📍40 Best Fun Things To Do In Ipswich, Australia. (2024.) (Tours & Attractions.)

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LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN IPSWICH, AUSTRALIA?

Ipswich is a small Australian city and region that often gets forgotten about, and when it’s right near the third and sixth largest cities by population, it’s not hard to see why. But just because it’s not as prolific as Brisbane or the Gold Coast doesn’t mean it’s not a great place to visit.

But as someone who has lived here since I was a young kid, I know this place very well, and while I agree that doesn’t have all the grandeur and glamour that the big cities do, there is still a laundry list of fantastic things to do in Ipswich that make it well worth venturing to, especially if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle of bustle of city life and are looking for the perfect mix of city and country to satisfy your sense of adventure.

Downtown Ipswich lit up just after sunset.
There’s plenty to do in Ipswich.

👉 My top 3 picks for what to do in Ipswich, Australia.

  • Learn about Australian aviation history at the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre.
  • Swim at Orions Lagoon or Colleges Crossing.
  • Become a rally driver for a day at Willowbank Raceway.

Planning Your Trip? Use My Favourite Resources!

Tours/Experiences: I recommend Viator.
Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com.
Renting Vehicles: I recommend RentalCars.com.

Fun Things To Do In Ipswich.

1. Visit The City’s Most Beloved Museum.
Workshops Rail Museum. – $.

One of Ipswich’s most highly regarded attractions is the Workshops Rail Museum, which pays homage to the city’s prominent railway history. 

Intriguingly located at one of Australia’s oldest still operating train workshops, the museum is an extensive interactive cultural and heritage experience. Because of that, it is one of the best things to do in Ipswich city, particularly for families with inquisitive kids. And with so many fun things to discover, it’s hard not to lose track of time.

Explore over 15 extraordinary hands-on exhibits, the comprehensive collection of lovingly-restored carriages, the largest model railway in Queensland and a few historical railway gems along the way, such as the Vice-Regal Carriage and Australia’s oldest working steam locomotive.

Visiting The Railway Workshop Museum is one of te best things to do in Ipswich.
The Workshops Rail Museum is one of Ipswich’s best attractions to visit.
Black locomotive at the Workshops Railways Museum
See old locomotives up close and so much more at this interesting museum.

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    2. Go To An Exhilarating Racing Event.
    Willowbank Raceway. – $.

    Those more interested in fast cars than trains will love Willowbank Raceway on the outskirts of Ipswich. Revheads gather from all across the country to see the range of events at this revered racetrack. And there’s plenty of action to choose from too. Some are full-day events that go long into the night, while others go on for a few hours after dark. 

    The Queensland Drag Racing Championships and Eight Mile Celebrations are exciting, day-long events that will thrill spectators of all ages, while the Kendall Tires 600 Drag Radial Series is a half-day showcase of high-octane entertaining. (For more events, see the Best Things To Do In Ipswich At Night section of this post.)

    They only happen a handful of times throughout the year, so if professional speed-racing is something you want to see while visiting this heritage city, plan your Ipswich trip around Willowbank Raceway’s calendar.

    3. Become A Rally Driver For A Day.
    Rally Drive, Willowbank Raceway. – $.

    Willowbank doesn’t just have shows where you can watch other people having all the fun. They also have experiences where you become a racing car driver. Get into a fully-equipped rally car with a professional driver and learn how to navigate the corners to gain the fastest possible time. It’s a thrilling adventure that allows you to fulfil your rallying dreams.

    Then, once you’ve finished maxing out your capabilities, it’s time to swap seats with the pro and let them show you how it’s done and experience epic rally thrills as they race around the track at full speed. 

    4. Start The Day Floating Like A Cloud
    Hot Air Ballooning
    . – $.

    For those who prefer something much slower and significantly more picturesque, there’s one thing to do in Ipswich that tops all the rest: a hot air balloon ride. Seeing the beautiful heritage city and the breathtaking countryside that makes up the outer region from above is a magnificent way to discover Greater Ipswich and the surrounding landscapes.

    Although it entails waking up well before dawn, there’s nothing quite like seeing the world as a new day breaks and getting to experience it from a slow contraption drifting through the sky is something else entirely. It’s nothing short of magical and is an unbeatable way to see the regional city.

    Best Things To Do In Ipswich At Night.

    5. See A Performance.
    Ipswich Civic Centre. – $.

    The Ipswich Civic Centre is Ipswich’s ultimate entertainment space and the perfect place to go if you’re itching for something to do at night. They host a broad range of shows. Everything from theatre, music, dance, comedy, and so much more.

    Whichever productions are making the rounds and are coming to Ipswich, chances are they’ll be on at the Civic Centre. It makes it such an exciting place to be, and with such a wide selection of genres to choose between, they’re sure to have something to satisfy your tastes.

    The Ipswich Civic Centre
    Watch some great shows at the Ipswich Civic Centre.

    6. Discover More Shows.
    Studio 188. – $.

    Another venue where you can see some shows in Ipswich after sunset is Studio 188. Situated in the heart of the CBD inside the Old Baptist Church on Brisbane Street, Studio 188 is a much smaller and more intimate space than the Civic Centres. It’s perfect for catching local performances, small productions and workshops. 

    Studio 188
    Studio 188 is inside the old Baptist Church.

    7. Taste All The Beers.
    Pub Crawl.

    Ipswich is home to many pubs, especially in the CBD. One way to experience as many of them as possible is to gather some buddies and head out on a pub crawl. Taste the different beers and brews and have a grand ol’ time catching up with friends as you head to the lineup of bars across the city.

    While pub crawls are a classic way to enjoy a new place with your buddies, do it responsibly. Know your limit, watch out for your mates and always have a reliable pal who won’t drink and drink and can get you back to wherever you’re staying safe and sound.

    8. Get Spooked In A Graveyard.
    Ghost Tours. – $.

    Ipswich is an old city. There’s no arguing that. It’s one of the oldest in Queensland, and it has a lot of stories. And you can hear about their tales by taking a ghost tour on one of three ghost tours: the Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tour, the Haunted Ipswich Ghost Tour & the Goodna Cemetery Haunted History Tour.

    Learning about bone-chilling little-known stories is not only great for learning more about the untold history city, but it is one of the most terrific and terrifyingly fun things to do in Ipswich at night for adults and kids alike.

    9. Soak In The Raceway Atmosphere.
    Willowbank Raceway. – $.

    Willowbank Raceway doesn’t just host full-day events. Most of their schedule is actually spectator races at night. And there’s a laundry list to choose from and some you can even participate in too.

    The Assault Nights involving themed cars, and PWR Nostalgia Drag Races that feature old vehicles are just naming a couple of the favourites. If you own a car that fits in with the theme of the night’s event, you can even drag race for free as part of the show. Then there’s the exhilarating Test ‘n’ Tune event where people can race their friends down the 1/4 mile track and see who has the best car. Whether you partake in an event or merely go to watch, a night out at Willowbank Raceway is guaranteed to be epic. 

    Free Things To Do In Ipswich, QLD.

    Ipswich has some fantastic and unique attractions that make the city worth visiting. But it also has an abundance of fantastic free things to do, so if you’re wondering what to do in Ipswich to keep costs down, here are a few of the city’s top places to see.

    10. See Ipswich’s Historical Buildings.
    Ipswich CBD.

    Ipswich is one of Queensland’s oldest cities and it pays homage to its heritage of over 150 years by preserving many of its old buildings. The city centre is a visual feast for those who love historic establishments. An easy loop walk or drive around the CBD along Limestone St and Brisbane St will take inquisitive people past endless architectural relics of the past, including the gorgeous facade of the (former) Ipswich Post Office and Central Church.

    But don’t just stick to those two streets. Stunning heritage buildings are all over Ipswich. And if there’s one place history buffs shouldn’t miss, it’s the breathtaking St Mary’s Catholic Church on Elizabeth Street.

    St Mary's Cathedral is one of Ipswich's most iconic landmarks.
    St Mary’s Catholic Church is one of Ipswich’s most beautiful heritage buildings.

    11. Become Enamoured By Art.
    Ipswich Art Gallery.

    Speaking of heritage buildings, one of the city’s most frequented attractions resides within one.  The stunningly modern and inviting Ipswich Art Gallery is situated inside the Old Town Hall building. and is a visual art and social history museum.

    With its fantastic range of exhibitions, displays, workshops, performances and extensive interactive programs for children and families, there are not only many interesting things to see for adults, but as someone who visited many times in my youth playing in the hand-on children’s zone and has many fon memories of doing so, I can say it’s easily it’s one of the best places to take the young kids in Ipswich, especially on a rainy or overly hot day.

    Visiting the Ipswich Art Gallery is one of the best places to take kids.
    The Ipswich Art Gallery is a great place to take kids.

    12. Have A Picnic And Play At One Of Queebsland’s Oldest Parks.
    Queens Park.

    While still on the topic of heritage, Ipswich’s Queens Park is one of the city’s most notable places of historical significance. That’s because the stunning place is one of Queensland’s oldest parks

    First surveyed in 1842, the sprawling 26-hectare park still retains much of its old-world charm, evidenced in the architecture. Even the trees, some of them are well over 100 years old

    But those aren’t the only reasons people love to flock to Ipswich’s largest park. It’s because it’s a beautiful place that makes them feel a world away. In addition to the abundance of space, shady trees, and gorgeous greenery, there are plenty of picnic tables, BBQs and playgrounds. It’s the perfect place for families to unwind and is only a stone’s throw away from the city.

    Queens Park
    Queens Park is a gorgeous place to roam, especially if you have kids

    13. Get Beautiful City Views.
    Lions Lookout.

    Queens Park is a sizeable place, so it’s easy to overlook some of the park’s gems. Lions Lookout is one such spot that people sometimes don’t realise is there especially if they don’t visit the Information Centre. But it’s not one to miss because it has some of the best places to visit in Ipswich for views of the heritage city.

    Peering right down one of the busiest thoroughfares in the city, the westward-facing lookout is not only a great spot to visit during the day but an incredible place to watch the setting sun at the end of a long day of exploring. 

    Seeing the sunset over the city from Lions Lookouts In Queens Park is one of the best things To Do In Ipswich
    Lions Lookout looks right down one of the main streets of Ipswich.

    14. Find Tranquility In The Japanese Gardens.
    Nerima Gardens.

    Queens Park is an expansive place and there are several distinctively different areas to explore. On the southern side of Goleby Road, the Nerima Japanese Gardens are the most serene and picturesque. The ponds, bridges, creeks and huts scattered amongst the beautifully manicured grounds create a tranquil setting perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.

    There are also usually plenty of ducks and water dragons hanging around the park. What’s great about the latter is that they usually stay very still, so you can observe these cute reptiles without them skittering away too easily.

    A red bridge crossing a pond at the Nerima Gardens
    Nerima Gardens is a peaceful spot.
    Water Dragon at Nerima Gardens.
    Kids will love seeing the water dragons.

    👉 To experience more Japanese tranquillity, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony at the Nerima Gardens. Fees apply.

    15. Stroll Along The Bremer River.
    Riverheart Parklands.

    Running through the heart of Ipswich is the city’s most notable geographical feature. The Bremer River is a modestly wide waterway and the overruling reason why Ipswich didn’t become the capital of Queensland. It wasn’t wide enough for ships to travel comfortably and it also doesn’t help that it is a considerable distance from the coast, too, so it didn’t have either of those things going for it that were vital for it to thrive in that during the time. These days, it doesn’t get any water traffic, save for some kayakers, but it is a lovely place to go for a scenic walk.

    Riverheart Parklands is an easily accessible spot on the south side of the river where people can stroll alongside the picturesque waterway. More than that, the stunningly photogenic location is a beautiful place for a picnic or BBQ close to the CBD.

    The Riverheart Parklands running alongside the Bremer River during a foggy morning.
    The Riverheart Parklands is a beautiful place to go for a walk.

    16. Let The Kids Run Wild.
    Bob Gamble Parklands.

    If you’re looking for exciting free things to do in Ipswich with kids, parents and caregivers can’t go past the Bob Gamble Parklands. Situated on the bend of the Bremer River just down the road from the Riverheart Parklands, this spot is fantastic for your mini-mes to burn off some energy. There are playgrounds, climbing frames, a flying fox and plenty of space for them to run and ride around.

    In summer, it’s even better because the zero-depth water park means they can have some fun in the sun and cool off too. It’s a fantastic place to let them play, and plenty of BBQ and picnic facilities mean families can easily make a day out of visiting this delightful park.

    17. Go Wild Swimming At A Revered Riverside Park.
    Colleges Crossing Recreation Reserve.

    If you’re asking, “What things are there to do in Ipswich for families?” or “Where can I take my kids this weekend in Ipswich?” then one of the top answers is Colleges Crossing Recreation Reserve

    Colleges Crossing is one of the city’s most beloved attractions for many reasons. The large, reserve sits on the narrow southern banks of the upper Brisbane River and is a gorgeous spot to engage in a multitude of outdoor activities. 

    First off, it’s the best place in Ipswich to go swimming in a natural waterway. People of all ages love frolicking in the picturesque calm waters of the park. It’s also dog-friendly, so no one’s fur baby has to miss out on the fun.

    Kayaking and canoeing are also beloved pastimes partaken here, while younger children will adore seeing the pelicans and ducks that frequent the reserve.

    There’s also a cafe, playgrounds and plenty of space to play games have picnics and BBQs, making it such a fantastic place to take the family for an outdoor adventure in Ipswich. I know I certainly have plenty of fond memories of coming here many times throughout my childhood and adult life.

    Note: Partially reopened. The council website says “There will be no toilet facilities, running water, shelter or power available at the site.” Dated 29/4/2023.

    Colleges Crossing
    Colleges Crossing is a fantastic place to visit in Ipswich.
    Swimming at College's Crossing is one of the best things to do in Ipswich.
    Especially if you love wild swimming.

    18. Relax At Some Beautiful Gardens.
    Kholo Gardens.

    Those looking for even more tranquil places to visit in Ipswich will adore the Kholo Gardens north of the city. This out-of-the-way place sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and has a handful of lovely trails that take intrepid visitors to a handful of picturesque viewpoints. It’s also a lovely place for playing and picnics. Many people also choose this beautiful place to get married.

    The pond at Kholo Gardens
    Kholo Gardens is a lovely place to escape the city.
    The Brisbane River from the Kholo Gardens
    And there are some lovely views of the Brisbane River.

    19. Enjoy A Family Day Out At Springfield.
    Robelle Domain.

    If you’re looking for another fantastic place to take kids in Ipswich, head to Robelle Domain in Springfield.  The enormous 24-hectare parkland has over 11km of boardwalks, walking tracks, playgrounds, interactive equipment, a zero-level water park and so much more. AKA, it’s kiddy heaven. The sprawling space also has plenty of picnic tables and BBQs so family and friends can gather and have a lovely chit-chat while the kids run around having fun.

    20. Enjoy A Swim At The Free Public Pool!
    Orion Lagoon.

    There’s no argument that one of the best things to do in Ipswich is splash around at Orion Lagoon in summer. The Orion Lagoon is a gorgeous swimming precinct also within the Robelle Domain, but because it’s such a fantastic place to visit and one of my go-to places to cool off, it deserves a spot of its own on this list.

    It’s a series of interconnected pools that cater to people of different ages. There’s a shallow splash pool for very young children and another one that is 1.5m deep which is for more proficient swimmers and adults. 

    It’s also lifeguard-supervised and has plenty of shady spaces to sit. In the vicinity is a cafe, toilets, showers and lockers, so visitors can eat, pee, poop, de-chlorinate and keep possessions safe while enjoying these fabulous free-to-use lagoons.

    21. See The Military Planes & Learn About Australian Aviation History.
    RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre.

    Australia is a proud defence force nation. But what may come as a surprise to people is that little old Ipswich is home to the country’s most expansive operational air base. The Amberley RAAF Base is a massive recruitment and training facility that works to keep Australia’s front line safe and provides aid to other countries in time of need. 

    And it’s also home to the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre. Every third Sunday between January and November, they have open days where the general public can learn more about Australia’s aviation history in the armed forces and its role in global conflicts and disasters.

    Get up close to an assortment of military aircraft such as the iconic F-111, famous for its dump and burn capabilities, in addition to Caribous, Blackhawks and so much more. Also complementing the impressive range of warplanes are service vehicles, reconnaissance equipment, cockpit modules and an extensive range of other defence force memorabilia.

    It’s an impressive display, but it’s not only a fantastic attraction to learn about the Royal Australian Air Force and pay respects to all those who served and their efforts in all the situations they’ve been in, but it’s also a great place to remember the importance of their ongoing roles and teach the younger generation about how Australia maintained its freedom. Because of that, it’s undoubtedly one of the best free places to visit in Ipswich.

    👉 Hot Tip: Although the Heritage Centre is free, pre-registration is essential. Click here for more information and to register.

    Best Ipswich Walking Trails.

    Ipswich may not be known for its walking trails, but there is a handful of them scattered throughout the region worth visiting.

    22. Discover Dinosaur Fossils.
    Denmark Hill Conservation Reserve.

    Starting out with something for the kids, Denmark Hill Conservation Reserve in the middle of the city is a fantastic spot to do some walking. The park has a small network of trails that aren’t too strenuous for children, so it’s a great spot to take them.

    But it’s not necessarily the trails that’ll delight them. It’s the display of dinosaur fossils that’ll interest their inquisitive minds and the assortment of birds that call the reserve home that they’ll enjoy the most.

    Denmark Hill Conservation Reserve Dinosaur Hut
    Shelter at Denmark Hill featuring fossils!

    23. Go For A Lovely Nature Stroll.
    Haig Street Quarry Bushland Reserve.

    Another walking trail for the kids is the Haig Street Quarry Bushland Reserve. The easy track has lovely views of the small water-filled quarry, and young children will love seeing ducks swimming in the water.

    There’s also a fantastic playground for them to enjoy, picnic facilities and a picturesque lookout too.

    The "quarry" at Haig St Quarry
    The quarry.
    Tom Craik Lookout at Haig St Quarry
    The lookout has lovely views across the mountains.

    24. Visit The City’s Iconic Rocky Outcrop.
    White Rock, Spring Mountain Conservation Park.

    One of the best places to go in Ipswich for a moderate walk is undoubtedly Spring Mountain Conservation Reserve. The sprawling untouched forest has an extensive network of trails crisscrossing the reserve, making it a fantastic place to lose yourself in nature for a day. 

    But if you’re only planning to be in Ipswich once, ensure you accommodate one particular Spring Mountain trail into your schedule: the one to White Rock.

    White Rock is an unusual geographical feature that, despite being surrounded by trees, distinctively juts out of the landscape. It’s impossible to miss as you get nearer to the landmark. Equally as interesting is that the weather-worn rock is covered in erosion holes and caves, which makes walking this 6.5km return trail one of my top suggested things to do in Ipswich for adults and adventurous, nature-loving kids alike. 

    The trail to white Rock is one of the best walks in Ipswich.
    The trail to White Rock is one of Ipswich’s best walks.
    Teviot Range.

    Teviot Range is Ipswich’s own mountain range. Travelling south out of the city along the Ipswich-Boonah Road, it’s impossible to miss. It lines the eastern side of the road and is a beautiful series of peaks.

    And within those mountains lie two sections with a handful of walking trails that are up there with Ipswich’s best.

    Teviot Range at sunrise
    Teviot Range in Ipswich’s south is beautiful.

    25. Go For A Longer Hike.
    Hardings Paddock Walks.

    Hardings Paddock is the northernmost of the two sections and has a wide open space for playing and picnicking. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy the outdoors. 

    There are also a bunch of walks leading from the paddock that range from short and kid-friendly to ones that are steep and strenuous.

    The walk of choice here is the Rocky Knoll and Goolman Lookout Loop, which has challenging but rewarding sections and leads to a lovely viewpoint overlooking the countryside. 

    View of Flinders Peak from Goolmans Lookout
    View from Goolman Lookout.

    26. Or A More Challenging One.
    Flinders Plum Walks.

    The other section of the Teviot Range is Flinders Plum. A small park sits at the bottom of Mt Flinders and has one BBQ and a couple of picnic tables. It’s quite an intimate outdoor space, but the appeal of this place is in the walks. 

    There are three trails here: Sandy Creek, Mt Blaine and Flinders Peak.  Sandy Creek is a flat, often overgrown trail that doesn’t have a lot of visual appeal. Mt Blaine is a great short but steep scenic walking trail that concludes with a lovely view overlooking Flinders Peak.

    And last but not least, is the hike to Flinders Peak itself, a challenging but satisfying 6km return walk that takes intrepid hikers to the breathtaking Teviot Range’s highest point. It’s a gorgeous walk with numerous viewpoints and is, undoubtedly, not just one of the best walks in Ipswich, but one of the overall best things to do there too.

    Views From Mt Blaine
    View from Mt Blaine.

    27. Enjoy A Day Walking Or Cycling A Historic Record-Breaking Trail.
    Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

    For a truly challenging outdoor adventure, people can take on the mammoth Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. Starting from Ipswich at the Wulkuraka Railway Station and concluding in the small town of Yarraman, the 161km track is the longest rail trail in Australia.

    It follows the disused Brisbane Valley Rail Line and takes in the gorgeous countryside, through beautiful bushland over historic bridges and picturesque waterways. It’s not just for hikers either. Many cyclists enjoy discovering this fantastic trail, and there are quaint towns with camping spots for those dedicated to accomplishing the whole thing.

    Even if doing it in its entirety is too much, the track has numerous entry and exit points, so those just looking to complete a section/s can enjoy this record-breaking trail too. Best of all, for those who love experiencing the outdoors with their dogs, the entire trail is also pet-friendly!

    The start of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail

    Secret Places In Ipswich.

    28. Go Bushwalking Or Mountain Bike Riding.
    Castlehill Blackstone Reserve.

    On Ipswich’s eastern outskirts lies Castlehill Blackstone Reserve, historically the location of a mining operation but now a premiere biking destination. The extensive network of trails caters to all ability levels and has sections that’ll challenge even experienced riders.

    There is also a fascinating 1.5km walking trail within the reserve, giving those who prefer to explore on foot something to discover in this fantastic little-known destination.

    But what makes this place unique from other multi-use precincts it is like like taking a trip down memory lane. There is plenty of coal mining history to uncover, and just along the Thomas Lewis walking track, you can see the remnants of the overground operations that used to take place here, such as open tunnels, hand-dug shafts, and a water storage tank.

    But before the Rylance-Aberdare/Harts Aberdere Mineplace was mined virgin Aberdare coal from this site, it used to be where Brynhyfryd mansion stood. This 24m squared dwelling with 49 rooms, including a 20m observation deck, was referred to as the “Castle”, hence the name of the site.

    While it was dismantled and its parts repurposed elsewhere because of the Aberdere Seam caused collapses nearby and there’s nothing left of this estate, except a wall from the old milking shed, walkers can read about the fascinating history of this beautiful long-gone place on the signboards at the summit of the hill, making this simultaneously a fascinating secret places in Ipswich to visit, especially for those who loved heritage trails.

    Castle Hill Blackstone Reserve Sign
    Walk or cycle the trails at Castlehill Blackstone Reserve.

    29. Go Military Aircraft Spotting.
    Behind The RAAF Amberley Base.

    As mentioned before, Ipswich is home to the largest defence force base in Australia, the RAAF Amberley Base. It’s one of the most notable things about the city, and unsurprisingly, many military planes are frequently spotted flying in the skies around the facility. It’s quite a magnificent sight.

    But for enthusiastic military aircraft observers who want to find the best place to see them up as close as legally possible, there’s one area where the locals go to do just that. At the end of Old Toowoomba Road on the eastern side of the base lies one of RAAF Amberley’s back gates. It’s here where people love to come to see and photograph the incredible aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force. 

    A Caribou Military Aircraft coming in to land at the RAAF Amberley Airbase at sunrise
    Ipswich is a great place for military plane spotting.
    A Superhornet taking off from Amberley Airbase at sunset
    There are a few different planes to see.

    👉 If you want to see more military aircraft doing their thing,
    Brisbane Riverfire in September every year features an aerial display.
    Alternatively, there is the Royal Tattoo Air Show.

    30. Spot Kangaroos.
    Several Places.

    Speaking of Old Toowoomba Road, another thing down that way is Australia’s beloved marsupial: the sweet endemic kangaroo

    The adorable Aussie icons are pretty hit-and-miss it comes to spotting them in the wild. But for some peculiar reason, they love hanging out next to the air base. Who would have thought that a road, golf course and a playing field between houses and an airport would be where kangaroos live?

    There aren’t just a few of them either. Gangs of roos patrol the neighbourhood with their cute faces and adorable hops. It’s one of the few places in Ipswich where you’re practically guaranteed to see some kangas because there are always THAT many of them there.

    Another place where kangaroos reside in abundance is on the Wacol Golf Course. It sure as hell makes for an interesting game of golf, but that’s how we do it in Australia. Well, at least this place does. You needn’t play a round to see them, either. Just drive down Boyce Road to the car park, and there’s sure to be heaps munching on some grass. 

    So while they are not technically in the wild because it’s in the middle of urban development, they are free-roaming, and I’ve seriously always seen plenty at the former very few times are there none at the latter, that’s how much I can guarantee that there is a 98% chance of seeing them.

    A small gang of kangaroos at sunset
    Some of the kangaroo gang hanging at the sports field near the RAAF Base.

    31. Watch A Movie The Old Fashioned Way
    Tivoli Drive-In. – $.

    Another fantastic thing to do in Ipswich at night is attending a movie screening at the Tivoli Drive-In. Drive-in movie theatres were common in days gone by, but not so much anymore, so it’s rare to come across one, which makes going even more special.

    Rock up early in your vehicle, find the best spot to park in front of the giant screen, pull out the popcorn and enjoy the latest flick from the comfort of your car. Some people parked nose in and sat in the front seats while others positioned their vehicles so the boot was facing the screen looked like they were having a snuggly slumber party in the back of their cars with the all pillows and blankets they had.

    Better yet, it’s only $10 per car, so it’s a SUPER AFFORDABLE family night out and there are usually two consecutive movies that the entrance fees pays for, so it’s even more value for money. Adding even more icing on the cake, it’s also dog-friendly, so your furry friend doesn’t have to miss out on the fun either! I took my boyfriend and his dog for our first time to a drive-in movie theatre here and we all thoroughly loved the unique old-timey experience.

    32. Discover A Stunning Viewpoint Overlooking The Brisbane River.
    Barnes Lookout.

    An alternative route between the beautiful capital city of Brisbane and Ipswich is via Moggill Road and Mt Crosby Road. It’s not the way tourists generally take, but many people do, understandably, like to visit Colleges Crossing, the beautiful must-visit riverside parkland mentioned before, and this next hidden place is not too far down the road.

    Barnes Lookout lies in a very awkward place along Mt Crosby Road. Located directly opposite Wattle Road, the parking space is a hard-to-notice bay that sits at the top of a hill and is only a small dirt patch.

    The best way to get to it is to have a map with the lookout marked on it, so you know exactly where to slow down beforehand and be heading eastbound as it’s on the south side of the road. Coming in from any other direction would be very difficult and unsafe. 

    Once you get there, it’s not going to look like much is there, and you may feel like you’ve wasted your time, but there are a few spots where it has it has fantastic views overlooking the sharp bend of the Brisbane River.

    The view of the Brisbane River from Barnes Lookout
    Barnes Lookout is hard to get to but has some nice views.

    33. Enjoy Some Family Time By The River.
    Joseph Brady Park.

    Like many other places, Ipswich has an abundance of parks. But along with Queens Park, Kholo Gardens and Colleges Crossing, Joseph Brady Park is one that you shouldn’t pass up. This quiet, out-of-the-way place sits at the corner of the Bremer and Brisbane Rivers and is a beautiful place not many know about.

    In addition to the picturesque views of the rivers merging, there’s plenty of open space and a handful of picnic tables and BBQs. It’s just a lovely secret place in Ipswich perfect for those who want to dine or take the kids outside to play in a serene setting.

    The kids playground and the Brisbane River at the Jospeh Brady Park
    Joseph Brady Park is one of Ipswich’s best-hidden parks.

    34. Pay Respects To The City’s Biggest Mining Disaster.
    Box Flat Memorial.

    Ipswich has a proud mining heritage, but on the 31st of July 1972, an underground gas and coal dust explosion occurred at the Box Flat Mine at Swanbank and killed 17 people. 

    Today, there’s a memorial to those who died because of the catastrophe, eight of whom were rescue workers, located on Swanbank Road. Read the story and learn about how Ipswich’s biggest coal mining disaster occurred and how it’s preventing tragedies like this from happening again. 

    Box Flat Memorial
    The Box Flat Memorial.

    35. Hop Aboard A Steam Train To A Delightful Rail Ride From Yesteryear.
    Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway. – $.

    Just down the road from the Box Flat Memorial is the Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway. Board a beautifully restored steam train and take a journey back to yesteryear. It’s a fantastic adventure for train enthusiasts, history buffs, inquisitive children and everyone in between.

    Better yet, dressing up is encouraged, so hop aboard one of their enthralling train rides, including a Murder Mystery adventure, and get caught up in this unique little-known Ipswich experience.

    The historic Queensland Pioneer Railway Station.
    The historic railway station where you board the train.

    36. Stop And Stretch The Legs At A Picturesque Park.
    Pan Pacific Peace Gardens.

    Another tranquil place not many people know about is the Pan Pacific Peace Gardens at Goodna. Featuring a large pond, a multitude of tracks, and plenty of grassed areas, picnic tables and BBQs, this beautiful parkland is fantastic for those looking for a peaceful place to escape and let their kids play.

    The pond at the Pan Pacific Peace Gardens
    Explore the peaceful Pan Pacific Peace Gardens.

    37. Go For A Walk Amongst Endangered Tea Trees.
    Purga Nature Reserve.

    Purga Nature Reserve, along Middle Road, is one of the best secret places in Ipswich worth seeking out because there are very few places like it. That’s because it is home to the largest remnant of the protected Swamp Tea Tree in Australia

    It’s rather disturbing to learn that this is essentially all that is left of these beautiful trees especially since this place is so small. But it also means walking amongst these bendy, tatty trees is unique to Ipswich and something you’re unlikely to come across again. I’ve also occasionally seen roos that bound around the lovely place. 

    38. Explore A Gorgeous Mansion.
    Woodlands Of Marburg. $.

    Twenty kilometres northwest of Ipswich along the Warrego Highway lies a majestic historical estate. The Woodlands Of Marburg is notably a gorgeous 2-story mansion built between 1889 and 1891 and featuring a lookout tower. The property sawed timber before being turned into a sugarcane farm, then becoming a seminary and a grammar school getaway.

    These days, the grand establishment is open for the public to enjoy. People can also stay in the luxurious rooms overnight, host private events such as weddings and corporate retreats and most intriguingly, attend haunted mansion tours of the estate.

    39. Tear Up The Tracks On Two Wheels.
    Hiddenvale Adventure Park. – $.

    Biking enthusiasts will have no problem heading out into the countryside to find this secret Ipswich gem. Hiddenvale Adventure Park lies 40 km southwest of the city and has over 110 km of trails.

    With such an extensive network of tracks to choose from, everyone, from the novice rider to the advanced hardcore biker, will enjoy tearing up the terrain at this little-known place. It is one of the most exciting places to go in Ipswich that not enough people know about. 

    Best Things To Do In Ipswich - Hidden Vale Adventure Park
    There’s a huge network of trails at the Hidden Vale Adventure Park

    Places To Visit In Ipswich Map.

    Where To Stay In Ipswich.

    ➡️ Oaks Ipswich Aspire Suites.

    The best place to stay in the heart of Ipswich is Oaks Ipswich Aspire Suites. This gorgeous hotel combines many factors giving it an edge over the rest. For starters, each suite comes equipped with comfortable modern furniture, decor and amenities, including a full kitchen and laundry. Furthermore, the shared spaces include a dining area, sauna, gym and secure undercover car park. 

    But as Ipswich’s only highrise hotel, it’s the gorgeous views that elevate this hotel to the next level, especially the pool deck, which overlooks the stunning St Mary’s Cathedral. All that and it’s so close to the CBD and public transport and it is also affordable.

    ➡️ Woodlands Of Marburg.

    As mentioned above, the Woodlands Of Marburg is a gorgeous historic estate with a stunning 100-year-old mansion. It’s not just a fantastic destination to visit for weddings and corporate retreats but a great place to stay while exploring Ipswich.

    Located in the countryside 20 km northwest of the CBD along the Warrego Highway, guests stay at the stunning property’s Bougainvilla House, which sits adjacent to the majestic Woodlands of Marburg Mansion.

    The dwelling contains 14 luxurious suites with contemporary modern designs infused with a touch of old-world charm, making this one of Ipswich’s most unique stays.

    ➡️ Hardings Paddock Campground.

    Located 15 minutes south of the CBD, the Hardings Paddock Campground is one of the best places to stay in Ipswich for those looking for the ultimate nature escape. 

    The serene spot lies at the base of the Teviot Range adjacent to the Hardings Paddock Day-Use Area and is the perfect spot to stay for people who love being out in nature. And with facilities such as BBQs, communal kitchens and shower cubicles, and an open fireplace, it makes camping at Hardings Paddock even more inviting. 

    Frequently Asked Questions.

    Where Is Ipswich In Australia?

    Ipswich sits in the Queensland region known as the South East and is a 43km drive southwest of the capital Brisbane along the Ipswich Motorway.

    It’s also about a 100km drive northwest of another prominent South East Queensland city, the Gold Coast, along the Pacific Highway, Logan & Ipswich Motorways.

    How To Get To Ipswich?

    Ipswich has no commercially operating airports that take visitors to the heritage city. However, people passing through Brisbane can easily get to Ipswich via train on the Ipswich/Rosewood line. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes from Central or Roma Street. You will need to purchase a GoCard to ride on the Translink system.

    How To Get Around Ipswich?

    Public buses service Ipswich city somewhat adequately and access a handful of the attractions on this list. But to efficiently and economically navigate around Ipswich, a car is the best option to make the most out of your trip.

    When Is The Best Time To Visit Ipswich?

    Ipswich isn’t a place that experiences significantly noticeable weather changes, so it’s a great city to visit any time of year.

    Atmospherically speaking, Ipswich experiences relatively stable weather throughout the year, so it’s a great city to visit any time of the year. However, there are a few things to consider.

    Summer.

    Starting with summer, the season and even late spring generally experience hot days with temperatures averaging in the low 30s (Celius). It’s not uncommon for it to occasionally reach above 35. 

    These temperatures are sometimes uncomfortable, even for locals who live with this weather. However, what people enjoy about it is that it’s perfect swimming weather, and they like staying out later thanks to the warm night. 

    Well, it is when there’s not one of the frequent summer storms lighting up the sky, but that’s something to love about the season too.

    Autumn. 

    Autumn is a great time to visit Ipswich as the weather starts to cool down, but it’s not quite cold enough to warrant needing heavier clothes. It’s more comfortable in general, and the weather is perfect for being outdoors.

    Winter.

    Although winter in Ipswich is mild, it’s still cool. The days are usually pleasant, but the nights aren’t the most welcoming.

    Still, it’s much warmer than many other parts of Australia. Many people come north to Queensland from the southern states because the winters are too uncomfortably cold down there.

    Spring.

    Spring is another great time to visit Ipswich because it’s not quite as searingly hot as summer, and the storms aren’t as frequent either. It’s warm enough to go swimming, but not so much that it feels like all you want to do is swim, and the weather is pleasant enough to stay out late into the night.

    Additionally, flowers are coming into bloom, and an explosion of baby animals arrive on the scene. It’s a magical time, except there’s one final thing to note about springtime all across Australia that is hellish.

    Magpies! These ordinarily docile creatures become horrifying fiends when spring comes around. Understandably, their instincts kick in, and they want to protect their young. But it does mean heading outside can be a dangerous adventure as magpie parents swoop at anyone or anything they deem a threat to their babies. I generally try to steer clear of parks and anywhere with an abundance of trees, particularly during September when they are most active to avoid risking attack. 

    Where Can I Watch The Sunset In Ipswich?

    A few great places to watch the sunset in Ipswich are Lions Lookout at Queens Park, the David Trumpy Bridge near Riverlink and Colleges Crossing in Chuwar.

    Conclusion: Best Places To Visit In Ipswich, Australia.

    Ipswich may be a little off the tourist trail for most travellers, but those willing to venture out to the heritage city will be surprised as it has an abundance of fantastic things to do.