16 Fun Adventures for Grandparents and Grandkids in Brisbane (Perfect for School Holidays)
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 hanful 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
🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
..... Its 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 is 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 childrens 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 is 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 nigh sky tours. It's educational, but they won’t notice because it’s also really cool.
Chance of an ice cream:
🍦🍦 ..... Small possibility
It is 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 Howerad Smiths Wharf and do the Brisbane city riverwalk...
Chance of an ice cream:
🍦..... Dont hold your breath, its not likely
ZERO as it is 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:
🍦..... Dont hold your breath, its not likely
ULTRA LOW as it is not readily sold along the boardwalk
6. Alpacas at Samford Trevena Glen Farm
Who doesn’t love an alpaca? What about apony ride or cuddilng with a guine 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. Ice cream factor unknown.
Chance of an ice cream:
🍦🍦🍦🍦..... Stand by with the wet wipes
Ive heard the you will 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.
Chance of an ice cream:
🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦..... Its 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 ince cream
🍦🍦🍦..... Depends on your mood
Ice creams on the beach after your visit are a great options beore 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
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 is 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:
🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦..... Its 99% going to happen today
You'll be curious and they are 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 upper levels there are cool bugs and sealife exhibits on display all year round. Plus theres 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
Its fresh and unique and supportimg 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 acess is free and the kids will love standing on the glass floor looking direclty down. With views of Southbank and the hills beyond, its a great thrilling trip up to the clouds.
Chance of an ice cream:
🍦..... Dont hold your breath, its 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. Perfect for a day of learning disguised as fun!
Ranger-led Wildlife Discovery Show held every Saturday and Sunday at 10.00am and 1.30pm. Tickets can be purchased at the Discovery Centre and include same day admission to the centre or online at Queensland Parks & Wildlife Services.
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 will learn how the early settlers to the area farmed the land, constructed fences & homes and built the foundation of the community we have today.
Open on Wednesdays and Sundays 10am - 4pm.
Chance of an ice cream:
🍦🍦🍦🍦..... Pretty good
There is an ice cream store at the corner and at the Samford Hotel
Bonus: A Family Photoshoot
Time is always in short supply on weekends, from sports to class-birthday parites, family diarys fill up so qucily. So why not use the school holiday down-time to make some memories last forever with a family photoshoot?
If you’ve got the whole grandkid crew together, this is the perfect opportunity to capture their cheeky smiles (and your calm, grandparent zen). Plus, you’ll have beautiful photos to hang on the wall and make all your friends jealous.
Chance of an ice cream:
🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦..... Its 99% going to happen today
SUPER HIGH - Let me know you want one and I'll throw it in for free!
And that sums up my 15+1 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 humor.
Happy adventuring!
FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY BRISBANE | NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY BRISBANE
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