Categories > Guides and Tips
Cosy Getaways: The Best Indoor Activities in Brisbane
- Join a Reading Programme at Brisbane’s Council Library
- Hit the Bullseye at MANIAX Axe Throwing
- Step into the Virtual Realm at Zero Latency
- See Simulated Stars at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
- Bring History and Culture to Life at the Museum of Brisbane
- Indulge in Self-Care at the Thai Village Massage and Spa
- Take Flight at iFly
- Embrace Brisbane’s Film Culture with BIFF
- Try the World of Rock Climbing at Urban Climb
- Solve a Mystery at Escape Manor
Did you know that in Brisbane, it can rain cats and dogs on over 80 days each year? Yet, this city can turn grey skies into colourful adventures with its list of indoor activities.
So, don’t let the rain dampen your day. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, our handy guide can keep the fun alive, rain or shine!
1. Join a Reading Programme at Brisbane’s Council Library
Address: Brisbane Square, 266 George St, QLD 4000, Australia
Website: https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/things-to-see-and-do/council-venues-and-precincts/libraries
Contact Details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The Brisbane City Council Library Services has quietly transformed itself into a haven of indoor activities in a fast-paced world where technology thrives. Beyond its traditional role, the library now offers an array of activities catering to all age groups.
Imagine engaging in lively discussions, sharing ideas, and discovering new books in the company of fellow book lovers. Join in, and you’ll not only expand your reading list but also make some fantastic bookish friends along the way!
You can also get your creative juices flowing through art programmes and workshops. Unleash your inner Picasso, and who knows, you might discover a hidden artistic talent!
For families, the library offers interactive storytelling sessions that won’t only instill a love for books in your little ones but also foster early literacy skills.
| Pro tip: It’s best to reserve your copy of an upcoming book well in advance, ensuring you’re among the first to get it when it’s released in Brisbane’s Council Library. |
2. Hit the Bullseye at MANIAX Axe Throwing
Address: 52a Doggett St, Newstead, QLD 4006, Australia
Website: https://www.maniax.com.au/locations/brisbane?utm_source=gmb-brisbane&utm_medium=organic
Contact Details: 1300 217 583
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Friday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Booking: https://www.maniax.com.au/booking/start
Ready to switch things up for your next indoor adventure? At MANIAX Axe Throwing in Brisbane, hitting the bullseye isn’t just a phrase – it’s a thrilling reality.
In this unique and exciting activity, you can channel your inner warrior and learn the art of axe throwing in a safe and controlled environment.
It’s an experience that blends excitement, skill, and camaraderie, making it the perfect choice for a memorable day out with friends, family, or coworkers.
So, if you’re up for a little target practise with a twist, MANIAX Axe Throwing is the ultimate destination for a bullseye-hitting good time.
| Pro tip: At MANIAX Axe Throwing, removing an axe from the target can be a bit tricky. To do it safely, firmly grip the handle and gently move the blade up and down until it comes free from the target. |
3. Step into the Virtual Realm at Zero Latency
Address: 20 Chester St, Newstead, QLD 4006, Australia
Website: https://www.zerolatencyvr.com/
Contact Details: +61 7 3667 9551
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Friday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Booking: https://booking.zerolatencyvr.com/
At Zero Latency in Brisbane, you can enjoy an exciting indoor adventure that brings your dreams to life through virtual reality (VR). It’s not just for sci-fi fans and gamers anymore; it’s an experience that anyone can step into!
Here, you can immerse yourself in a new world while sharing this virtual space with your friends.
As soon as you slap on that VR headset and dive into this immersive world, there are no limits to what you can do. You’ll find yourself battling zombies in a post-apocalyptic realm or exploring an alien planet, and the possibilities are endless!
Here, the high-quality visuals and sound will make you feel like you’ve gone into another dimension. It’s a feast for the senses and a treat for tech enthusiasts!
What’s more, you’ll probably break a sweat while playing, as you’ll be moving, dodging, and interacting with your surroundings. This can make you feel like a part of the action, which is an incredible workout for both the body and the mind.
| Pro tip: Try to stay relaxed and make controlled movements while playing VR at Zero Latency. Quick, jerky actions can lead to motion sickness for some people and if you start feeling motion sickness creeping in, don’t hesitate to take short breaks. It also helps to have a light meal before your VR experience to keep those stomach discomforts at bay. |
4. See Simulated Stars at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
Address: Mount Coot-Tha Rd, Mount Coot-Tha, QLD 4066, Australia
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Why travel far for stargazing when you can experience the night sky’s wonders at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium? This site’s indoor activity is your ticket to a celestial adventure, right in the city’s urban jungle.
While you might not be under an open-night sky, the planetarium offers something equally enchanting: a perfectly simulated, star-studded dome.
Thanks to some nifty technology, as soon as you enter, the entire universe will be unfolding before your very eyes.
At the planetarium, you can even watch different amazing shows that are both fun and educational, suitable for all ages. Each show has two parts: the main feature and a guided tour of Brisbane’s night sky by the planetarium’s expert astronomers.
It’s a fantastic way to both learn and have a blast. Plus, the best part is that it’s a sensory-friendly (sensory-friendly places in Brisbane) activity too!
| Pro tip: For even more guidance at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, think about joining a group stargazing session or an astronomy club. It’s a great chance to share your love for the night sky with fellow enthusiasts. |
5. Bring History and Culture to Life at the Museum of Brisbane
Address: Level 3, Brisbane City Hall, 64 Adelaide St, QLD 4000, Australia
Website: https://www.museumofbrisbane.com.au/
Contact Details: +61 7 3339 0800
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
A visit to the Museum of Brisbane is like stepping into a time machine for a fascinating indoor adventure. It’s not just about static exhibits and artefacts; it’s all about dynamic stories.
The museum will whisk you away on a journey through Brisbane’s history, from its Indigenous roots to its vibrant present, unveiling stories, challenges, and triumphs along the way.
Bonus: They’ve even thoughtfully included a Mandarin travel guide tour for their Mandarin-speaking guests!
For all you art enthusiasts out there, get ready for a bunch of creativity at the museum. The staff frequently puts the spotlight on exhibitions that proudly display the works of talented artists, both local and national.
Here, you can soak in the grand celebration of art, paying tribute to the incredible talents that this city has inspired over the years.
What’s even more exciting is that the museum isn’t just about the past – it’s about the future too! Through its various programmes, workshops, and events, it’s a place that encourages learning, creativity, and inspiration for both kids and adults.
| Pro tip: Why not start your museum visit by exploring the exhibits backwards? Most visitors move from the entrance to the exit, so starting at the end might lead to a more peaceful and reflective experience for you. |
6. Indulge in Self-Care at the Thai Village Massage and Spa
Address: 291 Adelaide St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000, Australia
Website: https://www.thaivillagemassage.com.au/
Contact Details: +61 7 3706 8309
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Thai Village Massage and Spa offers various soothing treatments in Brisbane, providing the ideal indoor activity for a blissful pampering experience you owe to yourself.
From the moment you step through the doors of Thai Village Massage and Spa, you’ll be transported to a serene oasis.
But you know what makes this spa stand out? The therapists here are like wizards in the ancient Thai massage methods that have been passed down through the years.
This experience is all about releasing tension, getting rid of those pesky muscle knots, and leaving you feeling completely refreshed and revitalised!
| Pro tip: Treat yourself to a hot stone massage at the Thai Village Massage and Spa! The technicians can fully customise your massage too, so it’s good to chat with them about how you like it prior to the relaxation. To avoid any hassle, tell them whether you want more or less pressure and where you need it the most, so the whole experience will be seamless and worth it. |
7. Take Flight at iFly
Address: 395 Hamilton Rd, Chermside, QLD 4032, Australia
Website: https://www.iflyworld.com.au/
Contact Details: 1300 435 928
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Ready for an exciting indoor activity that makes you feel like you’re skydiving without leaving the ground? If so, iFly Brisbane is just right for you!
Located right in the heart of the city, this place provides an action-packed experience that’s a must-try for anyone craving a gravity-defying thrill.
Equipped with a state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel, it recreates the feeling of freefalling from thousands of feet above, minus the actual aeroplane ride. Whether you’re a seasoned skydiver or a complete newbie, this activity is suitable for all skill levels.
Here, you’ll pick up the proper body positions and hand signals to ensure a safe and exhilarating experience. The instructors are highly skilled and experienced too, making you feel secure throughout your flight.
| Pro tip: Before entering iFly Brisbane, it’s essential to remove jewellery, watches, and other valuable items to prevent them from getting lost or damaged during the flight. |
8. Embrace Brisbane’s Film Culture with BIFF
Website: https://biff.com.au/
Looking for a captivating indoor activity that celebrates the art of storytelling through film? The Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF) is your ticket to explore diverse stories and connect with the global cinematic community in the city.
The festival showcases a carefully curated selection of films from around the world, including documentaries, feature films, shorts, and experimental works.
From thought-provoking dramas to heartwarming comedies, the festival caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
If you’re lucky, you’ll also get a chance to interact with filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals. Q&A sessions and panel discussions are common, offering an inside look at the filmmaking process and the stories behind the films.
And here’s the cool part: BIFF also serves as a stage to show off our local talent, featuring a bunch of awesome Aussie films.
| Pro tip: Film festivals typically offer a variety of snacks and beverages. It’s recommended to go for quiet, easy-to-eat options like popcorn, candy, or finger foods to avoid disturbing other viewers. |
9. Try the World of Rock Climbing at Urban Climb
Address: 2/220 Montague Rd, West End, QLD 4101, Australia
Website: https://urbanclimb.com.au/
Contact Details: 1300 001 203
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
At Urban Climb in Brisbane, your rock climbing adventure is not just any indoor activity – it’s an exhilarating journey that takes you to new heights, quite literally!
Think about all the excitement of outdoor climbing, but in a safe and comfy indoor setting. Here, you can scale walls, follow routes, and conquer challenges while knowing you’re in good hands.
One of the best things about Urban Climb is that it’s open to all ages. Whether you’re a child, a teenager, or an adult, rock climbing can be a fantastic way to stay active and have fun.
But if you’re just starting out, don’t worry because experienced instructors will be with you every step of the way. Plus, they’ll teach you the tricks to up your climbing game, preparing you to confidently take on the trickiest routes!
Here’s the deal: Indoor rock climbing isn’t just about working those muscles; it’s a bit of a brain workout too! Planning your climb is like a fun puzzle, giving your problem-solving skills a good exercise.
Overall, this is like a full-body workout that keeps your mind totally in the game!
| Pro tip: It’s smart to invest in a good pair of rock climbing shoes before going to Urban Climb. These would provide better grip and support, making your climbing experience more enjoyable and effective. |
10. Solve a Mystery at Escape Manor
Address: 51 Edward St, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
Website: https://www.escapemanor.com/brisbane/
Contact Details: +61 7 3148 5683
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
If you’re up for a thrilling indoor activity that takes you into a world of mystery and puzzles, Escape Manor in Brisbane is the place to be!
Here, you and your crew can work together to solve clues and puzzles, unlocking the secrets of challenging scenarios such as solving a murder mystery, escaping from a locked room, or decoding a spy’s secrets.
Of course, one of the key elements of Escape Manor is teamwork. You’ll need to communicate effectively with your group, share discoveries, and combine your strengths to conquer the challenges.
Can your team solve the puzzles and escape before time runs out? The thrill of the countdown keeps participants engaged and motivated throughout the game.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss any details in the room at Escape Manor – even the tiniest item or word could be a hint! And as you uncover the clues, it’s wise to keep them organised in one central spot in the room. This will help your team stay on top of what you’ve found and what you’ve still got to figure out. |
