Tasty eats, kid-sized activities, and heaps of family-friendly fun at the bustling new cultural precinct in Brisbane – Northshore Brisbane.
We often head to Brisbane for an overnight stay. While the Sunshine Coast is fantastic, a family trip to the city offers something unique: world-class cultural experiences, delicious food, and soaking up the buzz of the town. However, there’s more to Brisbane than just its CBD. We spent a weekend exploring the new and vibrant precinct of Northshore Brisbane — just six kilometres from the CBD—and discovered a family-friendly destination teeming with fun, food, and memorable experiences.
Here’s our guide to making the most of a family-friendly weekend at Northshore Brisbane.
Saturday Morning at Northshore Brisbane
Circus Fun House Show at the Pink Flamingo Spiegeland
Kick off your weekend at Northshore Brisbane with a bang at the Pink Flamingo Spiegeland. The Circus Fun House Show is a stage spectacular designed especially for kids and their families. Daring aerial stunts, dazzling costumes, state-of-the-art effects, and plenty of laugh-out-loud comedy will captivate the whole family. The international circus performers know how to blow little minds! pinkflamingoaustralia.com
Acrobatics at Pink Flamingo Circus Show, Northshore Brisbane
Lunch: FoshTails Fish & Chippery
After the show, refuel at FoshTails Fish & Chippery at Portside Wharf. Its relaxed vibe and fresh, sustainable seafood menu make it a family winner. The fish and chips are crispy perfection, and their selection of burgers is impressive—bonus points for being super kid-friendly. foshportside.com.au/foshtails
Lunch at Foshtails Fish & Chippery, Northshore Brisbane
Saturday Afternoon
The Ball Park
Next up, head to The Ball Park, Australia’s first interactive baseball experience. Step into the digital batting cages that cater for all ages and abilities. Kids love stepping up to the plate, battling it out for the highest score. Plus, with dartboards, pool tables, and live sport on the big screens, there’s heaps to entertain. Great coffee, bagels, and craft beer make it a hit with the whole family! theballpark.au
Playing baseball at The Ball Park, Northshore Brisbane
Dinner: Gusto Da Gianni
Northshore Brisbane’s dining scene is impressive, so we chose Gusto Da Gianni for dinner. This Italian gem serves authentic dishes inspired by the Marche region. Think next-level pizzas and divine pasta, complemented by an exceptional wine list featuring rare Italian vintages. The atmosphere is warm and inviting—perfect for a special family dinner. gustodagianni.com
Dinner at Gusto Da Gianni, Northshore Brisbane
Sunday Breakfast
Riva Kitchen & Events
Begin your day with breakfast at Riva Kitchen & Events. Located by the water, this contemporary venue presents breathtaking riverfront views and a modern dining menu. The poached eggs and avocado were superb, the coffee was expertly made, and the tranquil riverside setting provided the perfect backdrop for a leisurely breakfast. There’s a fantastic playground next door for the kids to enjoy while you finish your coffee. rivakitchen.com.au
Breakfast at Riva Kitchen & Events, Brisbane
Sunday Morning
Bluey’s World
If you have little ones, Bluey’s World is a must. This immersive experience brings the beloved TV show to life. Embark on a guided adventure through the blue heeler’s iconic Queensland home. Explore multiple rooms, play games, and interact with recognisable sets and scenes from the hit show. Of course, don’t forget to spot Long Dog in each room! It’s imaginative, interactive, and pure joy for Bluey fans. bluey.tv/blueys-world
Bluey and Bingo on the front steps at Bluey’s World Brisbane
Post-show sweet treat: Rose Gelateria
Before wrapping up your Noreshore adventure, grab a sweet treat at Rose Gelateria. Their homemade gelato is heavenly, and they offer plenty of other yummy desserts. The coffee was top-notch, providing a much-needed pick-me-up for the drive home. rosegelateria.com.au
Delicious gelato at Rose Gelataria
Where to stay in Northshore Brisbane
Alcyone Hotel Residences
There is already so much built at Northshore Brisbane, and when wandering around, you can see how much more will be developed in the coming years. There are many accommodation options and apartment hotels already available. We stayed at Alcyone Hotel Residences, an apartment hotel in the heart of Portside Wharf. Our two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment was modern and well-appointed—perfect for families. The pool is stunning, and there is a huge adventure playground just across the road for the kid to burn off some steam. alcyone.com.au
The entrance at Alcyone Hotel, Northshore Brisbane
About Northshore Brisbane
Once home to Queensland’s bustling wharves, Northshore Brisbane has transformed into a sustainable hub of experiential arts, cultural events, and world-class dining. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly entertainment, delicious food, or immersive cultural experiences, Northshore Brisbane delivers. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend escape that feels fresh, fun, and utterly different from the usual city stay. Ready to pack your bags?
Related Reads
New Brisbane street art: Vote for your favourite artwork!
Wildlife sanctuaries and places to see animals in Brisbane
Shade sail rollout across Brisbane playgrounds ensures cool play for kids
