Enjoying a family-friendly escape at the following hotels is child’s play. Think fun for them, a bit of luxury for you. With so many great things to see and do in Brisbane, with any luck the kids will be in bed early.
Impress even the sulkiest teen: NEXT Hotel, Brisbane CBD
Tech-savvy tweens will love stylish Next Hotel’s high-tech amenities. Lobby computer terminals allow you to check in and out at the touch of a button, and an in-room smartphone controls the air-conditioning, lights and television.
You can also use the phone to order room service or – surprise, surprise – even make a phone call.
Local calls are free as is the wi-fi, which can be used on an unlimited number of devices, and there are interconnecting rooms for older kids. Oh, and the four free mini bar items per day will go down a treat, too!
If being cooped up sends them cuckoo: Royal on the Park, Brisbane CBD
With a star-studded history dating back to 1969, the iconic Royal on the Park has old-school charm that never goes out of style.
Located directly across from the Botanic Gardens – a leafy inner-city haven with a great kids’ playground and plenty of room to run around – it’s a top choice for active families.
Even the standard rooms are enormous but, if you’re after a treat and a bit of extra space, opt for one of the well-priced suites which have a separate bedroom and lounge area.
For budding marine biologists: Tangalooma Island Resort, Moreton Island
Grab your bucket and spade – it’s time to explore one of the biggest ‘sandcastles’ you’ve ever seen.
Tangalooma Island Resort is located on Moreton Island, the world’s second-largest sand island.
Here you can hand-feed wild dolphins, snorkel amongst shipwrecks, go whale watching, take a sand tobogganing tour or sign up for complimentary activities such as archery and badminton.
Almost like spending a night at the museums: Mantra South Bank, South Brisbane
Relax on the balcony while your little ones have a nap at Mantra South Bank, a contemporary apartment hotel located right in the heart of the action at South Bank Parklands.
With the Queensland Museum, Sciencentre, Wheel of Brisbane, Queensland Maritime Museum and ferry terminals located less than 10 minutes walk away, it’s the ideal hotel for young kids who have loads of enthusiasm but limited stamina, and being able to self-cater keeps costs down.
One word – ponies!: Cedar Glen Farmstay, Beaudesert
With activities ranging from feeding the animals to egg-collecting, cow-milking, swimming, horse riding and whip-cracking lessons, you won’t hear those dreaded words ‘I’m bored!’ at family-friendly Cedar Glen farmstay, located in the foothills of the spectacular ‘Lost World’ section of Lamington National Park.
Be first in line at the theme parks: Brisbane Holiday Village, Eight Mile Plains
This holiday park, located 20 minutes from the Gold Coast’s theme parks, has more in common with a resort than a campground.
Park your caravan, pitch a tent or bunk down in a cabin at Brisbane Holiday Village and round up the gang for free activities such as lorikeet-feeding, a round of mini golf, a game of tennis or a swim in the lagoon-style pool.
If they’re eating you out of house and home: Mercure Hotel, Brisbane CBD
With sparkling views of the South Bank arts precinct, Brisbane River and the Wheel of Brisbane, the recently refurbished Mercure Hotel at North Quay is a haven for budget-conscious families as two children under 16 can share the room and join you for buffet breakfast at no extra charge.
Don’t miss the hotel’s MRepublic restaurant with its well-priced, contemporary menu that is worth staying in for.
