Ultimate 4-Day Family Adventure in Brisbane on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Brisbane

Brisbane, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Merlo Coffee

Start your day with a delicious and affordable breakfast at Merlo Coffee, renowned for its rich brews and homely vibe.
Located at 5/45 Lytton Rd, the café is easily reachable via public transport.
AUD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit South Bank Parklands

Stroll through the beautiful South Bank Parklands where you can enjoy a walk along the river, visit the beach, and see the iconic Brisbane Wheel.
Walk to South Bank Parklands, approximately 15 minutes from the café.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Collective

Enjoy lunch at The Collective, a casual dining option with various cuisines that are budget-friendly and tasty.
Located within walking distance in the South Bank area.
AUD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Queensland Museum and Sciencentre

Explore fascinating exhibits ranging from dinosaur skeletons to live science demonstrations, making it perfect for family learning.
Located just a 10-minute walk from The Collective.
AUD15 (Family ticket), 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Brisbane Botanic Gardens

Wander through the stunning Botanic Gardens, showcasing native plants and wildlife, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Take a short bus ride or enjoy a 30-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Plough Inn

Enjoy hearty pub food at The Plough Inn, a great spot for the family that offers a welcoming ambience.
Only a 5-minutes walk back to South Bank.
AUD50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Adventure at Moreton Island

Moreton Island, Australia

7:00AM

Ferry to Moreton Island

Catch an early morning ferry from Brisbane to Moreton Island for a day filled with adventure and natural beauty.
You can board the ferry at the Brisbane Ferry Terminal, reachable by bus.
AUD50 (Family ticket), 1 hour ferry ride

9:00AM

Snorkeling at Tangalooma Wrecks

Once you arrive, dive right into an amazing snorkeling experience amongst the shipwrecks teeming with marine life.
Snorkeling gear can be rented on-site.
AUD35 (gear rental), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tangalooma Resort

Grab a budget-friendly meal at Tangalooma Resort, with views overlooking the beautiful water.
This is conveniently located at the resort.
AUD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Sandboarding and Tobogganing

Experience the thrill of sandboarding on the majestic dunes – a must-do family activity!
This can be organized through various local adventure companies.
AUD40 (Family package), 2 hours

3:30PM

Nature Walk

Explore one of the many trails of Moreton Island for stunning views and native wildlife encounters.
The trails are well marked and easy to access from your location.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Ferry back to Brisbane

Head back to Brisbane after a fun-filled day on the island.
Return to the ferry terminal at Tangalooma for the ride back.
AUD50 (Family ticket), 1 hour ferry ride

7:00PM

Dinner at the Breakfast Creek Hotel

Sink your teeth into a famous steak at this iconic Brisbane pub known for its generous portions.
Located in the city; take a bus or taxi.
AUD60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Art and Culture Day

Brisbane, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Bagel Boys

Start your day with a delightful variety of freshly made bagels at The Bagel Boys, perfect for a quick breakfast.
A short bus ride or 20-minute walk gives access.
AUD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)

Immerse yourself in Australia’s contemporary art scene at GOMA, which often has free family-friendly exhibits and workshops.
Easily walkable from The Bagel Boys.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful walk amidst the beautiful flora and tranquil pathways of the City Botanic Gardens.
It’s a short 15-minute walk from GOMA.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cube

Have lunch at The Cube located within the Queensland Cultural Centre, offering simple yet delicious options.
Located right next to the botanic gardens.
AUD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Queensland Art Gallery

Continue the cultural immersion at the Queensland Art Gallery, showcasing local and international art collections.
Just a short stroll across the way.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Take a River Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing river cruise to take in the city views from the water—a fun and unique perspective of Brisbane.
Departing from the riverside near the cultural precinct.
AUD30 (Family ticket), 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Transcontinental Hotel

Finish your day with dinner at Transcontinental Hotel, known for its extensive menu and friendly atmosphere.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, easily reachable by bus.
AUD50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Community and Farmers' Markets

Brisbane, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Flour & Chocolate

Start your last day at Flour & Chocolate, a charming bakery offering delicious pastries and coffee.
A quick bus ride will get you there.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Brisbane City Markets

Visit the lively Brisbane City Markets where you can browse local crafts, fresh produce, and snacks.
Located in the heart of Brisbane, accessible by bus.
Free to browse, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Roma Street Parkland

Wander through this spectacular park, complete with themed gardens, playgrounds, and picnic spots for families.
Walking distance from City Markets.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Food Truck

Grab a delicious and budget-friendly lunch from one of the many food trucks around Roma Street Parkland.
Multiple options available on-site.
AUD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Queensland State Library

Spend some quiet time at the State Library, allowing kids to explore the curated children’s section.
It's a short walk from the park.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Hotel and Rest

After an action-packed trip, head back to your accommodation to relax and reflect on your Brisbane adventure.
Accessible via a short bus ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Fox Hotel

Wrap up your adventure with a relaxed dinner featuring eclectic Australian cuisine at The Fox Hotel.
Located near the city center.
AUD60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability