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The Top 5 Amusement Parks in Brisbane That Gave Me Memories For A Lifetime

  • Variety of Rides and Attractions: I wanted to make sure that there’s something for everyone in my group. Parks that offer a mix of roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions tend to be the best because they cater to all interests and age ranges.
  • Crowd Size and Wait Times: No one is a fan of long lines, so parks that manage crowd size well or offer options like express passes or fast-track entry are definitely appealing. I chose places that feel spacious and relaxed rather than overcrowded, as it makes the experience more enjoyable overall.
  • Food and Dining Options: I looked for parks that offer a good variety of dining options, whether it's healthy snacks, vegetarian choices, or classic theme park food. Good meals can make the day even better!
  • Value for Money: I wanted to make sure that I was getting good value for what I was paying. Parks with reasonable ticket prices or ones that offer discounts for groups, families, or annual passes are a plus. Additionally, I checked if the park offers enough attractions to justify the cost of admission.

When I’m feeling down, sometimes food trips or simple hangouts with friends aren’t the answer anymore. Sometimes, I want to forget being an adult and release my inner child instead. And I think one of the places to do that is at amusement parks.

Amusement parks are scattered around Brisbane with different themes and attractions. It’s difficult to choose where to go, especially with other factors considered like the food and prices. But I already made a list of the best for us to skip that decision process!

So, get ready to release your inner child! Check out the list below!

1. Dreamworld

dreamworld

Website: https://www.dreamworld.com.au/

Address: Dreamworld Pkwy, Coomera QLD 4209, Australia

Contact Details: +61 7 5588 1111

Operating Hours: Sunday – Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM

Google Reviews Score4.3/5
Tripadvisor Score4/5
Score Consistency4.2/5
Variety of Rides and Attractions5/5
Crowd Size and Wait Times4.5/5
Food and Dining Options5/5
Value for Money4/5

Dreamworld is a huge place, and I don’t mean that lightly! They’re made up of seven different worlds, like a one-stop shop but the amusement park version. That’s something you don’t see everyday! And with that, I had huge expectations.

When I got in, I didn’t know where to go because there were so many attractions to choose from. I first visited Main Street, then Kenny & Belinda’s Dreamland, the popular Tiger Island, Ocean Parade, Corroboree & Australian Wildlife, and WhiteWater World.

I decided to go to Rivertown last because they have Jane’s Rivertown Restaurant which I heard was great, and it was! I got the Savannah Steak which is a slow-roasted sirloin. The menu variety was wide and the prices were reasonable!

The staff everywhere were very polite too. And the place was definitely not only for kids because as an adult, I had loads of fun. My favorite part was Tiger Island because I saw that they really care for the big cats and are not just using them for money.

I recommend booking tickets online to save you from the wait. Also, be there when they open at 10 AM so you can try out everything. Annual tickets are a must-buy too, especially if you’re a local! It’s to save you money for an easier guaranteed entrance.

Although I did hear about rides being shut down occasionally because of maintenance. I hope they do service checks beforehand so they can control expectations. Maybe it’s time for them to upgrade soon as well, but good thing I still enjoyed when I was there!

Pros

  • Wide variety of attractions
  • Annual tickets available
  • Great food

Cons

  • Some rides may be closed
  • Expensive

We will be back

Dreamworld was an amazing experience. Best of the theme parks for rides and adventures. We got there on a Tuesday morning. Basically no wait times for rides and the kids had an absolute blast. Tiger island and the Sky Voyager was also a great experience for those not so keen on thrill rides. Thank you dreamworld, we will be back!!

Oliver Kipping | Google Review

Excellent value for money

We visited the park with the grandkids and family just after moving to the Gold Coast 6 months ago and enjoyed it so much we have been back another 3 times since then. We love the variety of rides, shows and entertainment, the animal areas and plenty of amenities and areas to stop and rest too or buy something to eat. The annual tickets are excellent value for money if you’re a local, making it an affordable, entertaining and extremely fun place to visit at any time with the whole family any day you like!

Naomi Stevenson | Google Reviews

2. Sea World

sea-world

Website: https://seaworld.com.au/

Address: Seaworld Dr, Main Beach QLD 4217, Australia

Contact Details: +61 133 386

Operating Hours: Sunday – Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM

Google Reviews Score4.2/5
Tripadvisor Score4/5
Score Consistency4.1/5
Variety of Rides and Attractions5/5
Crowd Size and Wait Times3.5/5
Food and Dining Options5/5
Value for Money5/5

Sea World is a place I really adore, especially whenever it’s summertime. Because who wouldn’t want to hang out with the playful seals and dolphins?

The place has so many attractions, obviously lots of them water-related, so prepare to bring some extra shirts! Apart from the Vortex and Storm Coaster rides, which I really enjoyed, I highly recommend going for the Seal Aqua Adventure.

Sea World is perfect for people who love animals. And if you love to swim, there are so many interactive activities to try with family and friends, beautiful sea creatures, or even just by yourself!

When I got hungry, they have plenty of food options as well. They had cafés and stalls that sell ice cream, pizza, hotdog, and more for all to enjoy. I went to the Top Terrace Café and enjoyed a delicious seafood basket. Ordered some top-tier prawns too!

However, I have to give a reminder to check the weather before you visit because I heard that the slightest rain shuts down most of the park. It’s a bummer, especially that admission doesn’t come cheap. Also, be ready for a bit of a wait at the entrance.

Pros

  • Plenty of interactive activities
  • Activities with animals
  • Good food variety

Cons

  • Long wait time
  • Weather can shut down rides
  • Expensive

One place which I would recommend for everyone

This is one place which I would recommend for everyone; young as well as old. There is some kind of entertainment or other for everybody. Just to name some of the entertaining rides: Leviathan, vortex, storm, etc. The shows of dolphins and seals were very entertaining and informative as well! I suggest everyone to avail their seats a little in advance against the show timings. Use the maps to locate the specific area. The penguin area, shark bay, polar bear, aquarium are also very interesting!

Sumit Roy | Google Review

I don’t think 5 stars are enough

I don’t think 5 stars are enough for this place! They’ve very cleverly set the timings of shows in a way that it’ll be very very difficult for you to cover consecutive shows. You have to be on your toes running to go to the farther ends of the place for each to not miss it. I was there for a day and planned to cover as much as possible. Loved every part of it! The presentation, the animals, the service and help desks, and of course the lovely and friendly people there. If I have the chance I’ll visit again even to see the same shows! Love it, highly, highly recommended. I also bought lovely bracelets from their shops. It’s gonna be very, VERY expensive if you’re travelling from another country with a lower exchange rate. But it’s all worth it. For all ages.

Aarushi Kumar | Google Reviews

3. Warner Bros. Movie World

warner-bros-movie-world

Website: https://movieworld.com.au/

Address: Pacific Mwy, Oxenford QLD 4210, Australia

Contact Details: +61 133386

Operating Hours: Sunday – Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM

Google Reviews Score4.1/5
Klook Score4.5/5
Score Consistency4.3/5
Variety of Rides and Attractions5/5
Crowd Size and Wait Times3.5/5
Food and Dining Options4.5/5
Value for Money4/5

I’m a huge fan of many Warner Bros. projects, and that’s why I was intrigued to visit their theme park. Their attractions are mainly inspired by and even named after recent films and classic shows!

Among the rides, I enjoyed the Green Lantern Coaster, BATWING Spaceshot, and the Hollywood Stunt Driver 2 Experience the most. They were mostly adrenaline-rushing and will really make you catch your breath.

After that, I went and got myself a snack from one of the few cafés and diners, specifically the Gotham City Café. It was a regular burger joint, but what impressed me was the freshness of the ingredients and the delicious sauce!

However, I was really disappointed with how there was a long wait time for the entrance and the attractions. I noticed it was probably because of the lack of manpower. I got in early and still had to wait, so I feel bad for those who came in at a later time.

I advise doing the same as myself– be there early so you can enjoy the rides first before the large crowd arrives. Doing so also gives you great seats in the restaurants for a great dining experience!

Pros

  • Familiar themes
  • Attractions for adrenaline rush
  • Delicious food options

Cons

  • Long wait time
  • Not enough staff to help

Absolutely fantastic

Excellent theme park in Gold Coast. Absolutely fantastic. The Park is packed with thrilling rides, engaging shows, fun activities and a water play area for kids. So many resting areas to sit and relax. There are many dining options and available locker facilities. It’s absolutely worth visiting with family for a full day with entertainment and good memories. Spacious parking area and easy to access.

Varghese K C | Google Reviews

Such an amazing experience

Absolutely fantastic! Rides are super awesome, so are everything else!! Such an amazing experience! We went on a Sunday during a long weekend. It opens at 10:00am. There were no crazy lines for the rides when you go by the opening time. They have a big parking space and are super convenient.

Hasini Gunasekara | Google Reviews

4. South Bank Parklands

south-bank-parklands

Website: https://southbankcorporation.com.au/places/parklands

Address: Clem Jones Promenade, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Contact Details: +61 7 3867 2111

Operating Hours: Sunday – Saturday: 5 AM – 12 AM

Google Reviews Score4.8/5
Tripadvisor Score4.5/5
Score Consistency4.7/5
Variety of Rides and Attractions3/5
Crowd Size and Wait Times5/5
Food and Dining Options5/5
Value for Money5/5

On paper, South Bank Parklands isn’t your traditional amusement park, but it has some parts that make it one! People might argue between Sydney and Melbourne being the capital, but this place gives Brisbane a solid reputation.

First off, it’s free of charge, so that’s already a reason to go! The place is accessible, wide, and has a huge variety of activities catered to all ages. You can go for a rainforest walk, enjoy the view of the waters, or take a ride on the famous Brisbane Wheel!

I personally enjoyed the riverfront promenade and, of course, I knew I had to get on the ferris wheel to fully enjoy the beautiful city skyline. The Parklands is just one of those places that doesn’t give you an adrenaline rush, but gives you comfort instead.

There are also restaurants and cafés if you ever feel hungry. I went to Popolo, an Italian restaurant and got the fettuccine and margherita pizza alongside a cocktail. They were fantastic, and with the exceptional outside view, the experience was phenomenal!

The only downside is that the Parklands is full of attractions but not rides. If you’re looking for traditional amusement or theme parks with roller coasters, then this place might not be for you. Still, I had the best time visiting one of the best places in Brisbane.

Pros

  • Free of charge
  • Accessible
  • Great view of the city

Cons

  • Lack of rides

A must visit for any explorer

Beautiful place, weather is excellent in Queensland so you are bound to enjoy the day. There is a wheel of Brisbane which you can ride, it’s wonderful. There is a man-made beach which is clean and lovely and very lively especially on weekends. There are paid lockers and free showers near the man-made guard patrolled beach. Beautiful at night and in the day. A must visit for any explorer. Love it!

Linda Glass | Google Reviews

Absolutely incredible

South Bank Parklands was absolutely incredible. Super family friendly, and had a different vibe every 100m or so. Could very easily spend a half to full day here. Bars, restaurants, cafes, kids playgrounds, well planned bush walk and the awesome pool/beach. Highly recommend it.

Blake Dunn | Google Reviews

5. Aussie World

aussie-world

Website: https://www.aussieworld.com.au/

Address: 73 Frizzo Rd, Palmview QLD 4553, Australia

Contact Details: +61 7 5494 5444

Operating Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM

Google Reviews Score4.3/5
Tripadvisor Score4/5
Score Consistency4.2/5
Variety of Rides and Attractions4/5
Crowd Size and Wait Times4.5/5
Food and Dining Options3.5/5
Value for Money4.5/5

When it comes to being a traditional amusement park in terms of look and atmosphere, Aussie World is that kind of place. When I visited, it’s like one of those places you see in the movies where the main character and their friends go and have a good time.

The Redback and The Plunge are definitely my picks over the rest of the rides. The thrill level was just through the roof and they made me lose my voice after all the screaming. Definitely for the people who love extreme attractions! Plus, admission is affordable too!

However, I noticed that the rides for adults were limited because about half of them were strictly for kids. I understand that it’s an amusement park that caters mainly to families, though. But still, I would have liked some more experiences.

I went to their Fun Café to get some food, and the menu items were decent and reasonably priced. To match one of my favorite rides, I got The Redback burger along with some nuggets, onion rings, and a milkshake. Delicious comfort meal combo!

The catch? Their problem with frequent ride maintenance and lack of manpower could get in the way of your experience. I was fortunate to have most of the rides working during my visit, but double-check their website for maintenance schedules!

Pros

  • Thrilling rides
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Limited attractions for adults
  • Frequent ride maintenance
  • Lack of manpower

The park is clean and food is reasonably priced

This is a small attraction but packed with rides mainly for 6 to 12 year olds. There are a few adult rides but not enough to keep teenagers entertained for long. The park is clean and food is reasonably priced. Take swim wear if planning to use the ‘leaky logs’. Our 6 year old was kept entertained for 5 hours although this entailed a lot of repeat rides.

Jocelyne Twose | Google Reviews

Definitely worth a visit

Great park for younger kids under 13, but great for all! There are so many rides, a water play area, great food area, and a water refill station. I would even go back there multiple times if I was a local. It’s the best family fun day for adults and kids. I got on multiple rides and had a blast. It was amazing. The lines for the rides aren’t crazy like other theme parks. I loved it and I highly recommend you go there for a fun family day. Get there when they open so you can go on the ride multiple times, have lunch, play, etc.

Catherine Houlton | Google Reviews


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