Mackay, named after its first inhabitant John Mackay who arrived in 1862 is a commercial port city but offers visitors beaches and access to various islands on the Great Barrier Reef, of which the best known is Brampton Island.

The city centre has some historical buildings in particular the Courthouse and the Commonwealth Bank, both built in 1880, and art deco architecture. Pioneer River is a Mackay icon best viewed from the Blue River Boardwalk and rotunda. Mackay is a place to dine alfresco, shop or use the many bars and nightclubs.

The city of Mackay has several attractive buildings,. In recent years, the city has been the subject of a beautification project which has greatly improved its appearance.