Things to Do in Townsville with Kids

If this is your first time in Townsville with the family in tow, good news: you’ve picked one of Queensland’s most kid-friendly coastal cities. Between the tropical weather, open parks, and easygoing vibe, you won’t be short of things to do in Townsville with kids.

You’ll find plenty of family activities in Townsville near the CBD and beyond, so if you’re staying central, you can walk to half of them. From splash zones to playgrounds, museums and laid-back eats, here are some easy wins to get you started.

Splash Parks the Whole Crew Will Love

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When the North Queensland heat kicks in, water play is essential, and if you’re searching for things to do in Townsville with kids, you’ll find no shortage of ways to cool off. Luckily, Townsville’s got splash zones sorted.

The Strand

Start your adventure along The Strand, Townsville’s famous waterfront strip. Stretching just over 2 km from the Rockpool to the marina, it’s made for families. Think playgrounds every few hundred metres, shaded lawns, and beachside cafés.

Tip: The Strand’s promenade is completely pram-friendly, so you can walk, scoot or roll from one splash zone to the next without missing the view.

Strand Water Park

At the northern end of The Strand you’ll find the Strand Water Park, a free, ocean-view splash pad with water cannons, tipping buckets and fountains designed for toddlers through to pre-teens.

It’s fenced, shaded and has seating for parents who just want to supervise (and maybe sneak in a coffee).

Strand Rockpool

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A short walk away is the Strand Rockpool, a stinger-resistant seawater lagoon perfect for cooling off without worrying about the jellyfish. There’s a shallow section for little ones and plenty of grass for picnics after a swim.

Riverway Lagoons

If you’ve got a car and want to explore beyond the CBD, Riverway Lagoons in Thuringowa are another family favourite. Think tropical gardens, sandy edges, lifeguards, and space to spread out.

Playgrounds with Room to Move

When the kids have energy to burn, Townsville’s playgrounds are up to the challenge.

Tobruk Memorial Baths playground

Start with the Tobruk Memorial Baths playground. It’s a smaller, beachside spot that’s perfect for toddlers and younger kids. It’s shaded, close to the water, and there’s a café nearby for a quick coffee fix while they play.

Jezzine Barracks parkland

Further north, the Jezzine Barracks parklands near Kissing Point offer a bigger adventure. Here, wide open spaces meet coastal views, and the playgrounds blend seamlessly with walking trails, public art and bits of Townsville’s military history.

Soroptimist Park

Credit: Townsville City Council

Just five minutes up the road is Soroptimist Park in Rowes Bay, one of the city’s largest all-abilities playgrounds. It’s got towering slides, climbing frames, BBQs, and plenty of shade trees for those steamy afternoons.

Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens

If you’re after something local and low-key, check out Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens in Kirwan. It’s a leafy, picnic-ready park with walking paths and duck ponds that toddlers love.

Ready to Stretch Your Legs? Try An Easy Family Walk

If your crew’s got a bit more energy to burn, trade the playground for some gentle exploring at Mount Louisa. The Mount Louisa Walking Track is a family-friendly climb with sweeping views over Townsville and Magnetic Island. 

It’s not too steep, but you’ll want sturdy shoes and water, especially in the warmer months.

Museums for Hands-On Fun

Credit: Queensland Museum Tropics

When the weather turns tropical (or you just need a break from the sun), Townsville’s museums come to the rescue. This indoor favourite is a highlight among the best family activities in Townsville, offering plenty of hands-on fun for curious minds.

Museum of Tropical Queensland

Start with the Museum of Tropical Queensland, right in the CBD. It’s not your typical “look, don’t touch” museum. In fact, kids are encouraged to get hands-on. There’s a pirate ship exhibit, interactive science zones, and a soft-play area for younger visitors.

Casual, Family-Friendly Eats

Townsville knows how to feed a hungry family, especially when swims and playgrounds are involved.

After a morning at The Strand, head to C Bar for relaxed beach views and a kids’ menu that won’t break the budget. Longboard Bar & Grill next door keeps the surf vibe going with burgers and chips by the sea, while The Surf Club dishes out fresh seafood with shaded outdoor seating.

Further along the esplanade, The Coffee Club and Odyssey on the Strand are easy, pram-friendly stops for breakfast or lunch. If you’ve ventured inland to Riverway Lagoons, the Riverway Café is your go-to for smoothies and all-day brunch.

Most cafés along the waterfront are family-friendly by default. Expect highchairs, kids’ menus and welcoming staff who know that little diners don’t always sit still.

Insider Secrets: How to Visit Townsville Like a Local

A little prep goes a long way in Townsville’s sun, and most family spots have toilets, baby change facilities, and nearby food.

Here’s what locals (and savvy visitors) know:

• Pack for the tropics. Hats, rashies, sunscreen and plenty of water are non-negotiable. Keep a dry set of clothes handy after splash park sessions.

• Seek out the shade. The Strand and Soroptimist Park are both well covered with trees and shelters, perfect for picnics and play breaks.

• Check for stingers. The Rockpool and main beaches are protected with nets and signs, but always double-check conditions before swimming.

• Plan your parking. There’s free and paid parking along The Strand, though it fills up fast on weekends. Arrive early or walk from your hotel if you’re staying nearby.

• Go with wheels. The Strand’s path is wide, flat and perfect for prams, scooters or little bikes. You’ll cover more ground without the complaints.

• Time it right. Mornings are cooler for splash parks or walks, while the hottest part of the day is ideal for the Museum of Tropical Queensland or a relaxed lunch stop.

Staying at Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville Makes Exploring Easy

Credit: @james.price1 via Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville IG

If you’re staying at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville, you’re in prime position for all of the best things to do in Townsville with kids. With roomy family suites, friendly staff and a location that puts you close to everything, it’s an easy CBD base for exploring.

Travelling for a birthday or milestone? Make it unforgettable with the Hotel Grand Chancellor’s Kids Pool Party package, complete with private pool access, themed décor, delicious kids’ platters and all the fun without the fuss.

So whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer tropical break, make your stay one to remember. Book your family getaway at Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville today, and turn your Townsville trip into the holiday they’ll talk about all year.