Keeping the kids entertained during the school holidays is always a challenge. Living in a big city has its advantages, with a plethora of school holiday activities on offer. Brisbane is no exception, its great climate and laid back lifestyle makes it an ideal city for kids. Here are a few ideas for the coming holidays.
1. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
A visit to the Planetarium is a great family day out and sure to fascinate children of all ages. The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium runs a number of activities and shows appropriate for school age children, some included in the entry price while others incur a small charge. There are a range of 45 minute films aimed at all age groups, some give information while telling a fictional story, and others are more documentary style. Book some Brisbane accommodation at one of the many hotels in the Brisbane CBD and treat the kids to a mini holiday.
2. Mount Coot-tha Reserve
While you're in the area, the Mount Coot-tha Reserve is well worth a day of exploration. Boasting some of the most spectacular views in Brisbane, the Lookout has panoramic views over the Brisbane city and also offers a café, restaurant and gift shop. At the base of Mount Coot-tha are the Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, which feature a tropical plants hot house and Japanese Gardens. There are several popular walking tracks through the reserve, varying in length and difficulty, although most of them do contain sections of uphill and stairs. There are also a range of mountain bike trails, again offering varying degrees of difficulty, suitable for beginners to advanced cyclists. After a day exploring the great outdoors, heading into the city for a night in one of Brisbane's hotels will provide a nice contrast.
3. Theme Parks
Although Theme Parks aren't everyone's cup of tea, a well planned day can be a great family outing. Choose your theme park carefully; if you don't like rides, steer your children towards Sea World or Movie World where the range of shows, exhibits and rides are more likely to satisfy everyone in the family. Sea World has a number of shows including the Jet Stunt Extreme and the ever popular sea lion and dolphin shows. There are also a number of extreme rides, a water park and the Sky High Skyway, perfect for the whole family.
4. Visit Chinatown
Chinatown Brisbane is a hub of Asian commercial and cultural activity. The mall has a number of Asian restaurants, multicultural stores and yum cha palaces as well as hosting a range of events, festivals, dance troupes and touring artists from Asia. Treat the kids to the unique cultural experience of yum cha, there's sure to be something on offer to tempt even the fussiest eaters. Located near the city centre, close to a plethora of Brisbane hotels and Brisbane accommodation options, a visit to Chinatown can be finished off with a fun night in the city.
School holidays don't need to be boring, particularly when you live in a big city. Check out local council websites, tourist bureau websites and city guides, you're sure to find a huge range of activities and ideas to keep the kids busy and entertained.
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