Criterion

Rockhampton


Dating from 1889, with one of the finest facades on historic Quay St, the Criterion is Rockhampton’s grandest old pub. Replacing an earlier pub built in 1867, it retains its elegant foyer and well-worn, characterful period rooms, while out the front is a friendly bar and a steakhouse to avoid. Live music, poker tournaments and sport are frequent diversions.

All the old hotel rooms have showers, although the toilets are down the hall. If you prefer more comfort but less character, there are a number of typical modern motel rooms next door.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Rockhampton attractions

1. Quay Street

0.11 MILES

This historic streetscape, where grand sandstone Victorian-era buildings face the broad Fitzroy River, is Rockhampton's most beautiful area. You can pick…

2. Rockhampton Art Gallery

0.38 MILES

Founded in 1967, this great regional gallery owns an impressive collection of modernist Australian paintings, including works by Russell Drysdale, Arthur…

3. Archer Park Rail Museum

0.4 MILES

Housed in a handsome heritage-listed railway station dating to 1899, this museum is a labour of love, telling the station’s story through photographs,…

4. Kershaw Gardens

0.98 MILES

Just north of the Fitzroy River, this excellent botanical park showcases Australian native plants and is a great spot for a picnic or play with the kids…

5. Tropic of Capricorn

1.71 MILES

Straddle the Tropic of Capricorn at the visitor centre on Gladstone Rd – it's marked by a huge spire.

6. Botanic Gardens

2.17 MILES

These Heritage-listed gardens, begun in 1873, are a beautiful escape from often-sweltering Rockhampton, with tropical and subtropical rainforest,…

7. Dreamtime Cultural Centre

4.2 MILES

The stories of the local Darumbal people and Torres Straits islanders are well-conveyed here. Self-guide through exhibits such as 'The Vanishing Culture…

8. Rockhampton Heritage Village

4.64 MILES

A great place to break up a road trip, the Heritage Village is 11 hectares of relocated and replica buildings from the 1850s to the 1950s. Offering a…