Paronella Park

Families' Pick 2026 · Cairns: picked by the Funtivities team as a standout for families in Cairns.

Last updated October 2026

Heritage gardens and 1930s buildings at Mena Creek with a storytelling tour, night tour and fish feeding included in entry.

Paronella Park at Mena Creek, south of Cairns, was built by José Paronella and today has 5 hectares of tropical gardens, historic architecture, a fully restored and working 1930s hydro-electric generator, wildlife and fish feeding, and a cafe. Admission includes the 30-minute Dream Continues storytelling tour, which leaves regularly through the day, the Darkness Falls night tour (book by phone), a self-guided botanical walk booklet, fish food, a history photo museum, umbrellas and one free night in the on-site van park; tickets are valid for 24 months. Prices are $62 adult, $34 child (5-15) and $182 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children, valid to 31 March 2027. Open every day except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, 9am to 6pm. Tickets can be bought on arrival and bookings are optional for day visits. The park has a 47-step staircase (a courtesy vehicle can bypass it) and gravel paths, so it suggests a baby carrier, as small-wheeled prams can get stuck. As of October 2026.

Facts checked against the venue's own website on 17 October 2026.