Whether you’re in Brisbane with the family for just one day or planning a week-long stay, this sunny Queensland capital has something for kids of all ages — and plenty for parents too. From climbing iconic landmarks to cuddling koalas, here are some of the top family-friendly things to do in Brisbane.
Climb the Story Bridge
If your family is up for an adventure and not afraid of heights, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb is an unforgettable experience.
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The climb takes about 2.5 hours and covers nearly one kilometre across the bridge’s steel frame.
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You’ll reach a viewing platform 80 metres above the Brisbane River, with sweeping 360-degree views of the city, Moreton Bay, and the Glass House Mountains.
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Watching the 70,000 cars rumbling beneath your feet each day is both thrilling and surreal.
Bookings are essential — we recommend reserving at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during school holidays. It’s a great bonding activity for parents with older kids and teens.
👉 Book online: Story Bridge Adventure Climb
Story Bridge Adventure Climb, Brisbane
South Bank Parklands
If you’re after a mix of relaxation and play, South Bank Parklands is Brisbane’s cultural and family heart.
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Built on the site of World Expo 88, the parklands opened in 1992 and today offer a vibrant mix of rainforest walks, playgrounds, picnic lawns, and swimming spots.
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Families love Streets Beach, Australia’s only inner-city man-made beach — the perfect spot to swim with skyscrapers as your backdrop.
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Other highlights include the Wheel of Brisbane, weekend markets, lolly shops, riverside dining, and plenty of live entertainment.
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South Bank is also the city’s hub for major festivals, fireworks displays, and outdoor concerts.
👉 More info: Visit Brisbane – South Bank
South Bank Parklands, Brisbane.
Queensland Museum and SparkLab
For a mix of fun and education, you can’t beat the Queensland Museum Kurilpa.
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Kids love the life-size moving dinosaurs, while parents often find themselves fascinated by the cultural exhibits.
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Don’t miss SparkLab, an interactive science centre where children can experiment, play, and learn about the world around them. It’s hands-on, noisy, and endlessly entertaining.
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Entry to the museum is free, while SparkLab has a small admission fee — family passes are $47.40.
Be warned: it’s hard to get the kids to leave!
👉 More info: Queensland Museum Kurilpa
Science Centre, Queensland Museum, Brisbane
Cruise to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Combine a scenic boat trip with a wildlife experience at the world’s largest and oldest koala sanctuary.
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🛥️ The Mirimar River Cruise has been ferrying visitors to Lone Pine for over 70 years, departing from Brisbane’s city centre.
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🐨 At Lone Pine, you can cuddle a koala, hand-feed kangaroos and emus, and watch a classic Aussie sheepdog show.
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⏱️ The tour includes 2.5 hours at the sanctuary, giving you plenty of time to explore.
A family package including return cruise tickets and sanctuary entry for four people costs around $195.
👉 More info: Mirimar Cruises
Getting Around Brisbane with Redspot
Brisbane is a city best explored at your own pace — and nothing beats the convenience of having your own car when travelling with kids.
Redspot offers affordable, all-inclusive car hire options from:
For families, our Executive Cover package is the easiest way to travel stress-free. It includes:
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$0 damage liability
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Free toll road use
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Unlimited kilometres
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No hidden fees at pick-up
That means no surprises at the counter, and complete peace of mind while you explore.
Final Word
From scaling the Story Bridge to swimming at South Bank, cuddling koalas, or exploring interactive museums, Brisbane has endless options for families. And with a Redspot rental car, you’ll enjoy the freedom to discover it all — comfortably, affordably, and on your own schedule.
Book your Brisbane car rental today and start planning your family adventure.