South Bank, Brisbane – Best City Spot for Kids?

Is Brisbane’s South Bank Kid Friendly?

We recently visited friends in Brisbane and arranged to meet them at South Bank. We’ve been before but our daughter was so young we just did our own thing and she had no choice but to accept it.

Now, 18 months later, do you really think she’d happily agree to do anything that isn’t totally centred around her needs? Toddlers can be so damn selfish!

So, for the first time, I really had to think about wether the South Bank area is kid friendly and boy was I impressed!

Things to do With Kids in South Bank

  • Streets Beach – Top of the list, for obvious reasons!! What kid wouldn’t love swimming or playing in the sand?! This man made pool at the centre of Southbank is an absolute must! (FREE)
  • Riverside Green Playground – A fantastic interactive playground with something for kids of all ages from big slides and climbing equipment to a dedicated toddler area. (FREE)
  • Queensland museum – Awesome for kids of all ages and adults alike. We spent hours wandering round here with the Australian animals section a firm favourite of my 2 year old. (FREE!!)
  • The Brisbane Wheel – A real must for small kids to get a birdseye view of the city. Buy your tickets in advance, online to save some dollar!
  • The Maritime Museum – A great option for any kids fascinated by ships, board the Diamantina and look around. Also a great one for dad to enjoy too.
  • The Sciencentre – Really enjoyable for kids and adults with interactive exhibits and plenty of opportunities for kids to feel like a scientist. (FREE)
  • Collective Markets – All sorts of interesting and fascinating items are on sale at the markets. I saw tons of kids crowded round the stall selling funky and colourful iron on patches! (FREE TO BROWSE)

Kid Friendly Places to Eat at South Bank

There are tons of great places to eat right in the heart of South Bank. Most budgets can be accommodated for but you’re in the city so expect to pay city prices!

If you’re on a budget trip, definitely pack a picnic to take with you. You won’t be short of options to sit and eat. Wether it’s down at Streets beach or on one of the grassy areas, you won’t be disappointed.

There is also a convenience food/takeaway style food court area right behind the Riverside Green playground. They have all the usual suspects from Japanese to fried chicken and everything in between.

My favourite spot to eat has to be The Plough Inn though. It’s good pub food at pretty standard city prices. They often have live music playing and have a great atmosphere, right in the thick of the Southbank scene.

Taking a day trip or break to Gold Coast whilst in Brisbane? Take a look at or MUST visit attraction for kids!