Best things to do in Ipswich

Are you planning a trip to Ipswich? This article covers all the very best things to do in Ipswich, including tourist attractions, activities, places to visit near Ipswich and things to do in Ipswich for families.

The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul People, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Ipswich region is situated. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

Ipswich is a fascinating town known for its rich heritage, cultural attractions, pretty scenery, and emerging food scene. Located around 40 km from Brisbane, Ipswich is the third largest city in Queensland and you’ll find plenty of Ipswich things to do to keep you entertained during your visit. 

The city’s historic buildings are one of the main Ipswich attractions. More than 6,000 heritage-listed sites exist, so it’s the perfect destination for history lovers. There are several self-guided trails to learn about the region’s people, places and historical events. 

If you love cultural activities, there are some fantastic things to do. Ipswich offers fun and educational attractions like the Workshops Rail Museum and the Ipswich Art Gallery. There are also many great experiences for animal lovers, including the Llama Farm and Summer Land Camels. There are so many things to do in Ipswich for kids and adults alike! 

For those planning a trip and looking for Ipswich fun things to do, this guide is the perfect place to start. This Ipswich guide covers a broad range of fun things to do in Ipswich and tourist attractions near Ipswich, including things to do with kids in Ipswich, as well as all the essential information such as locations, opening hours and ticket prices where necessary.

So let’s get into it and help you plan your ultimate Ipswich to do list!

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BEST THINGS TO DO IPSWICH MAP

Before we get started on all the top things to do in Ipswich to help you plan your itinerary, check out the map below. This map shows the location of all the things in Ipswich covered in this guide.

I recommend you first make a list of the places to visit in Ipswich that are on your must-do list and then use this map to plan your day to day itinerary so you’re not travelling back and forth all over town.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN IPSWICH

Below we cover the best stuff to do in Ipswich and places to go in Ipswich. 

1 Woodlands of Marburg

This heritage-listed plantation style mansion has a rich and fascinating history. Tommy and Mary Smith built their commanding family home on the hill and lived there as they raised their 11 children. 

Tommy moved his business away from timber milling and into sugar cultivation, creating one of the first rum distilleries in the area. Grapes were planted on the property and they expanded their production to wine and brandy. 

Now this premier country retreat offers luxury weddings on the front lawn, along with high teas and other special events. There is a cafe in a separate building beside the mansion that is perfect if you’re looking for a leafy location to enjoy morning tea with great views of the surrounding countryside. 

The Sugarmill Restaurant is a great option for a cosy dinner if you’re looking for a romantic evening.  The restaurant is inside the mansion under the glistening chandeliers, where dark, cedar-panelled walls surround you. What a way to transport you back in history!

Tours of the mansion are available, along with ghost tours, as the home has some dark, spooky secrets to share.

Accommodation is available in buildings adjacent to the main mansion so you can wake up to views of the grand building (so don’t worry, you won’t be sharing your bed with any ghosts!).

It’s an absolutely stunning rural location and is definitely one of the Ipswich tourist attractions you should have on your list. 

Location: 174 Seminary Road Marburg, Brisbane

Haunted Mansion Tours
Hours: Usually held once a month, dates vary, so check the website for details | Tours run from 9 pm to 11 pm

Cost: $75 per person (aged 15+ only, under 18s to be accompanied by a parent or guardian)

The Sugarmill Restaurant
Hours: Friday and Saturdays from 5.30 pm to 9 pm
Cost: Entrees from $20, main courses from $40

Tommy Smith Cafe
Hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 8.30 am to 2.30 pm 

Cost: Varied

Learn about accommodation at Woodlands of Marburg. Click here to find out more and to book your room. 

2 Imbibis Craft Distillery

Offering a unique taste of Queensland in a bottle, Imbibis is an award-winning gin and brandy distillery. A visit to the distillery is one of those cool things to do in Ipswich, and a gin tour and tasting are great if you’re travelling as a couple or with friends. 

Even if you are short on time, it’s still worth dropping in to sample their local flavours and pick up a bottle to take home (if you’re lucky, you might time it so you can get your hands on a bottle of their limited-run, extremely popular purple jacaranda gin!)

Run by Jason and Maree Hannay, this light and bright warehouse decked with fairy lights offers a welcoming setting for tasting sessions, with the distillery in the back where you can learn all about the distilling process. 

Location: U5 / 1 Gliderway St. Bundamba

Hours: Fridays 10 am to 6 pm | Distillery Tours run on select dates

Cost: Distillery tours $15 per person

3 The Rusty Nail

The Rusty Nail has quickly become a popular after work drinks location for people who work in the city. This cosy venue offers a wide range of delicious cocktails (including their namesake, The Rusty Nail!) and moreish share plates and tapas, and it’s the perfect place to head as the sun goes down to relax, chat and unwind.

With regular live music, along with special events run in their underground bar, there is plenty to keep you entertained.

Location: 44 Ipswich City Mall, Ipswich

Hours: Thursday to Saturday from 4 pm to late | Sundays from 2 pm to late
Cost: Snacks and tapas available starting from $9

4 Nicholas Street Precinct

Nicholas Street Precinct has been totally transformed, with the area now including new council offices, two libraries (more on those below), a civic plaza and stage, and landscaped areas.  

The Precinct now brings the community together through culture, food, drink and retail experiences, and it is still evolving and attracting new businesses.

While Ipswich is well-known as a historic city, Nicholas Street Precinct is carving out the city’s new reputation as a modern, cultural city. It is one of the attractions Ipswich wants to show off and quite rightly too, as it’s a fabulous space that has transformed the town centre.   

Location: Nicholas Street Precinct, Ipswich
Hours: Varied
Cost: Explore for free

5 Robelle Domain and Orion Lagoon

Spread over 24 hectares; this parkland is one of the best things to do in Ipswich with family as not only are there 11 km of boardwalks to explore, but there are also playgrounds and a stunning lagoon (one of the best free things to do in Ipswich during the warmer months!). 

The lagoon offers a range of interconnecting pools perfect for swimming laps or splashing around with the little ones. There are also shades and BBQs so you can make a day of it! 

If you’ve had a busy few days enjoying the attractions near Ipswich, the lagoon is a brilliant place to relax and unwind. 

Both Robelle Doman and the Orion Lagoon have eateries on site – but you’re also just a short walk from the Orion Shopping Centre, which has multiple dining options as well as a movie theatre and Timezone.

Location: 155 Southern Cross Circuit, Springfield Central
Hours: Lagoon is open in summer from 5 am to 9 pm | Winter from 7 am to 5 pm
Cost: Free

6 Workshops Rail Museum

If you want to add some history to your list of Ipswich things to see and do, the Workshops Rail Museum is a must-do activity in Ipswich. What to do on a rainy day? The Rail Museum is a brilliant option for all weathers too. 

Take a fascinating tour through Queensland’s transport history – it’s another of those fun things to do in Ipswich with kids, as they will love the interactive resources. Kids of all ages enjoy this attraction, and it’s even one of the best things to do with toddlers in Ipswich, as all little ones love trains! It’s just as fun for the big kids and adults too.    

Location: North Street, North Ipswich
Hours: From 9.30 am to 4 pm
Cost: $14.50 Adults | $11.50 Kids (3 to 15 years) | $44.50 Family (2A+2C)

7 Watercress Creek Olives and Limes

A visit to Watercress Creek Olives and Limes is well worth it. Their produce is a great addition to a picnic or evening nibbles (what could be better than enjoying a slice of their lime and a bowl of olives with a glass of Imbibis gin!). 

Foodie experiences will be a highlight of your visit to Ipswich, and so many of the food and drink producers here collaborate to raise one another’s profile. You might be lucky to spot some Watercress produce on the menu of local bars and cafes. 

Location: 53 Bryces Rd, Pine Mountain
Hours: Hours vary through the year; check online for details | Annual olive festival takes place in April | Find their produce at local markets and served in local bars

8 CMC Rocks Festival

Image credit thanks to Kristin Donohue and Tourism and Events Queensland

CMC Rocks is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest international country and roots festival if country music is your jam. In 2023, it was held for the first time in Ipswich, and it’s due to return in 2024, so get your cowboy hat and boots on and get ready for another festival of live country music and fun!  

Location: Willowbank Raceway, 38 Champions Way, Willowbank
Hours: Annual music event 

Cost: Single day tickets: $229 Adult, Youth (15 to 17 years), $109 Junior (4 to 14 years) | Full festival tickets: $419 Adult, Youth (15 to 17 years), $179 Junior (4 to 14 years) 

9 Summer Land Camels

The largest camel dairy and training centre in Australia makes a really memorable day out and it’s definitely up there on the best things to do in Ipswich with kids list. 

The attraction is packed with things to keep you entertained, from camel feeding and milk tasting to camel riding and educational tours so you can learn all about these gorgeous creatures.

If you’re short on time or looking for things to do in Ipswich for free, you’ll be pleased to know you can pop in for a free pat, but it’s well worth dedicating some time here to enjoy a tour and eat lunch in their cafe! 

Location: 8 Charles Chauvel Drive, Harrisville

Hours: From 9 am to 3 pm
Cost: A range of experiences are available, including Camel Rides (basic rides, trail rides and sunrise rides), Cameleer Experience, Farm Tour and Taste, plus other special events. Check the website for details 

10 Ghost Tour of Ipswich

This is NOT one of the things to do in Ipswich for children or the faint hearted, but if you love a good ghost story, this is the best activity for you! 

The historic city of Ipswich is packed with ghostly legends, and Ipswich’s ghost tours are definitely not to be missed if you love a spooky tale.

Come along after dark to hear gruesome yarns and learn about creepy characters and spooky urban legends. This might just be the highlight of your stay – it is definitely one of the top 10 things to do in Ipswich, so make sure it’s on your list of activities to do in Ipswich if you can (and if you’re brave enough!).

Various spooky ghost tours are available in Ipswich. Click here to find out what’s available. 

Ipswich things to see don’t get much scarier than this! 

11 Queens Park (including the Ipswich Nature Centre)

If you’re looking to relax in a shady spot, Queens Park has a lovely heritage vibe – it’s one of the oldest parks in Queensland! There is so much to explore and it’s one of the great things to do for free in Ipswich.

The playground is one of the best things to do in Ipswich with children as there is a flying fox, model train and water pumps to cool off on hot, sunny days, so don’t forget to pack a towel. It’s always one of the most popular Ipswich things to do with children.

The Ipswich Nature Centre is within the park, which features a range of Australian wildlife, including dingos, bilbies, water dragons and wallabies. It’s the perfect opportunity to get close to furry creatures in a relaxed and intimate setting. Due to the lush environment, many wild animals live in the area, so you can enjoy seeing plenty of wildlife inside and outside the enclosures. 

Within Queens Park, you will also find Nermia Gardens (Japanese Gardens), Queens Park Croquet Hall, Queens Park Nursery, Queens Park Environmental Education Centre and Ipswich Nature Centre (opening hours vary). There is so much to see and do and it’s one of the most popular Ipswich places to go on a sunny day.

Location: Queens Park, Merle Finimore Avenue, Ipswich
Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 9.30 am to 1.30 pm

Cost: Free

12 Brisbane Valley Rail Trail

Currently the longest rail trail in Australia, the 161 km Brisbane Valley Rail Trail follows the disused Brisbane Valley rail line originally completed in 1884. Cycle your way through forests, picturesque rural settings and country towns. 

As it is set on the old railway line, it offers a gentle opportunity to enjoy the outdoors either for a few hours or a day trip or you can plan a longer experience as there are lots of pubs, cafes and overnight stops along the way if you want to create your Ipswich holiday around this experience. 

Exploring Ipswich doesn’t have to be expensive; this is one of those free things to do in Ipswich Qld, where you can enjoy the landscape and keep your money in your wallet. 

Location: 161 km off road trail from Wulkuraka in Ipswich to Yarraman
Hours: Always open
Cost: Free 

13 The Llama Farm

Ipswich things to see and do – don’t come more fun than this! Come along to this working llama farm set in 80 acres of picturesque landscape and come face to face with the largest llama herd in Queensland! 

Whether you want to pat a soft, cuddly llama, take a llama on a walk, or tour the farm and learn all about these cute creatures, this is a fabulous opportunity to meet the animals.

A wide range of activity options are available, so it makes a great day out if you’re looking for things to do in Ipswich with toddlers, tweens or teens or even if you’re looking for things to do in Ipswich for couples. 

Location: 563 Riverside Dr, Pine Mountain
Hours: Open on weekends and select holidays for experience bookings
Cost: Faces of the Farm Tour Experience: $27.50 Adult | $16.50 Child | Under 5 free | Guided Llama Walk Experience: $50 for the llama walker | $27.50 to walk alongside the llama walker | Other packages are available; check the website for details

14 RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre

If you love learning about military history, the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre needs to be on your things to do at Ipswich list. Offering a range of displays and exhibitions, you can get close to an F-111, World War II Boston Bomber, a Vietnam-era Canberra bomber and so much more. 

Come along and learn about the history of the RAAF and the history of aviation at Amberley, and explore the connection between the base and the local community.

Location: Southern Amberley Road, Amberley

Hours: Open third Sunday of the month from January to November | Additionally, you can complete a visit request form to visit on a Tuesday or Thursday on their website
Cost: Free, but you must book tickets in advance

15 Ipswich Antique Centre

Being a heritage city, Ipswich is a wonderful place for antique enthusiasts. At Ipswich Antique Centre, you can browse a range of collectables, including furniture, art, jewellery and pottery. If you have a heritage home and are looking for collectable items, what better place to shop and pick up souvenirs from your visit.

Looking for rainy day indoor activities? Ipswich Antique Centre can entertain you until the sun comes out again too!

Location: 86 East St, Ipswich

Hours: Thursday to Monday from 10 am to 5 pm 

Cost: Free to browse

16 Willowbank Raceway Drag Racing

Looking for fun activities? Ipswich Willowbank Drag Racing is a fast-paced, fun day out for all the family! Come along and enjoy the adrenaline and buzz at the side of the racetrack. 

Be sure to check out their website for upcoming events in Ipswich. Things to do with kids don’t get much more exciting than this! 

If you love a bit of adrenaline, you can get in on the action by booking a Rally Car experience of your own. Click here to find out more and check availability.

Location: 38 Champions Way, Willowbank
Hours: Various events; check their website for schedules
Cost: Ticket prices vary

17 Springfield Markets

Taking place at two locations, Springfield Markets are the place to come and buy handmade souvenirs, delicious local produce, and art and crafts. The pet-friendly markets are one of those amazing community-focused things to do around Ipswich that the whole family will enjoy. 

You won’t be disappointed by the range of goods on offer, so if you’re looking for gifts to take back from your holidays, make sure this is on your list of activities to do in Ipswich.

It’s also a fantastic opportunity to stock up on produce to pack as picnics as you explore the nice places near Ipswich! 

Location: Robelle Parkland, 155 Southern Cross Circuit, Springfield Central
Hours: First Sunday of the month from 8 am to 1 pm
Cost: Free

Location: Orion Springfield Central, 1 Main St, Springfield Central
Hours: Third Sunday of the month from 9 am to 4 pm

Cost: Free

18 Ipswich RSL Memorial Hall Museum

If you’re looking for places to visit around Ipswich, you should stop at the RSL Memorial Hall Museum. This beautiful, historic building was first opened in November 1921 and there is so much history between these walls. 

Enjoy the stained glass window and the main hall while browsing the exhibitions, memorabilia and photos from WWI.

It’s one of those important places to see in Ipswich as it tells a fascinating story of Ipswich’s past.  

Location: 63 Nicholas Street, Ipswich

Hours: Last Sunday of the month from 9 am to 3 pm, excluding December
Cost: Free

19 Blacksmith classes

While visiting the heritage city of Ipswich, you can also try your hand at an ancient skill! Ipswich places to visit don’t come more unique than this!

Go to a blacksmith class to learn how to make your own knife. From designing and shaping the blade to heating the stainless steel, and sanding for the perfect finish, what a truly incredible experience to have and a special piece to pass down to your family – a knife you made by hand! 

A range of blacksmith classes are on offer. Click here to see what’s available

20 Hot air balloon ride

Image credit thanks to Tourism and Events Queensland

Hot air ballooning at sunrise has to be one of the most incredible and fun activities, and Ipswich is the perfect place to take a memorable trip, as the surrounding landscape is stunning from above.

See the region from a new perspective and enjoy aerial views of this historic town, the Great Dividing Range, the Scenic Rim and all the places of interest near Ipswich. Don’t forget to get a souvenir photo to treasure the experience forever. 

Ipswich really is the perfect place to watch the sunrise from a hot air balloon. Click here to see what’s available. 

21 Colleges Cross Recreation Reserve

If you’re looking for places to go near Ipswich to enjoy outdoor opportunities in a picturesque setting, add this to your list of things to do in and around Ipswich.  This popular picnic location and recreation space offers fishing, walking, canoeing and exercising opportunities, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy outdoor activities for kids in Ipswich.

Colleges Cross Recreation Reserve has been closed due to flooding but has been reopening in sections, so be sure to check the council website for updates about which facilities are open. 

Location: 408 – 492 Mt Crosby Road, Chuwar
Hours: Winter (1 April to 30 September) from 6 am to 6 pm | Summer (1 October to 31 March) from 6 am to 9 pm
Cost: Free

22 Ungermann Brothers Milk Bar

Exploring Ipswich will make you hungry, so do yourself a favour and stop here for a pit stop to refuel. This is one of those great things to do in Ipswich for teenagers and kids of all ages, as it has such a fun vibe. 

Fancy trying liquorice and fennel ice cream? Or coffee and cardamom flavour? Or maybe carrot cake ice cream? Ungermann Brothers is a hip and trendy retro diner offering quirky and unusual flavours of ice cream (as well as delicious classic flavours like chocolate orange and strawberries and cream). 

It’s not only about the ice cream though; this burger bar offers loaded fries, waffles, burgers and shakes to die for.

Location: 1/126 Brisbane Street, Ipswich
Hours: From 11 am to 8 pm Monday to Thursday | Friday from 11 am to 9 pm | Saturday from 9 am to 9 pm | Sunday from 9 am to 3 pm

Cost: $7.90 regular scoop of ice cream | Burgers from $18.50 | Milkshakes from $7

23 Ipswich Libraries

Rarely would a town’s library make it on a must-visit list, but Ipswich Libraries have definitely earned their place on this list of things to see in Ipswich. The two newly built Ipswich Libraries – Ipswich Centre Library and Ipswich Children’s Library – are integral to the new Nicholas Street Precinct. 

The state of the art, contemporary library facilities offer so much more than books to borrow. In particular, the two libraries offer great activities if you’re looking for things for kids to do in Ipswich.  Here you’ll find a 3D printer with workshops where kids can make things like Pokemon figures (for free if you have a local library card!), virtual reality headsets and even a flight simulator!

The children’s library is a beautiful, comfortable, fun space for little ones to go wild and enjoy cosy corners, puzzles, and family activities.

The two libraries are set in different buildings close to one another, and they’re definitely places of interest in Ipswich for the whole family. Who knew the library could be one of the most fun places to go in Ipswich!

Location: Both libraries are at Nicholas Street Precinct, Ipswich

Hours: Weekends from 9 am to 2 pm | Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 am to 5 pm | Thursday from 9 am to 8 pm

24 Twilight Markets

If you love food, rides, stalls and fun, visiting the Ipswich Twilight Markets is one of those fun things to do! Ipswich Showgrounds plays host to the markets, which take place on selected dates (so be sure to check out their Facebook page for details). 

The event has a real community vibe, and if you’re looking for family things to do in Ipswich, kids will love this!

Location: Ipswich Showgrounds, 81 Warwick Rd, Ipswich

Hours: From 4 pm to 9 pm on select dates
Cost: $5 Adults | Under 12s Free

25 SPARK Ipswich

This 11-day city-wide event celebrates Ipswich’s people, places, arts and culture. With a vibrant programme of activities, you can enjoy music, art, performances, tech and all kinds of fun events across the city. 

There are many things to do in Ipswich area as part of this vibrant festival, so be sure to check out the festival programme if you’re visiting in July. Lots of the events are free too, so it’s perfect if you’re travelling on a budget and looking for cheap things to do in Ipswich! 

You may be lucky enough to spot The Queensland Travel Guide editor up on stage dancing with the Common People Dance Project.

Location: Various locations around Ipswich
Hours: The event runs for 11 days in July every year
Cost: Lots of activities in the programme are free, others have a ticket price

26 Naughty Little Kids

Just a 23 minute drive from Ipswich, you’ll find Naughty Little Kids and it’s one of the best things to do with kids near Ipswich. 

The award-winning goat farm runs farm tours, plus you can enjoy their delicious goat-milk gelato and cheese (and stock up from their shop to take goodies home with you if you remember to bring a cool bag).

Did you know that goat’s milk tastes almost the same as cow’s milk? You’ll need to visit the farm to give it a try! 

Location: 1531 Ipswich Boonah Rd, Peak Crossing

Hours: Tours run on Sundays at 1.05 pm, 2.15 pm, and 3.25 pm and run for an hour. Gates open at 12.40 pm.
Cost: $20 Adults | $10 Kids (17 and under) | $50 Family (2A + up to 6C) 

27 The Soul Nook

Marburg is one of those stunning places near Ipswich that should be on your itinerary, not only because the scenery is spectacular but also because you can visit The Soul Nook, which is one of those unique places to go near Ipswich. 

The Soul Nook is a boutique fashion and giftware store and a cafe offering organic coffee and baked treats. But the special thing about The Soul Nook is they also offer bespoke, beautifully-styled picnics in various locations around their grounds. You can choose between a more rustic (but still luxurious) picnic with rugs and cushions to a luxury picnic set up in a bell tent. What a way to celebrate a special occasion like an anniversary or birthday! 

The Soul Nook is a venue to visit when you’re looking for things to do as a family in Ipswich as everyone will adore the experience of a posh picnic in the sunshine, but it’s also a really special thing to do as a couple or with your friends as it makes such a memorable occasion.  

On the last Sunday of the month, they run Sound Healing sessions where you can relax and meditate to the sounds of crystal singing bowls.

Location: 89 – 93 Queen St, Marburg 

Hours: From 9 am to 2 pm Wednesday to Friday |9 am to 3 pm Saturday | 9 am to 1 pm Sunday
Cost: Styled picnic grazing platters from $200 per couple + $50 per person for extra people | Bell tent picnics $250 booking fee + $50 per person | $22 for Sound Healing sessions 

28 Ipswich Show

If you’re lucky enough to visit in May, you could go to this well-established annual show that celebrated 150 years in 2023! 

With a massive programme of events taking place over three days, including performances, entertainment, rides, food, wildlife shows, motocross displays and fireworks, this is one of the most fun places in Ipswich for all the family! 

Location: Ipswich Showgrounds, 81 Warwick Rd, Ipswich

Hours: The event takes place for three days in May annually

2023 cost: $55 Family Online Advance (2A+2C) | $25 Adult Online Advance | $15 Kids (5 – 12 years) | Gate tickets cost more 

IPSWICH DAY TRIPS

While there is plenty to keep you occupied in Ipswich, if you’re keen, you can do some great day trips from the area. For most of these places, it’s recommended you stay at least a few days in each, but if you only have a day, then a day trip is possible.

Brisbane

Laid back and vibrant, Brisbane makes a great day trip from Ipswich. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and it boasts everything from lush parklands and gardens to modern galleries and cosmopolitan waterfront dining. 

There are so many attractions to choose from in Brisbane. There are the Queensland Museum, QAGOMA (The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art) and the National Maritime Museum for culture seekers. 

For wildlife lovers, there is Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. For lovers of gardens, there is Roma Street Parkland and the tranquil Southbank Parkland. There is the bridge climb, rock climbing and kayaking for thrill seekers. 

You can’t beat a simple stroll along the river or a swim at the iconic Streets Beach. 

Thanks to its year-round sunshine, Brisbane is the perfect destination at any time of the year and it’s a great opportunity to combine your Ipswich stay with a city break.  

Click here for our full guide on things to do in Brisbane.

Gold Coast

Queensland’s Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most popular destinations. If you get the opportunity, taking a day trip to the Gold Coast is a great idea. 

The Gold Coast is a beautiful beachside haven packed with fun things for tourists to enjoy and a beautiful hinterland to explore. 

The Gold Coast is the place to go if you’re looking for fast-paced theme parks like Wet ‘n’ Wild, Warner Bros. Movie World, WhiteWater World, Dreamworld and SeaWorld, so it makes a great day trip from Ipswich. 

There’s also surfing, hot air ballooning, kayaking and plenty more to keep you entertained.

If you can only spare one day for a Gold Coast day trip, you’ll have difficulty deciding how to spend it as there is so much to see and do! 

Click here for our full guide on things to do on the Gold Coast.

Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is just north of Brisbane and, in addition to gorgeous sunny beaches, has lots to offer visitors of all tastes. 

Kids will love the Australia Zoo with its world famous wildlife warriors show featuring birds swooping overhead, a crocodile feeding display, and much more. As well as all the incredible animal species to learn about, various play parks are dotted throughout the zoo, including a great water splash park for the kids to cool off whilst parents rest on the grass nearby. 

If you don’t feel like driving, you could hop on the train into Brisbane and then book return transfers from Brisbane through a tour operator.

For adults, the Sunshine Coast hinterland and Noosa are popular to explore, with a mix of quaint mountain villages, artsy markets and the world’s biggest ginger factory – you can’t say the Sunshine Coast isn’t unique! 

Queensland day tours can take you to all these on a small group tour.

Click here for our full guide on things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

BEST HOTELS IN IPSWICH

Looking for somewhere to stay in Ipswich?  We recommend booking through Booking.com as they offer a wide range of room types, most with free cancellation, which is ideal for last-minute changes.

However, if you want our recommendation for a hotel, we’ve listed our top pick for a luxury hotel, family hotel, mid range and budget hotel below.

Best luxury hotel: Woodlands of Marburg

If you’re looking for a unique, luxury stay, the Woodlands of Marburg is quite an experience. This fascinating heritage building has so many stories to tell, whether you’re keen to learn about one of Queensland’s first rum distilleries or love a good ghost story! 

Set in an idyllic rural setting, Woodlands offers a wide range of double and king sized rooms in the buildings next to the main mansion where you can look out on the important historic landmark. 

Deluxe Double Rooms include a private bathroom with shower, fridge, iron, hairdryer, DVD player and TV,  air conditioning, desk and seating area, terrace and kettle. The Deluxe King Rooms also features bathrobes and slippers along with an extra large double bed in addition to everything included in the Double Room. 

Woodlands has a seasonal outdoor pool, beautiful gardens, a restaurant, a cafe and a bar (open at select times). There is also a tennis court and a table tennis table, and rooms feature board games and DVDs to keep you entertained. Free WiFi is available so you can stay connected.  

Be part of Ipswich’s historical past by staying in this heritage location in the beautiful rural countryside setting. 

Click here for more information or to book

Best family hotel: Oaks Ipswich Aspire Suites

Oaks is a convenient and easy base for your Ipswich holiday. These modern apartments are perfect for families looking for space and the ability to cater for some of your meals in your suite. 

Oaks offers a range of luxury studios and one, two and three bedroom apartments catering to various family sizes. 

Apartments feature air conditioning, flat screen TVs, free WiFi, free toiletries, fridge, iron, hairdryer, sofa, tea/coffee maker, DVD and CD player, and cable channels. The studios offer stovetops and toasters, and the larger apartments offer dining areas.  

One bedroom apartments and upwards include dishwashers and microwaves. Two bedrooms and upwards have washing machines and dryers as well as balconies. You can choose between an option with or without housekeeping if you’re on a budget or prefer your privacy.

The hotel is within walking distance to the shops and entertainment of Ipswich CBD. You can also enjoy river and parkland views during your stay. The property also has a fitness centre, a sauna and an outdoor swimming pool.

If you’re looking for modern and luxurious accommodation, this is a great option for your family stay in Ipswich.    

Click here for more information or to book

Best mid range hotel: Best Western Ipswich

The Best Western Ipswich is a basic hotel within easy reach of all of the main Ipswich attractions. 

Various room sizes are available, from standard and superior Queen rooms to twin rooms, one-bedroom apartments and family suites. All rooms have air conditioning, en suite bathrooms, flat screen TVs, free Wifi, microwave, minibar, hairdryers, kettle, iron and fridge. The apartment and family suite also includes a stovetop and toaster. All rooms have a spacious seating area and desk. 

The hotel features an outdoor pool set in beautiful gardens and BBQ facilities. Guest laundry is available for $5 per load. Breakfast is available for an extra charge. 

This is a convenient hotel to use as a base during your Ipswich stay. 

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Best budget hotel: Cumquat House

Cumquat House is a heritage-listed, quaint bed and breakfast with many original features such as fireplaces in some of the rooms, plus it is within easy reach of Ipswich’s main attractions. 

A range of room types are available, including Deluxe Double, Queen and King Rooms, plus options with balconies too. All rooms feature tea and coffee making facilities and a hearty breakfast, as well as a flat screen TV, ensuite bathroom, free toiletries, desk and seating area, iron, hairdryer and air conditioning. You can choose a city view or a garden view. 

Guests have access to a lounge, dining room and a fully equipped kitchen that opens onto a large balcony that overlooks the beautiful garden, which offers BBQ facilities.  

Cumquat House is a highly rated, welcoming bed and breakfast where you will enjoy a more relaxed, personable experience than at one of the chain hotels.  

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ENJOY IPSWICH!

Hopefully, this guide has given you lots of inspiration on Ipswich things to do.

If you’re planning a trip to Ipswich, I highly recommend you check out our Brisbane guide, which provides links to everything you need to know to plan your trip.

I’d also recommend you join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community, where you can ask all your questions and find even more great trip suggestions.

If you’re heading to Ipswich, you might also be interested in the following nearby destinations:

• Scenic Rim (coming soon)
• Gold Coast Hinterland (coming soon)
• Sunshine Coast Hinterland (coming soon)