Among the many things that Brisbane does really well (and let’s not feign modesty here), is cater for kids. Luckily, our city has loads of places dedicated to their entertainment, amusement and, sometimes, subtle education. Best of all, they’re all high on the fun factor.
Here’s a list of places (road-tested by parents) that we think will score high points with the people that matter: your kids. If your favourite place to take the kids isn't on our list, then let us know by leaving a comment below.
Swimming pools
Simple recipe for happiness: mix kids with water; enjoy instant fun. Obviously, this is an option for the hot summer months, but when the temperature is on the up and up, Brissie kids love to cool off at the local swimming pool.
Parks
Free alfresco fun – that’s what Brisbane’s parks offer kids of all ages. Well maintained and plentiful, they encourage imagination and activity for little people and a place for parents and carers to let them run wild. We’ve put together a list of 10 of the best kids parks.
Gallery of Modern Art and Queensland Art Gallery
Kids are naturals at making art – and they love exposure to it too. The Children’s Art Centre at the Galleries has proven very popular with their innovative and interactive programs and exhibitions. We love the artist-run workshops and performances specially designed for children too.
Queensland Museum and Sciencentre
Get hands-on with some fascinating creatures. The Queensland Museum, located in the cultural hub of South Brisbane, is an innovative and stimulating museum of science, environment and human experience. The Sciencentre, just downstairs, is a great place for kids to experiment.
South Bank Parklands
South Bank Parklands has everything you need to keep little ones amused. Take them for a swim at the artificial beach, play on one of the playgrounds or rollerblade by the river. On weekends, stroll through the arts and crafts market or go to a cheap movie at the South Bank cinema complex. South Bank often hosts free events and performances too.
Roma Street Parkland
Close to rail and bus transport, this inner city 16ha parkland is easily accessible and ideal for kids of all ages. Younger kids can take a trip on the Jelly Bean Express, a 1.3km trackless train ride around the parkland or there’s a playground to explore. Free entry and open daily.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Just 15 minutes from downtown Brisbane, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, with more than 130 koalas, is recognised by the Guinness World Records as being the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. Activities include cuddling koalas, feeding kangaroos, wallabies and noisy rainbow lorikeets – even holding a snake! Cool.
The library
Oh, the joys of reading. Let your kids feast on books, glorious books! Visit your local Council library. Apart from regular story-time sessions, Council libraries offer a program of events and activities for kids over the school holidays – for free. Plus, there is weekly story reading sessions at some libraries for the littlies.
Skating and climbing
We love the places that let the kids expend all that youthful energy. Take them roller skating or ice skating. If the kids don’t own a pair of skates, most facilities offer equipment for hire.
Or try rock climbing at a variety of indoor and outdoor venues around Brisbane.
Some other great kid-friendly places include:
- Brisbane’s forests - take the kids on a hike in the forests of Brisbane. All about 30 minutes (or less) drive from the city centre. One of the biggest, Brisbane Forest Park, offers more than 30km of walking tracks, lookouts, picnic areas and barbecues.
- Brisbane River - even that simplest of pleasures, a ride on a CityCat or ferry, is a great way for kids to enjoy the river (and it won’t break the family budget).
- Ice creamery - treat your kids and go to Brisbane’s great ice cream shops where they can choose flavours, combinations and mix-ins.
- Markets – shopping with the kids CAN be fun…give your children some spending money and take them to one of Brisbane’s bustling markets. This doesn’t need to be an expensive exercise – a few dollars will buy toys and sweets, trinkets and games.
Where’s your favourite Brisbane place to take the kids? Add your comments below.
