I love Brisbane during the school holidays. There’s something about families coming together, the city buzzing with energy, and that warm, golden light that makes everything feel just a little more magical. Whether you’re planning activities for visiting relatives or just looking to shake up your usual routine, this is the perfect time to dive into experiences that’ll have everyone talking long after the holidays end.
If you’re hosting guests in Brisbane these school holidays, you want to give them experiences they’ll rave about when they get home. From VR expeditions to ancient Egypt and mini golf mayhem to camel rides in the Scenic Rim, here are my go-to family-friendly activities that hit the sweet spot between fun for the kids, easy on the parents, and genuinely memorable for everyone involved.
Planning your trip?
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Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
Travel eSIM: Simify
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You might also like to read:
- 6 Awesome things to do on the Gold Coast
- 21 Things you absolutely must do in Brisbane
- 21 Things worth doing in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
1. Tee off at Holey Moley in the valley
Looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that works for absolutely everyone? Holey Moley is mini golf with a big personality and an even bigger soundtrack. Think vibrant themed holes that feel like stepping into different worlds, neon lights that make everything Instagram-worthy, and music that’ll have the whole family singing along by hole three. It’s a fun, quirky outing that works brilliantly for all ages and, let’s be honest, the adults have just as much fun here as the kids. Maybe even more, if we’re being real about it.

We booked Holey Moley here
2. Get wild at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
This one’s a classic for a reason. Just a 20-minute drive from the city, Lone Pine is home to over 100 koalas and a whole host of native Aussie animals, from kangaroos and wombats to crocodiles and cassowaries. You can hand-feed the roos, catch a raptor show, and even snap a photo with a koala. It’s a great way to connect with Australia’s unique wildlife up close and personal, and it works brilliantly for all ages.

We booked Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary here
3. Step into ancient Egypt at Horizon of Khufu
Here’s something genuinely different. Horizon of Khufu is an immersive VR expedition that transports you 4,500 years back in time to explore the Great Pyramid of Giza. You’ll wander through chambers and passageways that have been off-limits to the public for millennia, experiencing the funeral rites of an Egyptian pharaoh in stunning virtual reality. The 45-minute experience is backed by years of research from Harvard University’s Giza Project, so it’s as accurate as it is awe-inspiring. Located in Fortitude Valley, it’s perfect for families with kids aged 10 and up who are ready for something beyond the usual tourist trail.

We booked Horizon of Khufu here
4. Feel the need for speed at Kingston Park Raceway
Got a family of thrill-seekers? Send them straight to Kingston Park Raceway. With go-karting tracks for beginners through to seasoned speedsters, it’s high-octane fun that gets the adrenaline pumping. This is one activity guests will be talking about long after they’ve crossed the finish line, and it’s a brilliant way to burn off some of that holiday energy.

We booked Kingston Park Raceway here
5. Saddle up for a camel trail ride
This one took me by surprise in the best way. Just over an hour from Brisbane, Summer Land Camel Farm offers gentle, scenic rides through the beautiful Scenic Rim region. The 40-minute trail is ideal for kids and adults alike, and it’s a great way to see the countryside from a different perspective. Plus, camels are seriously charming creatures, and watching the kids’ faces light up when they meet these gentle giants is worth the drive alone.

We booked a Camel Trail Ride here
6. Cruise the river on an electric picnic boat
Imagine floating along the Brisbane River in your own private boat with snacks packed, playlist on, and not a care in the world. These electric picnic boats are all-ages friendly, pet-friendly, and perfect for families wanting a more relaxed, self-guided adventure. Up to eight people can hop on board, so it’s ideal for multi-gen holidays or bigger groups. You can pack a picnic, take in the city skyline from the water, and let the kids take turns at the wheel.

We booked an electric picnic boat here
7. Explore the iconic Australia Zoo
There’s no better place to meet Australia’s most iconic creatures than Australia Zoo, and for good reason. You can watch jaw-dropping wildlife shows that bring you face-to-face with our most remarkable animals, meet kangaroos and crocs up close in ways that feel both safe and thrilling, and even learn about the incredible conservation work happening behind the scenes. With over 100 wildlife species calling the zoo home and world-class facilities that make the whole experience comfortable and engaging, it’s genuinely a full-day experience the whole family will love. Pack sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and prepare for a day you’ll all be talking about for months.

We booked tickets for Australia Zoo here
Where to stay in Brisbane
Booking.com and Agoda.com are fantastic websites for finding accommodation in Brisbane. Below are a few more options worth looking into:
| Stay | Features |
|---|---|
| Rydges South Bank Brisbane | Read our review |
| The Sebel Brisbane | Central location, pool |
| Art Series – The Johnson | Spacious, great pool |
| Alex Perry Hotel Apartments | Read our review |
| Spicers Balfour Hotel | Luxury, fantastic food |
| Meriton Suites Herschel St | Comfort, CBD location |
| Mantra Terrace Hotel | Well-priced comfort |
Best travel resources for your trip!
If you found this post useful, please use the affiliate links below. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Rest assured, these are the products and services I love and use. Read the disclaimer for more information. Thanks for your support! – Matthew.
Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
Tours: TourRadar
Travel eSIM: Saily

