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Looking for the best things to do in Brisbane with kids? This guide brings together outdoor adventures, free activities and family favourites across the city.
Whether you're planning ahead or searching for things to do in Brisbane today with kids, this guide covers the best for all ages, to help you get the most out of your family day in Brisbane.
Quick Picks for Families Visiting Brisbane
| Category | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Best Free Outdoor Spot | Roma Street Parkland - adventure-filled playgrounds, water features and picnic lawns in the heart of Brisbane (Free) |
| Best Cultural Experience | Queensland Museum Kurilpa & Sciencentre - interactive exhibits, dinosaur displays, and hands-on science for curious kids (Free general entry) |
| Best Wildlife Experience | Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary - meet koalas, hand-feed kangaroos and see native Australian wildlife up close (Paid) |
| Best Rainy-Day Activity | QAGOMA - a colourful art gallery with family activity zones and kid-friendly exhibitions (Free general entry) |
| Best High-Energy Indoor Fun | BOUNCE Inc - wall-to-wall trampolines, ninja-style adventure zones, plus dedicated toddler play spaces (Paid) |
| Best Scenic Family Walk | City Botanic Gardens - shady lawns, playgrounds, and riverside paths perfect for prams and scooters (Free) |
| Best for Teens | Urban Xtreme - ice skating, parkour, indoor skiing and high-adrenaline adventure activities (Paid) |
Why Brisbane Is a Top Family-Friendly City
Brisbane works for families because of the wide variety of options that are all within close proximity. The CBD, Brisbane South Bank and the Cultural Precinct sit side by side. Riverwalks connect major attractions.
Public transport is straightforward - trains, buses and CityCats (river ferries) are easy to navigate. You can cover a lot without spending hours on the move, and that is a game-changer with kids.
Mild winters and long stretches of sunshine mean outdoor plans usually win, and when rain does roll in, indoor options are strong.
Best Outdoor Spots for Kids in Brisbane
If you want space, fresh air and flexible timing, these are some of the best things to do in Brisbane with kids.
Roma Street Parkland
Cost: Free
Best for: Toddlers to primary school
Location: 1 Parkland Blvd, Brisbane City
Getting there: 5-10 minute walk from Roma Street Station
Roma Street Parkland is one of Brisbane's most reliable family spots. Enormous landscaped gardens stretch across multiple levels, with dedicated playground areas and wide open lawns. Make a day of it with free BBQs and picnic areas, or sample the treats at the onsite cafe.
Why kids love it:
- Climbing frames and slides
- Water features
- Open grass for running
Why parents love it:
- Shade
- Clean public facilities
- Central location
It's one of the most popular free things to do with kids in Brisbane.
South Bank Parklands & Streets Beach
Cost: Free
Best for: Toddlers to teens
Location: South Bank, Brisbane
Getting there: Train to South Brisbane or South Bank Station
Streets Beach at South Bank is Brisbane's iconic inner-city lagoon, with sand, shallow swimming areas and lifeguard supervision. It's an easy, all-in-one spot where kids can play, swim and run between the beach, playgrounds and open parklands.
Why families love it:
- Water play and sandy beach zones in the middle of the city
- Space to run and explore
- Free, lifeguard-patrolled swimming
- Shade, facilities and nearby cafés
For a deeper look at the neighbourhood, explore our guide to the best things to do in Southbank Brisbane.
City Botanic Gardens
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages
Location: Alice Street, Brisbane City
Getting there: 10 minute walk from Queen Street Mall
Right on the river, the City Botanic Gardens are perfect for prams, scooters and slow strolls. Wide paths make it easy to move, and there's plenty of open lawn for kids to roam.
There's more here than just grass. Look out for:
- Baldwin Lawn Playground - an all-abilities playground with climbing structures, musical elements and sand play
- Weeping Fig Avenue - a shaded, tree-lined walkway that's perfect on hot days
- The Riverwalk and River Hub - open river views and space to scoot or stroll
- The Gardens Club café - coffee, casual meals and picnic-friendly options
- Riverside Sunday Market - a vibrant community market held weekly from 8am
It's one of the most accessible and flexible things to do in Brisbane today with kids, requiring no bookings and offering plenty of space to explore at your own pace.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Cost: Free
Best for: School-aged kids and teens
Location: River Terrace, Kangaroo Point
Getting there: 10 minutes from the CBD by car or ferry
Kangaroo Point Cliffs deliver skyline views and space to move. The riverside paths are wide and well-maintained, making them ideal for bikes and scooters.
Kids enjoy:
- Watching climbers scale the cliffs
- Running the riverside tracks
- Sunset city views
It's especially convenient if you're staying nearby and want to get out for an easy afternoon activity. For more ideas in this area, check out our guide to the best things to do in Kangaroo Point.
Riverlife Adventure Centre
Cost: From approx. $25–$89 depending on activity
Best for: 6+ (older kids and teens)
Location: Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Brisbane
Getting there: 10 minutes from the CBD by car or ferry
Riverlife adds a more active edge to a Kangaroo Point visit, with kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and guided outdoor experiences including rock climbing. Rambla guests can enjoy a special 10% off tours or hire activities, just enter the code RAMBLA10 when booking (conditions apply).
Why families love it:
- Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on the Brisbane River
- Guided activities that are easy to join, even for beginners
- A more active add-on to a Kangaroo Point visit
- Great for older kids and teens with energy to burn
Educational & Cultural Experiences for Kids
Brisbane's Cultural Precinct, centred around Brisbane South Bank, makes family learning seriously fun. Major attractions sit within a short walk of each other, so you can move from dinosaurs to hands-on science to large-scale art with ease.
Queensland Museum Kurilpa & Sciencentre
Cost: Free general entry, some Sciencentre exhibitions are ticketed
Best for: 4-12 years
Opening hours: Daily 9:30am - 4pm
Location: South Bank
Getting there: Train to South Brisbane Station
The Queensland Museum blends natural history, science and interactive displays. Expect dinosaur skeletons, wildlife exhibits and rotating feature exhibitions.
The Sciencentre adds hands-on STEM activities where kids can experiment and build. It's one of the most recommended fun things to do with kids in Brisbane.
SparkLab
Cost: Tickets $5 - $16.50
Best for: 6-13 years
Opening hours: Daily 9:30am - 4pm
A permanent exhibition within Queensland Museum Kurilpa, SparkLab focuses on science and problem-solving through interactive challenges. Kids can test ideas, explore digital tech and engage with real-world science concepts.
QAGOMA
Cost: Free general entry, some exhibitions are ticketed
Best for: 5+
Opening hours: Daily 9am - 5pm
Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) regularly runs family-friendly exhibitions and activity zones.
Why it works:
- Open, stroller-friendly spaces
- Dedicated kids' areas
- School holiday workshops
It's a great indoor activity if you're needing some time inside away from heat or rain, and a fun way to introduce culture without the pressure of a formal tour.
Animal Encounters Kids Will Love
Up-close wildlife moments are often the highlight of any Brisbane family trip. If you want something uniquely Australian, these are the standout options.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Cost: Tickets $42 - $59
Best for: All ages
Opening hours: Daily 9am - 5pm
Location: Fig Tree Pocket
Getting there: 20 minutes from Brisbane CBD by car (free onsite parking), or take the CityCat ferry directly to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary terminal.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world's first and largest koala sanctuary.
Families can:
- See koalas up close
- Feed kangaroos
- Watch wildlife shows
It's one of the best things to do in Brisbane with kids for visitors wanting a classic Australian wildlife experience.
Daisy Hill Koala Centre
Cost: Free
Best for: Primary-aged kids
Opening hours: Daily 10am - 4pm
Location: Daisy Hill Conservation Park
Getting there: 25-30 minute drive south of central Brisbane
Set within the peaceful surrounds of Daisy Hill Conservation Park, Daisy Hill Koala Centre is a dedicated education facility where kids can see Koalas up close in a natural bushland setting.
Inside, visitors can:
- Explore interactive exhibits about Koala conservation
- Attend a daily Wildlife Ranger talk and hear the stories of resident koalas
- Watch the 2.30pm leaf feeding (often the best chance to see koalas awake)
There are short bushwalks nearby, so you can pair wildlife spotting with easy outdoor exploring.
Indoor Play Ideas for Rainy Days
Brisbane is mostly sunny, but a backup plan helps - especially during summer storms. When rain rolls in, these indoor options keep everyone happy.
BOUNCE Inc
Cost: $12 - $36.50 per session
Best for: Toddlers to teens
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (Fri until 8pm, Sun 9am - 5pm)
Locations: Macgregor, Tingalpa
BOUNCE Inc Brisbane is an indoor trampoline and adventure park built for big energy days. Tingalpa is the largest Brisbane venue, packed with more than 50 interconnected trampolines and dedicated zones for different ages and skill levels.
Kids will love:
- Wall-to-wall trampolines
- Basketball and dodgeball courts
- X-Park ninja-style obstacle course
- miniBOUNCE Zone for children under 5 years
Food is available to purchase on site (outside food is not permitted). Book ahead on weekends and during school holidays to secure your session time.
Urban Xtreme
Cost: Tickets $27–$47
Best for: 6+
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm
Location: Hendra
Urban Xtreme Brisbane is built for choose-your-own-adventure days. Under one roof you'll find indoor skiing, ice skating, Ninja Warrior courses, laser tag, parkour, rock climbing, trampolining and more.
Ideal for older kids and teens who've outgrown playgrounds but still have energy to burn.
For children under 6, MiniBounce offers a dedicated space with mini trampolines, a multi-level play structure, ball pits, and slides.
There's an on-site café to keep everyone fuelled, external food isn't permitted. Enclosed sports shoes are required for some activities.
Angelika Cinemas
Cost: From $12 - $25 per ticket
Best for: All ages
Opening hours: Vary by session
Location: South/City/SQ, Woolloongabba
Angelika Cinemas offers a more relaxed movie experience, with comfortable seating and a curated mix of family-friendly films and new releases. Located within the South/City/SQ precinct, the same complex as Rambla @ South/City/SQ, it's an easy option for downtime or a rainy afternoon.
Gold Coast Theme Parks (Easy Day Trip From Brisbane)
If you're looking to take things up a level, the Gold Coast's major theme parks are just 45 minutes drive from Brisbane, making them an easy and popular day trip for families.
Dreamworld
Cost: From $99 per ticket
Opening hours: 10:00am - 5:00pm daily
Location: Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera, Gold Coast
Dreamworld is Australia's largest theme park, combining thrill rides, family attractions and wildlife encounters all in one place. Kids can explore themed zones like ABC Kids World, while older kids chase rides like The Giant Drop and Steel Taipan.
Sea World
Cost: From $99 per ticket
Opening hours: 10:00am - 5:00pm daily
Location: Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, Gold Coast
Sea World blends marine life encounters with rides and live shows, making it one of the most well-rounded parks for younger kids. Expect dolphins, penguins and interactive exhibits alongside family-friendly attractions and entertainment.
Warner Bros. Movie World
Cost: From $99 per ticket
Opening hours: 10:00am - 5:00pm daily
Location: Entertainment Rd, Oxenford, Gold Coast
Movie World brings movies to life with high-energy rides, superhero encounters and live stunt shows. Kids love meeting characters and exploring themed zones, while older kids and teens can head straight for the epic rollercoasters.
Practical Tips for Parents Visiting Brisbane
Getting Around
Getting around Brisbane with kids is refreshingly straightforward.
- CityCat river ferries are a fun and scenic way for families to travel
- Trains connect Brisbane Airport to the CBD in around 20 minutes
- Many major attractions are within 10-15 minutes of the city
Plenty of family spots are easily accessible by public transport, saving you the hassle of parking. If you're planning to explore further, taking a car adds flexibility.
Stay centrally and you'll cut down travel time and keep everything within easy reach.
Weather Planning
Brisbane summers are hot and humid.
- Plan outdoor activities early
- Pack hats and sunscreen year-round
- Expect afternoon storms in summer
Winter is mild and ideal for full-day exploring. Bring light layers as temperatures can drop in the evenings.
Best Times to Visit Attractions
Weekday mornings are typically quieter, while school holidays and long weekends can bring a livelier atmosphere across Brisbane's top family attractions.
If you're visiting during peak periods, it's worth pre-booking tickets to secure your preferred time slots and avoid missing out on popular experiences.
Starting bigger activities earlier in the day can help you stay ahead of the crowds, leaving afternoons open for relaxed park time or riverside exploring. Building in downtime between stops keeps the day enjoyable - especially with younger kids.
Where to Stay in Brisbane with the Family
With kids, space changes everything. After a big day out, everyone needs room to reset.
You want:
- Flexible sleeping setups so everyone can rest comfortably
- A kitchen or kitchenette for easy breakfasts and simple dinners
- Laundry access for inevitable spills
- Space to relax, whether that's a separate living area, a balcony, or a spacious studio.
Having those basics sorted keeps mornings smoother and evenings far more relaxed. A proper home base lets you explore freely during the day and truly unwind at night.
Rambla's Brisbane locations offer that flexibility across four neighbourhoods.
Rambla @ Perry House - Bowen Hills
Set on the city fringe, with quick train access into the CBD and Brisbane South Bank in around 10-15 minutes. Perry House is a practical choice if you want easy transport links and proximity to major attractions.
Rambla @ South/City/SQ - Woolloongabba
Rambla @ South/City/SQ is close to The Gabba and just 2km from South Bank and the Cultural Precinct, ideal for museum days, river walks and event weekends. It also offers the convenience of the South/City/SQ precinct right downstairs - including a supermarket, cinema and dining options that make family stays significantly easier.
Rambla @ Berwick House - Fortitude Valley
Positioned in one of Brisbane's most lively neighbourhoods, with fast access to the CBD and nearby parks. At Berwick House you're close to easy dining options while still having space to retreat.
Rambla @ Story House - Kangaroo Point
Just minutes from Kangaroo Point Cliffs and a short ferry or drive into the CBD. Story House is perfect for active families who enjoy morning river walks and skyline views.
Each Rambla apartment offers creature comforts that make family travel easier. It's space, flexibility and thoughtful design - without compromising location.
Making the Most of Brisbane With Kids
One of the best things about exploring Brisbane with kids is the sheer variety. You can plan an action-packed day of museums, adventure parks and outdoor exploring, or keep it simple with wide green spaces and riverside strolls. Most families find the sweet spot somewhere in between.
It works for every budget too. Take advantage of the many free activities, or splurge on a memorable wildlife encounter.
Brisbane rewards flexible plans and unhurried exploring. Roam a little, reset when you need to and return to a space that feels like your own.
That's how you make the most of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What outdoor activities can kids enjoy in Brisbane?
Brisbane offers plenty of outdoor activities for kids thanks to its warm climate and green spaces. Popular options include exploring Roma Street Parkland, riding scooters through the City Botanic Gardens, or walking and cycling along the riverside paths at Kangaroo Point Cliffs.
What indoor activities are there for kids in Brisbane?
When you need an indoor activity, Brisbane has several family-friendly options. Kids can explore interactive science exhibits at the Queensland Museum Kurilpa and Sciencentre, try hands-on challenges at SparkLab, or burn off energy at indoor adventure venues like BOUNCE Inc and Urban Xtreme.
What are some free things to do with kids in Brisbane?
Many of Brisbane's most popular family attractions are free. Families can spend time at Roma Street Parkland, explore the City Botanic Gardens, visit the Queensland Museum, or see koalas at the Daisy Hill Koala Centre.
What can you do in Brisbane with toddlers?
Brisbane has plenty of activities suited to younger children. Toddlers enjoy playgrounds and water features at Roma Street Parkland, pram-friendly paths through the City Botanic Gardens, and interactive exhibits at the Sciencentre. Indoor play areas like BOUNCE Inc also have designated zones for children under five.
What are good rainy-day activities for kids in Brisbane?
Rainy days in Brisbane are easy to navigate with several indoor attractions across the city. Families can head to the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, explore SparkLab's hands-on science exhibits, or visit indoor adventure parks like BOUNCE Inc or Urban Xtreme for climbing, trampolining and other active play.
