24 Things to Do in Brisbane with Kids

Introduction

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, Australia, is a family-friendly paradise offering a blend of urban sophistication, natural beauty, and cultural richness. With its sunny weather and an array of activities available year-round, the city is the perfect destination for families looking to create unforgettable memories.

Finding activities that cater to children can sometimes be a challenge, but Brisbane rises to the occasion with plenty of options. From sprawling parks and playgrounds to interactive museums and adventure-packed outdoor activities, Brisbane has something for every family, whether they’re visiting for the weekend or spending an extended holiday. The city’s infrastructure and warm hospitality ensure that kids and parents alike can move seamlessly from one fun experience to the next.

This guide will walk you through 24 must-do activities for families exploring Brisbane, filled with suggestions for outdoor adventures, educational opportunities, cultural experiences, and more. Whether you’re scaling bridges, meeting native animals, or diving into immersive indoor spaces, Brisbane never disappoints when it comes to family-friendly excitement. So pack your bags, grab your kids, and get ready for an adventure-packed trip to the River City.

Outdoor Activities

Brisbane’s sunny, subtropical climate makes it the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. With lush parks, riverside spaces, and stunning vistas, the city offers loads of outdoor adventures that are entertaining for kids and relaxing for parents. These activities are a fantastic way to combine fun with fresh air and exploration.

1. Explore Roma Street Parkland

Roma Street Parkland is a lush green oasis located in the heart of Brisbane, offering a perfect escape from the city buzz. Known as one of the most beautiful urban parks in Australia, it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy quality time with your family. The park features vibrant gardens, shaded picnic areas, and large playgrounds that provide endless entertainment for kids.

Little adventurers will love the park’s miniature train that weaves through the gardens, while parents can relax in the BBQ areas or enjoy a leisurely stroll through artfully landscaped trails. Bring along some snacks for a picnic and make the most of this tranquil space amidst Brisbane’s urban surroundings.

2. Visit South Bank Parklands

A must-visit destination for families, South Bank Parklands is a lively riverside precinct teeming with kid-friendly activities. Highlights include Streets Beach, Australia’s only inner-city, man-made beach. With a shallow lagoon and lifeguards on duty, it’s a safe place for kids to splash around and cool off.

For extra fun, head over to Aquativity, an interactive water-play park that encourages sensory play for children. Beyond the water features, South Bank offers walking trails, a massive playground, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants. It’s the ultimate outdoor destination for a full day of relaxed fun.

3. Climb the Story Bridge

If your family loves adventure, climbing the iconic Story Bridge is a must. This is one of only three bridge climbs available in the world, and it’s a chance to see Brisbane like never before. While it may not be suitable for younger kids, it’s an exciting opportunity for older children and teens to tackle a unique challenge.

The professionally guided climb offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Brisbane, the Brisbane River, and even as far as Moreton Bay on a clear day. For an extra thrill, consider adding an abseiling experience as you descend. Safety is a top priority, with all participants provided with proper harnesses and instructions.

4. Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens

Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens is a wonderful place for curious kids and nature-loving families. Situated at the foot of Mount Coot-tha, these sprawling gardens offer free access and provide a range of engaging activities. The Hide ‘n Seek Children’s Trail is a favorite among young visitors, encouraging them to explore while learning about native plants and ecosystems.

Don’t miss the adjacent Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium for an educational twist to your visit. Additionally, the gardens feature shaded walking trails, picturesque picnic spots, and stunning views of the city skyline from the nearby lookout.

5. Kangaroo Point Cliffs

For families with a taste for adventure, the Kangaroo Point Cliffs offer a unique way to explore Brisbane’s natural wonders. The cliffs provide an incredible spot for outdoor activities like rock climbing and abseiling. The best part is that there are activities tailored for kids, making it safe and thrilling for the whole family.

If rock climbing isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the spectacular views of the city skyline and the Brisbane River from the top of the cliffs. There are also picnic areas and walking trails where families can unwind and savor the scenic surroundings.

6. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

For animal-loving families, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is an unforgettable experience. Known as one of the largest and oldest koala sanctuaries in the world, it’s a chance for kids to encounter wildlife up close. Your little ones can cuddle adorable koalas, feed kangaroos, and even meet a platypus — one of Australia’s most elusive native creatures.

Beyond the animal interactions, the sanctuary also offers educational shows and keeper talks that teach children about wildlife conservation. It’s a fantastic way to combine fun and learning in one memorable visit.

7. New Farm Park

New Farm Park is a local favorite, known for its expansive open spaces and family-friendly facilities. The park’s playground is a big draw for kids, featuring climbing nets, slides, swings, and shaded play areas for endless fun. There’s also plenty of room for the family to enjoy a game of soccer or Frisbee.

After the kids have played their hearts out, consider visiting the nearby Brisbane Powerhouse, which frequently hosts family-oriented events and cultural activities. With riverside picnic spots and tranquil gardens, New Farm Park offers something for children and adults alike.

8. Treetop Challenge at Thunderbird Park

If your kids are thrill-seekers, the Treetop Challenge at Thunderbird Park is not to be missed. This adrenaline-packed adventure park offers zip-lining and high ropes courses for all ages. Safety is a top priority here, with harnesses and expert supervision to ensure everyone stays secure.

Kids will laugh and cheer as they navigate swinging bridges and soar through the treetops. It’s an experience guaranteed to boost confidence and provide brag-worthy memories. Make sure to check the age and height requirements before booking.

9. Riverlife Adventure Centre

Situated along the Brisbane River, Riverlife Adventure Centre delivers exciting water-based activities suitable for the whole family. Options include kayaking, paddleboarding, and even guided Segway tours along the scenic waterfront. Whether your kids are beginners or seasoned paddlers, there’s an activity to match their skill level.

This is a great opportunity to enjoy Brisbane’s iconic river from a new perspective. Be sure to schedule your session in advance, especially during weekends and school holidays, as spots fill up quickly.

Brisbane’s outdoor attractions are brimming with fun and adventure, perfect for fostering a close connection with nature while making your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed day at the park or a daring adventure climbing cliffs and zipping through treetops, the city has no shortage of options to suit families of all sizes and energy levels.

Indoor Activities

When the weather refuses to cooperate or you’re looking for a way to escape from Brisbane’s summer heat, indoor activities are a perfect solution. From interactive museums to creative play spaces, Brisbane’s indoor attractions are designed to keep kids entertained, educated, and engaged.

10. Queensland Museum and SparkLab

The Queensland Museum is a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits, introducing kids to topics ranging from natural history to cultural heritage. Children will delight in discovering ancient dinosaur skeletons, marine animal displays, and interactive installations that celebrate Australia’s flora and fauna.

Right next door is SparkLab, the museum’s science and technology hub designed specifically for kids. Here, they can roll up their sleeves and dive into hands-on experiments, explore physics concepts, engage with technology, and participate in fun workshops. This interactive space encourages curiosity and sparks creativity, making it ideal for children of all ages.

11. Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) Children’s Art Centre

Brisbane’s renowned Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) is home to the Children’s Art Centre, a space dedicated to inspiring creativity in younger visitors. The exhibits here are designed with kids in mind, offering engaging and interactive art installations where touching and playing are encouraged.

In addition to its display areas, the centre hosts hands-on workshops, drawing spaces, and activities designed specifically for children under six years old. GOMA also curates temporary exhibitions that blend fun with artistic wonder, making it an enjoyable and enriching experience for the entire family.

12. The Corner at State Library of Queensland

The State Library of Queensland provides a delightful family-friendly space called The Corner, where kids can engage in creative play, storytelling, and imaginative activities. The interactive zone is filled with toys, arts and craft supplies, and books that cater to younger children exploring their creativity.

Families can also participate in scheduled events, which may include storytelling sessions, drawing workshops, or even puppet shows. This is an excellent spot for parents looking for free indoor entertainment where their children can both learn and have fun at the same time.

13. Workshops Rail Museum

Located a short drive from Brisbane in Ipswich, the Workshops Rail Museum offers an exciting and immersive train-themed experience for kids. With historical locomotives to explore, hands-on interactive exhibits, and multimedia displays about the history of railways, it’s an unforgettable day for young train enthusiasts.

The museum also hosts special events like Thomas the Tank Engine days, where kids can meet their favorite train characters. The site is highly educational while also retaining a sense of play, making it ideal for a family outing.

14. Urban Xtreme Adventure Park

Urban Xtreme Adventure Park is an indoor haven jam-packed with energy-consuming activities for kids and teens. Whether they’re drawn to skiing and snowboarding on simulated slopes, tackling ninja warrior-inspired obstacle courses, or bouncing around in the trampoline park, Urban Xtreme ensures your kids have plenty to do.

The centre’s well-trained staff ensure safety while maintaining an exciting, fast-paced environment. It’s perfect for a rainy day or when the kids need to let off some steam indoors.

15. Escape Rooms in Brisbane

Escape rooms are increasingly popular among families, offering a thrilling way to collaborate and solve puzzles together. Brisbane hosts a variety of family-friendly escape venues with themes designed for younger players, such as treasure hunts, mysteries, or fantasy quests.

For first-time participants, tips like choosing simpler rooms and taking breaks can help ensure a positive experience for everyone. Not only do escape rooms challenge problem-solving skills, but they also foster teamwork and communication in a fun and immersive setting.

Whether your children are artists in the making or young scientists full of curiosity, Brisbane’s indoor attractions promise wholesome entertainment no matter the weather. These activities also provide parents with a chance to engage, relax, and enjoy quality time with their little ones in the city’s most creative and innovative spaces.

Educational Experiences

Brisbane is not only a city of fun and adventure but also a place where kids can learn through engaging, hands-on activities. Educational experiences here combine entertainment with exploration, making it easy for children to absorb knowledge while enjoying their surroundings. From interactive trails to space exploration, here are some top picks for learning-focused activities.

16. Queensland Art Gallery’s Kids Trail

The Queensland Art Gallery provides an excellent opportunity for children to explore and appreciate art through their dedicated Kids Trail. This interactive adventure is designed to engage young minds in the world of Australian art.

Children can interact with art installations, participate in hands-on workshops, and explore specific parts of the gallery through tailored activities. The trail encourages creativity, critical thinking, and an appreciation for cultural and artistic heritage, all while keeping it accessible and exciting for little ones.

17. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium

Located within the Mount Coot-tha precinct, the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium offers an out-of-this-world experience for kids interested in space and astronomy. Shows at the Cosmic Skydome range from entertaining beginner-friendly presentations to stunning real-time tours of the night sky.

Interactive displays showcase fascinating details about celestial bodies, space missions, and astronomical discoveries. It’s an educational experience that will leave your children gazing at the stars with wonder. To enhance the fun, explore the outdoor walking trails and gardens nearby once your Planetarium visit is complete.

18. Ipswich Nature Centre

This hidden gem, located in the historically rich Queens Park in Ipswich, offers an interactive and educational way for kids to connect with Australian wildlife. The Ipswich Nature Centre features free entry and houses a variety of native animals, including koalas, wallabies, emus, and wombats.

In addition to animal encounters, the centre focuses on teaching conservation and sustainability. Guided tours can provide insights into the importance of preserving wildlife, making this an educational outing that’s as enriching as it is enjoyable.

19. Daisy Hill Koala Centre

The Daisy Hill Koala Centre is a wonderful destination for families looking to learn about koala conservation in a fun and engaging way. Set inside the lush Daisy Hill Conservation Park, this free educational centre features interactive displays, dedicated viewing platforms for observing koalas up close, and conservation talks perfect for kids.

After gathering knowledge at the centre, families can venture onto one of the park’s many walking trails to explore the surrounding bushland. It’s a fantastic way to combine education, nature, and a bit of exercise.

20. Kumbartcho Sanctuary

Kumbartcho Sanctuary, located just north of Brisbane, is a peaceful haven for families looking to learn about native flora and fauna. The sanctuary offers a serene environment where kids can explore walking trails, spot wildlife, and even enjoy a cozy picnic surrounded by nature.

What sets Kumbartcho apart is its focus on environmental conservation. The sanctuary runs hands-on educational programs where kids can learn about topics like recycling, bushland preservation, and animal habitats. They even have a nursery stocked with native plants, teaching kids how plants play a vital role in supporting local ecosystems.

Brisbane’s educational attractions make learning a fun-filled adventure that kids will enthusiastically participate in. These experiences not only ignite curiosity and a love for knowledge, but they also provide opportunities to bond as a family while fostering an understanding of cultural, environmental, and scientific topics.

Unique Experiences

Brisbane is full of extraordinary experiences that offer a mix of creativity, excitement, and wonder. Whether it’s stepping into the magical world of a beloved TV show, exploring the city from a new perspective, or diving into some playful fantasy, these activities provide something truly special for families with kids.

21. Bluey’s World at Northshore Pavilion

Step into the enchanting world of Bluey, Australia’s favorite animated blue heeler dog, at Bluey’s World, located at Northshore Pavilion. This immersive experience brings the beloved TV show to life with interactive games, themed play rooms, and vibrant settings inspired by Bluey’s adventures.

Kids can reenact scenes from their favorite episodes, solve puzzles, and engage in imaginative play. The attention to detail will delight fans of all ages, and parents may find themselves just as enthralled by this magical attraction. With activities tailored for younger children, this is a can’t-miss spot for families traveling with little ones.

22. CityHopper Ferry Service

One of the best—and most budget-friendly—ways to explore Brisbane is on the CityHopper Ferry Service, a free ferry that takes your family on a scenic journey along the Brisbane River. This hop-on-hop-off service offers stunning views of the city while serving as a fun transportation option for both kids and adults.

Sit back and relax as the ferry glides past iconic attractions like South Bank, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, and the Story Bridge. Kids will love the feeling of riding a boat, and parents will appreciate the chance to sightsee without the hustle of navigating the city’s streets. Pack some snacks for a mini riverside picnic onboard!

23. The Store of Requirement (Wizarding Shop)

Fans of the wizarding world of Harry Potter will feel like they’ve stepped into the pages of the books at The Store of Requirement, located just outside Brisbane. This themed shop is brimming with everything from wands and robes to Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans, crafting an immersive experience perfect for young magical enthusiasts.

The magical charm doesn’t end with shopping. Families can stay for a spell (pun intended!) at the café, which serves wizard-inspired treats like Butterscotch Brew and other whimsical snacks. It’s the perfect place for families to relive their love for Hogwarts and its many adventures.

24. Brisbane Festival Events for Kids

Brisbane really comes alive during its annual Brisbane Festival, which features a host of family-friendly events every September. From circus performances and hands-on workshops to engaging storytelling sessions, there’s always something new to explore for kids of all ages during this celebration of art and culture.

Some kid-focused highlights may include fun outdoor art displays, interactive theater productions, and cultural showcases that offer glimpses into local traditions. The lively atmosphere, complete with food stalls and music, makes it a memorable outing for the whole family. Be sure to check the festival schedule to find events that match your family’s interests.

Brisbane’s unique experiences add an extra layer of excitement to your family’s trip, giving kids the chance to enter fantastical worlds, enjoy scenic explorations, and even engage with their favorite stories. These activities ensure unforgettable memories for both children and adults alike.

FAQs

1. What are the best free things to do in Brisbane with kids?

Brisbane is incredibly family-friendly, with a range of free activities suitable for kids. Some of the best options include:

Exploring Roma Street Parkland with its green spaces and picnic areas.
Enjoying the free CityHopper Ferry Service, perfect for seeing the city from the river.
Visiting South Bank Parklands, where kids can enjoy Streets Beach and Aquativity.
Taking nature walks and spotting wildlife at Daisy Hill Koala Centre and Kumbartcho Sanctuary.
These activities combine fun, relaxation, and exploration—all at no cost!

2. Are there any indoor activities for rainy days?

Yes! Brisbane offers plenty of indoor options for rainy days to keep the kids engaged and entertained:

Queensland Museum and SparkLab: Perfect for exploring exhibits and hands-on science activities.
Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) Children’s Art Centre: Interactive art installations and workshops.
The Corner at the State Library of Queensland, offering a creative play area for younger children.
For active play indoors, consider Urban Xtreme Adventure Park, which features ninja courses, skiing simulators, and more.

3. What are the best places for animal encounters?

Brisbane excels at offering natural and interactive settings for kids to connect with animals. The best choices include:

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where kids can cuddle koalas and feed kangaroos.
Ipswich Nature Centre, offering up-close animal encounters in a laid-back setting.
Daisy Hill Koala Centre, where families can observe koalas and learn about conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Brisbane is an incredible destination for families, offering an impressive array of activities that cater to kids of all ages. From exploring lush parks and conquering adventurous treetop challenges to diving into the wonders of art, science, and even magical worlds, Brisbane is a treasure trove of opportunities to create unforgettable memories.

The city’s blend of outdoor charm, educational hotspots, and immersive indoor experiences ensures that there’s something for everyone—whether your family loves nature, craves adventure, or thrives on creativity. Best of all, Brisbane’s facilities, family-friendly focus, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal choice for parents traveling with kids.

So, whether you’re scaling the heights of the Story Bridge, laughing through water park fun at South Bank, or solving a puzzle in an escape room, Brisbane delivers on its promise of fun and adventure. Embrace the magic of this vibrant city, and you’ll leave with cherished moments that will last a lifetime.