Stuck in a routine of home, café, playground, repeat? If you're craving new adventures to enjoy with your baby or toddler around Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, you're in the right place!

We’ve rounded up the top activities to shake up your days and create beautiful memories together. Whether you're strolling through the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, marveling at the Museum of Brisbane, or setting off on that scenic drive you’ve always dreamed of—there's something for everyone.

And here’s the best part: our friends at Spark Pop (an Aussie mum owned company) have curated a fantastic list of family-friendly outings, many of which are free for kids under 3. Plus, when you use the code 'hackerlily15' at checkout, you’ll snag 15% off! So, ready to explore? Start planning your next adventure now and grab those savings along the way!

With SPARK POP, you can search and discover family friendly activities and attractions by location, age group of your children and even the type of activity you’re looking for, such as Zoos & AquariumsAttractionsFarms, or Tours.

And don't forget to take your HipSurfer Baby Carrier - your back, arms and wrists will thank you through all of the up and down moments.

SUNSHINE COAST

  1. The Ginger Factory
FREE entry for everyone.
You could easily spend half a day at The Ginger Factory exploring  their gardens by foot, stopping to play, taste and discover along the way!
  1. Sea Life Sunshine Coast
    FREE for Under 2 years
    A fantastic all-weather attraction where you can discover 11 fun and interactive marine animal zones across three levels including the latest addition Seahorse Kingdom.

Touch Pools at Sea Life

  1. Australia Zoo
    Under 3 years FREE
    Visit Australia Zoo to see over 1,200 animals from Africa to South-East Asia and Australia, and by joining this tour you’ll avoid all the fuss and enjoy the ultimate experience!
  2. Aquaduck Sunshine Coast
    FREE for Under 2years
    Set off on a whirlwind escapade to see the heart of the Sunshine Coast on Australia’s first amphibious tour aboard Aquaduck.

  1. Farm Friends & Bird World
    FREE for Under 3years
    An enchanting escape in the Maleny Botanic Gardens sure to offer moments of serenity. Connect with nature while meeting a colourful family of birds and new farm friends.
  2. Amaze World
    FREE for Under 3years
    Adventure through the Bellingham Hedge Maze with riddles, puzzles and augmented reality before a round of mini golf and time for your little one in the nature playground.
  3. Native Bushfoods Seafood Cruise
    FREE for Under 5years
    Discover the blissful waterways and bushtucker foods aboard The Spray of the Coral Coast, a 58ft beautiful heritage-listed vessel dating back a century.

BRISBANE

  1. Farm Animal Tour
    FREE for under 2-year-olds.
    Located just south of Lake Samsonvale in the Samford region, this farm is an absolute breath of fresh air! You’ll meet horses, rabbits, chickens, goats, turkeys, alpacas, pigs, sheep, mini horses and even a farm dog.

Animal Tour Trevena Glen

  1. Koala & River Cruise
    FREE for under 3-year-olds
    Relax and travel like a tourist as you cruise along the Brisbane River past the city’s most historic landscapes, iconic attractions, historical home sites and interesting wildlife habitats on your way to experience the world’s first and largest Koala Sanctuary – Lone Pine.
  2. Whale Watching Adventure
    FREE for under 4-year-olds
    Moreton Bay is one of the world’s best whale watching destinations. You’re in for an unforgettable adventure with Captain Kerry and her friendly crew on hand to make sure you have an amazing time and witness the incredible Humpback Whales.

Brisbane Whale Watching

  1. Hologram Zoo
    FREE for under 4 years
    From gentle giants to the thundering stampede of Wildebeest, Africa Hologram Zoo is an unforgettable safari adventure. This experience is for 3 years and over, however you are able to bring your baby or toddler if you’re curious to experience this world first!
  2. Summer Land Camels
    FREE for Under 3 years
    Go behind the scenes of Australia’s largest camel farm and dairy for a tour and taste. Summer Land Camels also offers a Camaleer Experience, perfect for those littles who squeal with delight over animal encounters.

GOLD COAST

  1. Outback Spectacular
    Under 3 years FREE
    From the meticulous choreography to the immersive transformative arena, and the spectacular talent, the Australian Outback Spectacular is an extraordinary show not to be missed. Sit back relax and enjoy this dinner & show experience.

Australian Outback Spectacular – a story of two farmers

  1. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
    FREE for under 3years
    Explore and immerse yourself in one of Queensland’s longest running things to do with the family. Step into 27 hectares of Currumbin rainforest, wandering through open animal enclosures, feeding Kangaroos and cuddling koalas along the way.
  2. Jellurgal Walkabout
    FREE for under 5 years.
    This is a magical walking tour which allows you to discover Aboriginal history and culture while uncovering the secrets of Jellurgal – Dreaming Mountain.
  3. Tropical Fruit World
    Under 3 Years FREE
    This is a wholesome fun-filled adventure filled with surprises! This fully guided tour of the 165-acre plantation is a beautiful experience to learn, play and explore together. Your little ones must travel on lap or be in a baby carrier.

If you’re missing the theatre and would like to make a trip out to see a live show with your little one, you’ll find in most instances it’s free entry for you to take your baby sitting on your lap.

Some of the fantastic shows touring the country in 2024 include The WigglesGruffalo’s ChildJames and The Giant Peach, and locally Waru and Cinderella.

Other top things to do with babies and toddlers if you haven’t already ticked them off are:

  1. Gallery of Modern Art
  2. Museum of Brisbane
  3. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
  4. Daisy Hill Koala Sanctuary

Embarking on adventures with your mini is a rewarding experience that offers countless opportunities for exploration, discovery, and bonding as a family. Whether you’re strolling through botanical gardens, encountering wildlife, or enjoying a day at the beach, there’s no shortage of unique and popular experiences awaiting families with babies and toddlers in Queensland’s great south-east.

Plus, with attractions across the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, and Gold Coast offering FREE entry for little ones, you can enjoy these adventures without breaking the bank. So, what are you waiting for, pack your bags, grab your little one, and get ready for unforgettable adventures together!

This blog has been created by our friends at SPARK POP® - Australia’s experience site for kids and families. Discover, book and gift things to do for littles, teens and all in-betweens! Founded in 2022 by Queensland mum overwhelmed by kid clutter, SPARK POP is a time saver for those passionate about enriching children’s lives with meaningful moments. Level up your weekend and holiday fun with a curated collection activities, attractions, tours and live events. 

May 09, 2024