Weekend Getaways from Brisbane With Kids: Where to Go and What to Do

Sometimes you just need to escape the city. After a busy week in Brisbane, many families reach that familiar moment where everyone needs a reset, fresh air, exciting activities, and time together without the weekday rush.

The good news? You don’t need a long road trip or complicated planning. Some of the best family weekend getaways from Brisbane are just a short drive away. Within an hour or two you can swap city traffic for theme park thrills, coastal relaxation, or country-air adventures.

Whether your family wants non-stop action on the Gold Coast, a heritage adventure in Ipswich, or a relaxing country escape in Toowoomba, here’s how to plan the perfect family weekend trip.

Action Packed Getaways

For Brisbane families wanting a quick escape packed with entertainment, the Gold Coast is hard to beat. Only about an hour’s drive from Brisbane, it’s one of the easiest and most convenient family weekend trips in South East Queensland.

If you’re looking for an all-in-one family-friendly destination, Coomera sits right at the epicentre of the action, with theme parks, entertainment venues, and plenty of nearby Gold Coast family accommodation deals.

Here are some must-do activities for your itinerary.

• Dreamworld & WhiteWater World
  A visit to Dreamworld is a must for any family weekend on the Gold Coast. From my visit, what makes it stand out is the variety — older kids can chase thrills on world-class rollercoasters, while younger children enjoy classic family rides and themed attractions. There are also unique wildlife encounters where families can see Australian animals up close and learn about Indigenous culture. During warmer months, WhiteWater World is the perfect addition to your trip. This seasonal water park sits right next door and is ideal for cooling off after a morning of rides.

Pro tip: a multi-day ticket or gold coast fun pass are ideal for experiencing both parks over the weekend and unlocking even more adventure at other top attractions like SkyPoint, Aquaduck and Infinity (Gold Coast Fun Pass only).

• See the Coast from New Heights
  Speaking of SkyPoint, that's exactly where I would go if you want the best view of the Gold Coast. SkyPoint Observation Deck in Surfers Paradise is the perfect activity for all ages and a great way to orient yourself when you first arrive. My suggestion? Plan your visit around sunset for an especially memorable experience, with sweeping views of the ocean on one side and the hinterland on the other.
• Hit the Water
  The Gold Coast is best experienced on the water. The Aquaduck offers a quirky amphibious adventure through Surfers Paradise, combining a city tour with a splashdown into the Broadwater. Families with older kids might prefer the adrenaline of Paradise Jet Boating, where high-speed spins and slides across the Broadwater make for an unforgettable ride.

All-weather Fun for Everyone

Even on the Gold Coast, the occasional rainy afternoon happens. Luckily, there are plenty of indoor family activities that double as perfect evening entertainment.

• The Park Coomera
  Bowling and mini-golf never go out of style. Located conveniently near Dreamworld, The Park Coomera is a fun way to wind down after a day at the theme parks.
• iPlay Arcades
  If the kids still have energy to burn, head to iPlay. With locations at Coomera and Harbour Town, these arcades offer hours of indoor fun with classic games, modern machines, and redemption prizes.

Relax with the Classics

A weekend on the Gold Coast isn’t just about attractions. Some of the best moments are the simple ones.

• Build sandcastles
  Spend a morning at one of the region’s famous patrolled beaches like Broadbeach or Burleigh Heads. From swimming to sandcastle competitions, the beaches offer classic family fun.
• Enjoy a park picnic
  Broadwater Parklands is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Families can cycle along the waterfront paths, enjoy the playgrounds, or simply spread out a picnic rug while the kids explore.

Discover History and Adventure in Ipswich & Logan

If your family has already “done the beach” recently, heading west can offer a refreshing change of pace. Ipswich and Logan combine heritage charm with exciting activities, making them a great city-meets-country weekend getaway.

• Unleash Your Inner Racer at Kingston Park Raceway

For families with a competitive streak, Kingston Park Raceway is one of Australia’s premier go-karting tracks. With high-performance karts and multiple tracks, it’s perfect for older kids and parents who want to race head-to-head.

• Explore Ipswich’s Historic Charm

Ipswich is one of Queensland’s oldest cities, and walking through its streets you’ll notice beautifully preserved heritage buildings that make exploring the area feel like stepping back in time.

A Relaxing Country Retreat in Toowoomba

If your family prefers fresh air and slower weekends, head to Toowoomba — Queensland’s famous Garden City. Sitting atop the Great Dividing Range, it offers a refreshing change of scenery from the coast.

• Stroll Through the Gardens

Toowoomba is known for its beautiful parks. Families can wander through the tranquil Japanese Garden Ju Raku En or enjoy the manicured lawns and playgrounds of Queens Park.

• Picnic with a View

One of the best ways to experience Toowoomba is simply by taking a scenic drive. Follow the escarpment roads and stop at one of the many lookouts for a family picnic with incredible views across the Lockyer Valley.

• Rainy Day Activities in the Garden City

When the weather cools or rain rolls in, iPlay Toowoomba provides a fun indoor contrast to the city’s historic charm, perfect for an afternoon or evening activity.

How to Plan the Perfect Family Weekend

Planning a smooth family getaway doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple tips can make the weekend far more enjoyable.

Book accommodation early
From my experience, the Gold Coast fills up quickly on weekends, especially for Brisbane families, so it’s worth booking a family-friendly apartment or hotel in Coomera early to stay close to major attractions like Dreamworld and avoid longer travel times.

Check attraction opening hours
Theme parks, tours, and indoor attractions can have seasonal schedules, so it’s always worth checking ahead before you travel.

Consider a Dreamworld Annual Pass
For Queensland and northern NSW residents, a Dreamworld Annual Pass offers excellent value. It allows unlimited visits across the year, making spontaneous weekend trips much easier to plan.

About the Author: Amy Crosby is a digital marketing coordinator and content writer based on the Gold Coast, with a passion for creating engaging content and connecting audiences with memorable experiences. She enjoys bringing ideas to life through compelling messaging across digital platforms. Outside of work, she loves exploring the Gold Coast’s vibrant lifestyle, from local attractions and events to the region’s outdoor gems.