5 Must-Visit Activities These School Holidays: September 2023

The September school holidays are just around the corner (when did that happen?!), and if you're like most parents, you're probably wondering how to keep your kids entertained. Fear not! We've done the research for you and compiled a list of five must-visit activities in each state for the upcoming break. So, whether you're in New South Wales or Tasmania, there's something for everyone!

New South Wales

1. Dinosaur Festival in Sydney: Step back in time and let your children's imagination run wild at the Dinosaur Festival in Sydney. This interactive event offers a unique opportunity for kids to learn about these prehistoric creatures, participate in hands-on activities, and even meet life-sized replicas!
2. Explore the Blue Mountains: The Blue Mountains offer breathtaking landscapes with cascading waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and diverse walking trails. It's a haven for nature lovers, providing a serene escape from city life and a chance to reconnect with nature.
3. Taronga Zoo: This iconic zoo is home to a vast array of exotic animals, and what a view the giraffes enjoy. Special holiday workshops provide kids with insights into animal behavior, conservation efforts, and the chance to witness unique animal interactions.
4. Hunter Valley Gardens: Wander through beautifully themed gardens, from the Storybook Garden to the Oriental Garden. Special holiday events, rides, and interactive displays make it a delightful destination for families.
5. Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary: Dive into an underwater journey, discovering marine life from tiny seahorses to majestic sharks. The sanctuary emphasizes marine conservation, offering educational programs alongside its exhibits.

Victoria

1. Melbourne Royal Show: It's a staple for many families during the September school holidays - just like Perth! From thrilling rides and showbags to farm animals and live entertainment, there's something for kids of all ages. Don't forget to catch the nightly fireworks display!
2. Phillip Island Penguin Parade: Experience the magic of little penguins returning ashore at sunset. This natural spectacle is both educational and enchanting, offering a unique opportunity to learn about these adorable creatures.
3. Eureka Skydeck, Melbourne: Stand atop Melbourne's tallest building and gaze upon the city's panoramic views. Interactive displays and the thrilling 'Edge Experience' make it a must-visit for adventure seekers.
4. Ballarat Wildlife Park: This interactive wildlife park lets visitors get up close with native Australian animals. From kangaroo feeding to observing the mighty crocodile Crunch, it's a day of adventure and learning.
5. Great Ocean Road Adventure: Drive along one of the world's most scenic coastal routes, witnessing iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. The journey offers picturesque views, beach stops, and local eateries.

Queensland

1. Redcliffe KiteFest: Let your children's creativity soar at the Redcliffe KiteFest. This colourful event features professional kite flyers from around the world, kite-making workshops, and a dedicated kids' zone with rides and games. It's a day of outdoor fun the whole family will enjoy.
2. Gold Coast Theme Parks: Choose from a range of parks like Warner Bros. Movie World and Sea World. Each offers a unique blend of thrilling rides, shows, and interactive exhibits.

3. Monster Jump Obstacle Course in Brisbane: Unleash your child's energy at this thrilling obstacle course. Featuring a range of challenging jumps, climbs, and slides, it's a fun-filled adventure that tests agility and endurance, ensuring hours of active play.

4. Activities at Museum of Brisbane: Located in the heart of the city, this museum showcases Brisbane's vibrant history, culture, and art. Interactive exhibits, workshops, and guided tours provide an immersive experience, celebrating the city's past, present, and future.

5. Redcliffe KiteFest, Kidchella, Monster Jump: A trio of events that promise fun for the whole family. Redcliffe KiteFest fills the sky with colorful kites, Kidchella offers music and arts for young festival-goers, while Monster Jump challenges kids with its exciting obstacle course.

South Australia

1. Explore Glenelg: Glenelg, Adelaide's premier beachside suburb, is a haven for families during the school holidays. Take a leisurely stroll along the jetty, visit the local attractions like the Museum of Discovery (MOD), or simply relax on the sandy shores. And if you're lucky, you might even spot a dolphin or two!
2. Cleland Wildlife Park: Nestled within the Adelaide Hills, visitors can hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle koalas, and learn about Australian wildlife through interactive displays.
3. South Australian Maritime Museum: Located in Port Adelaide, this museum offers a journey through Australia's nautical history with hands-on exhibits, historic vessels, and lighthouse tours.
4. Adelaide Zoo: Home to over 3,000 animals, the zoo offers a unique window into the world of wildlife. Special attractions include the Giant Panda exhibit and immersive rainforest habitat.
5. Hey Caddy Mini Golf at West Lakes: A delightful mini-golf experience set amidst vibrant landscapes at West Lakes. Perfect for families, this course offers challenging holes, whimsical designs, and hours of fun, making it a top pick for a leisurely day out.

Western Australia

1. Perth Royal Show: An iconic annual event celebrating Western Australia's rich agricultural heritage. Families can enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, animal displays, and indulge in a variety of showbags, making it a must-visit during the holidays.
2. Margaret River Chocolate Factory: A chocoholic's paradise nestled in the heart of the Swan Valley. Visitors can witness the chocolate-making process, sample delectable treats, and explore a range of cocoa-based products, ensuring a sweet day out.
3. AQWA: Dive into WA's marine wonders without getting wet. From the icy waters of the southern ocean to the tropical wonders of the coral coast, AQWA offers an immersive underwater journey, perfect for curious minds.
4. Fremantle Prison Tour: Step back in time and explore Western Australia's convict history. With guided tours through cells, tunnels, and gallows, visitors get a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into prison life from yesteryears.
5. Perth Zoo:  A wildlife adventure in the heart of the city. Home to over 1,200 animals from around the globe, the zoo offers interactive encounters, educational programs, and conservation insights, making it a must-visit for animal lovers.

Tasmania

1. Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens: Nature-loving families should head to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. These lush gardens offer a serene escape from the city and are home to a diverse range of plants from Tasmania and beyond. Join one of the guided tours, participate in a workshop, or simply enjoy ; a picnic amidst the greenery.
2. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: Nestled in Tasmania, Bonorong is a haven for Australia's native wildlife. Dedicated to conservation and rehabilitation, visitors can encounter creatures like the Tasmanian devil, wombats, and kangaroos up close. Engaging tours and passionate keepers ensure an educational and heartwarming experience for all ages.