Ipswich is a historical masterpiece. A city filled with awe, wonder and underlying treasures, ready to be explored. If you’re visiting neighbouring cities, be sure to add this to your list so you don’t miss out on an array of historical sites, parks, museums, cuisine, and Ipswich’s ethereal countryside.
Delve into the Archives of Queensland’s Oldest Provisional City
Following life in the early years as a fledging mining settlement, Ipswich has evolved and revitalised, preserving its roots with over 6000 heritage-listed sites across the city. A salute to former generations, many of Ipswich’s old heritage buildings continue to thrive today, having been restored for contemporary use.
Ipswich’s ‘Then & Now’ Heritage series depicts 100s of historical sites throughout the city, compiled into 12 fascinating trail categories. Jump in your rental car and meander your way around the city as you learn more about Ipswich’s rich history. From majestic churches to Queensland’s oldest park, the old city centre to impressive landmarks including St Paul's Anglican Church, Queens Park, Ginn Cottage, Belmont, Old Town Hall and St Mary’s Catholic Church and Presbytery, there’s plenty to see, do and learn right here.
History buffs will appreciate the Cooneana Heritage Centre based at the Ipswich Historical Society. It explores life during the boom with enthralling photographs, videos, artifacts and displays – including a wonderful exponent of a late 19th-century miners’ cottage (Jim Donald House). Ipswich’s rail industry was just as prevalent, forming a formidable affiliation servicing the coal industry. The Workshops Rail Museum surveys the evolution of Ipswich’s once prospering rail industry, documenting its fascinating journey. Best experienced on a guided tour, visitors are privy to Ipswich’s world of trains featuring life-size models, wonderfully restored locomotives, child-friendly exhibits, train simulators, Queensland’s largest model railway and so much more.
See the Sights in and around Ipswich
A historic city with a contemporary flavour, there’s plenty to see and do beyond the culture-rich sites. Experience the natural beauty of Queensland’s oldest park – Queens Park with soaring Jacaranda trees that adorn the sky. Be in awe at the palette of greens on display at Nerima Gardens, the perfect blend of mother nature and architectural expression. A lovely place for a picnic, the park features a state-of-the-art adventure playground, café, flying fox, flora nursery and family favourite – Ipswich Nature Centre
If a day out in nature is what you’re seeking, make your way to the otherworldly Scenic Rim just under an hour’s drive in your Hertz rental car. Set at the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, bask in the beauty of the Scenic Rim’s grandiose mountains, cascading waterfalls, misty valleys, lush rainforests, quaint country towns, world-class wineries, and a plethora of incredible hiking trails.
In town, a budding culinary culture is on the rise inspiring a movement of fine dining, eclectic eateries and rustic bars marrying seamlessly with the city’s antiquated architecture. The Pumpyard Bar and Brewery in the 88 Limestone Precinct is an Ipswich ritual taking up the mantle as one of Australia’s top 50 best beer venues. Visit the evergreen Rafter and Rose for a delicious cinnamon croissant scroll at the Top of Town or the Ellen and Rod Café for flavoursome boutique coffee. Enjoy casual dining at the popular Fourthchild Café & Restaurant or dine in the lavish valleys of the award-winning Homage in Grandchester.
Ipswich is the ultimate gateway to life in Southeast Queensland and beyond, all that’s left to do is book your Hertz rental car and treat yourself to a getaway you deserve.
