Australian Armour and Artillery Museum

A relatively new and yet still criminally underrated attraction in the Cairns region, the **Australian Armour & Artillery Museum** is host to the largest display of armoured vehicles and artillery in the entire southern hemisphere and an excellent option for those looking for a more laid-back option in the state’s adventure capital. The museum contains over 90 collection pieces with a significant focus on the post-WWII era, ranging in size from large tanks all the way down to scale models thereof from a number of countries throughout the world. It’s a staggering collection that is continually expanding, with each item on display - highlighted by iconic Tiger, Sherman T-34 tanks - kept in great condition to boot. The exhibits are wonderfully curated, and offer an incredible wealth of information on the background of each. Not really into reading? Not a problem, either; the friendly and helpful staff here have a deep knowledge of both the items on display and the history that surrounds each of them. Options also exist to go more active and hands-on during a visit to the museum; there’s a dedicated firing range that allows visitors to try their hand at shooting a rifle or two, or instead hop on board an authentic Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) vehicle for the closest thing you’re likely ever to get to an actual tank ride. Perhaps the best thing about this world-class exhibition is that you don’t need to be a tank enthusiast in order to enjoy visiting - anyone who can appreciate history, and particularly young boys are sure to find this place a hit. Be sure to spare a spot for it on your Cairns itinerary; particularly if the weather turns sour.