A family-friendly guide to Brisbane, Australia, with Bluey's mum

Australian actress Melanie Zanetti, the voice behind Chilli Heeler, knows exactly what makes Brisbane so special. Here are her top picks for families in Queensland's capital.

Brisbane has quietly reinvented itself in recent years, shaking off its once-sleepy reputation to become one of Australia's most exciting cities. Long overshadowed by Sydney and Melbourne, the Queensland capital now hums with a creative energy that feels distinctly its own. Spots like the revitalised Howard Smith Wharves and vibrant laneway bars prove that this subtropical city isn't just growing up – it's thriving. And with the 2032 Olympics on the horizon, Brisbane is ready to take its place on the global stage.

Adding to Brisbane's shine is Bluey, the hugely popular children's show that's produced and set here; capturing hearts worldwide and offering a window into Brisbane's sun-drenched, easygoing lifestyle. From the show's lush parklands and characteristic veranda-wrapped Queenslander homes to its playful focus on family life, Bluey – and the city's new interactive Bluey's World experience – captures the essence of what makes Brisbane special.

"It's like the fabric of Bluey is in Brisbane," says Melanie Zanetti, the voice of Chilli Heeler, Bluey's beloved TV mum, noting that the city, like the show, has something special to offer families everywhere: a reminder to slow down, play and find joy in the everyday. "It's a gorgeous place to raise children. It is such a warm and friendly city, climate-wise, but also just the general energy of the place."

Zanetti's connection to Brisbane isn't just professional – it's personal. She grew up in Brisbane with her five siblings, and while she now splits her time between the US and the Queensland capital, she loves returning to her hometown. "When I've been in LA and New York and then come back, it's like I can breathe," she says. "The sky is different here; it's a clearer, crisper blue. There's not the pollution you get in other big cities. It's really beautiful in that way."

We asked the actress – whose voice will also feature in the just-announced Bluey movie – about the best things to do, eat and see in Brisbane, for kids and adults alike.

"Brisbane has really got into its stride," she says. "The city is having a moment. We've got the Olympics coming up, and there's an energy in the air that things are getting exciting. Whenever I come back, I'm shocked by how many incredible new restaurants have opened and amazing, delicious, world-class dining. [For families] there are so many gorgeous bushwalks, and then there's hinterland and beaches not that far away. And now Bluey's World sweetens the deal – I know people in the US whose kids are obsessed with coming to Brisbane, which blows my mind."

Here are Zanetti's favourite family-friendly ways to enjoy the sunny Australian city.

The phrase "for real life" in Bluey has become a heartfelt mantra, celebrating the beauty and importance of everyday moments. It's a tribute to the authentic connections between family and community, inspired by Brisbane's down-to-earth lifestyle.

For Zanetti, the best place to experience this laid-back spirit is New Farm Park, a heritage-listed riverfront park that features in the Bluey episode Spy Game. "It's a staple of Brisbane life," she says. "It's all the things. It's a green space. There's a playground. There's these huge old fig trees. It's on the river, there's barbecues. It's an all-in-one wonderful place to be."

Located on the banks of the Brisbane River, New Farm Park is a community hub that's perfect for everything from lazy Sunday picnics to brisk morning jogs. Visitors can enjoy barbecues under the shade of century-old trees, people-watch from the sprawling lawns, admire the famed rose garden and take in the sweeping city views. "I went there a lot in my childhood, there's great places to run around and ride bikes," says Zanetti. "It's central and a great place to congregate."

Next door, the Brisbane Powerhouse, a former 1920s power station reimagined as a cutting-edge arts venue, hosting theatre performances, exhibitions and a weekly farmer's market, as well as free outdoor events and plenty of space for kids to roam. After immersing yourself in the arts, grab a meal at the Powerhouse's riverfront restaurants or explore the Brisbane Riverwalk, a scenic pedestrian path linking New Farm to Brisbane's central business district.

Website: https://newfarmpark.com.au/

Address: 1042 Brunswick St, New Farm QLD 4005

Phone: (07) 3403 8888

Instagram: @newfarm_park

Nestled within Brisbane's vibrant Cultural Precinct in South Brisbane, the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) is a must-visit for families and anyone keen to soak up Brisbane's cultural energy, says Zanetti. As part of a connected hub that includes QPAC for theatre and music, the Queensland Art Gallery and the State Library, GOMA stands out as a modern architectural masterpiece on the Brisbane River.

"It's a wonderful gallery. The space is beautiful and so well constructed to have incredible international exhibitions," says Zanetti, who grew up visiting the neighbouring Queensland Art Gallery before GOMA was built. "When GOMA arrived, it meant we could host these enormous shows we couldn't have before – like the Iris van Herpen exhibition, which was astounding."

GOMA, Australia's largest gallery of modern and contemporary art, has become renowned for hosting major international exhibitions. It's also home to the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, a groundbreaking event that Zanetti has attended since its inception. "I think I've seen every one of those," she says, reflecting on the gallery's ability to connect local audiences with global perspectives.

GOMA offers free admission to its permanent collection and hands-on programmes and activities. "They always have great kids' activities tied to the exhibitions," Zanetti notes, "to the point where I think, 'Am I allowed to come here if I don't have kids?'."

After exploring GOMA, Zanetti recommends checking out the rest of the Cultural Precinct. "The galleries and museums might have a fee for a special exhibition, but most it is just open and free to everyone," she says. "It's very kid friendly; there's lots of things for kids, especially over the holiday season."

Website: https://www.qagoma.qld.gov.au/

Address: Stanley Pl, South Brisbane QLD 4101

Phone: (07) 3840 7303

Instagram: @qagoma

Brisbane's food scene strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and family-friendliness, making it easy to dine out with kids while enjoying top-notch cuisine.

Zanetti says that a standout for families is One Fish, Two Fish in Kangaroo Point, a seafood restaurant that delivers adult-worthy dishes alongside fun options (and colouring books) for kids. "What's great about it is that it has food that you that's more adult, but then definitely fun things for kids. And it has a great vibe," she adds. From fresh oysters and seafood risotto to crumbed fish fingers perfect for little hands, "it's a great spot to enjoy together".

For more adventurous palates, Zanetti suggests heading to James Street in the Fortitude Valley neighbourhood for a variety of options, including sAme sAme, a modern Thai fusion restaurant where bold flavours meet a buzzing atmosphere. "I feel like Brisbane in general is welcoming and kid-friendly in most spaces" says Zanetti – though she notes that for a more relaxed meal, the city's parks and year-round balmy weather make it perfect for a picnic. Her top picks for dining al fresco? Roma Street Parklands, New Farm Park and the Botanic Gardens.

Website: https://www.onefish-twofish.com.au/

Address: 708 Main St, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169

Phone: (07) 3391 7680

Instagram:  @_onefishtwofish

Brisbane's highest peak, Mount Coot-Tha, is a favourite destination for locals and visitors seeking breathtaking vistas of the city and the surrounding Moreton Bay region. "You can see all the lights of the city at night – it's so beautiful," says Zanetti, adding that the iconic lookout features in the Bluey episode The Sign.

Just a 15-minute drive from the city, Mount Coot-Tha offers activities for everyone. Hike or mountain bike through native bushland on its well-maintained trails, and reward yourself at the top with a coffee or ice cream from The Summit Cafe, served up with Brisbane's best views. You can also stroll along the observation deck to soak in the panorama and read a historic timeline of the destination.

Afterwards, make some time to visit the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at the foot of the mountain. This sprawling 52-hectare sanctuary is filled with native plants, serene walking trails and wholesome activities. Kids will love the Hide 'n' Seek Children's Trail, tucked within the shady rainforest, while the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is a treat for astronomy enthusiasts. "I remember going as a kid – it was really gorgeous," says Zanetti, noting that you can explore the Cosmic Skydome to chart Brisbane's night sky and tour the Display Zone on a journey through space and time.

South Bank is Brisbane's all-in-one riverside playground and ultimate day-out destination, according to Zanetti. Nestled along the Brisbane River, this vibrant precinct combines green spaces, cultural attractions and endless entertainment, all with an emphasis on accessibility. "That's what's amazing about South Bank – it's free for everyone," she says.

For kids, the undeniable highlight is Streets Beach, a man-made beach complete with swimming pools and a water park, perfect for cooling off in Brisbane's subtropical heat. "It's really somewhere to take your kids for a day out, hang in the sunshine, swim and get an ice cream," Zanetti says. (Fun fact: the famous Bluey episode Ice Cream was set here.)

A stroll through the bougainvillea-covered arbour, one of South Bank's most picturesque features, leads to restaurants, ice cream stores and playgrounds. The area is also home to the city's Cultural Precinct, with its many galleries and museums; as well as the Piazza, a multi-purpose amphitheatre that hosts year-round events "There's even a cinema," says Zanetti. "Southbank really is an all-in-one stop."

If you're in Brisbane over a summer weekend, Zanetti recommends checking out Sunday Social on the Green, a Sunday afternoon event in South Bank Parklands where you can listen to live music with the Brisbane skyline as a backdrop. "All the kids can just run around and play, everyone's got picnic blankets, you can bring food or drink. It's such a great time."

Website: https://visit.brisbane.qld.au/places-to-go/inner-city/south-bank

Instagram: @visitsouthbank

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must-visit for visitors wanting to experience Australia's unique wildlife up close. Located in the suburb of Fig Tree Pocket, the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary is also a nostalgic draw for locals who often visited as kids on family outings or school excursions. "It's been there forever, and it's just a really sweet day out for a small human," says Zanetti.

The sanctuary is home to more than 70 species of Australian animals, including kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and dingoes ("When you're overseas, you forget how particular our flora and fauna is," says Zanetti). But it's the koalas – more than 100 of them – that steal the show. "Koalas are probably the main attraction," she explains.

For little ones, it's an enchanting day spent learning about native animals, feeding kangaroos, braving the 60-degree crocodile viewing dome and going behind the scenes in a platypus encounter. "It's perfect for anyone coming from out of town who's never really seen Australian animals," says Zanetti. Even better is knowing that your money is going to a good place, with the sanctuary putting research and conservation at the forefront of their work.

Website: https://lonepinekoalasanctuary.com/

Address: 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket Qld 4069

Phone: (07) 3378 1366

Instagram: @lonepinekoala

There's no shortage of natural wonders surrounding Brisbane, from pristine islands to lush hinterland rainforests. A favourite for Brisbanites is Moreton Island/Mulgumpin, just 75 minutes by boat from the city. The island's centre is dominated by Moreton Island National Park – which covers 95% of the landmass – and the coast is blessed with endless beaches, sand dunes, surfing spots and crystal-clear lagoons. "I was astounded by how beautiful it is," says Zanetti. "The water is that sharp blue-green, gorgeous aqua colour."

The island is a haven for marine life, with the Tangalooma Wrecks offering snorkelling among sunken ships teeming with fish in crystal-clear waters. If you prefer to stay on land, the island's sand dunes are perfect for tobogganing, and the beaches invite endless hours of relaxation. If you can, Zanetti suggests staying overnight at Tangalooma Island Resort, which offers a range of activities from hand-feeding wild bottlenose dolphins to underwater sea scooter safaris. "The resort is really magical and very family friendly."

For those drawn to the hinterland, Springbrook National Park is a spectacular rainforest retreat just 90 minutes south of Brisbane. Home to towering waterfalls, dramatic rock formations and lush tropical foliage, coming here feels like stepping onto another planet. "When you first walk in, there's this wall of dark rock and a huge waterfall. The area is filled with butterflies and dragonflies – it's really magical," says Zanetti. "You won't see things like this anywhere else in the world."

BBC Travel's The SpeciaList is a series of guides to popular and emerging destinations around the world, as seen through the eyes of local experts and tastemakers.

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