How to spend a family weekend in Queensland Country
Itinerary
By Kim Barnard
Escaping the city for a weekend, with the entire crew in tow, is an excellent way to recharge and escape the daily grind, spend quality time with loved ones, and explore some new terrain.
A destination that creates the perfect backdrop for these enriching experiences is Queensland Country. Centred around the town of Toowoomba, this region boasts sweeping natural landscapes, immersive farm stays, technicolour street art, and aesthetic cafes with fresh local menus—giving you endless unique things to see and do.
No matter what season you visit, you’ll be able to enjoy nature in all its glory; think warm summer days lazing at secret waterfalls, winter nights cuddled up in front of a fire, watching falling leaves in autumn, and wildflowers blossoming in spring.
To make the most of your time away, here’s an itinerary for a family weekend in Queensland Country.
Friday afternoon: Hit the road
Picnic Point, Toowoomba, Queensland Country. Photo by @offroad_family_adventures
Get an early mark, pack the car, and head west to Toowoomba. From Brisbane, this is a 90-minute journey via the Warrego Highway.
When you arrive, breathe in the crisp eucalyptus-infused air and head to one of the gorgeous gardens where the kids can release some of their pent-up energy. Picnic Point Lookout has a bit of everything, with a playground, walking trails, and nearby waterfalls with stepping stones. Other top spots include the spacious Queens Park (home to the spectacular annual Carnival of Flowers) or Lake Annand Park where resident ducks are aplenty.
After your dose of nature, wander the heritage-listed Railway Precinct for a feed; there’s a hive of quirky cafes and restaurants in Railway Street and Russell Street.
Finally, check-in to your accommodation for the night. A family-friendly guest house with a fireplace will be a winner in everyone’s books; Augusta’s Cottage, Mort Estate Cottage, or Ashbrooke Cottage are a few great options.
Saturday
AM: Step back in time
Darling Downs Zoo, Queensland Country. Photo by @sammieobrien
During your family weekend in Queensland Country, be sure to visit a museum to get a taste of the region’s heritage. Toowoomba’s Cobb & Co Museum, part of the Queensland Museum network, is a superb destination for historical enlightenment. Wander through the impressive National Carriage Collection (comprising 47 horse-drawn vehicles) and view the interactive displays, exhibits and heritage trade workshops. If you join a workshop, expect to leave with impressive new skills such as led lighting, blacksmithing or millinery.
After you’ve travelled back in time, head south on the New England Highway to visit creatures great and small at the Darling Downs Zoo. On your way, stop off in the quintessential country town of Clifton to see the second oldest railway station in Queensland.
When you arrive at Darling Downs Zoo, venture through the geographical precincts of Australia, South-east Asia, Africa and South America to see the animals that roam each unique land. From lions and monkeys to emus and koalas, there’s a plethora of exotic and native animals to befriend.
When the family has built up an appetite, grab lunch at a pub built over 120 years ago. Rudd’s Pub, located just 15 minutes away in Nobby, was built in 1893. Today, it still retains the character and charm of the olden days—so much so that it’s been identified as one of the best-themed bars in Queensland. Rudd’s Pub caters to all dietary needs and specialises in gluten-free meals.
PM: Get a taste of farm life
Bestbrook Mountain Resort, Queensland Country. Photo by @chasingarcher
Hop back on the New England Highway and head south to Bestbrook Mountain Farmstay. This family-run farm will introduce you to country living through authentic cabins, once-in-a-lifetime activities, and mountainous scenery.
Arrive in time for a one-hour horse ride (owners Bruce and Laura will show you the ropes) or the kids can take a wagon ride where they’ll learn classic farm skills such as whip cracking and boomerang throwing.
When dusk falls, it’s time to slow things down. Set your eyes on the horizon and experience one of the prettiest sunsets you’ll ever see, before roasting marshmallows over a self-made campfire (the kids will love collecting kindling to keep the flames alive). Don’t worry about dinner; take a seat at the licensed restaurant and share a scrumptious pizza with the crew.
Tip: If you’re a thrill-seeking family, Gap Creek Farmstay (located just down the road) will provide similar farm vibes with the addition of motorbike trails for all your adrenaline-pumping needs.
Sunday
AM: Help run the farm
Bestbrook Mountain Resort, Queensland Country. Photo by @camp.lopez
Wake up to the alarm of crowing roosters, lace up your shoes, and get ready to earn your keep. Gather fresh eggs, milk the resident cows and feed the hungry animals (think ducks, sheep and peacocks). Later on, head to the stables and learn how to make butter, billy tea and damper.
Soak in the peaceful surroundings and gain a valuable insight into the joys of the simple life.
If you’re keen to discover other farm stays in Queensland check out this handy guide.
PM: Indulge in local produce
For an afternoon eating some of the region’s finest local produce, travel an hour south to Spring Creek Mountain Cafe.
The majority of ingredients here come from Killarney, but the tomatoes are picked at Scenic Rim and the olives and olive oil are derived from Inglewood.
If you fancy something sweet, try the homemade scones with cream and strawberry jam. For savoury satisfaction, there’s mouthwatering pork, prawn and tofu dumplings, homemade breads, a BLT sandwich with Killarney smoked bacon, and more. The cafe closes at 5pm.
Reminisce about your family weekend in Queensland Country while you travel back to Brisbane via State Route 93.
