12 free or cheap family activities in Brisbane
Discover 12 free or cheap family activities in Brisbane! From water parks and BMX tracks to outdoor cinemas, libraries and Brisbane Greeters tours, there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
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They say the best things in life are free and exploring the best Brisbane has to offer shouldn’t break the bank. We’ve pulled together some fabulously fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy on any budget.
1. Get active and healthy
Did you know that Council hosts a wide range of free or low-cost active and healthy events for kids all year-round? If your child loves water activities, they might like to try kayaking or paddle boarding. If they love games, they could improve their skills at basketball or soccer workshops. Adventure and thrill seekers can enjoy adventure walks, freestyle scooter clinics and more. Find events on our What's on in Brisbane calendar.
2. To infinity and beyond
Blow your mind with fun facts on the solar system at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium. Explore space at a show in full-dome format in the Cosmic Skydome, complete with a guided tour of Brisbane's night sky. The laser-powered system generates one of the world's brightest and most detailed night sky experiences!
3. Go wild at a free water park
Looking for a fun day out with free water play? Head to Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks, Wynnum Aqua Park, or 'Aquativity' at South Bank Parklands. These water parks include features such as flying foxes, spray zones, tidal wading pools and educational play elements. BYO own picnic or food for a barbecue lunch after play time.
4. Life's a beach at South Bank
Relax and have a dip at Streets Beach at South Bank Parklands on the edge of the Brisbane River. Located within 17 hectares of parkland, Streets Beach is a unique and must-visit attraction. Adjacent to the beach, you'll find the Boat Pool and Aquativity water park. They are free to use and open all year round.
Pack a picnic and make a day of it, with lush lawns and shady nooks to relax after a dip.
5. Bust a move at our BMX tracks
Discover over 20 parks across Brisbane that feature free BMX facilities. Our 2 biggest BMX parks - Bracken Ridge Skate Facility, Fitzgibbon and Monier Road Park, Darra - are world class. These parks are ideal for practicing flairs, freewheeling and flat spins. Each facility includes an asphalt track that is suitable for all riders regardless of experience.
6. Take a CityHopper adventure
Cruise the river on a free CityHopper to take in the city from a different perspective. Hop on and off a KittyCat at any of the 7 stops from North Quay, Brisbane City to Sydney Street, New Farm. Services are available from 5.30am to midnight, with later services on Fridays and Saturdays.
7. Park hop
Enjoy Brisbane's beautiful parks and reserves all year round. Some of the city's most popular parks include Roma Street Parkland, South Bank Parklands and Karawatha Forest.
Roma Street Parkland is a 15-hectare inner-city oasis, including an epic children’s playground called Riverside Green Playground.
Bradbury Park at Kedron includes a spectacular playground, scooter track, fitness equipment and basketball half-court.
8. See the sights by bike
To help you take your riding adventures to the next gear, here’s a list of the best Brisbane bike rides and cycle paths to try. Brisbane has rides to suit all cyclists, regardless of experience.
9. Catch a free movie and live bands
Our Outdoor Cinema in the Suburbs and Bands in Parks programs will have you heading out at sundown to enjoy free music and movies. You don’t need to book ahead. Just bring a chair or blanket and snacks. Explore our What's on in Brisbane calendar to find an upcoming event.
Some parks even allow furry friends to come along. Just check the event details before inviting your pets.
With events throughout the year, we’re bringing the entertainment to you!
10. Uncover Brisbane's history
One of the best ways to get to know a city is through the eyes (and tales) of a knowledgeable local. Our friendly Brisbane Greeters host free daily tours in Brisbane City and key precincts (such as Fortitude Valley). They also host tours of heritage-listed Walter Taylor Bridge at Indooroopilly.
11. Journey into the natural world
Our 3 environment centres let you experience Brisbane’s diverse bushland, wetlands and forests. Check out our What's On in Brisbane calendar for free or low-cost activities such as canoeing, guided walks, bird watching and crafts.
12. Connect, learn and become a bookworm
Brisbane’s 33 libraries run free activities and events, including reading programs, book clubs, computer training, and workshops.
Library membership is free to anyone who lives, works or studies in Brisbane, or is a Brisbane ratepayer. Foster a lifelong love of learning and open a world of imagination, by joining the library with your children.
Even more to see and do
Looking for more child-friendly things to see and do in Brisbane that kids will love? For events and activities, explore our What's on in Brisbane calendar.