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Best Riverfront Kids Parks in Brisbane
Have you ever wondered where to unleash your boundless energy while basking in the serene embrace of riverside bliss?
Look no further, because we’re diving headfirst into the world of the “best riverfront parks for kids in Brisbane.” Yes, you heard that right.
Join me as we embark on a quest to find those hidden gems along the water’s edge where fun, laughter, and the great outdoors collide. Let’s navigate the land of slides and swings because the only thing better than a playground is one with a river view.
1. River Heart Parklands
Address: 20 Bremer St, Ipswich QLD 4305
Website: https://www.discoveripswich.com.au/attraction/river-heart-parklands/
Contact Details: +61 7 3810 6666
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
Nestled alongside the tranquil Bremer River, River Heart Parklands is one of the premier riverfront parks for kids around Brisbane. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Ipswich’s town center as well!
Known as Bob Gamble Park, it’s also referred to as Stage 2 of the River Heart Parklands. It boasts a zero-depth water park, a discovery forest, and an array of exciting features like a flying fox, a climbing spider, and an assortment of swings.
At the heart of this captivating space lies a wet wonderland where kids can explore a miniature city of stepping stones, frolic in terraced water zones, and enjoy a zero-depth pool tailor-made for carefree play.
River Heart Parklands also beckons visitors with a scenic river walk that offers an opportunity to engage with Ipswich’s history through information plaques and historical remnants.
Pro tips:
- Pack a picnic basket filled with your family’s favorite treats and find a cozy spot amidst the lush greenery.
- Consider visiting in the late afternoon or early evening when the weather is cooler and the sun casts a warm glow over the parklands.
2. Captain Burke Park
Location: Kangaroo Pt
Located at the foot of the iconic Story Bridge’s majestic south pylon, Captain Burke Park is one of Brisbane’s most captivating riverside vistas.
This park boasts a rich history, once shared by migrants who passed through the grand Italianate Yungaba Immigration Depot nearby.
With its maritime-themed playground featuring a vibrant ship adorned with anchors, steering wheels, and treasure chests, kids are in for an adventure-filled day.
The playground offers diverse play experiences, from climbing nets to slides, making it a haven for imaginative play.
Situated along a riverfront walk and bike path leading to South Bank, the park is more than just a playground; it’s a gateway to scenic beauty. As the historic Story Bridge Hotel stands nearby, its location is a stone’s throw from cultural and dining destinations.
Pro tips:
- The playground has direct access to the river, so be sure to keep a watchful eye on your kids, especially if they’re near the water.
3. Orleigh Park
Address: 68 Hill End Terrace, West End QLD 4101
Contact Details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Once ravaged by historical floods, Orleigh Park now boasts a lush landscape dotted with age-old Moreton Bay figs. The park has a range of well-maintained playgrounds, picnic pavilions, and a soothing atmosphere.
The park’s diverse playgrounds, set across two levels, cater to various age groups, ensuring endless entertainment. The playground’s versatility, including all-abilities equipment, ensures that every child can join in the fun.
As young adventurers make their way through sway forts, slides, see-saws, and more, parents can relax under the shade of towering fig trees or savor a cup of coffee from the charming Alberto’s Shot corner shop.
Pro tips:
- Bring along your little one’s favorite toys, balls, or frisbees. The expansive green spaces offer plenty of room for games and activities beyond the playground.
- Be sure to bring their bikes or scooters as well. The well-designed bike track with its twists, bumps, and bridges is a highlight that adds an extra layer of excitement to the visit.
4. Mowbray Park Playground
Address: 60 Lytton Rd, East Brisbane QLD 4169
Contact Details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Mowbray Park, framed by majestic fig trees and shaded by billowing sails, is a haven of imagination and play for kids of all ages.
As you step into this nautical wonderland, the HMAS Mowbray stands proudly, inviting young explorers to embark on maritime escapades.
With its intricate network of ladders, bridges, and spinning wheels, older children will enjoy the exhilarating slides – there’s even a plank that you can “leap” out of!
At Mowbray’s bow, there’s also a mini shop complete with scales and cash registers that lets budding entrepreneurs unleash their creativity.
For the littlest mariners, the Scruffy tugboat awaits, a vessel tailored to their size, complete with a ringing bell and steering wheel to navigate their dreams.
Swing sets, a rope hammock, and ocean-themed bouncy rockers ensure a world of enjoyment. The playground’s softfall base ensures safe landings for everyone!
There’s also a nearby CityCat terminal, which makes Mowbray Park Playground a perfect springboard for families seeking more out of their riverfront experience.
Pro tips:
- Pack a blanket, some snacks, and your favorite picnic fare to enjoy under the ancient fig trees.
- If you have young explorers in tow, consider equipping them with a small backpack containing a magnifying glass, binoculars, and a notebook. The park offers opportunities for birdwatching, bug hunting, and even leaf rubbings.
5. Colmslie Beach Reserve
Address: 152 Colmslie Rd, Murarrie QLD 4172
Colmslie Beach Reserve is a hidden gem for families seeking a riverside escape. As you wind down the tree-lined path, the sandy beach and parkland invite you to a world of play and relaxation.
Perched atop the cliff’s edge, a row of shaded picnic tables and BBQs offer breathtaking river views. The children’s playgrounds add a whimsical touch, adorned with sea sculptures and a vibrant obstacle bridge that weaves vibrant threads of imagination.
With abundant picnic spots, ample shade, and sprawling spaces for cricket and football, Colmslie Beach Reserve promises a day of outdoor delight.
Moreover, wheelchair-accessible facilities and meandering paths, perfect for little bikers, ensure inclusivity for all.
Pro tips:
- Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. The riverside setting is stunning, but a little extra sun protection goes a long way to keep everyone comfortable.
- If you have aviation enthusiasts in the family, you’ll get a chance to see low-flying planes at Colmslie Beach Reserve as it’s quite close to the airport. It’s a delightful spectacle that can spark excitement among young ones.
6. Ken Fletcher Park
Address: 167 King Arthur Terrace, Tennyson QLD 4105
Website: https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/facilities-recreation/parks-venues/parks/parks-suburb/tennyson-parks
Contact Details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Named in honor of the local tennis legend Ken Fletcher, this innovative playground that draws inspiration from industrial power stations.
Among its impressive features is a labyrinthine climbing structure adorned with power-house-themed placards, a unique homage to the old Tennyson Powerhouse that once stood as a landmark on the Brisbane skyline.
There’s also a diverse array of swings, a fortress, a see-saw, and paths perfect for novice bikers and scooter riders.
With its waterfront picnic terrace, public pontoon for non-motorized watercraft, and inclusive facilities like disabled access, this park is a haven of accessibility for all to enjoy.
While the amenities block stands ready for convenience, some of the play equipment, including the captivating climbing frames, may lack shade – a consideration for sunnier days.
Pro tips:
- Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day to make the most of the outdoor fun. Mornings and late afternoons offer pleasant temperatures and a more comfortable play experience, especially during the warmer months.
- While the playground is a highlight, take the opportunity to explore other features of the park. The waterfront picnic terrace and amphitheater offer a relaxing spot while the old Tennyson Powerhouse adds a historical touch.
7. Bulimba Riverside Park
Address: 57 Addison Ave, Bulimba QLD 4171
Contact Details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventures, scenic strolls, or simply a serene riverside atmosphere, Bulimba Riverside Park offers a well-rounded experience that families are sure to treasure.
This spacious green expanse not only offers a vibrant playground but also showcases stunning views across the river to Teneriffe.
The industrial-themed playground boasts a sand-based setting where children of all ages can engage in play. From a toddler fort to a slippery dip tower, there’s a range of activities to capture young imaginations.
The open space invites games and picnics, and the foreshore with its picnic tables and shiny new BBQs creates a perfect backdrop for watching the sunset over the historic woolstores skyline.
Even history enthusiasts will find intrigue in the MR Hornibrook memorial, a steel girder paying homage to a prominent figure in Queensland’s construction legacy.
Pro tips:
- Consider making it a day of exploration by starting or ending your visit with a stroll along the riverfront walk and cycle path that connects the park to the vibrant Oxford St..
- For families with furry friends, the dog off leash area may be modest, but its proximity to the kids’ play area and barbecues can make it a convenient choice. Enjoy family time while keeping your four-legged companion close.
8. Decker Park
Address: 18 Twenty Fifth Ave, Brighton QLD 4017
Website: https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/facilities-recreation/parks-venues/parks/parks-suburb/brighton-parks
Contact Details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Decker Park’s harmonious combination of recreational facilities, engaging play spaces, and easy accessibility makes it an optimal choice for families seeking a well-rounded riverfront park experience.
Located at the northern edge of Brighton alongside the iconic Hornibrook Highway Bridge, this coastal sanctuary boasts a well-thought-out layout. It has a playground, a designated dog off-leash area, spaces for sports and games, a half basketball court, and several barbecue and picnic spots.
With swings, a sandpit, and even a “fortress” with a mini slide, dynamic spinners, and an engaging spider web, the playground is designed to captivate young minds.
Pro tips:
- Bring your bikes! The park’s bike paths connect seamlessly to the bridge walkway and the seafront path to Sandgate, providing a delightful opportunity for cycling enthusiasts.
- If you have both children and dogs in tow, Decker Park is a fantastic choice – the dog off-leash area ensures that everyone can enjoy their time outdoors.
9. Brisbane Corso Reserve
Location: Yeronga
Brisbane Corso Reserve has a quiet charm, ample facilities, and scenic river views which make it a top choice for an enjoyable family outing in Brisbane.
Located along the Yeronga riverfront, this narrow yet inviting park is perfect for leisurely walks, cycling, and rollerblading along its winding cement path. Its peaceful ambiance is ideal for picnics, barbecues, and quality time together under the shade of majestic trees.
One of the highlights of Brisbane Corso Reserve is its charming sand-floored children’s playground, designed with the younger ones in mind.
Whether you’re riding bikes, exploring the playground, throwing a fishing line, or simply unwinding on the benches by the riverbank, this park offers a wide range of activities to suit everyone’s preferences.
Pro tips:
- Bring along fishing gear and cast a line at one of the designated fishing spots. It’s an opportunity to introduce kids to the joys of fishing and spend quality time together while trying to catch a fish or two.
- Consider visiting during the late afternoon and evening to catch a stunning sunset over the Brisbane River.
10. Jindalee Boat Ramp Park
Address: 110/96 Mount Ommaney Dr, Jindalee QLD 4074
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Jindalee Boat Ramp Park stands out as a bustling hub of recreational activity for families and individuals alike.
The park has a double boat ramp and pontoon, which is ideal for boating enthusiasts seeking easy access to the river. With its lush greenery, electric barbecues and picnic shelters invite visitors to savor leisurely meals in a serene riverside setting.
The playground, with its modern play equipment, is a haven for children of different ages. Adjacent to the playground, there’s an open grassy area for impromptu ball games and outdoor fun.
Fitness enthusiasts can also use the exercise equipment and dog owners will appreciate the off-leash dog area as well.
Pro tips:
- While the park offers an array of fun activities, like the playground and riverfront, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Keep a close watch on your children, especially near the water’s edge.
- Embrace the open space by bringing along outdoor games like frisbee, soccer balls, or a cricket set.
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