Mount Coot-tha Reserve (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Mount Coot-tha Reserve?
What makes it 87% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can roam playgrounds, Hide ’n’ Seek trail, planetarium kid shows and shallow creek picnic spots, with toilets, BBQs and short shaded walks, giving a full, safe learning day.
Positives:
- Free Family Activities: Most trails, playground and picnic areas have no entry fee.
- Interactive Learning: Children’s trails and planetarium shows combine play with education.
Challenges:
- Trail Difficulty: Some paths have steps and uneven ground; toddlers may need help.
- Summer Heat: Limited shade on trails; carry extra water and hats.
What is Mount Coot-tha Reserve?
- A forested hill reserve west of Brisbane’s CBD featuring native eucalypt woodlands and subtropical rainforest patches
- A botanical precinct housing Brisbane Botanic Gardens with themed plant collections and an adjoining planetarium
- A public conservation area managed by Brisbane City Council for biodiversity protection, scientific research, and urban green space preservation
What is so special about Mount Coot-tha Reserve for with kids?
- Free rainforest trails, playgrounds and picnic spots
- Interactive children’s discovery trail through botanical gardens
- Splash-friendly creek and waterfall for hands-on fun
- Short, engaging planetarium shows for ages 3–12
- Easy art-trail walk with indigenous installations
Recommended visit duration: 1 day
Why 1 day visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for gardens, playground, creek play and a planetarium show without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Mount Coot-tha Reserve
Simpson Falls Picnic & Creek Play:
Walk 650 m to the viewing platform then splash in the shallow creek at Simpson Falls.
Tip: Pack a picnic and change of clothes for kids; use the shaded tables and BBQs.
Hide ’n’ Seek Children’s Trail:
Follow a self-guided 17-stop trail through rainforest with interactive stops.
Tip: Pick up the free brochure at the Visitor Centre before you start.
Botanic Gardens Playground:
Nature-themed play area with slides, swings and stepping logs.
Tip: Arrive mid-morning when the playground is less crowded and shaded.
Planetarium Children’s Cosmic Skydome Show:
Short astronomy show for ages 3–14 in Australia’s top planetarium.
Tip: Book online in advance; arrive 10 minutes early for the best seats.
Aboriginal Art Trail to J.C. Slaughter Falls:
Easy 1 km loop past indigenous art installations to a lookout above the falls.
Tip: Point out each artwork to spark kids’ interest and pack water.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mount Coot-tha Reserve
- Early Arrival: Get to Simpson Falls picnic area by 9 am to secure the best spot.
- Brochure Download: Download or pick up the Children’s Trail brochure before you go.
- Advance Bookings: Reserve planetarium tickets online to avoid sold-out sessions.
Reviews of Mount Coot-tha Reserve
Nikolaos Papavasiliou
Great spot for families, couples, and friends. Suitable viewing of the Brisbane City in addition to hiking tracks to get the heart pumping. Also provides enthusiastic driving routes without having to leave the central Brisbane area.
My Life
Best park and view ever in Australia. Well done. My family from overseas always give a wow factor when visiting.
arthurdayne01
Great place to have a picnic. Plenty of space to move around.
Luke Gericke
So many tracks and places to explore with the kids. Having this so close to the city is great
Jay D
It's basically a truck stop at the top of a mountain. BBQs. Seating. Car park. Wildlife.
When is the best time to visit Mount Coot-tha Reserve (Brisbane, Australia)?
In summer, start before 10 am to avoid heat and bring sun protection. In spring, look for wildflowers in the gardens. In winter, wear layers for cool mornings. In autumn, enjoy mild hikes and colorful foliage.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Planetarium Children’s Cosmic Skydome (2× kids) | AUD 22 |
| Lunch at Botanic Gardens Café | AUD 50 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 72 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Mount Coot-tha Reserve
Address: 445 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Bardon QLD 4065, Australia
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About Mount Coot-tha Reserve
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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