The Cairns Aquarium is located at 5 Florence Street, one block up from the Esplanade. There is designated disabled parking directly in front of the building. A ramp is located to the right of the entry stairs. Entry to the building and ticket office is through wide self-opening doors. There is a low counter to the right. Inside the aquarium, there is a disabled toilet on both level one and level two. The toilets are opposite hand transfer and the rooms contain a shower with fixed fold-down seat and detachable shower rose, and baby change table.
The upper level is accessible via an elevator next to the escalator. The elevator is a straight-through design negating the need to turn or back out.
The pathways through the aquarium are wide, hard-surfaced with all exhibits easily viewable from wheelchair height.
On level two there is a touching experience that can be enjoyed from wheelchair height.
There are two theatrettes in the aquarium. Both contain tiered benches. Only the top level is accessible for wheelchair users, however, a full view of the displays can be seen from that level.
Adjacent to the Aquarium is Dundee’s Coffee Shop and Restaurant. It can be accessed from the Aquarium foyer or from Florence Street via a ramp next to the stairs. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is a unique venue with one entire wall being a fish tank. Tables are available outside on the veranda or inside. It has wide aisles and movable seating giving a full choice of dining location.
