6 Fun Things To Do With Kids In Toowoomba

Located on Queensland’s Darling Downs, Toowoomba is a city steeped in history. Within driving distance of Brisbane, it is a great place to take the family, either for a day trip or a mini-break. The region is known for its beautiful gardens and scenic vistas. 

Obviously, the kids will want to do more than look at the scenery so we’ve got you sorted with what we consider at the top six fun things to do with kids in the Toowoomba area. 

Cobb & Co Museum

Don’t be mislead by the name, this museum is more than just old carriages. Of course, it does have it’s fair share, hosting the National Carriage Collection and National Carriage Factory, which are indeed fascinating. However, the Museum also has exhibits dedicated to science, space, indigenous culture and prehistoric creatures from the Darling Downs. There are also hands on workshops such as blacksmithing, silversmithing and leadlighting available. Be sure to check the website for other specialised exhibits and festivals hosted by the museum. 
 
Where: 27 Lindsay Street, Toowoomba

Contact: (07) 4659 4900

Learn more: Cobb & Co Museum website

 

Aquatic Centre

Who doesn’t love a waterslide? Well the Milne Bay Aquatic & Fitness Centre in Toowoomba has that and more. Keep the kids cool with the 45m enclosed water slide, wave pool, water spouts, inflatable obstacles and mushroom waterfalls. What more could you want from a public pool?? There’s also a wading pool for the smaller kidlets, a spa for mum and dad, as well as plenty of onsite parking and a kiosk. 
 
Where: 43-49 Victoria St, Toowoomba

Contact: (07) 4688 6330 

Learn more: Toowoomba Aquatic Centre

 

Jondaryan Woolshed

The oldest and largest operating shearing shed in Australia, the Jondaryan Woolshed has been running for 160 years. There are a range of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Explore the historical museum with its school, cheese factory and jail, then grab a bite to eat at the Damper Hut or Woolshed Cafe. The Woolshed also offers special scheduled events and activities such as mini train rides, damper making lessons, shearing and coach or tractor rides. There is also an animal nursery. You can go for the day or make a mini-break out of it and camp, or stay in one of the cottages or cabins. There are even authentic shearers quarters if you want the real deal. Be sure to check the website for upcoming events and book if you want to stay as the Woolshed is a popular wedding and function venue. 

Where: 264 Jondaryan-Evanslea Road, Jondaryan

Contact: (07) 4692 2229

Learn more: Jondaryan Woolshed website

 

 

Highfields Pioneer Village

Step back in time as Highfields takes you for a journey through Australian settlement history. Your budding engineer will love the Queensland Energy Museum, the Southern Cross Museum and the Transport Museum. This is also home to the the Ambulance and Fire Brigade Museums, which is sure to intrigue and delight. You will also see the Heritage Chapel, as well as many many authentic buildings and dwellings from the pioneer era. Why not learn silversmithing  and pick up some handmade wooden toys at the Toyshop. Authentic damper and billy tea is also available everyday. 

Where: 73 Wirraglen Road, Highfields

Contact: (07) 4696 6309

Learn more: Highfields Pioneer Village website

Image credit: Highfields Pioneer Village website 

Downs Steam Railway Museum

If you have a little person who is into trains, this is the place for you. Explore old stations and see how steam trains were built, either as a guided tour or at your own pace. Learn the mysteries of the railways all in one place.  You can also visit the unique Indigenous Art Gallery set up in the Dreamtime Journey Coach and learn about the role of indigenous workers in the railway.

Where: 16 Cambooya Street, Drayton

Contact: (07) 4630 2358

Learn more: Downs Steam Railway Museum  

Darling Downs Zoo

Located within driving distance from Toowoomba is the Darling Downs Zoo. With plenty of creatures great and small, you family will love a day exploring here. They will see a wide range of animals from tiny Marmosets to the regal African Lion. The Zoo participates in many preservation and breeding programs for both exotic and native animals so your kids can learn all about conservation. You can even have a big cat encounter and feed the lions and the Sumatran Tiger!  Don’t miss the many presentation held throughout the day on different animals, including meerkats, crocodiles and monkeys. There is a kiosk on site or you can take a picnic or throw some snags on the BBQ’s provided.  
 
Where: Corner of Gatton-Clifton Road & Baines Road, Pilton

Contact: (07) 4696 410

Learn more: Darling Downs Zoo

Love adventure? Check out these ideas:

• 5 Outdoor Experiences You Can Have In One Day At Tangalooma
• 6 Things To Do On A Day Trip To Redcliffe
• 6 Of The Best Family Day Trips From Brisbane

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Hero image credit: Jondaryan Woolshed