to visit in Queensland will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of Australia's wild beauty.
