The school bell has rung for the final time this term and the task of keeping Brisbane’s children engaged and entertained has once again fallen back onto caregivers and parents. But just because it’s school holidays doesn’t mean you have to spend your days holed up at home watching endless episodes of Cocomelon or at a play centre where the median age is 4 and a half and that smells a little too much like feet. To help you get back doing the things you love now with the kids you love, we’ve put together some handy dandy ideas for things to do in our neck of the woods that both parent and child alike will get a kick out of. We know you’re probably dying to switch up the holiday routine so read on for the full list of ideas and activities.

Get Cultured

Street Art Scavenger Hunt:

James St has made a name for itself as one of the state’s most beloved retail and dining districts, but did you know that it’s also home to stellar collection of street art too? With artworks peppered throughout our laneways, on the side of buildings and even on the ceilings, challenge you and your little one to an arty scavenger hunt and unlock a colourful, creative side of James St. We’ll give you the locations (and maybe a hint or two) but it’s up to you to uncover the rest!

Kick things off at Laneway Bagels where it might be worth casting your eyes upwards before crossing the street to weave in and out of the laneways between Calexico. Don’t let the banana leaves fool you, there is an earth-toned artwork hidden amongst the greenery. Head next down Doggett Street to find a piece of art sitting high in the sky on the side of Désordre and round out your street art scavenger hunt at Molten Store where we suggest taking a peak around the corner to discover a gargantuan mural hiding in plain sight.

Indoor Art:

If you’re more one for escaping Brisbane’s subtropical weather than embracing it, FINEPRINTCO and Studio Gallery house extensive collections of works from both local and international artists. Find intricate Indigenous artworks at FINEPRINTCO or marvel at Studio Gallery’s range of bold, textural sculptures.

A leisurely stroll around these gallery spaces is sure to inspire, but if you want to take your arty activities a step further, bring along some drawing materials for you and the kids to create your own works of art inspired by the prints, paintings and sculptural pieces at FINEPRINTCO and Studio Gallery.

Live the High Life

Poolside at The Calile:

If you’re looking for something a little more special to do with your child, The Calile Hotel has just the thing for you. Treat you and your little one to a luxurious day of swimming, sunning and snoozing with The Calile’s 9 to 5 offer. The package is available from Monday to Thursday and gives you access to an Urban Room for up to two guests, all day use of the pool and free reign of the hotel’s world class facilities from $229 per day. Get the full Calile experience with a Nigella Lawson approved croissant from Lobby Bar for breakfast or enjoy a Greek feast by the pool for lunch at Hellenika.

Feed the Family

Savoury Snacks:

Getting the entire family on the same page when it comes to mealtime can be tricky to say the least. But with plenty of different quick and easy options you can’t go wrong with a stop into Jocelyn’s Provisions or James Street Bakery. Pick up a pie (the lamb and rosemary is a crowd favourite!) or a freshly made sandwich from Jocelyn’s Provisions or grab one of James Street Bakery’s quiches or savoury Danishes and croissants all made in-house daily. Both venues have a relaxed outdoor seating area located right out front so you and the kids can take a load off without all the fuss.

Fuel on the Go:

We now kids aren’t always a fan of sitting in one place so if you’re in need of a quick refuel check out The Nut Market’s extensive range of rice crackers, trail mixes and dried fruits. Don’t worry, there is also a plethora of fan favourite and unique chocolates and lollies to keep the kids at bay too. Pair your snacks with convenient to carry frappe in a can from James & Antler. Made with Hokkaido vanilla soft serve and mixed right before your eyes, these frappes are a delight for both your visual and gustatory senses.

Sweet Treats:

No day out and about is complete without a little sweet treat. For a dazzling range of innovative flavour combos that could be straight out of Willy Wonka’s factory make a b-line for Gelato Messina. If you or your little ones are more of tried and true types, Quench’s range of award-winning, premium sorbets and gelatis have got you covered.