We Are Family:
Fun Activities at South Bank For All Ages
Epicurious Garden, South Bank Parklands
South Bank is famed as a Brisbane family destination with something for everyone and we've put together a quick guide to the highlights.
From enjoying the great outdoors to burning energy on a playground or getting a decent dose of culture, history and creativity, make your way to the Parklands on any day of the week to discover why South Bank could easily be called “the precinct of play”.
Within the Parklands
Visit South Bank’s 'edible' garden and the little ones can learn about herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables. You can even pick up free, fresh-picked produce from the harvest cart from 7am–11am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Produce on display is free and it operates on a first-in, best-dressed basis, so get in early to avoid disappointment.
Aquativity, South Bank Parklands
Pack the swimmers and let your little water babies splash up a storm at Aquativity. This free water activity park in the heart of South Bank is right next to Streets Beach and has shaded seating, barbecue facilities, toilets and eateries nearby. Lifeguards are on hand every weekend and all through the school holidays.
Riverside Green Playground, South Bank Parklands
The Riverside Green Playground is a state-of-the-art facility, featuring heaps of fun play options including nets, slides and a mammoth skywalk. There’s something for kids of all ages to play on too, with swings and sensory play areas for those toddler-age and below.
Picnic Island Green Playground, South Bank Parklands
Picnic Island Playground features plenty of green space to picnic or run around on, and play equipment from swings to climbing structures as well as fun auditory equipment for imaginative play.
Dinosaurs Unearthed, Explore Prehistoric Queensland, Queensland Museum
Within the Precinct
Queensland Museum and Sciencentre
Queensland Museum is an educational and fun place for the whole family to visit with a vast collection of historical objects and specimens relating to natural history, cultural heritage, science and human achievement – all tracking the changing story of Queensland. The Sciencentre features an exciting range of permanent and changing exhibitions that offer kids (including the inner-kid in all adults) an amazing, interactive and hands-on experience of science. Both the Museum and Sciencentre host regular touring exhibitions, special events and school holiday activities too so keep an eye on their websites for details and information on booking.
Yayoi Kusama's 'Flowers that bloom at midnight' 2012 at Queensland Art Gallery of Modern Art
Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art
QAGOMA Children's Art Centre hosts interactive projects, activities and publications for children and families, as well as specifically designed exhibitions and programs across the gallery's two sites. Find specific kid-focused events, activities, tours and exhibitions throughout the year, where kids aged one and up will learn about and engage with a focus artwork through games, song and movement.
A classic activity for visiting friends and family, The Wheel of Brisbane is a must-do whether you’re a local or not. Little ones and grown ups alike will love the sweeping views of the city and South Bank at any time of day or night – although sunset is particularly beautiful.
Visit Queensland Maritime Museum to discover maritime treasures galore and get up close to vessels including HMAS Diamantina, HMAS Forceful and Jessica Watson's record-breaking yacht Ella's Pink Lady.
SLQ is far more than a simple library. In fact, there’s so much for families and kids of all ages, you could dedicate a whole day to getting lost in the bookish activities and exhibitions on offer. There’s art, history and educational displays plus tours and programs all curated and created to encourage family reading and literary engagement. Plus you’ll also find major exhibitions and school holiday programming any time you happen to visit.
