Cairns isn’t just the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef—it’s also quietly earning a reputation as Australia’s second hipster capital. This Hipster and Street Art Walking Tour offers a unique look at the city’s edgy side, blending urban art, trendy cafes, and local culture into a compact 1.5-hour experience.
While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a fun, authentic way to see the city from a perspective that’s often overlooked. Three things particularly stand out: the knowledgeable guides who can tell you about Cairns’ street art, the chance to explore its vibrant cafe scene, and the insight into local hipster trends like vintage fashion and tattoo culture.
One potential consideration is that the tour involves quite a few stops within a short time, so if you’re keen on deep, immersive visits, you might want to follow up with your own explorations afterward. This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate local art, enjoy discovering cool neighborhood spots, and want a laid-back, engaging way to see Cairns beyond its beaches and reefs.
Key Points
- Authentic Insights: The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who shares authentic stories about Cairns’ hipster culture and street art.
- Short and Sweet: At 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable introduction to the city’s cool side, perfect for a quick cultural fix.
- Local Flavors: You’ll visit trendy cafes, tattoo parlors, vintage stores, and discuss current food and fashion trends.
- Value for Money: For just under $30, it includes helpful vouchers for local attractions like the Cairns Museum.
- Small Group Feel: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Practical Meeting Point: Starts at Cairns Museum and ends close by for easy access to other activities or transport.
Starting Point and First Impressions
The tour kicks off at the Cairns Museum on Lake Street, a central, easily accessible location. From the moment you meet your guide—Georgia, according to a review—you’ll notice her enthusiasm and genuine interest in Cairns’ street art and hipster culture. The small group size (max 12 people) means plenty of chances to ask questions and get personalized insights.
The first stop is evo Burger, a well-loved hipster café where you can get a quick taste of Cairns’ trendy café culture. While the admission isn’t included, the focus here is on the ambiance and the conversation around Cairns’ foodie trends, especially the rise of vegan cafes and artisanal burger joints. This spot sets the tone for the tour’s blend of urban art and modern lifestyle.
Exploring Tattoo Art and Cultural Movements
Next, you stroll over to Cairns City Tattoo, which offers a window into the city’s tattoo scene—something that Sydney and Melbourne are more famous for, but Cairns is catching up fast. The guide discusses the tattoo studios per capita as a marker of hipster culture and shares stories about tattoo trends.
A reviewer noted that Georgia’s enthusiasm made the discussion engaging, making it easy to see why tattoos are more than body art—they’re a symbol of self-expression in Cairns. You might even get a behind-the-scenes look at the local tattoo culture, making this stop insightful for those interested in body art and personal stories.
Sampling Hipster Food and Music Trends
The tour continues at Slap and Pickle Low and Slow Smokehouse, where the focus turns to Cairns’ evolving food scene. Expect a lively discussion about how food and music influence local identities. This is a quick stop, but one that leaves you thinking about Cairns’ culinary scene as more than just tropical flavors—it’s about craft, sustainability, and cultural expression.
Eco and Handcrafted Goods at Makin’ Whoopee
A highlight for many is Makin’ Whoopee Gift Shop, which showcases environmentally conscious and handcrafted items. Here, you’ll learn about the local emphasis on eco-friendly products and the street art movement’s role in promoting sustainability. A reviewer appreciated this part, noting the shop’s emphasis on eco and handmade items, aligning perfectly with modern hipster values.
Art and Expression at NorthSite Contemporary Arts
Cairns’ non-mainstream art scene is represented at NorthSite Contemporary Arts, formerly KickArts. The guide discusses how alternative art scenes play a vital role in defining Cairns’ hipster identity. The free admission makes this accessible, and it’s an excellent chance to see how local artists express the city’s unique vibe.
Coffee Culture and Fashion
Next, the tour explores Cairns’ coffee scene at Coffee Works Cairns, emphasizing the city’s role in northern Queensland’s coffee production. You’ll learn about specialty coffee producers and how coffee shops are social hubs for creatives and trendsetters.
Just around the corner, Penlan Street Co showcases Cairns’ fashion scene—an area that’s been gaining momentum amongst local hipsters. The guide discusses how fashion trends here are influenced by both global and local styles, with an emphasis on vintage and sustainable fashion.
Healthy Living and Vintage Vibes
The The Source Bulk Foods provides insight into Cairns’ health-conscious culture—another key element of local hipster identity. This stop highlights how health trends like organic eating and zero waste are shaping the city’s lifestyle.
Next, Vintage Seeker taps into Cairns’ vintage clothing and record enthusiast scene. Here, you can expect stories about why vintage fashion and music are so popular among locals, creating a sense of nostalgia and individuality that resonates with many travelers.
Tattoo, Art, and Grooming
The tour’s next stops are Blvk Temple Tattoo, where you’ll learn about the city’s tattoo culture, and Earth Toys, which focuses on street game and toy trends. These places showcase Cairns’ quirky and artistic side.
Finally, Cartel Collective spotlights the elite barber trend, another facet of Cairns’ modern, style-conscious scene. It’s interesting to see how grooming and personal style are integral to the city’s hipster identity.
Wrap-up and Reflection
Throughout the tour, the guide weaves in discussions about Cairns’ food, coffee, fashion, and vintage culture. The stops are quick—around 5 to 10 minutes each—but packed with context and insights. Reviewers mention that Georgia’s enthusiasm and local knowledge make these moments engaging rather than rushed.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring local culture through art, food, and fashion. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a well-rounded, affordable introduction to Cairns’ hipster scene without the need for extended visits or multiple separate attractions. The emphasis on small groups ensures personal attention and a relaxed vibe.
If your goal is to see Cairns from a different perspective—focused on its street art, trendy cafes, vintage shops, and local artistic expressions—this tour offers genuine value. For just under $30, you’ll gain a snapshot of a side of Cairns that many travelers miss. The small group size and enthusiastic guides make it a friendly, engaging outing.
While it’s not an in-depth exploration of every stop, it’s a fantastic overview that can inspire you to explore further on your own. The included vouchers for Cairns Museum and Tropik Nutrition add extra value, encouraging you to continue discovering the city’s culture and health-conscious lifestyle.
This tour works best for those who are curious about local trends, enjoy casual walking experiences, and appreciate authentic, offbeat city spots. It’s a fun, affordable way to spend a morning or early afternoon in Cairns, especially if you want to get to know its creative heartbeat.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be friendly and engaging for a wide age range.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a convenient short activity, perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Cairns Museum on Lake Street and finishes at Oceana Walk Arcade, just half a block away, making it easy to continue exploring or return to your accommodation.
Are tickets included in the price?
No, admission to specific stops like cafes, tattoo parlors, and shops is not included, but most stops are either free or have minimal costs.
Is there any discount or voucher?
Yes, participants receive 10% off vouchers for the Cairns Museum and Tropik Nutrition, adding extra value.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility in your travel plans.
Is the tour conducted rain or shine?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
This Hipster and Street Art Walking Tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into Cairns’ alternative scene—far from the usual beach and reef adventures. Whether you’re into street art, vintage fashion, or just want to see a different side of the city, it provides a friendly, affordable, and engaging way to spend time in Cairns. For those who love discovering local culture through casual walks and stories, this tour is a genuine find.