Aquativity at South Bank
South Bank is a mecca for children of all ages. Whether they're racing around the open green spaces, swimming at Brisbane's only inner-city beach, having a ball at Aquativity or enjoying the year-round program of special events, kids rule at South Bank. (Of course, that doesn't stop their parents from having fun too! South Bank is for everyone.)
Here's how to spend the ultimate Kids Day Out at South Bank.
Aquativity
Kids of all ages can cool down and have fun playing in shallow waters and on large coloured disks set among a series of water jets and fountains while they learn about the river, water, clouds, storms and the environment at Aquativity.
An interactive water park right next to Streets Beach at South Bank, Aquativity is open on weekends from 10am to 5pm.
Water jets operate for 30 minutes on the hour (e.g. 10am - 10:30am) during Acquativity opening times.
Streets Beach
Australia's only beach in the middle of the city, Streets Beach is one of South Bank's most popular attractions. A unique, man-made swimming beach overlooking the Brisbane River, it's a great place for the kids to cool down on a hot summer's day. With a crystal-clear lagoon, white sand beaches, palm trees, pebbled creeks and shady shallows surrounded by subtropical trees and exotic plantings, it's also the perfect setting for make-believe games involving pirates, sunken treasure, mermaids and tropical islands.
Best of all, there are none of the big waves or dangerous rips found on coastal beaches. And for extra parental peace-of-mind, Streets Beach is patrolled by professional lifeguards seven days a week.
Ice creams go down on a treat at Streets Beach and can be purchased from ice-cream carts located right near the water.
Wheel of Brisbane
You don't need to wait until next year's Ekka to see ferris wheels. Take the kids for a ride on the new 60 metre high Wheel of Brisbane and see Brisbane and South Bank like never before.
Eat and drink
South Bank's grassy lawns and shady trees create the perfect setting for a family picnic. Make the most of a bright Brissie day and pack a picnic lunch, morning or afternoon tea.
There are several barbecues across the Parklands, all of which are free to use, on a first come, first served basis.
If you don't feel like catering for the hungry hordes, eat out. There are more than 30 restaurants and cafés at South Bank - many of which are child-friendly. You can enjoy great Italian, Greek, Lebanese, Turkish, Asian or modern Australian food in a range of prices.
Active kids
South Bank's riverfront pathways offer a safe and scenic zone for healthy and enjoyable family activities like walking, cycling and rollerblading. (If you don't have your own, you can hire rollerblades and bikes.)
Or you can throw a frisbee or ball or hire bocce (boule) sets from the Visitor Information Centre.
Pushing a pram along the boardwalk is a breeze. And if the kids don't want to leave Fido at home, bring him along - you're now allowed to share the many walkways and grassy areas with four-legged family members. Just remember, your pooch has to be on a leash and well-behaved plus there are certain areas they aren't allowed. Read the rules for dogs at South Bank.
Science, culture and creativity
The State Library of Queensland and the Gallery of Modern Art have innovative educational and creative programs just for kids that run all through the year, giving children the opportunity to create, learn and have some hands-on fun.
And the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre have long been favourite destinations for kids of all ages, offering hours of interactive, science-based fun.
Movies
Take the kids to the movies - South Bank has great value big screen cinemas screening all the latest films or catch a fun flick at the Parklands at South Bank - for free! Check the South Bank website for details of free movie screenings.
For more information about events for kids of all ages, visit the South Bank website.
