Finding things to do with kids in Ipswich is easy when you know where to go and what to see. Just 45mins west from the Brisbane CBD, Ipswich has a multitude of fun, kid-friendly activities and sights that are just waiting to be explored. Below is a list of just some of the places we would recommend to ensure a great day out.
Farm fun
Haigslea EVE Hobby Farm is a family farm that opens its door to families to experience the laid-back country lifestyle. $5 admission covers entry and includes a bucket of animal feed. Call ahead to book as they like to keep numbers restricted, so each person gets quality time with the animals without crowds. It also allows the owners of the farm, Penny and David to spend time chatting with visitors. Depending on the season children may get to pat and cuddle new baby goats and get up close and personal with sheep, alpacas, chicken and geese. Snacks, coffee and chocolate can be purchased. 187 Missigs Road, Haigslea 4306 call to book 0410 487 263
Ipswich Nature Centre
The Ipswich Nature Centre truly is a treasure in the centre of Ipswich, located within the magnificent Queens Park. Entry is free and children will delight in seeing a variety of native animals including emus, wallabies, quolls and the endangered Bilby. They also have a variety of farm animals and a glorious walk through bird aviary. The Ipswich Nature Centre | Queens Park, Ipswich
Queens Park
Queens Park features the Ipswich Nature Centre, but one could argue, the hero is the playground. Waterplay and flying foxes and a state of the art playground with numerous shady trees, over 22ha’s, make this a fun day trip idea for families. While you are there, relax in the Japanese gardens and take the kids to the environment centre to remind them of the blessings around them. Queens Park has plenty of parking, toilets and a cafe located within the grounds.
Queensland Museum Rail Workshops
Hands up who knew Ipswich was the birthplace of rail in Queensland? Back in 1865, the very first train to run in Queensland steamed west from the Ipswich Railway Workshops to the small settlement at Grandchester. Today, ‘The Workshops’, as it is affectionately known, is an inspiring museum for Brisbane Kids who love trains and all things that move.
It is full of big machinery, colourful multimedia experiences, glimpses into the future and of course, reflections on the past. It’s big, it’s hands-on, it colourful, it’s educational but most of all it’s FUN! The Museum is known for their school holiday activities so make sure you check out their website for the workshops that they have on for kids right now. Queensland Museum Rail Workshops
Robelle Domain
One of the biggest and best parks in the Ipswich area has to be Robelle Domain. Blanketed throughout by its magnificent Ghost Gums, this spectacular parkland boasts many impressive features but none more so than its amazing water play area. Water cascades, waterfalls, jet sprays and a 7000 litre tipping water bucket all combine to make this a favourite destination for little people keen to escape the summertime heat at this Ipswich Water Park.
Orion Lagoon
Orion Lagoon covers a total area of more than 3.6km and is situated alongside Robelle Domain Parklands playground and water park. Located right in the heart of Springfield Central, the Orion Lagoon features a 600mm deep sculpture pool, a 50m lap swimming area, beach entry and pool depth of up to 1.5m in areas.
Ipswich Art Gallery
Located in the restored old town hall in the heart of Ipswich centre, the Ipswich Art Gallery is said to be one of the most-visited regional art galleries in Australia. With an ever-changing calendar of events, displays, family activities, complimentary art workshops and performances this is always a great place to visit. Best of all – the centre has a dedicated Children’s gallery with workshops and displays that are sure to captivate and hold your child’s interest and fire the imagination. Ipswich Art Gallery
Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway
The Queensland Pioneer Steam Train offers families the opportunity to ride on a real steam train with open window cabins and the tremendous sound of a steam engine. Run by well-informed volunteers, trains generally operate several times a month but be sure to check out the QPSR website/Facebook page for up-to-date information, fares and timetables. Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway
Finding things to do in Ipswich can also be made easier by checking out the calendar of events on our website. If you know of an event we should have listed then please email us at info@brisbanekids.com.au
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