Brisbane with Kids: Fun Family-Friendly Attractions to Visit

Looking to explore Brisbane with the kids in tow? You’re in luck! Brisbane is practically built for families, with endless sunshine and attractions that'll keep both little ones and parents thoroughly entertained. Take note, as we explore the absolute best family activities Brisbane has to offer.

What Are the Best Family-Friendly Attractions in Brisbane?

Forget theme parks, Brisbane is Queensland’s true adventure playground, quite literally! From wildlife encounters to interactive museums, there's something to delight kids of every age. The best part? Many of these attractions are either free or budget-friendly, making the city perfect for family adventures that won't break the bank.

Why Should Families Visit South Bank Parklands?

If there's one place that perfectly captures Brisbane's family-friendly vibe, its South Bank Parklands. This riverside precinct is the crown jewel of family activities Brisbane has to offer, and it's not hard to see why.

Playgrounds and Water Parks

South Bank is home to Streets Beach, Australia's only inner-city beach, is an absolute winner with families. This lagoon-style pool offers safe swimming with city views - talk about a uniquely Brisbane experience! The nearby Aquativity area is a free water play space that's perfect for younger kids, with interactive features that combine fun with learning about our water systems.

South Bank isn't just about water play. The Picnic Island playground is a wonderland of climbing structures, slides, and interactive features that'll keep the kids entertained for hours.

Local tip: Pack swimmers, sunscreen, and a picnic - you'll want to make a day of it!

Make Furry Friends At Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Want to see your kids' faces light up? Take them to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where they can get up close with Australia's most loveable creatures. As the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary, it offers experiences you simply can't find anywhere else.

Beyond the obvious koala encounters (which, let's be honest, are worth the trip alone), kids can hand-feed kangaroos, watch platypus play, and learn about Aussie wildlife in the most hands-on way possible.

The daily shows and keeper talks are timed perfectly to keep little ones engaged throughout the day.

Where Can Families Explore Art and Science in Brisbane?

Brisbane’s Cultural Precinct at South Bank is the perfect spot for families wanting to mix art, science, and loads of fun. Nestled along the Brisbane River, this hub of discovery houses both the Queensland Museum Kurilpa and GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art), making it perfect for families who love to mix learning with fun. 

What Activities Can You Do at Queensland Museum Kurilpa and Sparklab?

The Queensland Museum Kurilpa is packed with interesting stuff for the whole family to enjoy. The Dinosaur Garden is a big hit with the kids, featuring life-sized dinosaur skeletons and tons of fossil exhibits that’ll have them in awe.

But it’s the interactive exhibits that really make this place special. Kids can get up close with everything from human biology to the wonders of space. It’s all about making learning fun, and there’s plenty of stuff they can touch, explore, and even play with.

Let the kids loose in the Sparklab where they can conduct their own experiments and learn about everything from electricity to magnets There are lots of activities to get hands-on with, such as building a bridge, launching rockets, or testing your reaction speed.

Is GOMA Family-Friendly?

GOMA is super family-friendly, with loads of exhibitions and activities designed to make art fun for younger visitors. There are plenty of interactive installations and workshops where kids can get involved and even make their own creations. One of the highlights for families is the Children's Art Centre, a dedicated space within GOMA where little ones can let their creativity run wild. 

What Makes Roma Street Parklands a Must-Visit for Families?

The Roma Street Parklands are one of Brisbane’s best-kept secrets, offering a huge 16-hectare green space right in the middle of the city. It’s the perfect place to let the kids run around, explore, and enjoy nature, with gardens, lakes, and playgrounds to discover. It’s hard to believe you’re so close to the city when you’re surrounded by all this greenery!

The Children’s Garden is a standout, with nature-based play equipment that encourages kids to climb, crawl, and explore. From sandpits to water features, tunnels to bridges, there’s heaps for kids to get stuck into while exploring the outdoors. 

Brisbane's Beautiful Botanic Gardens

The City Botanic Gardens offer a perfect blend of nature, history, and play spaces. The riverside location makes it ideal for family picnics, while the all-abilities playground ensures every child can join in the fun. Keep an eye out for the garden's resident water dragons - spotting these prehistoric-looking creatures is always exciting for kids!

Where Are the Best Spots for Family Dining in Brisbane?

Brisbane's family-friendly vibe extends to its dining scene. South Bank's dining precinct offers plenty of casual options where kids are welcome.

The Plough Inn has a great kids' menu and plenty of space for restless little ones, while the South Bank Beer Garden welcomes families with a dedicated kids’ menu and close proximity to the Streets Beach playground. 

For a special treat, take a Citycat ferry ride to Eat Street Northshore, located just 10km from Brisbane CBD. This shipping container food market is a sensory delight for kids, with plenty of child-friendly options among the global street food offerings.

Practical Tips for Exploring Brisbane with Kids

We get it, travelling with little ones takes some SERIOUS planning and preparation. To ensure you make the most of your time in Brissy, here’s a couple of handy tips to keep in mind:

• Most attractions are easily accessible by public transport - grab a Go Card for the best rates

• Brisbane's subtropical climate means sun protection is essential year-round

• Many museums and galleries offer free entry, perfect for budget-conscious families

• Visit South Bank Parklands early in summer to beat the heat

• Pack swimmers and towels - you never know when you'll encounter a water play opportunity

• Check attraction websites for school holiday programs and special kids' events

Ready To Plan Your Family Adventure?

Perched right next to the Roma Street Parklands, The Hotel Grand Chancellor is brilliantly positioned for families wanting to explore the city's best attractions. The hotel's spacious family rooms offer plenty of wiggle room for energetic kids, while the rooftop pool is a guaranteed hit after a day of sightseeing. Click here to check out our family accommodation options today.