About The Jack Hotel & Backpackers
The Jack Hotel & Backpackers is an iconic Cairns pub and hostel, long established in the city’s entertainment scene. Originally opened in 1926 as the Commercial Hotel , it later became Rusty’s Pub, The Underdog and an Irish pub called Shenannigans before 2011, when the venue was renovated and rebranded as “The Union Jack” to highlight its English pub-style vibe . Locals simply call it The Jack. Today it sits on a large corner site at Spence and Sheridan Streets in the heart of the CBD , combining affordable accommodation with three bars, a kitchen and a big open-air beer garden. The hotel can hold hundreds of patrons for big events (roughly 500 in venue space, and up to about 800 including the full beer-garden area ), and the attached Backpackers hostel has about 120 beds . The Jack’s unique mix of live music, sports viewing and social atmosphere has made it *Cairns’ standard for a good time* . It’s notable as one of the city’s longest-running venues, now famed as Cairns No.1 live-music and event spot . Signature features include the large covered beer garden (usable year-round with tropical weather), multiple big screens for sports, and an on-site gaming room with about 25 modern poker machines . The venue is popular with both international backpackers and locals, offering cheap drinks, upbeat staff and an authentic tropical pub vibe.
Events and Programming
The Jack stays very busy with live entertainment and community events almost every week. From Wednesday through Sunday evenings it hosts free “in-house” entertainment – everything from cover bands and singer/songwriters to DJs, trivia nights, karaoke, “cheesy party” DJs and beer-pong tournaments . Local Aussie-rock tribute acts are common (reviewers praise “heaps of Aussie rock” bands that just play singalongs ), and international DJs or themed dance nights (e.g. 2000s pop parties, RnB nights) also feature regularly. On one recent weekend the calendar included an Afrobeats mini-festival and a Drum & Bass underground rave , while special theme nights (country music dance nights, indie band showcases, Latin nights, etc.) pop up a few times a year. Major Australian touring artists sometimes play here too – the venue organisers boast “world class touring artists” monthly . Many shows are free entry or low cover (often just the cost of a drink), though larger events (festival nights, multi-act lineups) carry modest ticket prices. In practice, casual club nights might be $5–10 to get in, while bigger live shows might be $20–40 depending on the act.
Sports fans are well catered for at The Jack. All major games are broadcast live on multiple giant screens (five projectors and two 5.2m LED screens) with stadium-quality sound . You’ll often find AFL Grand Finals, NRL State of Origin, boxing or UFC events live on the screens and radio commentary on. (For example, the venue advertises streaming UFC bouts and AFL Grand Final days .) The pub atmosphere is very fan-friendly on game days: expect all-day specials on bites and beers, and loud, celebratory crowds. Any notable sporting or cultural event in Cairns – whether NRL, AFL, cricket or a World Cup early-morning match – is likely to be showing “Live & Loud” at The Jack.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for special events at The Jack are generally available through the venue’s official channels. For larger concerts or festival-style parties, visit The Jack’s website events page or call the box office (ph: 07 4051 2490 ) to book in advance. Some local promoters use ticket platforms like Ticket Fairy or Eventbrite (though the bar prefers direct booking when possible). Many shows sell out, so popular gigs often go on sale several weeks ahead. However, casual weekly evenings (cover bands, DJ nights, quiz nights) are often free or tickets can simply be purchased at the door. The venue occasionally offers presales or VIP packages for big events. If a show is likely to sell out (like a famous touring act), the box office will advise. Generally ticket prices range from about $5–10 for club nights up to $20–25 for national acts, and $30+ for bigger festivals or ticketed concerts. When in doubt, the safest strategy is to follow The Jack’s official event listings or social pages for updates on ticket release and box office/sales info.
Seating and Layout
The Jack’s layout is flexible to handle anything from music gigs to sporting crowds. The ground floor includes three bars: a front bar near the main entrance, a middle lounge bar with pool tables and pedestal tables, and a back “bistro” feeding into the outdoor courtyard. The large, all-weather beer garden flows on from the rear bar – it’s covered by a retractable roof and has high tables and stools, plus open space for standing or dancing when live music is on. In short, seating is mostly bar stools and high tables; there is *no formal theatre-style seating*. An audience either stands near the stage (there are speakers paired with places to lean) or perches at benches around the edges.
Best spots: If you want the full concert vibe, grab a spot on the courtyard dancefloor or near the main stage in the bar. For a more relaxed drinks experience but still with a view, try a high table along the garden edges where you can see the band under cover. For sports viewing, the front or middle bar areas have the big screens and stadium sound.General Admission: Nearly all events are general admission standing. VIP or reserved seating isn’t common, aside from booking an entire function area for a private event. The venue functions as a classic pub-cum-club rather than a seated concert hall.Acoustics: The sound system is designed for a noisy pub. You’ll get loud, booming bass and cheering – great for partying, but conversation must be raised. If you prefer a quieter drink, the far corners by the gaming room are best, whereas the heart of the pub (near darts/poker machines) tends to get very loud. None of the areas are acoustically isolated, so expect full ambient sound throughout during shows .Avoid: In a packed crowd, the first few rows can be sweaty and cramped. If you’re uncomfortable in thick crowds, hang back or sit on a stool. Also note the stage is low-profile, so very tall barriers might block line-of-sight at the edges.
Getting There and Parking
Location: The Jack stands at the corner of Spence and Sheridan Streets (Cairns CBD) , just a few blocks from the waterfront Lagoon. Its address is often listed as 52-60 Spence St, Cairns. It’s very central: about a 5-minute walk from the Esplanade Lagoon swimming area and City Place shopping.
Public Transport: Cairns city buses (TransLink) serve the area with stops less than a block away. The Spence St/Grafton St stop (Stop ID 750226) is adjacent, serving major routes 120, 130, 132, 133 and others that criss-cross Cairns . For example, the 110 Palm Cove or 143 Mt Sheridan services stop there. The nearby Cairns Central bus station is a hub for regional coaches and local buses – if coming by bus to the city, simply hop off near Spence St. There’s no train or tram; local transport is all via roads. Cairns also has a free city bus shuttle (CityLoop) that runs through the CBD, which stops a short walk from The Jack.
Driving & Parking: Street parking in downtown Cairns is limited. Some nearby roads (Spence, Grafton, Sheridan) have 1–2 hour free parking at meter times, but availability is scarce. Instead public parking garages are recommended: the Southern Esplanade car park (a paid lot a 5-minute walk east) and the Rusty’s Market Street car park are popular and secure. The Parkopedia map shows several lots: e.g. Southern Esplanade (290 spaces, paid) and Cairns Wharf car park (~100 bays nearby). There’s also a Secure Parking facility on Sheridan St. Rates vary $2–$5 per hour centrally. Note that some car parks close overnight. If arriving late, consider drop-offs: taxis and rideshare (Uber/DiDi) can easily pull up on the street outside (Spence St entrance).
Inside the Venue
Walking into The Jack, expect a lively pub atmosphere. The interior is casual and slightly industrial-chic: concrete floors, neon beer signs, a few murals and string lights in the garden. As an open-plan pub, it’s dim but colourful under red or amber lighting at night. Staff are friendly Aussie-style, usually in casual uniform or branded tees. Entry is simple: on busy nights you may have a line, but doors open typically an hour before showtime (often around 6–7pm). Security at the door will check IDs for age (most night events are 18+ ), so have photo ID ready.
Atmosphere: The vibe is party-centric. You can hear music from early evening – The Jack warns guests that “entertainment can be heard in the beer garden from 6pm until 2am” . It really is open till 2am nightly (Bar & Gaming: 10am–2am ), so expect loud conversation and dancing. If you just want a quiet drink, aim for an early weekdays or the lounge area, which is usually quieter.
Food & Drink: The Jack is fully licensed and has a full bar menu of local and international brews (plus cocktails, spirits and wine). Beastly brewery taps, cheap cans, and Aussie pub staples (VB, XXXX) are on tap. Food is served in the upstairs restaurant/bistro area 7 days a week , with lunch and dinner menus of burgers, salads and tropical pub cuisine. Notably, hostel guests get complimentary evening meals 7 nights a week , but general patrons can order from the menu. There are also nightly specials (e.g. pizza nights, pot pies). A separate gaming lounge (nicknamed the “Jackpot Room”) has about 25 pokies and Keno screens , usually open late. Pool tables are by the back bar if you fancy a game.
Facilities: The Jack has decent Wi-Fi inside for patrons (primarily targeting guests and staff). Restrooms are clean and multiple; one set is located off the back bar by the gaming room. There is no coat check (Queensland style – no coats needed). Shaded patios and rooftop balconies above the pub are mostly private or for hostel use. Merchandise stalls often pop up during live gigs, selling band tees or The Jack swag. For comfort, expect classic pub ventilation (big fans in summer) – the beer garden is breezy but can be warm when packed.
Nearby Amenities
The Jack’s central location means there are plenty of options within a short walk. Next door on Sheridan Street is the **Cairns Sheridan Hotel**, a full-service hotel with the Palms Restaurant and a laneway cafe – a handy spot for pre-show drinks or a sit-down meal. The Esplanade waterfront (240m east) has cafés, fish-and-chip shops and fine dining (Ochre Restaurant for modern Australian, Tha Fish for seafood, etc.). Just a block south is the Cairns City Night Markets precinct, with casual eats (Asian hawker stalls, gelato) and an ATM.
Within a couple of blocks there are dozens of eateries: burger joints, Thai and Indian restaurants, sushi bars and pizza places – ideal for dinner before a show. Notable mentions include Burgerland, Piccolo Trattoria and Chinese noodle bars on Lake/Lake/Abbott. For a quick bite, the ground-floor Bowen Mall (Lake St) food court is 2 min away. Right across Spence Street is the small card-only Heritage bank or ANZ if you need cash. If staying overnight, nearby hotels include the Cairns Central YHA (budget dorm-style), the Brisbane Hotel (pub hotel style) or commercial hotels like Novotel and Hilton a few blocks towards the Esplanade.
Pre-show tips: It’s wise to arrive with time to grab dinner in the CBD. The Jack’s own restaurant opens for early dinner; otherwise many pubs and bistros in the Esplanade area host specials. On big event days it’s common to see long queues at The Jack after 7pm, so aim to turn up early. After late shows, taxis and ride-shares are plentiful; the current 10pm+ bus routes still run, but check harsh late-night schedules (last ideas). Otherwise, the Esplanade beachfront (5 min walk) provides well-lit areas and shelters if you need to wait for a cab in comfort.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Jack Hotel & Backpackers stands out for its blend of historic charm and modern entertainment. It’s deeply woven into Cairns culture – an original 1926 hotel that has evolved through eras as a key meeting place for locals and visitors . The venue’s architecture reflects its heritage: a two-storey brick inn with wooden verandas and a wide beer garden (very rare in tropical north Queensland). This gives it an “English pub meets Aussie paradise” feel. Another unique aspect is its all-weather design: the courtyard has a retractable roof, so rain or shine (or the wet-season downpours) won’t stop a gig or a rugby final in Cairns’ steamy climate.
Culturally, The Jack is beloved for open inclusivity. Backpackers, families, uni students and retirees mix here – it’s not elitist or pretentious. Even travellers note that it’s “more than just a backpackers” island of hospitality and love the diverse age range in the crowd . The venue is known for supporting local live music and even up-and-coming Queensland acts; a lot of FNQ bands got their start playing at The Jack. You’ll get real Aussie camaraderie (stories suggest beer-pong championships or “friends with benefits” drink card schemes) in an authentic setting. The Jack also hosts a lot of charity fundraisers and Christmas parties, reinforcing its role as a community hub. All these factors – vintage pub architecture, constant live action, and an unpretentious tropical vibe – make The Jack a standout in Cairns’ nightlife.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age and ID: The Jack is a fully licensed venue. Anyone buying alcohol or staying after dark must be 18+ with photo ID (driver’s licence or passport). If you’re under 18, you might only enter for daytime dining with adults, but most night events are restricted. Always bring ID in case of random checks. What to Bring: For shows, carry only what you need – big bags may be searched. There’s no coat/bag check, and space is limited, so leave large backpacks either at your hostel/hotel or locker's if provided. A small backpack or day-bag is okay. Besides ID, some cash is helpful (bars take cards but pokies, pool tables and tips run on cash). Accessibility: Ground-floor bars and toilet facilities are wheelchair-accessible, but note that parts of the venue (like the hostel rooms upstairs, balcony) involve stairs. If you need ramps or disabled toilets, it’s best to call ahead – Cairns venues must meet some accessibility standards, but older buildings often have unique layouts. Staff can escort patrons to uninterrupted areas if needed. Dress Code: Dress is casual. You will see shorts, thongs (flip-flops), jeans and t-shirts even at night. Avoid high heels on the concrete floor or gun mantel. There's no formal style required, just respect the lively environment. Noise: The music goes on late (entertainment can be heard until 2am ). If you’re sleeping in the hostel upstairs, ear-plugs might be wise. Keep noise levels respectful when ending the night. Safety: Cairns CBD is generally safe, but as with any busy bar, stay aware of your belongings and be sensible with drinks. The pub is well-lit and staffed – security is present but low-key. Trustworthy taxi apps work well after hours. Useful Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t underestimate the distance between bars in Cairns. If arriving by foot from outside the CBD, allow extra time. On big game days, book your viewing spot early (the screens fill up fast). Don’t turn up expecting only hostel atmosphere – this is first and foremost a working pub with loud music. Finally, don’t forget to try the signature offer of free dinner if you’re staying (it changes nightly) – it’s a bonus most hostel guests rave about .
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Jack Hotel & Backpackers?
The Jack is a large multi-venue: the indoor pub and 3-bar complex can hold roughly 400–500 people at a time, and including the outdoor beer garden the total capacity is around 800 . The attached Backpackers hostel adds about 120 beds . So expect up to 500 for a typical concert, with up to 800 if the courtyard is packed too.
How do I get tickets for events at The Jack?
For big shows, tickets are usually sold in advance through The Jack’s official channels or partner sites (e.g. Ticket Fairy)$^{*}$. Always check the venue’s website or phone (07 4051 2490) for on-sale dates. Many smaller events and weekly gigs have free entry or pay-at-door. If unsure, call the bar’s entertainment desk or ask staff directly.
Is there a cover charge at The Jack?
It depends on the event. Regular club nights, beer gardens, sports days and open-mic trivia are usually free entry – you just pay for drinks. If a special live act or festival night is on, there will be a cover charge (often $10–30). The exact fee is advertised ahead of time. The bar emphasizes value, so even big concerts aim for modest prices.
Are children allowed at The Jack?
During the day, families dining in the restaurant or beer garden are allowed. However, after dark The Jack operates as an 18+ licensed venue. Kids under 18 are generally restricted from the pub/restaurants in the evening (especially during live shows). If in doubt, check with staff when you arrive. ID checks are performed at night.
What are the opening hours of The Jack?
The Jack’s bars and gaming lounge are open from 10am to 2am every day . The on-site restaurant serves lunch 12pm–2:30pm and dinner from 5pm (extending to 8:30pm Sun–Thu, 9pm Fri–Sat) . The attached hostel reception runs 9am–7pm daily. Big events may start early (especially sporting matches), but the doors generally open around 6–7pm for evening entertainment.
Does The Jack have wheelchair access?
The ground-floor main bar, beer garden and facilities are ground-level and accessible. The venue has wheelchair ramps at the entrances on Spence St. however, the hostel’s upper floors and some upstairs balconies are stair-only. If you need assistance or have specific accessibility questions, contact the management in advance. Like many old pubs, The Jack is partially adapted but check details before arrival.
What food and drink is available at The Jack?
The Jack has a full bar with Australian and imported beers, wines and cocktails . The pub menu offers satisfying pub grub – think burgers, fish-and-chips, steaks and fresh salads, served in the restaurant area 7 days a week . Hostel guests even get a free dinner meal nightly . If staying late, the kitchen closes around 8–9pm but snack bar food is usually available until then.
Is outside food or drink allowed?
No. The Jack is licensed, which means all alcoholic drinks must be purchased on site. Outside snacks are discouraged; the venue expects guests to buy food and drinks from the bars/restaurants. Bringing in a bottled water is generally fine, but anything else (especially alcohol or premixed cocktails) is prohibited.
Are there parking facilities at The Jack?
There is no private lot for The Jack, but plenty of public parking nearby. Paid car parks a short walk away include the Southern Esplanade car park, Cairns Wharf car park, and Rusty’s Market parking (rates $2–$4 per hour). Some street parking (Spence St, Sheridan St, nearby side streets) is 2-hour free but very limited. If driving, plan to park a few blocks out and walk in.
What public transit stops near The Jack?
Several city bus routes stop just a block from The Jack. The TransLink stop at Spence/Grafton Streets (ID 750226) is across from the venue , served by many southbound routes (e.g. 120, 130, 132, 133) from the suburbs. The city’s main bus terminal is also only a short walk from Cairns Central. In practice, take any bus heading •“inbound city” and get off at Spence St, or use the free CityLoop bus in the CBD.
What is the dress code at The Jack?
The Jack is very casual. During the day and early evening, tourists often wear shorts and t-shirts to refugee belly-ups. At night many guests still wear casual beachwear, but some switch to jeans or a neat shirt. The key is neat-casual – no swimwear or sandals in late-night spaces, and some acceptance of dress standards. The venue observes a smart-casual policy at the door if it’s very busy (e.g. no opposing gang patches, no visibly offensive slogans).
Can I bring a backpack inside The Jack?
Yes, small daypacks or personal items are okay, especially if you arrived from the hostel or nearby. However, large luggage or hiking packs may be subject to search due to security policies, as The Jack is a busy bar. If you have bulky luggage, it’s best to leave it in your hostel/hotel room. Don’t rely on a secure bag check – there isn’t a formal cloakroom.
Does The Jack have a coat or bag check?
No, The Jack does not offer a formal coat check or locker service for night patrons. If you’re staying as a hostel guest, your room lockers cover your belongings. Otherwise carry your belongings or leave coats/bags in the car. The venue staff are trustworthy, but bring only what you need inside as act of caution for crowded events.
Are there smoking areas at The Jack?
Yes. Smoking is only allowed in outdoor and designated zones (as per Queensland law). The Beer Garden patio is a smoking-friendly area. There are also small courtyard booths designated for smokers. Indoor areas, including bars and pool room, are strictly non-smoking. So patrons step outside into the covered patio to smoke.
Can I book The Jack for a private event or party?
Absolutely. The Jack has multiple function areas and can host groups from 10 up to 500 guests . They cater to birthday parties, work functions, even “divorce parties” (as advertised). You can rent indoor or outdoor spaces, arrange catering, DJs or live music. Contact their events team for quotes (function info is available via their website). Venue hire itself is usually free and you just pay for food/beverages.
How early should I arrive for a big event?
For sold-out shows or big sports screenings, arrive at least 30–60 minutes before doors. Popular events (like finals games or overseas live acts) start seeing queues quickly. The Jack’s sports doors often open as early as 9–10am for big matches (like World Cup or AFL Grand Final) . Musicals and concerts usually start admits around 7–8pm, so being say 6:30pm gets you a good spot. Weekends fill up faster than weekdays.
Do I need to bring ID?
Yes – this is Queensland law. After around 6pm some staff will check IDs at the door, especially on late nights. The Jack profiles itself as 18+ for most entertainment. Valid ID (passport or Australian driver’s licence) is mandatory if you plan on drinking or playing pokies. Keep it on you at all times to avoid any issues.
Are pets allowed on the premises?
No. The Jack does not allow pets inside the venue. As a busy pub and licensed hotel, only service animals (like guide dogs) are permitted by law. All other animals must stay outside. If you have a pet, ask a friend to mind it or use a nearby boarding service during your visit.
Is there free WiFi at The Jack?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available in the hostel and lounge areas for guests. During the day, you can usually connect on the networks “TheJackPub” or similar. However, signal may be weaker on the open-air patio or dance floor. If you need reliable internet at the bar, test your connection or use mobile data as backup.
What hotel or hostel accommodation is near The Jack?
Besides The Jack’s own hostel, you’ll find a range of accommodations nearby. Directly adjacent is the 4-star Cairns Sheridan Hotel (with private rooms). A few blocks away: the Cairns Central YHA backpackers, Budget Suites, the ibis and Rydges on the Esplanade, and the Hilton on Wharf St. All are within 5–10 minutes walk. If you want to stay super close, The Jack itself is very popular with travellers since it offers a pub below!
