Cairns

Cairns CBD

The late core of town around Shields, Spence, Lake, Grafton and Abbott Streets. Backpacker clubs, pubs and live music within a few blocks, and the only part of Cairns where venues can trade until 3am.

Backpacker bar & clubs · Cairns CBDGilligan’sDJs in the club, live bands on the back deck, guest DJs at Sunday pool parties · Best: Saturday (The Attic from 9pm); Sunday pool party from midday
Backpacker bar & club · Cairns CBDThe WoolshedParty DJs and themed nights · Best: Check the program
Pub & live music venue · Cairns CBDThe JackTouring bands, themed DJ parties, sport on the screens · Best: Check the program
Irish pub & live music · Cairns CBDP.J. O’Brien’sLive bands and covers; karaoke on Wednesdays · Best: Thursday to Sunday live music
Live music venue · Cairns CBDElixir Music HouseLocal and touring original bands, folk to metalcore · Best: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 7pm

Checked 13 October 2026 against venue sites, Visit Brisbane, Destination Gold Coast, Townsville, Whitsunday and Tropical North Queensland tourism, 2026 gig listings, TransLink and Business Queensland. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.