Cairns Museum has some interesting historical displays on life in the Far North. Run by the Cairns Historical Society, it's housed in the beautiful School of Arts building, which dates back to 1907 and features a lovely wide verandah typical of local architecture.

Cairns Regional Gallery, in a gorgeous heritage building, is worth a wander. Exhibitions reflect the consciousness of the region, with an emphasis on indigenous art. The permanent collection includes works by Brett Whiteley, Russell Drysdale and Donald Friend.

About 20km from Cairns, the Crystal Cascades are a series of beautiful waterfalls and pools. You will need a friendly local or a cab to get you there but it is worth the effort. The area is accessed by a 1.2km pathway (suitable for wheelchairs) and is a great spot for a dip, particularly in the summer months when the stingers make the beaches unsafe.

Flecker Botanic Gardens specialises in cycads, heliconias, gingers and palms, and has a stunning collection of natives and exotics. There are informative tours and self-guided walking trails such as the Gondawan Evolution Trail.

Near the botanical gardens is the entrance to the Mt Whitfield Conservation Park, the last remnant of Cairns rainforest and once home to a small cassowary population. The Red Arrow Trail (one hour) and the Blue Arrow Trail (3.5 hours) both offer good views over the city and coast.

Take your knowledge of the reef to greater depths at Reef Teach. The madcap lecturer is passionate about the reef and talks fast but he will explain how to identify specific types of coral and fish, and how to treat the reef with respect.

Owned and run by Aborigines, the Tjapukai Cultural Park is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. It features the Creation legend, told using giant holograms; a corroboree; and boomerang- and spear-throwing demonstrations. The retail gallery sells authentic didgeridoos.