Create lasting memories with the family with our ultimate list on where to take kids for fun in Australia’s three biggest states.
We all know the importance of creating healthy family bonds, meaningful memories and lasting friendships through spending quality time together. So make some space in your schedule. These fun activities will cater to the younger kids and even the most picky of bigger kids.
Here is our list on where to take kids for fun in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. Are you ready for some amazing family adventure?
Where to take kids for fun in Sydney
Start your day at Circular Quay, the gateway to iconic attractions such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
Darling Harbour, adjacent to the city centre, offers a fantastic array of family-friendly activities. Catch a ferry from Circular Quay to all the top tourist destinations around the Quay. The public ferry is also an affordable alternative to the commercially run harbour boat tours. You can even catch the Manly Ferry to one of Sydney’s most iconic beach. Theses options are especially great for older kids or teenagers, or those with a love of music, the water and architecture.
For young children, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium provide an up-close encounter with native animals. Taronga Zoo, with its stunning location overlooking the harbour, offers a memorable experience with its diverse wildlife.
Check out our tips on how to save money when eating out in the city
Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll through Hyde Park, an oasis in the heart of the city. You could even enjoy a picnic there. You’ll also find St Mary’s Cathedral nearby, an awe-inspiring building that’s almost 200 years old. It’s a great site to visit, particularly if your child is a history-lover.
Directly opposite Hyde Park is the Australian Museum, the oldest and one of the largest museums in Australia, with over 21 million specimens. They have an incredible dinosaur room which may just suit your little child’s fancy. Entry to the museum is free, which makes it even better.
You can also explore the Australian National Maritime Museum in the city. There, children can learn about the country’s maritime history through interactive exhibits.
If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the city, head to the Sydney Tower Eye, which provides the best panoramic views of the harbour and beyond.
For rainy days, escape to the Art Gallery of New South Wales for free. Mini-golf enthusiasts can indulge their passion at various indoor mini-golf courses scattered around the city.
Day trips from Sydney
Further afield, the Blue Mountains provide a perfect retreat for families looking to enjoy the natural beauty of New South Wales. With its stunning landscapes, hiking trails and charming villages, the Blue Mountains offer an affordable and adventurous family getaway.
Explore the Three Sisters rock formation, take a scenic ride on the Katoomba Scenic Railway and indulge in a day filled with outdoor activities. The region is also home to numerous waterfalls, providing a refreshing escape for families seeking to connect with nature.
Read: Day trips from Sydney with kids: Hunter Valley Gardens
Where to take kids for fun in Brisbane
Queensland, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant cities, is a haven for families seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re in Brisbane, head to the city’s highlights such as South Bank Parklands for some outdoor fun. If the weather is bad, head to the Queensland Museum for great indoor activities.
For an outdoor experience, venture to the Gold Coast, where you’ll find an abundance of beaches, surf classes, wild life parks, national park hikes and theme parks (with water slides for the hot summer days). If you’re looking for the perfect place to have a relaxing swim and build some sandcastles, with great lunch spots, Coolangatta and Currumbin are the places to be.
The Sunshine Coast is a great place for a quieter and more relaxing holiday, with less packed beaches. Dotted throughout are quiet little towns with loads of quaint shops and the best views of the mountains. Places such as Noosa, Montville, Maleny and the Glass House Mountains should be on the top of your list if you want a quieter family getaway.
If you have a big budget, then the tropical paradise of Cairns is absolutely a must-do. Visit the Great Barrier Reef for a unique family adventure and explore its wonders with a guided tour. There is plenty to do in the Cairns region, with loads of croc shows, rainforest tours and waterfall hikes. You’ll be spoilt for choice.
Where to take the kids for fun in Melbourne
Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities. Begin your day at the Royal Botanic Gardens, where kids can explore diverse plant life and enjoy picnics in the lush surroundings. Melbourne Zoo, located just north of the city centre, offers a fantastic day out for families, with its diverse collection of animals and interactive exhibits.
Head to the Yarra River precinct for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and take advantage of the free entry to some of Melbourne’s top attractions. The city’s contemporary art scene can be explored at the National Gallery of Victoria, providing an enriching experience for families interested in culture and creativity.
The two ultimate must-visit museums in Melbourne are the Melbourne Museum and the Scienceworks Museum. You’ll need a day at each museum to see and do everything.
The best things
Remember, it’s all about doing things together as a family and making lasting, fun memories that you and your kids will cherish for the rest of your lives. It’s not necessarily about where you go or how much money you spend, but about quality time and having fun as a family.
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