population: 0.15 million

extension: 488.1 square kilometers

Museums

If you're interested in visiting museums in Cairns, I suggest checking out the Cairns Museum, which is located in the city center and showcases the history and culture of Cairns and Far North Queensland. Another option is the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, which features interactive exhibits and performances that highlight the traditions and customs of the local Indigenous people.

If you're looking for other museum options in the area, you may want to consider visiting the Museum of Tropical Queensland in Townsville, about a 3-hour drive south of Cairns. It offers a range of exhibits about the natural history and cultural heritage of the region.

Alternatively, if you're willing to travel farther, Brisbane (about a 2-hour flight from Cairns) has several excellent museums, including the Queensland Museum and Science Centre, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Museum of Brisbane.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to eat in Cairns according to local people include:

1. Barramundi: This is a type of fish that's popular all over Australia, but especially in tropical North Queensland, including Cairns. It can be grilled, fried, or steamed and is often served with lemon or lime.

2. Mud crab: Another seafood delicacy that's typically found in the waters around Cairns. It can be boiled, steamed, or stir-fried and is often served with garlic butter or a spicy chili sauce.

3. Kangaroo steak: This lean, gamey meat is a popular dish for adventurous eaters. It's often served grilled or pan-fried and is sometimes accompanied by a native Australian fruit sauce like quandong or bush tomato.

4. Pavlova: This classic Aussie dessert is a meringue-based cake that's crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. It's typically topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, such as strawberries, kiwi, or passionfruit.

5. Tim Tams: While not a meal per se, this beloved Australian chocolate biscuit is a must-try for any visitor to Cairns. The crunchy biscuits are sandwiched together with a creamy chocolate filling and then coated in a layer of milk chocolate.

Activities

Sure, here are a few fun activities that locals in Cairns enjoy:

1. Snorkeling or scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef - Cairns is one of the main departure points for tours to the Great Barrier Reef, which is home to an incredible array of marine life and offers some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in the world.

2. Exploring the Daintree Rainforest - Located just north of Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest is the oldest living rainforest in the world and offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.

3. Visiting Kuranda Village - This picturesque village in the rainforest is accessible by scenic railway or cable car and features markets, galleries, and cultural attractions like the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.

4. Taking a dip in local swimming holes - There are several natural swimming holes and waterfalls within easy reach of Cairns, including Crystal Cascades, Josephine Falls, and the Babinda Boulders.

5. Enjoying the nightlife in Cairns - The city has a lively bar and nightclub scene, with plenty of venues catering to both locals and tourists.