Family-Friendly Adventures in Brisbane, Australia!

Treasury Casino

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: A Day at Treasury Casino, Brisbane

Morning: Arrival & Brunch

Begin your day in Brisbane"s heart by catching a CityCat ferry to the North Quay stop, which offers a scenic ride along the Brisbane River and drops you off just a short walk from the Treasury Casino. Enjoy a family-friendly brunch at one of the café"s along the vibrant South Bank, where you can indulge in various delicious options that cater to all ages.

Mid-Morning: Exploration and History

Head to the Treasury Casino, housed in one of Australia"s grandest heritage buildings. While the main gaming floors are adults-only, the architecture itself is a marvel. Take a moment to admire the 19th-century design and intricate stonework—perfect for sparking children"s imaginations about castles and history. Engage the kids with tales of the building’s past as the government treasury, weaving historical facts with fun stories.

Lunch

For lunch, explore the nearby Queens Street Mall, just a stone"s throw from the casino. This area offers various family-friendly dining options, from quick bites to more leisurely meals, ensuring there"s something for everyone.

Afternoon: Queen’s Park and Museum Visit

Post-lunch, stroll to Queen’s Park, where the children can enjoy the playground and you can soak in the serene surroundings. Following some playful time, visit the Museum of Brisbane located within City Hall, just a 5-minute walk from the park. The museum offers interactive exhibits that are both educative and entertaining for children.

Evening: City Lights and Dinner

Wrap up your day with a walk back towards the South Bank and enjoy dinner at one of the riverside restaurants. As the sun sets, the area lights up, offering a magical view of the city — a perfect end to a family day out.

This itinerary blends historical exploration with fun, offering a rich, engaging experience for all family members at Treasury Casino and its surroundings.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

North Gorge Walk

Why Visit?

Embark on a breathtaking family adventure at North Gorge Walk, located on the picturesque North Stradbroke Island, Queensland, Australia. Start your day by catching a ferry from Cleveland, a short drive from Brisbane, to Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island. From there, hop on a local bus or drive to Point Lookout to begin your journey at the North Gorge Walk.

The North Gorge Walk is a scenic 1.2 km loop that offers spectacular coastal views. It"s a paved path with some stairs, making it accessible for families with children. As you traverse the walk, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playfully gliding through the surf, and between June and November, you might even spot majestic humpback whales on their migration route.

Begin at the Point Lookout headland and follow the wooden boardwalk around the gorge. The ocean vistas are stunning, and the sea breeze is invigorating. Along the way, you’ll pass the iconic Whale Rock, where spouts of water can often be seen, and you’ll learn that this area is a traditional gathering place for the Quandamooka people, rich in indigenous history.

Halfway through the walk, stop at the viewing platforms for panoramic views of the Coral Sea, and let the kids marvel at the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves below. As you complete the loop, consider a visit to the nearby cafes at Point Lookout for a refreshing ice cream or a hearty meal.

The North Gorge Walk is not just a scenic delight but also an educational journey through Australia"s natural and cultural heritage, making it a perfect outing for families looking to enrich their minds and souls in the beauty of nature.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

North Stradbroke Island (Straddie)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Amity Point

Start your family adventure to North Stradbroke Island by catching a ferry from Cleveland, Brisbane, which takes you to the island in about 25 minutes. Once you arrive, head to Amity Point for a chance to spot some dolphins and enjoy a calm beach, perfect for the little ones. Check into your accommodation and have a relaxing evening strolling around the small community.

Day 2: Point Lookout and Whale Watching

Drive or take the bus to Point Lookout, the prime spot for whale watching (June to November). Walk along the North Gorge Walk, a spectacular coastal boardwalk where you might see kangaroos and koalas in their natural habitat. The walk is manageable for children and offers breathtaking ocean views where humpback whales are often spotted. Lunch at one of the local cafes before spending the afternoon at Cylinder Beach, a family-friendly spot with gentle waves.

Day 3: Explore the Lakes

Spend your day exploring the island’s beautiful freshwater lakes. Start at Brown Lake, named for its tea-colored waters due to the surrounding tea trees. The lake has a sandy beach and is excellent for swimming and picnicking. Next, visit Blue Lake, an hour’s hike from the parking area, offering serene waters and picturesque views, perfect for nature walks and bird watching.

Day 4: Dunwich and Departure

Before catching the ferry back to the mainland, explore Dunwich, the main village with rich indigenous history. Visit the North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum to learn about the Quandamooka people, the original inhabitants of the island. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and perhaps some last-minute beach time before saying goodbye to Straddie.

Throughout your stay, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the island, engage with local culture and history, and make the most of the natural beauty that surrounds you at every turn.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Gheebulum Kunungai (Moreton Island)

Why Visit?

Embark on an adventurous family getaway to Gheebulum Kunungai (Moreton Island), a stunning natural paradise off the coast of Queensland, Australia, accessible by a 75-minute ferry ride from Brisbane"s Holt Street Wharf.

Day 1: Arrival and Sand Tobogganing

Start your journey by catching the early morning MICAT ferry which offers stunning sea views and a chance to spot playful dolphins. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation, perhaps opting for a family-friendly eco-glodge or a campsite if you"re up for a more rugged experience. In the afternoon, head to the Desert, the sandy wonder where you can thrill the kids with sand tobogganing, a unique slide down the island"s giant sand dunes.

Day 2: Snorkeling at the Wrecks

Dedicate your second day to exploring the Tangalooma Wrecks, a group of 15 ships sunk intentionally to create a breakwall and now a vibrant marine habitat. Rent snorkeling gear from the Tangalooma Island Resort or bring your own, and dive into the clear waters to witness an array of colorful fish, sea turtles, and maybe even a wobbegong shark. It’s an underwater adventure that’s educational and fun for all ages.

Day 3: Explore Cape Moreton Lighthouse and Whale Watching

On your final day, take a guided tour to the Cape Moreton Lighthouse, the island’s iconic landmark built in 1857. It’s the perfect spot for panoramic island views and during the winter months, it serves as an excellent vantage point for whale watching. Learn about the island’s history and marine life through the informative displays.

Finish your tour by relaxing at one of the serene beaches or take a leisurely walk through the bushland, spotting native flora and fauna. Don’t forget to catch the sunset by the beach before you depart back to the mainland, rounding off a memorable family escapade in Gheebulum Kunungai.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Brisbane River

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family adventure along the iconic Brisbane River, the heartline of Queensland"s vibrant capital. Here’s a fun-filled itinerary that guarantees a day of excitement and exploration for the whole family.

Morning: CityCat Ferry and South Bank

Start your day at the North Quay ferry terminal in Brisbane"s CBD, where you can catch a CityCat. These high-speed ferries offer a scenic route along the river and are an exciting way for kids to see the city from a different perspective. Hop off at the South Bank Parklands terminal. South Bank is perfect for families, boasting lush parks, a man-made beach, and picnic spots. Don’t miss the Wheel of Brisbane for a panoramic view of the city. Let the kids splash around at Streets Beach, Australia"s only inner-city, man-made beach.

Afternoon: Queensland Maritime Museum and River Cruise

A short walk from South Bank, visit the Queensland Maritime Museum at the Goodwill Bridge’s southern end. Here, delve into maritime history with exhibits including the WWII warship Diamantina. Post-museum, stroll back to South Bank and enjoy a leisurely river cruise. Many operators offer different themes, including wildlife and historical tours, which are both educational and fun for kids.

Evening: Eat Street Northshore

Conclude your day at Eat Street Northshore, accessible via a CityCat to the Northshore Hamilton terminal. This vibrant dining destination offers an array of food options in a lively market atmosphere, perfect for satisfying any appetite. The colorful containers and live music performances will keep the children entertained as you indulge in a variety of international cuisines.

Each location on this itinerary is linked by the CityCat service, making transportation a breeze and part of the adventure. This itinerary not only showcases the beauty and vitality of Brisbane River but also ensures a memorable experience for families looking to explore, learn, and relax.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.