7 budget-friendly activities for kids in Brisbane

Save money and still enjoy a fun day out. These free and low‑cost activities are great for kids and easy on your wallet.

1. Tour Bluey's neighbourhood

Take a relaxed family walk through Paddington, the real‑life area that inspired parts of Bluey.

Young fans can look for buildings, streets and cafés that feel like the show.

Visit Neal Macrossan Playground on Caroline Street and play on the climbing net, fort, helicopter and fishing boat. A skate park and Ithaca Pool are also next door.

Finish your day with a treat or drink at one of Paddington’s local cafés.

2. Get arty in the city

Play 'I spy' with artworks in Brisbane's Outdoor Gallery, found in laneways, streets and car parks across the city.

While you are in the city, visit the Museum of Brisbane for more art, culture and history. Pick up a MoB Kids activity sheet from reception to turn your visit into a treasure hunt.

3. Explore parks across the city

Brisbane has more than 2180 parks and great weather all year. Pack snacks, scooters and sunscreen, then head to a favourite spot.

Popular choices include New Farm Park, Roma Street Parkland and South Bank Parklands. You can also try Macaranga Crescent Park in Carseldine or Glindemann park in Holland Park.

Kids who love action will enjoy Brisbane’s BMX parks and skate parks. They can ride, scoot or skate while you cheer from the side.

4. Spend the day stargazing

Check out the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium and learn fun facts about space and the universe.

Entry to the planetarium is free, giving you access to exhibits, models and interactive displays. Charges apply for Cosmic Skydome shows. Recline and watch planets, stars and constellations, with tours led by expert astronomers.

Afterwards, explore the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha located next door. Activities for kids include the Hide ‘n’ Seek Children’s Trail, a playground, workshops and school holiday events.

For real-life stargazing, visit a lookout after dark. Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve offers wide views of the night sky.

5. Make the trip the adventure

Kids who love transport can spend the day riding Brisbane’s buses, trains or CityCats. Try one or try all 3 to get to the places you love in Brisbane. Catching public transport helps kids build confidence and feel more independent.

If your child loves planes, visit one of  Brisbane Airport’s dedicated plane spotting areas. Pack a picnic and watch flights come and go.

6. Spark their creative side

Visiting a Council library in entirely free and provides access to far more than just books. Many libraries run craft sessions and maker spaces that help kids get creative.

You can also visit  Reverse Garbage Queensland in Woolloongabba for craft materials and eco-friendly supplies.

7. Once upon a time...

If your kids love books, open their minds to wonder at a storytime session at a Council library. From baby rhyme time to children’s storytime, First 5 Forever makes reading and language fun.

Our Pop-up Library also brings the magic of storytime and reading to parks across the city.

You can also head to storytime at a Brisbane bookshop. Visit:

• Quick Brown Fox in Grange
• Where the Wild Things Are Bookshop in West End.

If your kids love Harry Potter, visit the themed room at Manly's The Mad Hatter's Bookshop.

Keep the fun times rolling

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_{Editor's note: This article gives ideas for a day out in Brisbane. Council does not endorse or have a relationship with the businesses listed.}