(07) 4980 0600 bookings@emeraldinn.com.au
28-30 Esmond Street, Emerald QLD
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Sapphire Gemfields near Emerald, Central Queensland
Explore Emerald

Top Things To Do
in Emerald, Queensland.

Gateway to the Central Highlands

Emerald is the gateway to the Sapphire Gemfields, Fairbairn Dam, Carnarvon Gorge, and the Blackdown Tableland. The Botanic Gardens and Morton Park are a five-minute walk from Emerald Inn. The Gemfields are forty-five minutes west. Carnarvon Gorge is a three-hour day trip south-west. Tap any card below for the full guide.

Sapphire Gemfields

45 min drive

Sapphire Gemfields

The world-famous Sapphire Gemfields at Rubyvale and Anakie — fossick for sapphires, tour underground mines, browse gem shops and galleries.

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Fairbairn Dam & Lake Maraboon

20 min drive

Fairbairn Dam & Lake Maraboon

Queensland's second-largest dam — swimming, fishing (barramundi and red claw), birdwatching, kayaking, and spectacular sunsets.

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Carnarvon Gorge

3 hr drive

Carnarvon Gorge

Dramatic sandstone gorge with Aboriginal rock art, permanent creek, rainforest, and walking trails. Best in winter (May–August).

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Emerald Botanic Gardens

5 min walk

Emerald Botanic Gardens

On the banks of the Nogoa River — walking trails, native gardens, picnic areas, and morning birdwatching.

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The Big Easel & Morton Park

5 min walk

The Big Easel & Morton Park

Home to the world's biggest replica Van Gogh Sunflower painting. Morton Park with playgrounds, BBQ areas, and the town's iconic landmark.

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Blackdown Tableland

90 min drive

Blackdown Tableland

Remote bushland, elevated panoramic views, Aboriginal heritage, and hiking trails — rewarding day trip for active travellers and photographers.

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Springsure & Virgin Rock

Day trip

Springsure & Virgin Rock

Historic small town with dramatic natural rock formation — combine with Carnarvon Gorge for a full day exploring south-west of Emerald.

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Sunflower Fields

Seasonal

Sunflower Fields

Late January through March — vast sunflower fields bloom across the Central Highlands plateau. A pilgrimage for photographers.

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Emerald Events

Year-round

Emerald Events

Ag-Grow Field Days, Emerald Show, Gemfest, race days, and community events throughout the year.

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Stay in the heart of it all.

Five minutes from the CBD, five minutes from the airport — perfectly placed for exploring Emerald and the Central Highlands.

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