summer school holidays in Brisbane

Streets Beach is a hit with kids of all ages — free water play, shaded playgrounds, and you can easily spend a full day here with a packed lunch.

The dinosaur gallery alone will keep kids busy for an hour. Under-5s have their own Discovery Centre downstairs — free entry.

The nature playground here is properly good — scramble nets, water play, and shaded seating for parents. Works for toddlers and older kids.

Free guided walks, nature trails and plenty of open space for kids to run. Mt Coot-tha location has the planetarium too.

Free kids' activities during school holidays — usually art workshops and interactive installations. Check what's on before you go.

Australia's oldest koala sanctuary. Kids can hand-feed kangaroos and actually hold a koala ($25 photo). The platypus house is worth the visit alone.

Kayaking, rock climbing and abseiling right on the Brisbane River. They run school holiday programs — book early, they fill up fast.

Indoor trampoline park — foam pits, dodgeball courts, and a separate mini-bounce zone for littlies. Socks required (buy at the door if you forget).