How to explore Brisbane's South Bank with kids

An urban playground for young and old, and host to some of Brisbane's biggest festivals, South Bank is a mainstay for locals and travellers alike. A sprawling green space and cultural precinct just a hop across Brisbane River from the CBD, South Bank boasts so many things you wouldn't expect in the heart of a city - including its very own beach. 

Whether you’re looking to inspire your kids at the museum, educate them on growing produce at the Epicurious Gardens, let them get a little wet and wild at the waterpark or tire out their little legs at the playground, South Bank will bring the good times for the whole family.

Here's how to make the most of a day in South Bank with kids in tow. 

9AM: Start on the river

Take the scenic route and arrive at South Bank on the CityCat. The kids will love it and you can enjoy the serenity while taking in city views - then step straight off the ferry into the heart of the South Bank precinct.

The CityCat provides frequent services both up and down the river, while the free CityHopper (the little red ferry) leaves from specific stops. Make sure to check out the Translink website for exact ferry times. 

10AM: Get creative at QAGOMA

The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is a short walk from the ferry terminal and first up on the South Bank itinerary while those mini minds are still fresh. 

QAGOMA has a year-round Children’s Art Centre where they collaborate with artists to create interactive installations and activities for kids. This free experience is such a beautiful space for kids to learn, discover and unleash their creativity and it can be easy to spend hours learning and creating here together.  

The Gallery has exhibitions throughout the year that are engaging for both kids and adults, so check out the what's on calendar and get ready to wander through world-class art displays. 

Or get experimental at SparkLab

Let your little scientists follow their curiosity at the SparkLab at Queensland Museum. With 40 interactive exhibits aimed for those up to 13 years of age, kids can participate in live experiments and get hands on with exciting displays and demonstrations. It's an incredible learning environment to spark creativity and critical thinking as kids learn about science and the world around them.

12PM: Picnic and play

Stroll a short 10-minutes along the riverfront from the Cultural Precinct and you'll arrive at Riverside Green Playground; the perfect place to pick a shady spot to stop and refuel over lunch. 

Pack a picnic rug or grab a table under the trees and enjoy your lunch alfresco. If you haven’t pre-packed a lunchbox for the family, you can pick up a bite to eat at any one of the South Bank restaurants you pass along your way. 

After lunch, unleash your little explorers onto the playground of their dreams with obstacles for kids of all ages. Enjoy the peace and quiet as you watch them swing, climb, slide, and explore until their little hearts are content.  

1:30PM Make a splash

It’s time to cool off at Streets Beach with the cityscape as your backdrop. The sparkling blue lagoon surrounded by white sand is free to use, fun to swim in and patrolled by a lifeguard so you can rest assured the kids are in safe hands. 

For the younger ones, The Boat Pool and Aquativity are interactive water play areas next to Streets Beach that will provide hours of entertainment for the whole family. 

3:30PM: Forage and learn at Epicurious Gardens 

Once you’ve wrangled your little humans out of the water, dry off and continue your walk along the river towards the Epicurious Gardens. Wander through the tranquil surrounds of the gardens made up of fresh herbs, seasonal fruit and vegetables and exotic plants.

To preserve the conditions of the gardens for all to enjoy, produce can only be picked by volunteers but you can collect samples from the Harvest Cart from 7am-2pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

If you’re visiting outside of these hours, the gardens are still a great place to educate young minds about growing fresh produce and spark conversation on how different plants grow, smell and look.  

4:00PM: Find treasures and treats at the markets

Visiting South Bank with kids on a Friday or weekend? Make your way to Little Stanley Street for the weekly Collective Markets, a vibrant space full of live music, fashion and vintage clothing, unique collectibles, photography and art. If sweet treats are calling, Happy Pops is just a moment away, with decadent ice creams made daily in store using all-natural ingredients and no-preservatives. They also make a smaller size for your young gelato connoisseurs so it’s a win-win for everyone. 

5:30PM: Watch sunset from the Wheel

If the kids aren't too exhausted, squeeze in one last adventure for the day: a spin around the Wheel of Brisbane. The ultimate ferris wheel - complete with enclosed, air conditioned gondolas - soar 60-metres above South Bank to score 360-degree panoramic views of the city and beyond. You'll get time to point out all the city's sights and landmarks with up to four revolutions on your 10 - 15 minute ride. 

Back at ground-level, choose to stroll to one of the many family-friendly restaurants in South Bank, or jump on the ferry home again - and don't be surprised if the kids fall asleep on the way.