The school holidays are upon us, and if you’re a grandparent, you know the drill: the grandkids are bursting with energy, and you’re looking for fun things to do that won’t leave you needing a nap by lunchtime.
Whether you’re wrangling one grandchild or the whole crew, Brisbane has plenty of activities that will keep everyone entertained and all on a budget (depending on the ice cream cost).
We did a handful of these this week already, so I can confirm that even the tweens and teens will enjoy some of these relaxing days out.
For a bit of fun, I have included the Ice Cream Index of each activity, that is the chance of the kids wanting and/or getting an ice cream on your day out!
- 🍦 ….. Quite unlikely
- 🍦🍦 ….. Small possibility
- 🍦🍦🍦 ….. Depends on your mood
- 🍦🍦🍦🍦 ….. Stand by with the wet wipes
- 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦 ….. It’s 99% going to happen today
1. Nudgee Beach or Wynnum Boardwalk
If you’re after a relaxing yet fun morning, a boardwalk stroll with the dog in tow is a winner. The kids can spot crabs, birds, and whatever else they find fascinating while you enjoy the sea breeze. Pack some snacks (because kids are always hungry), and let them run free on the beach. Spare clothes are handy if your kids are likely to want to get wet!
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦 ….. Small possibility. It’s BYO.
2. Mt Coot-tha Lookout and Botanic Gardens
Impress the grandkids with the best view of Brisbane at Mt Coot-tha. Afterward, you can explore the Botanic Gardens, there’s a Japanese garden, cactus house and a recently installed playground, but my personal favourite is the children’s trail full of sculptures to spot and tick off your trail-card available at the entrance.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦🍦 ….. Stand by with the wet wipes. It’s sold at the cafe and makes for a great end to the garden stroll.
3. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
Got a budding astronaut in the family? Head to the Planetarium at Mt Coot-tha, where they can gaze at the stars without staying up past their bedtime. There is a theatre that projects onto the domed roof and shows short astro-themed movies as well as night sky tours. It’s educational, but they won’t notice because it’s also really cool.
Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦 ….. Small possibility. It’s over at the Botanic Garden cafe.
4. Train and Ferry Ride Through the City
For just 50c per adult and free for kids, you can hop on a CityCat ferry or train and explore Brisbane. Kids love anything that moves, and you’ll get a mini sightseeing tour out of it. Wave at people, point out landmarks, and pretend you’re on an adventure. It’s all about the journey with this one, or you could get off at Howard Smith Wharves and do the Brisbane city riverwalk.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦 ….. Don’t hold your breath, it’s not likely. Zero, as it’s not allowed on trains and ferries.
5. Brisbane City Riverwalk
The Brisbane Riverwalk is great for a leisurely stroll (or brisk walk if they’re full of energy) along the river. With stunning views of the Story Bridge and plenty of boats to spot, it’s perfect for a sunny day. Distraction tip: get them to count the number of ferries that pass during your walk.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦 ….. Don’t hold your breath, it’s not likely. Ultra low, as it’s not readily sold along the boardwalk.
6. Alpacas at Samford’s Trevena Glen Farm
Who doesn’t love an alpaca? What about a pony ride or cuddling with a guinea pig? Take the grandkids to Trevena Farm in Samford for some animal adventure time. These fluffy creatures will win over even the grumpiest of teenagers, and you’ll all leave with fun photos to show off. Just be ready for the kids asking if they can bring one home.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦🍦 ….. Stand by with the wet wipes. I’ve heard you’ll want to enjoy one from the cafe.
7. Fishing from Shorncliffe Pier
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just fancy throwing a line in, fishing at Shorncliffe Pier is a peaceful way to spend the day. Bring some bait, cross your fingers, and hope the fish are biting. With a small beach to the right and a promenade walk to the left, it makes for a lovely day out in the sunshine.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦 ….. It’s 99% going to happen today. There’s a gelato ice cream truck nearby!
8. Butterfly House at Bribie Island
For a day trip a little further afield, the Butterfly House at Bribie Island is a magical escape. The kids will be amazed as butterflies flutter around them, and you’ll get a few quiet moments to sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Don’t forget your camera, and we found out if you wear yellow they are more likely to land on you!
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦 ….. Depends on your mood. Ice creams on the beach after your visit are a great option before the drive home.
9. Picnic at Bunya Crossing Reserve
Pack a picnic and head to Bunya Crossing Reserve for a day by the water. Let the kids splash around, explore, and wear themselves out while you relax under a tree with a good book. This is a classic grandparent move that never fails.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦 ….. Small possibility. It’s BYO.
10. Camel Farm Adventure
Did you know there are camels just out of Brisbane? Neither do most people, but the kids will be fascinated! Take them for a drive out to Summerland Camel Farm for an unusual adventure. Camels are quirky, fun, and a guaranteed conversation starter for their next “what I did on my holidays” story. There are also lots of camel milk treats to try, like ice cream. The camel jerky was also a hit with my crew, just don’t ask where it came from.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦 ….. It’s 99% going to happen today. You’ll be curious, and they’re also lactose free.
11. Museum of Brisbane
If you need a break from the sun, the Museum of Queensland in Southbank is a fantastic indoor option. It’s got plenty of interactive exhibits like the SparkLab to keep the grandkids entertained, and on the upper levels there are cool bugs and sealife exhibits on display all year round. Plus there’s ice cream nearby.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦 ….. Depends on your mood. The little vendors from that Bluey episode will get you every time.
12. Strawberry Picking
When in doubt, go strawberry picking! There are quite a few farms around Brisbane where the kids can fill a basket with fresh strawberries. The one we went to opposite Aussie World also had fresh ice cream, milkshakes and other strawberry-themed treats to buy. It’s a great way to spend a couple of hours, and you’ll go home with a delicious souvenir. Just remember: strawberries never make it all the way home when kids are involved.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦 ….. Depends on which farm you go to. It’s fresh, unique and supports small business.
13. Sky Deck Lookout
Take in the newest high-rise view of Brisbane from the freshly opened Sky Deck on top of The Star Casino. Public access is free and the kids will love standing on the glass floor looking directly down. With views of Southbank and the hills beyond, it’s a great, thrilling trip up to the clouds.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦 ….. Don’t hold your breath, it’s not likely. There are only a couple of expensive cafes up there, but if you’re so inclined.
14. Kumbartcho Sanctuary
For a peaceful day surrounded by nature, Kumbartcho Sanctuary in Eatons Hill is a hidden gem. The kids can wander through the bushland tracks, spot birds and wildlife, and learn a bit about native plants. There’s even an adorable fairy garden with lots of little surprises. You can pack a picnic, enjoy the serenity, and let the grandkids run wild in nature.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦 ….. Small possibility. There’s no cafe or shop here, but there are some down the road.
15. Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre
Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre at The Gap is a top-notch spot for grandkids who love animals! You’ll get to see all sorts of native wildlife up close, from wombats and wallabies to platypuses and snakes. The Discovery Centre even has a few playful kangaroos that’ll delight the kids. It’s part zoo, part nature reserve, so after checking out the animals, you can wander through the surrounding bushland and explore the walking trails. It’s educational, but don’t tell the kids, they’ll be too busy being wowed by all the furry and scaly creatures.
Ranger-led Wildlife Discovery Shows are held every Saturday and Sunday at 10am and 1.30pm. Tickets can be purchased at the Discovery Centre and include same-day admission, or online at Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services.
Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦 ….. Depends on your mood. There is an on-site cafe.
16. Samford Historical Museum
Enjoy a wander around the museum, which features working blacksmiths and some interactive exhibits. You can comfortably walk through the entire museum in an hour, or you can immerse yourself in the details and spend a whole day. You’ll learn how the early settlers to the area farmed the land, constructed fences and homes, and built the foundation of the community we have today. Open Wednesdays and Sundays, 10am to 4pm.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦🍦 ….. Pretty good. There’s an ice cream store at the corner and at the Samford Hotel.
17. Mini Putt at St Lucia Links
This was the most peaceful and pleasant course I have ever played with my girls. And it is so pretty! With the big shady trees (which have lights on them, so I imagine it’s pretty at night as well) and organic rocks, ramps and fun obstacles throughout the course, it was the perfect outing. There are speakers playing music as you move through as well. Each hole has four levels of difficulty so the whole family can play together without it being too easy for adults or too tricky for younger players. Just $5 on Sunday afternoons.
Chance of an ice cream: 🍦🍦🍦🍦 ….. Pretty good. There’s an ice cream store at the corner and at the Samford Hotel.
And that sums up my 17 perfect ideas for keeping the grandkids entertained during the school holidays! Whether it’s a walk on the boardwalk, cuddling alpacas, or a camel farm adventure, Brisbane is packed with gentle activities for grandparents and grandkids alike. Just remember to bring snacks, plenty of water, and your sense of humour.
Happy adventuring!
Brisbane Family Life 