Palmetum
With more than 300 varieties of palms on display over 42 acres (17 hectares, Townsville’s The Palmetum represents almost every species of palm that exists throughout the world. Visitors can meander along walking paths through the trees and admire the tropical birds that thrive in this lush tropical environment.
The basics
Australia is home to around 60 species of palm, most of which are present at The Palmetum. While palms are a plant often associated with the tropics, at The Palmetum you can see the variety of habitats in which the plants live. The Palmetum has been designed to present the various palm species in environments like their own natural ones, such as dry tropics, wet lowlands, and everything in between. Marked trails wind through the spacious grounds. There are also well-maintained lawns, fountains, shaded areas, and plenty of birds. Most travelers visit independently when spending time in Townsville.
Things to know before you go
- Entry to The Palmetum is free.
- Many of the palms on display are threatened in their native habitats, so visiting The Palmetum offers a rare opportunity to see these species.
- There are picnic tables throughout the grounds, as well as a fountain with drinking water.
How to get there
The Palmetum is located in a southern suburb of Townsville, Annadale. It’s just south of the Ross River. From central Townsville it takes about 15 minutes to drive there. Some buses also depart from central areas, but take around 40 minutes. Bus numbers 201, 202, 208, and 209 stop nearby.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The Palmetum is open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset. It can be visited at any time of year, and in fact repeat visits throughout the year are a good idea, as some of the palms are seasonal.
Tumbetin Lodge
On the grounds of The Palmetum is Tumbetin Lodge, a heritage building with a restaurant, tea rooms, and art exhibits, among other facilities. The building dates back to 1934 but it wasn’t moved to its current site until 1993. It’s a popular spot among visitors to The Palmetum as a place to take a break from the heat outside.
- Tumbetin Tea Rooms
- Royal Australian Air Force Museum (RAAF Museum)
- Castle Hill
- Maritime Museum of Townsville
- Museum of Tropical Queensland
- Reef HQ Aquarium
- The Strand
- Army Museum North Queensland
- Kissing Point Fortification
- Jezzine Barracks
- Billabong Sanctuary
- Paluma Range National Park
- SS Yongala Dive Site
- Orpheus Island