If you’re heading to Cairns and looking to uncover its trendier, less touristy side, the Hipster and Street Art Walking Tour promises an engaging peek into the city’s modern subculture. While it doesn’t claim to be a comprehensive tour of the entire city, it focuses on the vibrant street art, creative spaces, and the hipster lifestyle that has been quietly reshaping Cairns’ identity.
This tour has earned a pristine 5.0 rating based on 13 reviews – a clear sign that travelers are genuinely pleased with the experience. For just over $28 AUD, you’ll spend around an hour and a half walking through some of the city’s most Instagrammable spots. What we love most? The enthusiastic guides, unique insights into local hipster trends, and the chance to visit several curated stops that showcase Cairns’ creative pulse.
One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite focused, so if you’re after an all-encompassing city tour or nature exploration, you might want to combine it with other experiences. But for those wanting a fun, authentic, and visually inspiring walk, this offering strikes a great balance.
Ideal for: Travelers interested in modern urban culture, street art, and quirky local spots. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of Cairns beyond the beaches and rainforest.
Key Points
- Short and Sweet: The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect morning or early afternoon activity.
- Small Group: With a maximum of 12 people, you’ll get a personalized feel and more opportunities to ask questions.
- Curated Highlights: From tattoo parlors to vintage shops, every stop offers a glimpse into Cairns’ hipster scene.
- Value for Money: For a little over $28, plus vouchers for local attractions, it’s a cost-effective way to explore.
- Expert Guides: Friendly and enthusiastic guides make the experience engaging and informative.
- Authentic Insights: The tour’s stops include locally loved spots and commentary on trends like vegan cafes and barber culture.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Starting Point: Cairns Museum
The tour kicks off at the Cairns Museum, providing a natural meeting point that’s easy to find. The guide, Georgia, who is praised for her warmth and enthusiasm, sets the tone for an engaging walk through the city’s trending spots.
Stop 1: evo Burger
Within just two minutes of starting, you’ll visit evo Burger, a local favorite for hipster café culture. Think craft burgers, artisanal ingredients, and a lively atmosphere. While the tour doesn’t include entry, the focus here is on ambience and the role of such cafes in Cairns’ foodie scene.
Stop 2: Cairns City Tattoo
A quick 10-minute stop introduces you to the tattoo culture that’s integral to the city’s hipster identity. The guide explains the importance of tattoo parlors in defining top hipster cities worldwide, including Cairns. Reviewers noted Georgia’s impressive knowledge about the history and significance of tattoos in the local scene.
Stop 3: Slap and Pickle Low and Slow Smokehouse
Next, a five-minute chat over barbecue at a hipster smokehouse spot. This stop serves as a launching pad for discussing food and music trends that appeal to Cairns’ creative crowd.
Stop 4: Makin’ Whoopee Gift Shop
A 10-minute visit to this eco and handcrafted items shop reveals Cairns’ embrace of sustainable and artisanal products. Visitors can browse unique gifts, with the guide delving into the importance of eco-conscious culture for Cairns’ hipster community.
Stop 5: NorthSite Contemporary Arts
This 10-minute pause explores non-mainstream art, emphasizing its role in the local creative scene. NorthSite, formerly KickArts, showcases how contemporary art and alternative exhibitions fuel the city’s culture.
Stops 6-12: Food, Fashion, Vintage, and Tattoo Culture
The tour continues with brief stops—each around five minutes—at places like Coffee Works Cairns (specialty coffee), Penlan Street Co (fashion), The Source Bulk Foods (health and wellness trends), Vintage Seeker (vintage clothing and records), Blvk Temple Tattoo (tattoo culture), Earth Toys (game culture), and Cartel Collective (elite barber trend).
Georgia’s commentary reveals that vegan cafes, vintage clothing, and barbershops are now central to Cairns’ hipster scene. For example, Georgia points out that Cairns hosts a burgeoning vegan scene, with cafes emphasizing health-conscious options, and that vintage shops are a hub for music and fashion lovers. Reviewers highlight that guides like Georgia bring insight and passion, making even brief stops memorable.
Final Notes: End at Oceana Walk Arcade
The tour wraps up just half a block from the starting point, making it convenient for further exploration or casual lunch. The overall experience provides a taste rather than a deep dive, which is perfect for travelers wanting a quick but meaningful snapshot of Cairns’ creative side.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Authentic Local Flavor: Unlike generic city tours, this experience zeroes in on Cairns’ underground culture, giving you a glimpse into what makes the city tick beyond its natural attractions.
Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers repeatedly praise Georgia’s friendliness and deep understanding of local trends. Her enthusiasm makes the tour engaging and accessible, especially when explaining niche topics like tattoo culture or vintage interest.
Visual and Tactile Appeal: Expect plenty of colourful street art, handcrafted goods, and stylish shops that pique the senses and Instagram feeds alike.
Affordable Price & Added Value: At just over $28, the tour offers a lot, especially with included vouchers for Cairns Museum and Tropik Nutrition, allowing you to explore more on your own afterward.
Small Group Atmosphere: With groups capped at 12, you’ll find it easier to ask questions, get personalized recommendations, and soak up the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This walking tour suits urban explorers, culture vultures, and those who love discovering local creative scenes. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a flexible, short activity that combines street art, food trends, and fashion insights. It’s also perfect if you’re keen to support small, local businesses and learn about Cairns’ modern identity.
However, if you’re mainly interested in natural or outdoor adventures, this might serve best as a supplementary experience rather than the main event.
Final Thoughts
For anyone curious about Cairns’ contemporary culture and hipster scene, this tour offers an enjoyable, well-rounded introduction. The blend of street art, local shops, trendy cafes, and expert guides make it a worthwhile pick for a half-day activity. It’s an authentic way to see the city through the eyes of its creatives and trendsetters, without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, you’ll appreciate the relaxed pace and insider knowledge. Plus, the included vouchers encourage further exploration of Cairns’ vibrant muse and food scene. All in all, it’s a fantastic way to add a quirky, colorful layer to your Cairns visit.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it flexible for a range of ages and mobility levels.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect short activity.
Are tickets included in the price?
No, admission to stops like evo Burger, Cairns City Tattoo, and Coffee Works Cairns are not included. The experience is mainly guided and observational.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Cairns Museum and ends at Oceana Walk Arcade, both conveniently located in Cairns city center.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be on your feet for about 1.5 hours. Casual clothing suitable for outdoor walking is ideal.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.
This walking tour strikes a great balance of authenticity, fun, and insight, perfect for those wanting a quick but meaningful peek into Cairns’ trendy side. Whether you’re into street art, fashion, or food, it offers a compact snapshot that’ll leave you with plenty to explore further.