Brisbane is a vibrant city where you will find each corner has a number of interesting and adventurous family-friendly activities waiting for you. Either you can plan a weekend or visit the various tremendous places at the time when your children have holidays, since it’s the time when children eagerly wait for an outing. Being the third-largest city in Australia, it entails a wide range of enjoyable activities in which even golden-agers can indulge and enjoy themselves.
Whether you’re looking to explore nature, experience wildlife, or simply want to have a great time outdoors, Brisbane has something for every kind of family. To make it easy for you to make the right move, we’re here with a list of the best family-friendly activities to try in Brisbane that will allow you to make the most of your time. So, pack your bags and start preparing, as it’s time to move out of your busy life and take your children on an amazing adventure where they can enjoy themselves.
Not To Miss Family-Friendly Activities In Brisbane
Brisbane is really a beautiful city that has a lot of family-friendly activities. In here, one can find a number of activities that range from adventurous rides, beautiful fauna and flora, delicious meals, to mesmerising parks. Not just for kids alone, but all of these activities can be enjoyed by people of all ages, including the elderly. Listed below are some of the top family-friendly activities that you should definitely try when visiting Brisbane with your family or friends.
1. Visit The Amazing Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a beautiful place that is spread over an area of 18 hectares. Being the oldest and largest koala sanctuary in the world, this place is very famous among families and friends. It is a place where everyone gets a chance to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most beloved wildlife. At this place, you will find approximately 100 koalas enjoying themselves in their natural habitat. Koalas are the animal species due to which this sanctuary has gained a lot of reputation.
Along with the koalas, there are 75 other animal species, such as mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, barns, and other wild animals. Here, you and your family can indulge in a lot of activities, such as kangaroo feeding, bird watching, and seeing different animal species in their natural habitat. In addition to these activities, you can get a chance to indulge yourself in the educational and inspiring events that take place. This sanctuary also has some picnic areas, playgrounds, and cafes and shops where you can enjoy yourself with your friends and family and spend some quality time together.
| Name | Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary |
|---|---|
| Address | 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket QLD 4069, Australia |
| Website | https://lonepinekoalasanctuary.com/ |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/mudCwovQPbPKqRqU8 |
| Ticket Price | Check Here |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00am – 5:00pm Wednesday: 9:00am – 5:00pm Thursday: 9:00am – 5:00pm Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm Sunday: 9:00am – 5:00pm |
| Distance From Brisbane CBD | 13.8 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via M5, you will reach this place in around 17 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. By Bus: To reach Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, you can take the following bus lines: 430, 445, and 446. |
| Nearby Eateries | The Yiros Shop - DFO Jindalee | The Jindalee Hotel | Boucher French Bistro |
| Nearby Accommodations | Mt Ommaney Hotel Apartments | Rocklea International Motel | Acacia Ridge Hotel |
2. Explore The Flora And Fauna At Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Garden in Brisbane, also known as Queen’s Park, is an amazing place that is spread over an area of 49 hectares. This garden is heritage-listed since it depicts the culture and history of Brisbane City. Here, family and friends come over, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives to enjoy themselves and spend some quality time together. You will find that the garden is famous for the beautiful flora and fauna it offers to all its visitors.
The garden is home to a wide variety of plants, which include both native species and exotic species. Along with this, the garden has a lot of ponds where children can watch lilies and aquatic plants. In addition to the plants, you will also see some of the local animals, namely water dragons, ducks, and various bird species. The garden has a lot of specially designed play areas where children can play and elders can stroll around and watch them play. This is a perfect place for friends and families to enjoy a peaceful day out if they are looking to explore nature and learn about plants and wildlife.
| Name | Brisbane City Botanic Gardens |
|---|---|
| Address | City Botanic Gardens, 147 Alice St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia |
| Website | https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/ |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/1wgLCTkNwr56ThXE8 |
| Ticket Price | Free Entry |
| Opening Hours | Open 24 Hours |
| Distance From Brisbane CBD | 700 m |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Eagle St and Edward St, you will reach this place in around 3 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. By Bus: To reach Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, you can take the following bus lines: 306, 330, 333, 345, 375, 380, 385, 450, 555, 40, 114, P173, P208, 118, 136, 138, 153, 162, 50, P137, 156, 186, P201, and P205. By Train: You can choose from the following trains: AIRP, SHOR, and SPRI to reach the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. By Ferry: You can also catch the ferry City Cat Downstream - Northshore Hamilton, City Cat Upstream - Uq, City Hopper - North Quay, and City Hopper - Sydney Street to reach Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. |
| Nearby Eateries | Olive & Angelo | The Walnut Restaurant & Lounge Bar | Black Fire Restaurant Brisbane |
| Nearby Accommodations | Royal On The Park | The Great Southern Hotel | Capri By Fraser Brisbane |
3. Indulge In Culinary Delights At Eat Street Northshore
Eat Street Northshore is a lively and vibrant street that is a famous spot among friends and family. Being located on the Brisbane River, this street has a lot to offer all its visitors, from children to adults, since you will find a lot of food options and a variety of activities to engage in. On this street, you will find more than 70 food vendors that serve food from six continents, namely Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America. This street offers delicious meals that can fulfil the tastes and cravings of the whole family.
Beyond the food, the street is packed with a lot of activities and entertainment shows that complete the outing with fun and adventurous things. On this street, you will find live music performances and entertainment shows running every evening, giving all visitors a lively atmosphere. In addition to this, there are a variety of shopping options, which include boutiques, handmade crafts, fashion brands, and unique gifts. It is one of the best places for children to come and enjoy their meals, indulge in some good shows, shop for their favourite things, and enjoy themselves.
| Name | Eat Street Northshore |
|---|---|
| Address | 221D MacArthur Ave, Hamilton QLD 4007, Australia |
| Website | https://eatstreetnorthshore.com.au/ |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/BQktC9UXqoGR2bm18 |
| Ticket Price | Check Here |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: 4:00pm – 10:00pm Saturday: 4:00pm – 10:00pm Sunday: 4:00pm – 9:00pm |
| Distance From Brisbane CBD | 7.3 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Kingsford Smith Dr/State Route 25, you will reach this place in around 21 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. By Bus: To reach Eat Street Northshore, you can take the following bus lines: 300, 301, 302, 304, and 305. By Train: You can choose from the following trains: Doom, Clev, and Gold to reach the Eat Street Northshore. By Ferry: You can also catch the ferry City Cat Downstream - Northshore Hamilton and City Cat Upstream - Uq to reach Eat Street Northshore. |
| Nearby Eateries | Sono Japanese Restaurant Portside Wharf | Fosh Bar & Restaurant | Gusto da Gianni |
| Nearby Accommodations | Link Portside Wharf Apartment Hotel | Alcyone Hotel Residences |
4. Discover The Beauty Of The Roma Street Parkland
Roma Street Parkland is a beautiful park that is situated in the centre of Brisbane City. Being spread over an area of 16 hectares, this beautiful destination is famous among families and friends. If you are a nature lover, then you should definitely visit this place, as it is filled with greenery, vibrant gardens, and a variety of flowers. This park stands among the five gardens in Australia that have won the 2022-2023 Green Flag Award, and it is internationally recognised as one of the world’s best green spaces.
The park is home to several theme gardens, namely, Fern Gully, Rainforest Walk, Water Garden, Cactus Garden, Children’s Garden, and many more. All these gardens have their own uniqueness and specialities and are loved by all the visitors, especially children, who get a chance to enjoy and have fun in the garden. Along with this, the park regularly hosts guided tours and educational programmes that help all visitors learn in detail about the local flora and fauna and the history of the parkland. You will also find BBQs and cafes at this park, where you can enjoy yourself and spend some quality time together.
| Name | Roma Street Parkland |
|---|---|
| Address | 1 Parkland Blvd, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia |
| Website | https://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/ |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/228ABsxYKEV77XyF8 |
| Ticket Price | Free Entry |
| Opening Hours | Open 24 Hours |
| Distance From Brisbane CBD | 2 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Parkland Blvd, you will reach this place in around 8 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. By Bus: To reach Roma Street Parkland, you can take the following bus lines: 111, 300, 330, 333, 340, 345, 430, 450, 372, 373, 433, and 445. By Train: You can choose from the following trains: Gold, Shor, Airp, Been, Bnsh, Brbr, Clev, Cabo, Ipsw, Redc, Spri, and Suns to reach Roma Street Parkland. By Ferry: You can also catch the ferry City Cat Downstream - Northshore Hamilton, City Cat Upstream - Uq, City Hopper - North Quay, City Hopper - Sydney Street, and Inner-City Cross-River - Holman Street to reach here. |
| Nearby Eateries | Jimmy's On The Mall | Vapiano Albert Lane | Fat Noodle |
| Nearby Accommodations | Mercure Hotel | Soho Brisbane Hotel | Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane |
5. See The Famous Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park
Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park is one of Brisbane’s most iconic and beloved family-friendly destinations, where you will find visitors from all over Australia. Located near the Brisbane River, you will find that this stunning park offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. You will find that all the visitors come to explore the natural beauty of the place and watch the spectacular views of the Story Bridge and the city. At this park, you will find that there are community events, festivals, outdoor concerts, and educational programmes taking place throughout the year.
Along with this, the place hosts a lot of activities where children as well as adults can enjoy themselves and spend some quality time together. Activities at this place include rock climbing, abseiling, cycling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. In addition to this, there are beautiful parks and walking paths where you can sit and relax. The park has a very vibrant and lively atmosphere since it is lit up on different occasions. This is a perfect place for both adventure seekers and nature lovers.
| Name | Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park |
|---|---|
| Address | 29 River Terrace, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169, Australia |
| Website | https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/ |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/SPweM4dLDhvBQ5ai8 |
| Ticket Price | Free Entry |
| Opening Hours | Open 24 Hours |
| Distance From Brisbane CBD | 3.5 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via State Route 15, you will reach this place in around 9 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. By Bus: To reach Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, you can take the following bus lines: 111, 120, 130, 180, 200, 340, 61, 40, 114, 118, 136, 138, 153, 234, and N154. By Train: You can choose from the following trains: Gold, Airp, Been, Brbr, Clev, and Doom to reach Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park. By Ferry: You can also catch the ferry City Hopper - North Quay, and City Hopper - Sydney Street to reach here. |
| Nearby Eateries | Joey's | Lamberts Restaurant | Olive & Angelo |
| Nearby Accommodations | The Cliff House | Breeze Lodge | The Wellington Apartment Hotel |
6. Take A Ride At The Huge Wheel Of Brisbane
The Wheel of Brisbane is one of the most visited places by family and friends, as it provides you with a unique way to see the city from above. Being located in the South Bank Parklands, this huge Ferris wheel is a perfect adventurous activity that everyone, from children to adults, can sit on and enjoy themselves. Situated at a height of 60 metres above ground level, this Ferris wheel has 42 air-conditioned capsules that can seat up to six adults and two children at a time, providing a total passenger capacity of 336.
The ride runs for 12 minutes, giving you stunning views of the city’s skyline, the Brisbane River, and the surrounding landscape. Offering you 360-degree views of the city, this amazing ride is very famous among friends and family. You will find that this ferris wheel has colourful lights on it, making it an adventurous ride. It is a unique ferris wheel where you can see wheelchair accessibility in two gondolas. Along with the ride, this place is also very famous for the stunning sunset views it offers to all its visitors.
| Name | The Wheel Of Brisbane |
|---|---|
| Address | Russell St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia |
| Website | https://thewheelofbrisbane.com.au/ |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/cAu2gs7DFTkY1Nk6A |
| Ticket Price | Check Here |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: 10am–10pm Tuesday: 10am–10pm Wednesday: 10am–10pm Thursday: 10am–10pm Friday: 10am–11pm Saturday: 10am–11pm Sunday: 10am–10pm |
| Distance From Brisbane CBD | 2.9 Km |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Roma St and State Route 10, you will reach this place in around 12 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. By Bus: To reach The Wheel Of Brisbane, you can take the following bus lines: 120, 130, 220, 306, 345, 385, 444, 61, P343, 363, 376, 382, 383, N100, N111, N130, N154, N184, and 100. By Train: You can choose from the following trains: Fern, Bnsh, Shbn, Airp, Been, Brbr, Clev, and Doom to reach The Wheel Of Brisbane. By Ferry: You can also catch the ferry City Cat Downstream - Northshore Hamilton, City Cat Upstream - Uq, City Hopper - North Quay, and City Hopper - Sydney Street to reach here. |
| Nearby Eateries | Julius Pizzeria | The Spaghetti House Trattoria | Brooklyn Depot, Southbank, Brisbane |
| Nearby Accommodations | Rydges South Bank Brisbane | Mantra South Bank Brisbane | Novotel Brisbane South Bank |
7. Explore The History At Museum Of Brisbane
The Museum of Brisbane is a famous family-friendly destination where children will have fun and get a chance to learn new things about Brisbane. Once you visit this museum, you will get a chance to discover the rich history and culture of the area, as you will be able to see the engaging exhibits and interactive displays located in the museum. One of the most exciting things at this museum is the Clock Tower Tour ride, where you can use the elevator to see this historic City Hall clock tower from near. You will find that the museum hosts exhibitions showcasing works by local and international artists.
Along with this, there are a lot of activities and workshops that are specially designed for children, so every child who comes can enjoy themselves fully. Additionally, the Museum of Brisbane offers a family-friendly café where parents can relax and enjoy a coffee while children can participate in creative activities. Plus, there is a shop at the museum where you will find a variety of items, namely educational toys, books, and souvenirs. The museum offers a wide range of activities and exhibits for everyone so that each visitor can have fun and adventure at the same time.
| Name | The Museum Of Brisbane |
|---|---|
| Address | Level 3, Brisbane City Hall, 64 Adelaide St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia |
| Website | https://www.museumofbrisbane.com.au/ |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/FbVPiBhZ6m9UpY3d9 |
| Ticket Price | Free Entry |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: 10am–5pm Tuesday: 10am–5pm Wednesday: 10am–5pm Thursday: 10am–5pm Friday: 10am–5pm Saturday: 10am–5pm Sunday: 10am–5pm |
| Distance From Brisbane CBD | 800 m |
| How to Reach |
By Car: If you travel via Creek St and Ann St, you will reach this place in around 4 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. By Bus: To reach The Museum Of Brisbane, you can take the following bus lines: 111, 300, 306, 340, 345, 450, 60, 116, 124, 125, 174, 175, 50, P211, 261, 267, 281, 184, 185, 192, 195, 222, 330, and 333. By Train: You can choose from the following trains: Doom, Ipsw, Shor, Spri, Airp, Been, Bnsh, Brbr, and Cabo to reach The Museum Of Brisbane. By Ferry: You can also catch the ferry City Cat Downstream - Northshore Hamilton, City Cat Upstream - Uq, City Hopper - North Quay, City Hopper - Sydney Street, and Inner-City Cross-River - Holman Street to reach here. |
| Nearby Eateries | Hungry Jack's Burgers Beak House | Jimmy's On The Mall | Jackpot Dining |
| Nearby Accommodations | Pullman Brisbane King George Square | Mercure Brisbane King George Square | George Williams Hotel |
End notes
Brisbane is a vibrant city that offers a lot of family-friendly activities in which you can indulge yourself and enjoy yourself to the fullest. From the stunning beauty of the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens to the culinary adventures at Eat Street Northshore and the cultural experiences at the Museum of Brisbane, there is something interesting and adventurous for everyone. Irrespective of the activity you indulge in, you are bound to create lasting memories with your family and friends. So pack your bags, bring your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy the numerous family-friendly activities that Brisbane offers.
