Exciting school holiday activities in Brisbane: Spring 2024

Julia Smith

Julia Smith

Julia is a Sydney born-and-raised mum of three girls. With over twenty years in the media industry, including four years with parenting publishers, she’s passionate about creating entertaining content that connects with parents. When she’s not working or parenting, you’ll find her binge watching TV and revenge-procrastinating about bedtime… or nerding out at gigs...
Updated on Sep 30, 2024 · 14 mins read
Exciting school holiday activities in Brisbane: Spring 2024

Calling all Queenslanders - as school bells take a temporary break from ringing, families across the Sunshine State are gearing up for a Spring school break to remember. These Brisbane school holiday activities are here to help you get through it with a smile on your face.


That might mean re-discovering some classic activities or taking to the calendar to book some new school holiday events. No matter what your kid gravitates toward (be it adventures, crafts, games, you name it), we’re taking the load off your shoulders with this all-in guide to school holiday activities.

Top indoor school holiday activities Brisbane


When the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor fun, Brisbane’s indoor attractions provide plenty of opportunities to keep kids entertained. Here are some of the top spots to visit:

Museum of Brisbane, Brisbane CBD

The Museum of Brisbane offers a range of free activities perfect for families.

Daily events include the popular Clock Tower Tours, where kids can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city, and the “Little Artist’s Eye Spy,” a fun interactive challenge that takes children through the museum’s exhibits. The ongoing “Rearranged: Art of the Flower” exhibition will also be a hit, with its beautiful floral art displays and hands-on workshops designed for young creatives.

The Wild Robot

If you’re looking for a lovely family-friendly option on a bad weather day, check out The Wild Robot, in cinemas September 12. A Dreamworks animation, adapted from the best-selling book of the same name, the movie is an epic adventure that follows the journey of a robot – ROZZUM unit 7134, “Roz” for short – who gets shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings, gradually building relationships with the animals on the island and becoming the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling.

With an all-star voice cast including Pedro Pascal, Lupita Nyong, Catherine O’Hara, and Bill Nighy – there is something for everyone in the family to love. We saw it and we loved it.

Queensland Museum, South Brisbane

One of the best school holiday activities brisbane has to offer, is the good old Queensland Museum. With both permanent and changing exhibitions, you can escape into the world of dinosaurs, ancient civilisations, and the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. This September, kids can enjoy interactive displays and participate in special school holiday programs designed to make learning fun. Don’t miss the Kids stamp-making artist led workshop with Artist Darren Blackman, perfect for little art lovers.

Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane

GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art) on the South Bank of the beautiful Brisbane River, offers an immersive experience for budding artists. From vibrant contemporary art installations to hands-on workshops, GOMA’s September school holiday programs will inspire creativity in children of all ages. Check out the free Art Box Kids exhibition series featuring Ngugi artist Elisa Jane Carmichael.


Top outdoor school holiday activities Brisbane


Brisbane’s outdoor attractions are second to none, offering a mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation.

Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens

For a day immersed in nature, Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens is the perfect destination. This expansive garden offers themed areas, including a Japanese Garden, a Tropical Display Dome, and a fragrant Herb Garden.

Kids will love the Hide-and-Seek Children’s Trail, where they can search for hidden sculptures, native bees, and even water dragons. The gardens are a great place for a family picnic, with plenty of shaded areas and open lawns to spread out and enjoy the spring weather.

In addition to the natural beauty, the Botanic Gardens host educational programs throughout the school holidays. These programs include guided tours that teach children about the diverse plant life within the gardens, and workshops focused on topics like sustainable gardening and environmental conservation.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Fig Tree Pocket

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the perfect wildlife adventure for families during the school holidays. The sanctuary is home to over 100 koalas, along with other Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, wombats, and platypuses.

Kids can participate in the “Junior Joeys” and “Senior Serpents Keeper for a Day” programs, where they can learn about animal care, participate in feeding sessions, and interact with the sanctuary’s residents.

These programs provide a behind-the-scenes look at the daily operations of a wildlife sanctuary, making it a truly educational experience.

Families can enjoy daily wildlife shows, such as the “Birds of Prey” display and the “Sheepdog Show,” where kids can see these animals in action. A visit to Lone Pine is a great way to get up close to Australia’s unique wildlife while also supporting conservation efforts.

South Bank Parklands

South Bank Parklands is one of Brisbane’s most iconic destinations. The highlight for many families is Streets Beach, Australia’s only inner-city, man-made beach. Here, kids can splash around in the shallow waters of the inner city beach, while parents relax on the sandy shores.

The parklands also feature extensive picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths, making it a great place to spend a full day out.

In the September school holidays, South Bank hosts events and activities – from outdoor movie screenings to live performances.

The Riverside Green Playground, with its imaginative play equipment, is perfect for younger kids, while older children can explore the markets or enjoy a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane for stunning views of the city.

New Farm Park

As one of Brisbane’s oldest and most loved parks, New Farm Park is a fantastic spot for a family day out. There are wide-open spaces, stunning rose gardens, and plenty of playground equipment to keep the kids busy.

The sprawling playground has lots of fun things to do and includes a fort, slides, and swings, all set under the shade of giant fig trees, providing a cool escape from the heat.

Throughout the September school holidays, New Farm Park will also host family-friendly events, such as outdoor yoga sessions and artist-led workshops for kids.

The park is also adjacent to the Brisbane Powerhouse, where you can catch a family show or enjoy a riverside lunch at one of the nearby cafés.

City Botanic Gardens, Brisbane CBD

For a moment of peace in the city’s buzz, Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens are the place to go. These heritage-listed gardens are home to a diverse range of plant species, including ancient trees, vibrant flower beds, and tropical plants.

During the school holidays, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens often hosts educational programs and guided walks designed for families. These activities allow children to learn about the history and ecology of the gardens in a fun and interactive way.

The gardens are also a great spot for a picnic, with beautiful views of the river and plenty of shaded areas to relax.

Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre

Nature and adventure await at Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre, where kids can immerse themselves in seasonal holiday programs designed to blend wildlife conservation with outdoor exploration.

Guided nature walks wind through picturesque bushland, helping you discover native flora and fauna while learning about conservation efforts in the region.

There are wildlife photography workshops, where budding photographers can hone their skills under expert guidance.


Theme parks


This might seem like the obvious idea when you’re a Queensland local (and maybe you’re tired of them) but it could be time to revisit some classic theme parks for easy, fool-proof fun ideas.

Whether you want to just take your family, or gather the mothers group and take all the kids together for a day trip, the theme parks have everything you need to keep the kids entertained.

Dreamworld

First stop, Dreamworld (it’s Australia’s largest theme park, after all).

From the heart-pounding drops of the Giant Drop to the high-speed twists and turns of Mick Doohan’s Motocoaster, there’s no shortage of excitement here.

For younger visitors, the DreamWorks Experience features beloved characters like Shrek, Madagascar’s Alex the Lion, and Kung Fu Panda, providing a magical adventure park filled with rides, shows, and meet-and-greet opportunities.

Dreamworld is also home to Tiger Island, where you can watch magnificent tigers up close and learn about their conservation. The park also offers a variety of interactive wildlife experiences, including the chance to cuddle a koala or feed a kangaroo (which makes for some ADORABLE pics).

Sea World

Sea World is the go-to spot for families with kids who love penguins, dolphins, seals, you name it. Located on the Gold Coast, just a short drive from Brisbane, its highlights include:

  • The Storm Coaster, which takes riders on a wild journey through stormy seas.
  • The Jet Rescue, where you can zoom around a track at high speeds while helping to save a stranded sea creature.
  • Nickelodeon Land, featuring SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer, and kid-friendly rides.

The park also features educational exhibits and shows where kids can learn about marine conservation and get up close with animals such as dolphins, seals, and penguins.

Movie World

If you’re looking for a magical school holiday experience, Warner Bros. Movie World brings Hollywood to Queensland with its thrilling rides, live shows, and cinematic experiences.

The park is famous for its heart-stopping roller coasters, including the DC Rivals HyperCoaster, which is the tallest, longest, and fastest roller coaster in the Southern Hemisphere. For those who prefer a slightly less intense experience, the Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster is a family-friendly ride that still packs plenty of thrills.

This spot has stunt shows, parades, and meet-and-greets with characters like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman.

Family-friendly events and festivals


Brisbane Festival,Various Locations

The Brisbane Festival is one of the city’s most anticipated events, transforming Brisbane into a hub of artistic expression and entertainment. It’s a bright and bold celebration of Brissy.

Running throughout September, the festival features performances from local and international artists, including theatre productions, live music, dance, and visual arts.

This year’s festival lineup includes a range of family-friendly events, such as the “Family Fun Day” at South Bank, which offers workshops, performances, and activities designed specifically for kids.

The festival’s spectacular closing event, “Riverfire,” is a fireworks extravaganza that lights up the Brisbane skyline, making it a must-see for families.

Circus Fun House, Hamilton

Step into the world of magic and wonder at Circus Fun House in Hamilton. This reimagined circus experience stars talented international circus performers, led by the charismatic Ringmaster Francois.

The show combines music, comedy, dance, and jaw-dropping circus acts that make you go “Did you see that?”. Multiple shows are scheduled throughout the Queensland school holiday period, including matinee and evening performances, so there’s plenty of time to catch it.

There are also workshops where kids can learn basic circus skills, such as juggling, acrobatics, and clowning.

Lord Mayor’s Children’s Program, Various Locations

The Lord Mayor’s Children’s Program has a series of free and low-cost performances designed to entertain and inspire kids during the school holidays.

This year’s program has everything from interactive musical performances to storytelling sessions.

Highlights include “The Singing Chefs,” a musical journey that combines whimsical storytelling with catchy tunes, and the “Tub-thumping Orchestra,” where kids can learn about different musical instruments and even join in the fun.

These performances are held at various locations across Brisbane, including community centres, libraries, and outdoor venues. The program is designed for children aged 5-12, but younger siblings are welcome to join in the fun.

Technology and STEM activities


Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, Mt Coot-tha

Every family has at least one space enthusiast (prove us wrong). Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, located in the Mt Coot-tha precinct, will feed their wonder for this big, expansive universe.

These school holidays, we especially love the planetarium’s Cosmic Skydome – a 12.5-metre diameter projection dome where immersive shows bring the stars and planets to life. Kids (and the whole family) can learn about the constellations, the phases of the moon, and the latest discoveries in space science.

Brisbane’s Cross River Rail Experience Centre, CBD

More free school holiday activities are on at the Brisbane Cross River Rail Experience Centre. For kids fascinated by technology and engineering, the Cross River Rail Experience Centre is a must-visit.

With virtual reality rides and interactive exhibits, children can explore Brisbane’s future infrastructure projects and gain insight into the city’s past, present, and future. They also have special school holiday activities including the Lego City Build, and Macrame Madness.

Unique Experiences


Dopamine Land, Brisbane City

Dopamine Land is a sensory adventure like no other. This interactive museum mixes art, technology, and play into one fabulous time.

Each room within Dopamine Land has a different theme, from vibrant, neon-lit spaces to calming, immersive environments. Kids can explore colourful installations, snap Instagram-worthy photos, and let their creativity do its thing.

During the September school holidays, Dopamine Land will offer special events and workshops tailored for children. These sessions encourage kids to engage with the art and technology on display, making it a truly interactive experience.

Brisbane Tramway Museum, Ferny Grove

Take a step back in time at the Brisbane Tramway Museum, where history comes to life in a fun and interactive way.

It features restored trams that once traversed the streets of Brisbane, along with a range of tramway artefacts and memorabilia. Kids can climb aboard vintage trams, explore the museum’s exhibits, and even take a ride on a heritage tram through the museum’s grounds.

The Brisbane Tramway Museum also offers special school holiday programs, including guided tours and hands-on activities where children can learn about Brisbane’s rich tramway history.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary’s “Keeper for a Day” Program, Fig Tree Pocket

For a truly immersive wildlife experience, sign your kids up for Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary’s “Keeper for a Day” program. This hands-on program shows kids what it’s like to be a wildlife keeper, as they care for animals, prepare food, and learn about wildlife conservation.

Participants will work alongside experienced keepers, gaining valuable insights into the daily operations of the sanctuary and the importance of protecting Australia’s unique wildlife.

The “Keeper for a Day” program is available for different age groups, with options tailored to younger children as well as teens.

Early booking is recommended, as these programs are extremely popular especially in the QLD school holiday period, and spaces are limited.

Exciting iPhone Masterclass, Museum of Brisbane

For tech-savvy teens and tweens, the “Exciting iPhone Masterclass” is an engaging way to learn about mobile photography and video editing. Tailored to help people get the most out of their smartphones, it teaches teens how to take professional-quality photos, edit videos, and create stunning social media content.

Led by experienced photographers, the class covers everything from basic camera settings to advanced editing techniques, making it accessible to all skill levels.

During the school holidays, these masterclasses will be held at various locations across Brisbane, including parks, cultural centres, and libraries. Your kids can explore different environments, from urban landscapes to natural settings, while learning how to capture the perfect shot.

Tips for planning school holiday activities in Brisbane


We know the school holiday chaos all too well. So how do you pack your schedule while keeping the magic (and your sanity)? Here are some of our top tips.

  • Plan ahead: Brisbane’s most popular attractions can have queues up to the rafters, so it’s a good idea to plan your activities in advance. Book tickets online where possible and consider arriving early to beat the crowds.
  • Mix free and paid activities: Yep, it’s possible to find both free and cheap school holiday activities. Shake things up so you can tick off the bucket list while saving a penny here and there, and you can still find the school holiday fun.
  • Pack essentials: Bring sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and snacks to keep everyone comfortable and energised – especially for longer outings or school holiday events.
  • Involve the kids in planning: Kids love to have their ideas heard, and sometimes they’re onto something. Ask them what activities your kid is interested in and build your schedule around their preferences.
  • Stay flexible: While it’s great to have a plan, staying flexible is key to a stress-free holiday. If the weather changes or an attraction is busier than expected, have a backup plan in place. Don’t underestimate the skill of pivoting.

Wrapping it up


If the looming September school holidays are freaking you out a bit – fair enough. It’s a lot of time to fill up. Take one day at a time, scribble your calendar with some of these fun school holiday activities, and remember that at the end of the day, it’s the small pockets of joy your kid will hold onto.

 

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