10 things to do in Toowoomba this summer for less than $10
Searching for fun that won’t break the bank? Look no further than these budget-friendly ideas.
Published 12 January 2022
Written by Nicola Clark
Photography: Charlotte.GK
When we think of having a good time out, we often think of drinks, dinner, and an Uber ride home. And while this can be a great night out, it can also add up at the end of the day. There are a whole list of local activities and sights that will make for a just-as-fun experience at half the cost.
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CATCH A BLOCKBUSTER
Stick with us here – you really can score a movie ticket for under $10! With Event Cinemas’ Half Price Tuesdays, all adult tickets are just $8. This goes for all movie screenings, but you must be a CineBuzz member – just sign up for free on their website and you’ll be good to go.
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PLAY A ROUND OF TRIVIA
Start brainstorming that super corny team name! Trivia is a great weekly tradition to catch up with friends after work, and also an excuse to earn bragging rights. Fitzy’s hosts a Trivia Tuesday weekly from 7.00pm, as does The Spotted Cow at 6.00pm – entry for either won’t cost you a thing. If music is your strong suit, there’s also Musical Bingo held at speakeasy bar Bodega, hosted by Dylicious Sweetz every Wednesday night. Grab a drink, take a seat, and play along!
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VIEW THE LATEST EXHIBITION
The Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery showcases bright talent throughout the year, featuring both local exhibitions and touring national works across two storeys of inviting rooms. Entry is free, and the gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday. Current exhibitions include Patricia Piccinini’s Curious Affection exhibition, on loan from GOMA, and More than Half the Sky, featuring work by women artists and makers.
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Pack a picnic
This one’s pretty straightforward, but it’s a great way to get some sun on your skin and maybe catch up with a friend while still saving some money. Grab a scrumptious pastry from The Baker’s Duck and walk to nearby Queens Park to enjoy an afternoon in the peaceful Botanical Gardens. Go for a walk together or bring a blanket for some al fresco lounging.
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MAKE A SPLASH
There is a brief period of time in Toowoomba where it’s truly warm and sunny enough to swim – and when it is, you really, really need to make the most of it. You can dive into Milne Bay Aquatic & Fitness Centre downtown for just $4 per adult, and take advantage of the refreshing 50-metre pool that’s calling your name this summer.
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JOIN THE ZUMBA DANCE PARTY
Toowoomba Zumba Squad knows how to throw a good party, and one that’ll keep you fit at the same time. The vibrant fusion of dance and exercise is a worldwide phenomenon, and you can experience it right here in the Garden City too. The Squad host three classes a week – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.00pm, and Saturday from 8.00am. Your first three (yes, three!) one-hour sessions are free to attend, then it’s just $10 a class from there on out.
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ENJOY A MEAL DEAL
A handful of venues offer super affordable lunch and dinner specials, so you can enjoy a catch-up that doesn’t break the bank. The Royal Hotel on Ruthven Street rotates filling daily specials, such as their $7 rump steak complete with chips and gravy. Once a week at the Mexican joint Burrito Bar, you can take on a basket of chicken wings going for just 25 cents apiece, as part of their #WingsWednesday – that’s $10 for 40 mouth-watering wings. Choose from six spice rubs, scaling from a sweet BBQ sauce up to an inferno of salsa. Other places known for their cheap eats include Kusina, Original Saigon, Chimac, Phat Burgers and Sushi Kura.
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CATCH A HOMEGROWN SHOW
The Toowoomba Repertory Theatre Society has been bringing new and old tales to life on the stage for more than 90 years, with everything from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice to Agatha Christie’s The Mouse Trap. Tickets are just $10 per person, which goes towards ensuring that up-and-coming theatre talent in our region can continue to shine.
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VISIT THE RAIL MUSEUM
One of the lesser-known treasures in our region, the DownsSteam Tourist Railway & Museum embraces the rich history of steam engine manufacturing and travel in the Darling Downs. Entry for an adult is $5, and gets you a unique museum experience that shares Toowoomba’s achievements in the industry, as well as an up-close peek at heritage carriages. Be a tourist in your own city.
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TAKE A TOUR
While there’s a great selection of professionally-led tours offered in the city, you can also embark on your own adventure if you’re looking to save a few dollars. Council has devised a heritage self-drive tour, embracing Toowoomba's past and our Indigenous beginnings. They also have eight historic walk itineraries that take in historic interest points – think of the beautiful architecture of Mort Estate or the Drayton Cemetery.
You might wish to explore Toowoomba’s famous park scene – start with coffee at Urban Grounds before strolling across the road to Laurel Bank Park, then take a drive to Queens Park (dogs welcome!) to marvel at the towering pines. Next, stop by Picnic Point for an unbeatable view of Table Top Mountain, before finally enjoying a homemade afternoon tea picnic in the State Rose Garden of Newtown Park.
There’s also a stunning street art scene in the CBD – weave your way through side streets and quiet alleys to find some of the best murals made by local, talented painters. Grab a meal deal (see above!) for lunch followed by some op shopping, and you’ve got yourself a pretty great budget itinerary.
Have you got an event we should know about? Let us know!
