JAMES COOK MUSEUM PROJECT: Queensland National Trust - This museum is regarded as the finest regional museum in Australia. The building was erected as a Convent of Saint Mary during the gold rush era in 1889. It was also the first high school in North Queensland.  During World War 2 the building was, used as a US command post and the Sisters of Mercy were evacuated, never to return. The building fell into disrepair until 1969 when it was restored to its former glory and reopened by the Queen in 1970 as the "James Cook Museum".  Exhibits include: "The Gallery of Captain Cook's History" with the original anchor and a cannon from Cook's ship "Endeavour" recovered from the Great Barrier Reef off Cooktown. A replica of a Chinese Joss House. The museum is a large two storey building located in Helen Street between Fumeaux & Walker streets. Open daily between 9.30 am - 4.00 pm. Admission: Adult $5.00 Child $ 1.50 .

GRASSY HILL LOOKOUT: Situated at the top of Hope Street the lookout offers panoramic views of Cooktown. James Cook climbed Grassy Hill on several occasions In June & July 1770 Lt. to view the surrounding land & seascapes. The Lighthouse was built in England and shipped to Cooktown in 1885 and was erected in 1886. Captain Cook was able to navigate a safe passage for the "Endeavour" between the dangerous reefs as a result of his appraisal. Cook gave the site the name of Grassy Hill which was sparse of vegetation, due to the local Aboriginals agricultural technique of "back burning" to encourage new growth, to attract wildlife for hunting & food. The Lighthouse was automated in 1927 and between 1942 to 1945 it was joined by a radar station which was subsequently dismantled after World War 2. The Lighthouse served the Cooktown community and shipping in the area for 100 years until made obsolete, and was then restored by the Endeavour Lions Club. Visitors are recommended to visit the lookout at sunset to watch the sun disappear behind the mountains, which on most evenings are quite spectacular.

COOKTOWN BOTANIC GARDENS: Located along, Walker St. the gardens were gazetted on March 8th 1878. These spectacular gardens are steeped in history and offer a superb display of exotic flora of the region. The Gardens were initially developed on a site favoured by Chinese charcoal burners. The park flourished until about 1910 and was closed in 1917. Stone pitched waterways and shaded paths were restored in the late 1980's and have enhanced an area that was neglected for 70 years. The reserve is 154 acres of native & exotic plantings set at the foot of the hills.    Read More

GREAT BARRIER REEF: Cooktown also offers some of the best fishing that Tropical Queensland has to offer with the mighty Ribbon Reefs only 30 nautical miles off our coastline. Don't forget we are the gateway to Cape York, so if it's adventure you want we are only two hours from the popular Lakefield National Park. Maybe you just want to relax and let Cooktown's ambience and charm be part of an idyllic life style, no matter what your age. Cooktown has something for everyone, all year round.