Are you visiting Brisbane or the Gold Coast, or are you a local, and looking for something to do with the kids? Then you can’t go past the Southbank Precinct in Brisbane for a great day out. Located on the southern side of the beautiful Brisbane River, Southbank Precinct is the recreational and cultural heart of Brisbane. Covering almost 17 hectares all up, there is something at Southbank for everyone in the family.
QUEENSLAND MUSEUM
After catching the train up from the Gold Coast (much easier and cheaper than driving and having to pay for parking) we started our day off with a visit to the Queensland Museum. They frequently host specialist exhibitions like the Dinosaur Discovery exhibit.. This exhibit was exceptionally well done and featured over 20 life-size dinosaurs complete with animatronics. The whole display is fully interactive so the kids won’t even realise that they are learning as they go through the exhibit.
Even if you miss the fun these school holidays, the exhibits change frequently and you will always find something of interest. The museum is also home to the Queensland Sciencentre, which we have previously visited. Entry into the main part of the museum is free but there is a cover charge for entry into the Sciencenter and specialist exhibits such as the Dinosaur Discovery.
BRISBANE RIVER VIEWS
After a couple of hours looking around the museum, it was time to go in search of some lunch. There are plenty of cafes and coffee shops scattered throughout Southbank. Or you have the option of enjoying a picnic in one of the many green spaces dotted throughout the area. There are also plenty of spots to sit along the river front. There is a footpath/cycle way that runs the entire length of the Brisbane River with a fantastic view across to the city itself and on a hot day most of it is shaded by trees.
SOUTHBANK BEACH
The best part of Southbank and perhaps the most unexpected is the massive swimming area and ‘beach’that is located in the central area. It is so popular with families and has lots of different areas for the kids to play in. Life Guards patrol the beach area all year round. There are also plenty of shaded picnic area and BBQ’s available for use.
If you are feeling a little bit more adventurous you can also take a ride on the Brisbane Eye. This giant Ferris wheel offers spectacular views of the city, river and park lands. Make sure you walk along the rain forest boardwalk and visit the Nepalese Pakoda.
For the kids the Riverside Green Playground is undergoing refurbishment and looks amazing. Makes me wish I was a kid again!
The Brisbane Festival is held in September every year with loads of activities in and around Southbank. The Brisbane Festival culminates in the spectacular River Fire.
If you want to dive into the history of Brisbane, I can highly recommend taking a Brisbane Greeters tour. It’s a great way to explore this lovely city.
USEFUL LINKS
Listen in to their podcast episode https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/travelling-and-working-around-australia/
It is great how Queensland has so many free swimming pools around the place!
It’s a brilliant idea….should be more of them!