Tanks Arts Centre (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Tanks Arts Centre?
What makes it 75% Kids-Friendly: Monthly craft workshops, Children’s Festival events and lawns to run keep under-12s busy; however, there is no playground and only basic toilets, so parents must plan for snacks and changes.
Positives:
- Free admission: Most exhibitions and workshops cost nothing, making it easy to control spending.
- Stroller-friendly paths: Ramped walkways connect tanks and gardens, so prams move smoothly.
Challenges:
- Limited baby-change tables: No dedicated baby-change facilities; bring a portable mat and ask staff for assistance.
- Market dates vary: Markets run only June – November on specific Sundays; plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
What is Tanks Arts Centre?
- A multi-venue cultural complex set within three repurposed World War II oil storage tanks on the edge of Cairns’ Botanic Gardens in Tropical North Queensland
- Dedicated performance auditoria, gallery spaces and workshop studios showcasing contemporary, Indigenous and community-driven visual and performing arts
- Operated by Tropical Arts in partnership with Cairns Regional Council as a creative hub for rotating exhibitions, theatre, dance and community markets
What is so special about Tanks Arts Centre for with kids?
- Engage kids with free drop-in art workshops during monthly markets.
- Enjoy live music, face-painting, and food stalls at family markets (June – Nov).
- Explore rotating exhibitions of local and First Nations art in Tank 4.
- Relax with a picnic under the fig tree beside Tank 4.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows families to join a workshop, explore art, and relax at a picnic spot without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Tanks Arts Centre
Kids’ Tank Workshops:
Free drop-in art and craft sessions for children at Tank 4 during monthly markets.
Tip: Arrive by 9 am to secure a spot and let kids explore with provided materials.
Family Markets:
Live music, face-painting, and local food stalls on the second Sunday of each month (June – Nov).
Tip: Check the Tanks website for exact dates and bring cash for crafts and snacks.
Tank 4 Gallery Walk:
Browse three rotating exhibitions of local and First Nations art.
Tip: Follow gallery labels to learn artist stories and encourage kids to spot their favorite pieces.
Picnic under the Fig Tree:
Shaded picnic tables beside Tank 4 in the adjacent Botanic Gardens.
Tip: Pack a lunch or pick up takeaway from the on-site café to enjoy in the gardens.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Tanks Arts Centre
- Combine with Botanic Gardens: After visiting the tanks, explore walking trails in the adjacent gardens for extra play space.
- Ask for a calm corner: If you need a quiet spot for a break or feeding, staff can guide you to a shaded corner near Tank 4.
Reviews of Tanks Arts Centre
Peter Gazz
Great to see a historical site converted into an Art gallery. Great displays and acts from around the world to Far North Queensland.
Svetlana Prokhorova
Excellent large art space for creative workshops and with a gallery space. Situated in the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Great facilities including cafe and amenities. Easy to get there by bus or car.
Wyn Vogel
Great space for Events....we've just held our Australian Watercolour Muster Biennale 2025 Workshops in Tank 3 and have to say thanks to the Team from The Tanks Arts Centre for their support and help!! Artists from all over the world enjoyed the workshops.. the vibe and amazing opportunities to network and share inspiration...bring on 2027 😅
Karl Gercens
What a great space adjacent to the gardens and nature preserve to get your ART on! The repurposed "tanks" are especially cool and the space has a very chill vibe to it.
Aileen Seipelt
A nice place to go for a walk. The idea of how to use the tanks nowadays is pretty amazing. It gives a nice atmosphere! Also the surrounding area is quite cool. I recommend combining it with a walk through the botanic gardens which are just fantastic.
When is the best time to visit Tanks Arts Centre (Great Barrier Reef Area, Australia)?
From June to November, visit on the second Sunday for the Oil Tank Masters Market Day with kids’ crafts and live music. In May, check for Cairns Children’s Festival events held in the Tanks precinct.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Kids’ workshops | AUD 0 |
| Gallery entry | AUD 0 |
| Picnic (self-catered) | AUD 0 |
| Café snacks | AUD 30 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Tanks Arts Centre
Address: 46 Collins Ave, Edge Hill QLD 4870, Australia
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About Tanks Arts Centre
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 7 4032 660010 BEST nearby Activities
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