Rockhampton is a car-friendly city and most visitors arrive by road. The city centre is compact and walkable — the Quay Street heritage precinct, the Museum of Art, and the main commercial streets are all within comfortable walking distance of each other.
A car is essential for reaching Mount Archer, the Capricorn Caves (23 km north), and the Capricorn Coast at Yeppoon (45 km east). There is no practical public transport to these attractions.
Taxis and ride-share services operate in the city. Car hire is available at the airport and in town. Cycling is feasible in the flat city centre; the riverfront has a dedicated path.