Skip to content
50 must-do experiences for families in Australia
From scenic picnics and museum visits to interactive workshops and family-friendly theatre shows, we’ve rounded up the best ways to create magical memories together. 
March 10 2025
Melissa Soutar
BLOG Image Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef
CONTENTS
| Natural Wonders
Wildlife Encoutners
Theme Parks & Attractions
Museums & Cultural Experiences
Alternative text 4_1110
4 min read
A bucket list of unforgettable adventures for families of all ages.
 
Whether you're looking for summer beach escapes, winter wildlife encounters, or springtime road trips, we’ve curated the ultimate bucket list experiences —so you can make the most of every family trip!
Natural wonders to explore as a family
Embarking on adventures in nature not only unveils the world's beauty but also strengthens family bonds and fosters lifelong memories. We have such a brief opportunity to pass on to our children our love for this Earth.

Australia’s natural wonders aren’t just beautiful—they’re playgrounds for curious kids and adventure-seeking families. From reef snorkelling to ancient rock art, these unforgettable destinations connect you with the land, sea, and sky.

1️⃣ Great Barrier Reef, QLD – Snorkel vibrant coral gardens, dive among marine life, or glide across the water on a glass-bottom boat. Stretching over 2,300km, the Great Barrier Reef is vast and diverse, offering unique ways to explore from Cairns, Port Douglas, and even the Southern Great Barrier Reef—just 4 hours north of Brisbane. This more accessible section makes a perfect starting point for young explorers and first-time reef visits.

2️⃣ Uluru, NT – Witness the shifting colours of Uluru at sunrise or sunset and learn the ancient stories of Anangu culture on guided walks. Time your visit with Parrtjima – A Festival of Light for a breathtaking celebration of Aboriginal art and storytelling under the desert sky.

3️⃣ The Twelve Apostles, VIC – Cruise the scenic Great Ocean Road and marvel at these towering limestone stacks. Extend your road trip inland to the Grampians National Park, where families can canoe, abseil, spot kangaroos, and discover Indigenous rock art.

4️⃣ Cradle Mountain, TAS – Lace up your boots and hit family-friendly trails to alpine lakes and waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for wombats grazing along the boardwalks, a guaranteed highlight for little wildlife lovers.

5️⃣ Daintree Rainforest, QLD – Walk under ancient canopies in the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. Take a wildlife river cruise to spot crocodiles—or for families ready to turn up the fun, try river drift snorkelling or rafting through pristine jungle waterways.

6️⃣ Ningaloo Reef, WA – One for the bucket list! Swim alongside gentle whale sharks (March–August), snorkel turquoise lagoons, and explore vibrant coral reefs right from the shore at Coral Bay or Exmouth.

7️⃣ The Pinnacles, WA – Explore the otherworldly landscape of Nambung National Park, where thousands of limestone pillars rise from the desert. A short drive from Perth makes this an easy day trip with older kids fascinated by natural wonders.

8️⃣ Kakadu National Park, NT – Discover cascading waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, and saltwater crocodiles in Australia’s largest national park. Families can hike, swim in natural plunge pools, and spot wildlife in their natural habitats.

9️⃣ Wineglass Bay, TAS – A gentle but rewarding family hike brings you to one of Australia’s most photographed beaches. The view from the lookout is stunning, and if you’re up for more adventure, kayak the bay for a unique perspective.

🔟 Blue Mountains, NSW – Ride the Scenic Railway (the world’s steepest passenger train), explore Jenolan Caves, and hike through eucalyptus forests filled with waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. Don’t miss the Three Sisters at sunset!


BONUS NATURAL WONDER:

🦕 Dinosaur Trail, Outback QLD – Take a prehistoric road trip through Winton, Richmond, and Hughenden along Queensland’s Dinosaur Trail. Visit fossil museums, dig sites, and even walk in real dinosaur footprints at Lark Quarry. An unforgettable journey into Australia’s ancient past—perfect for dinosaur-obsessed kids!

OR

🕳️ Explore the Caves of WA – Swap dinosaur bones for limestone caves in WA’s southwest. At Jewel Cave, Lake Cave, and Mammoth Cave near Margaret River, families can descend into spectacular underground worlds filled with stalactites and prehistoric fossils.


👉 MAKE IT EXTRA: Planning a trip around a family birthday? Surprise your explorer with a unique experience—whether it’s a guided night walk, a wildlife encounter, or a special dinner under the stars to celebrate their big day!

Discover
Blog Image Frankland Island Cairns
2. Bucket List Wildlife Encounters
Bucket List Wildlife Encounters
(Meet Australia’s unique animals up close in ethical and interactive ways)

11. Jumping Crocodile Cruise, NT – Experience the prehistoric crocodile in its natural habitat in the Adelaide River.

12. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, QLD – Cuddle a koala and feed kangaroos.

13. Phillip Island Penguin Parade, VIC – Watch little penguins waddle home at sunset.

14. Kangaroo Island, SA
– Spot sea lions, echidnas, and wild kangaroos.

15. Taronga Zoo, NSW
– Enjoy stunning Sydney Harbour views while meeting wildlife.

16. Rottnest Island, WA
– Snap a selfie with a quokka.

17. Devils at Cradle, TAS
– Learn about conservation and see Tassie devils in action. 

18. Caversham Wildlife Park, WA
– Hand-feed friendly Australian animals.

19. Whale Watching, Various Locations
– Witness humpback whales migrate along the coast.

20. Mon Repos Turtle Encounter, QLD
– See baby turtles hatch and make their way to the ocean.


👉 MAKE IT EXTRA: Book a behind-the-scenes tour for a more immersive experience!

BOOK NOW
Thrilling Theme Parks + Adventure Attractions
(Exciting destinations for thrill-seekers and fun-loving families)

21. Gold Coast Theme Parks, QLD – Movie World, Sea World, and Wet’n’Wild.

22. Luna Park, VIC & NSW – Classic funfair rides with cityscape views.

23. Adventure World, WA – The ultimate Perth theme park.

24. TreeTops Adventure Parks, Various Locations – Zip-lining and high-ropes courses.

25. iFLY Indoor Skydiving, Various Locations – Experience the sensation of flight!

26. Legoland Discovery Centre, VIC – Hands-on creativity and fun.

27. Outback Spectacular, QLD – An immersive dinner and show experience.

28. Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk, NSW
– Walk among the treetops with breathtaking views.

29. Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, QLD
– Glide above the rainforest near Cairns.

30. Sovereign Hill, VIC
– Step back in time to Australia’s gold rush era.



👉 MAKE IT EXTRA: Plan your visit around special events for an even more memorable experience.

BOOK NOW
Blog Image Luna Park Melbourne
Luna Park - Melbourne
Award Winning Museums + Cultural Experiences
(Educational yet fun experiences for all ages)
31. Questacon, ACT– Interactive science fun in Canberra.

32. Australian Museum, NSW
– Discover dinosaurs and Indigenous culture.

33. GOMA, QLD
– Immerse in digital art exhibitions.

34. Australian War Memorial, ACT
– Learn about Australia’s history in a family-friendly way.

35. National Gallery of Australia, ACT
– Home to world-famous artworks and family programs.

36. MONA, TAS
– A unique and quirky museum experience in Hobart.

37. Powerhouse Museum, NSW
– Hands-on exhibits covering science, design, and innovation.

38. Sovereign Hill, VIC
– Pan for gold and experience life in the 1850s.

39. WA Museum Boola Bardip, WA
– Explore Western Australia’s stories.

40. National Maritime Museum, NSW
– Climb aboard real ships and submarines.


✨MAKE IT EXTRA: Join a kids' workshop or guided family tour!

BOOK NOW
Outdoor Adventures & Unique Experiences 
(Action-packed experiences for families who love the outdoors!)

 

41. Hot Air Ballooning, Various Locations – A magical sunrise experience.

42. Frankland Islands Reef Cruise, QLD – Snorkel and explore a secluded tropical paradise.

43. Byron Bay Kayaking, NSW – Paddle with dolphins.

44. Royal National Park Walk Coast Track, NSW – soak up the beauty of rugged landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and diverse ecosystems.

45. Stargazing in the Outback, NT & SA – Witness Australia’s clearest night skies.

46. Skiing in the Snowy Mountains, NSW – Family-friendly slopes at Thredbo or Perisher.

47. Tasmania’s Overland Track, TAS – Multi-day hike for adventurous families.

48. Gondwana Rainforests, QLD & NSW – Explore ancient, UNESCO-listed rainforests.

49. Margaret River Caves, WA – Go underground and explore stunning limestone formations.

50. Ocean Rafting in the Whitsundays, QLD – Crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and marine life.


👉 MAKE IT EXTRA: Keep a travel journal to document your family's bucket list journey!

BOOK NOW
CURRENT PROMOTIONS
Below are currently some of Spark Pop’s current promotions. Hurry you better book in quick!
Alternative text 4_1210
Alternative text 4_1214
Gold Coast
The Wizard of Oz at Movie World
Great for Ages 6-13.
Discover
FROM
$23.45
Alternative text 4_1234
Alternative text 4_1238
Gold Coast
The Wizard of Oz at Movie World
Great for Ages 6-13.
Discover
When to visit: The Best Family Experiences by Season

(Helping you plan the best time to tick off your bucket list adventures!)

Now that you’ve got your must-do list, let’s match your experiences with the perfect season for family fun:

🌞 SUMMER (Dec – Feb)

  • Great Barrier Reef, QLD (best snorkelling conditions)
  • Rottnest Island, WA (ideal for cycling & quokka spotting)
  • Sydney Beaches, NSW (Bondi, Manly & more)
  • Wineglass Bay, TAS (best beach weather)

🍂 AUTUMN (Mar – May)

  • Kangaroo Island, SA (wildlife spotting)
  • Cradle Mountain, TAS (fall foliage hikes)
  • Blue Mountains, NSW (scenic walks & waterfalls)
  • Uluru, NT (cooler temperatures for exploring)

❄️ WINTER (Jun – Aug)

  • Thredbo & Perisher, NSW (best snow play)
  • Kakadu National Park, NT (dry season = best wildlife spotting)
  • Ningaloo Reef, WA (whale shark & humpback season)
  • Southern Great Barrier Reef, QLD (best for swimming with manta ray, and whale watching)
  • The Pinnacles, WA (stargazing & night tours)

🌼 SPRING (Sep – Nov)

  • Floriade, ACT (biggest flower festival in Australia)
  • Daintree Rainforest, QLD (lushest time of year)
  • Whitsundays, QLD (calmest seas for sailing)
  • Litchfield National Park, NT (swimming in waterfalls before the wet season)
BOOK NOW
Blog Image Ocean Rafting
Ocean Rafting - Whitsundays
Final Tips for Planning your Bucket List Adventures

"Of all the books in the world, the best stories are found between the pages of a passport."

📍 Plan ahead: Book peak season experiences early.
🎒 Pack smart: Be ready for each season’s conditions.
🎟️ Look for family passes: Many attractions offer discounts for families.
📆 Create a countdown: Get the kids excited by marking your trips on a alendar.

BOOK NOW

Which of these have sparked your interest? Let us know in the comments!

🚀 Want the latest updates? Sign up for our newsletter to get fresh ideas straight to your inbox!

Looking for unique family-friendly experiences? Check out SPARK POP’s handpicked experiences to make your next family expedition more special!

Happy holidays and happy memory-making!

GET 10% OFF YOUR FIRST BOOKING
Sign Up