G’day, mate! If you’re looking for a fun-filled day out in Brisbane, look no further than the city’s theme and leisure parks!

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a peaceful retreat, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice. So pack your sunscreen, grab your friends, and let’s dive into the best theme and leisure parks in Brisbane.

Theme Parks

1. Dreamworld

This place has it all – heart-stopping rides, cute and cuddly animals, and plenty of food options to keep your energy levels up. It’s the perfect destination for families, thrill-seekers, and animal lovers alike.

Now, let’s talk about the rides. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, look no further than the Big 9 thrill rides.

From the Tower of Terror, which shoots you up to 100km/h in just 7 seconds, to the Giant Drop, which plummets you 119 meters in just a few seconds, these rides are not for the faint of heart.

But trust me, the rush you get from conquering your fears is worth it. And if you’re more of a family-friendly ride type of person, Dreamworld has got you covered with plenty of options like the classic Log Ride and the spinning Buzzsaw.

But Dreamworld isn’t just about the rides – it’s also home to some of the cutest and cuddliest animals you’ll ever meet. From kangaroos to koalas to tigers, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most iconic animals.

And if you’re feeling particularly brave, you can even snap a photo with a crocodile or hold a snake (with the help of a trained professional, of course).

And let’s not forget about the food. Dreamworld has plenty of options to keep you fueled throughout the day, from burgers and hot dogs to churros and ice cream.

And if you’re looking for a sit-down meal, head over to the Billabong Restaurant for some delicious Australian cuisine.

2. Warner Brothers Movie World

Warner Bros. Movie World is one of the best theme parks in Brisbane especially for movie buffs! 

Here, you can step into the world of your favorite films and TV shows, from DC Comics superheroes to Looney Tunes cartoons. It has a great mix of attractions, from the thrilling DC Rivals Hypercoaster to rides like the Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster.

And if you’re a fan of stunt shows, make sure to catch Hollywood Stunt Driver 2, which features some amazing car stunts and explosions. But the real highlight of Movie World for me is the theming.

The park is beautifully designed to transport you into the worlds of your favorite films. From the Gotham City section complete with the Batmobile, to the spooky Scooby-Doo area, every inch of the park is meticulously themed to immerse you in the movies.

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And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, you can’t miss the Harry Potter Experience, which takes you through a replica of Hogwarts Castle and the village of Hogsmeade.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Movie World is that it can get quite busy, especially during peak season. But don’t let the crowds deter you!

Just be sure to plan your day carefully, arrive early, and take advantage of the park’s Fast Track system to avoid long lines.

And if you’re feeling extra fancy, consider splurging on the VIP Magic Pass, which gives you access to a personal tour guide and front-of-line privileges for all attractions.

3. Wet ‘N’ Wild

If you’re a fan of water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, then this is the place for you.

The park is located in Oxenford, about a 20-minute drive from the heart of Brisbane. It is home to some of the wildest water rides you’ll ever experience, from the adrenaline-pumping Kamikaze slide to the family-friendly Calypso Beach.

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One of my favorite rides at the park is the Tornado. This slide is like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. You start off in a small tube, which quickly opens up into a massive funnel.

You’ll go up and down the sides of the funnel, spinning around and around until you finally splash down into the pool below. It’s an absolute blast, and I highly recommend giving it a try.

Of course, if you’re not a fan of the more extreme rides, there are plenty of other options available. The lazy river is a great way to relax and take in the scenery, while the wave pool is perfect for those who just want to splash around and have some fun.

4. Sea World

One of the main attractions at Sea World is the Dolphin Cove show, where you can watch these intelligent creatures perform tricks and play with their trainers. It’s a truly amazing experience to witness their intelligence and playfulness up close!

If you’re lucky, you may even get a chance to touch one of the dolphins after the show.

Another highlight is the Shark Bay exhibit, where you can walk through a transparent tunnel and watch as various species of sharks and rays swim above you. It’s a thrilling experience, but don’t worry – the tunnel is safe and the sharks are behind thick glass!

If you’re looking for more excitement, Sea World also has some great roller coasters and water rides. The Jet Rescue coaster is a personal favorite of mine, with its high speeds and twists that give you a sense of flying like a superhero.

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And for those looking to cool off, the Storm Coaster water ride is sure to make a splash!

Sea World is also committed to conservation and education, with many exhibits and displays that highlight the importance of protecting marine life and ecosystems.

It’s great to see a theme park that not only provides entertainment but also promotes awareness and education.

5. Aussie World

Aussie World is a hidden gem of a theme park nestled in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, just a short drive from Brisbane. 

As soon as you enter, you’re greeted by a colorful array of rides and attractions – from classic carnival rides like the Ferris wheel and dodgem cars to heart-pumping roller coasters and stomach-churning drop towers.

And don’t worry, there are plenty of tamer rides for the little ones too.

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One of my personal favorite rides is the Redback – a spinning coaster that sends you twisting and turning at high speeds. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for a challenge, give it a try!

And if you’re a fan of water rides, be sure to check out the Plunge – a thrilling log flume that’ll have you screaming with delight.

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But Aussie World isn’t just about the rides. The park also features a variety of games, food stalls, and entertainment options. You can test your skills at the sideshow games, grab a bite to eat at one of the many food outlets or catch a live show at the Shed.

And if you’re looking for a souvenir to remember your visit, be sure to check out the Aussie World gift shop.

Leisure Parks

1. Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo is one of the most iconic destinations in Brisbane. It’s the ultimate destination for wildlife lovers like me who want to experience up-close encounters with some of the most amazing animals on the planet.

The zoo was founded by the late Steve Irwin, and his passion for wildlife conservation can be felt throughout the park. The zoo is located in Beerwah, about an hour’s drive from Brisbane, and it’s definitely worth the trip!

One of my favorite things about Australia Zoo is the opportunity to get up close and personal with the animals. From feeding the kangaroos to cuddling a koala, you can get hands-on with some of the most iconic Australian animals.

But it’s not just the Aussie critters that are on show here. You can also check out tigers, cheetahs, rhinos, and more. And if you’re feeling brave, you can even get up close with some of the reptiles!

But Australia Zoo is more than just a place to see animals – it’s also a hub for conservation efforts. The zoo is committed to protecting wildlife and their habitats, and visitors can learn about the efforts being made to save endangered species.

You can even take part in some of the conservation activities yourself, like planting trees or helping with animal research. It’s a great way to give back and make a difference while having fun at the same time.

2. Victoria Park

As someone who loves outdoor activities, I’m always on the lookout for the best parks in town. And I have to say, Victoria Park is definitely one of the top leisure parks in Brisbane.

With its stunning scenery, a wide range of activities, and great facilities, it’s no wonder why locals and tourists alike flock to this park. The first thing that struck me about Victoria Park was its location.

Situated on the edge of Brisbane’s central business district, this 18-hole golf course and park offer breathtaking views of the city skyline. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long day at work or to spend a lazy weekend afternoon with friends.

But Victoria Park is more than just a golf course. The park is also home to a wide range of activities for people of all ages.

For the little ones, there’s a playground with plenty of swings, slides, and climbing frames to keep them entertained for hours. And for the adults, there’s a driving range, a mini golf course, and a fully-equipped gym to help you stay active.

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One of my personal favorite activities at Victoria Park is the putt-putt course. It’s a challenging and fun 18-hole course that will put your mini-golf skills to the test. And the best part? You get to do it all while enjoying the beautiful views of the city.

Another thing that I appreciate about Victoria Park is its excellent facilities. The park has a restaurant and bar that serves up delicious meals and refreshing drinks, making it the perfect place to grab a bite after a game of golf or a workout at the gym. 

And for those looking to host events, the park also has function rooms and event spaces that can cater to weddings, corporate events, and more.

3. Thunderbird Park

If you’re looking to unwind and spend some quality time with nature, Thunderbird Park is the place to be. And let me tell you, it’s not just the beautiful surroundings that make this park one of the best in Brisbane.

From the moment I arrived at Thunderbird Park, I was blown away by the beauty of the place. The park is nestled in the stunning rainforest, with picturesque views all around. The air was so fresh, and the sounds of nature were music to my ears.

I could feel my stress melting away instantly!

One of the highlights of the park is the TreeTop Challenge – a high ropes course that takes you through the trees. As a bit of a daredevil myself, I couldn’t resist giving it a go. 

And boy, was it exhilarating! With a variety of courses, including ziplines, cargo nets, and swings, it’s the perfect activity for adventure seekers.

But if heights aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. You can go on a bushwalk, have a go at mini-golf, or even try your hand at laser tag.

And for those who want to relax, you can simply unwind in the beautiful surroundings, or take a dip in the nearby rock pools.

And let’s not forget the accommodation options – you can stay in one of the cabins or lodges in the park. Imagine waking up to the sounds of birds chirping and the rustling of leaves. It’s truly a unique experience.

4. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must-see attraction for all animal lovers who are visiting Brisbane. It is home to some of the most adorable and iconic Australian animals, and it’s a great place to learn about them and their habitats.

There are many reasons why I think Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is one of the best leisure parks in Brisbane. First of all, it’s a sanctuary for a reason. The animals in this park are all there because they need help.

Some have been rescued from the wild, while others have been born and raised in captivity. But what’s important is that they’re all given the best possible care and attention.

As a visitor, you can feel good knowing that your entrance fee is going towards the continued care of these animals. 

The star attraction of the sanctuary is, of course, the koalas. These cute little creatures are native to Australia, and they’re an icon of the country.

At Lone Pine, you can get up close and personal with them. You can even hold a koala and have your photo taken with them! It’s an amazing experience that you won’t soon forget.

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But the koalas aren’t the only animals at Lone Pine. There are also kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, Tasmanian devils, echidnas, and a whole host of birds.

You can watch feeding sessions and learn about each animal’s habits and behavior from the knowledgeable staff.

The park also has a number of activities that are both fun and educational. For example, you can attend a bird of prey show, where you’ll see various species of raptors in action.

You can also take part in a sheepdog show and watch trained dogs herding sheep around an arena. There are also various talks and presentations throughout the day.

In addition to the animals, the park itself is beautiful. It’s situated right on the Brisbane River, and there are plenty of walking trails to explore. You can even bring a picnic and enjoy a meal with a beautiful view.

5. New Farm Park

Ah, New Farm Park, one of my personal favorites! If you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a picnic spot with a view, this park is definitely worth a visit.

Located in the heart of Brisbane, this park is a sprawling green oasis, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the Brisbane River. This 15-hectare park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with plenty of space to enjoy the great outdoors.

One of the attractions at New Farm Park is the historic Brisbane Powerhouse, which is a converted power station that now serves as a hub for arts and cultural events. There are regular performances, exhibitions, and festivals held here throughout the year.

But even if you’re not interested in the arts scene, there’s still plenty to see and do at New Farm Park. Take a stroll along the river walk, have a game of cricket or frisbee on the expansive lawns, or relax on one of the many shaded.

For families with young children, the park also features a large playground with swings, slides, and climbing equipment to keep the little ones entertained. And if you’re a fan of barbecues, there are plenty of public barbecue facilities available for use.

What I love most about New Farm Park is that it’s a great place to unwind. There’s always something going on, whether it’s a game of touch football, a family picnic, or simply people-watching from a shady spot under a tree.

With New Farm Park’s stunning views, fresh air, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s a great place to recharge your batteries and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

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