Situated in a gorgeous shady spot alongside the Brisbane River, Simpsons Playground in Graceville is a lovely nautical-themed playground. With shade, accessible toilets, open areas, picnic tables and a long, paved walkway suitable for bikes and scooters, Simpson’s playground is a destination worth discovering.
Simpsons Playground
Ahoy mateys! An impressive fort shaped like a large ship anchor this playground to its riverside location. Porthole ladders and a wooden gangway access the hull and different ship levels. A large steering wheel can direct the boat at the upper level, the captain’s bridge. A telescope and spotlight to assist rescues are lower down at the front of the vessel. While at the stern, two slides provide exits.
On the connected jetty, children will find a compass, a map of the seasons and spinning letter blocks to create simple words. On the other side of the ship is a lifeboat for little sailors who want to stay closer to the ground.
Surrounding the ship are four swings, two regular and two for infants. There are also three aquatic animal spring riders and a bouncy metal rowboat frame. Finally, for children who enjoy tactile sensations, there is a place to scoop bark into a funnel, which drops it down into spinning cups.
Facing the playground are shady benches for parents to sit and unwind while they watch their children play.
About thirty metres walk from the main playground is another area with three swings, including a net swing and infant swing. There is also a solid table tennis table, several picnic tables and some wood-burning BBQs. Tweens and teens may prefer this space, slightly away from the main playground. They could also utilise the long shared pathway, with some older park gym equipment.
Imagination Factor
Maritime adventures of all types are encouraged at this location. So find your boarding pass and head off on a cruise, or be a navy officer on a specialised mission. But watch out, the seas could get rough, and pirates are known to patrol these waters too!
Accessibility
There are no specifically accessible items at Simpsons playground. However, a long, flat, paved walkway alongside the river provides beautiful water views. There are accessible toilets.
Simpsons Playground features
- Unfenced playgrounds sheltered by shade structures
- Accessible toilet facilities
- Rubber and bark base
- Nautical themed play equipment
- Slides
- Swings
- Infant swings
- Spring seesaws
- Climbing equipment
- Rockers
- Bike and Walking paths
- Adjacent to the Brisbane River
- Shady trees
- Open grassy spaces
- Wood barbeques
- Picnic shelter with table
- Unsheltered picnic tables
- Bench seating near playground
- Off- street carpark
Another great nearby Brisbane Playground is George Scarlett Park.
What we thought of Simpsons Playground
Simpsons Playground was a delightful experience for us. This is not an action-packed playground, which is part of its appeal. Instead, I found it peaceful and open. I thought the ship in this space was unique, engaging, and naturally promoted imaginative play. The mature trees give the impression that this playground will always be well-shaded.
To maximise the enjoyment of our next visit, I would pack hats, water bottles, insect repellent and bikes. The walkway along the river is perfect for bike riding, and the view is stunning!
How to get here
Simpsons Playground is located on the corner of Nadine Street & Graceville Avenue in Graceville.
This review was undertaken by Brisbane parent and explorer Vanessa.
Nadine Street & Graceville Avenue, Graceville QLD
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