Gold Coast Attractions & Things to Do

Looking for the best Gold Coast attractions? Whether you’re visiting on holiday, planning a weekend getaway, or you’re a local searching for something new to experience, the Gold Coast offers an incredible variety of attractions, activities and adventures for every age and interest.

For more than 50 years, the Gold Coast has built its reputation as Australia’s ultimate playground. Millions of visitors from across Australia and around the world come here every year to enjoy its famous beaches, world-class theme parks, breathtaking hinterland, exciting wildlife experiences, family entertainment and unforgettable adventures.

From iconic attractions to hidden local gems, there’s always something new to discover.

Family Attractions on the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most family-friendly destinations. Families can spend days exploring award-winning theme parks, interactive wildlife parks, educational attractions, indoor entertainment centres, miniature railways, museums, water parks and much more.

Children of all ages will love meeting Australian wildlife, enjoying thrilling rides, exploring nature, playing at family entertainment venues and discovering exciting attractions designed to create lifelong memories.

The best part? New rides, shows, attractions and experiences are constantly opening, giving visitors and locals even more reasons to return year after year.

Thrills, Adventure & Outdoor Experiences

If you’re looking for adventure, the Gold Coast certainly delivers.

Thrill seekers can experience some of Australia’s biggest rollercoasters, indoor skydiving, jet boating, ziplining, high ropes courses, surfing lessons, scenic helicopter flights, hot air ballooning and adrenaline-pumping adventure tours.

For those who prefer a slower pace, there are spectacular lookouts, rainforest walks, whale watching cruises (seasonal), river cruises, botanical gardens, galleries, cultural attractions and some of Queensland’s most beautiful national parks just a short drive from the coast.

Great for Locals Too

Living on the Gold Coast doesn’t mean you’ve seen it all.

New attractions, family activities, exhibitions, events and adventure experiences are regularly opening throughout the region. Whether you’re entertaining visiting friends and family, planning school holiday activities, celebrating a birthday or simply looking for something different to do on the weekend, our Gold Coast Attractions Directory makes it easy to discover your next adventure.

Supporting local attractions also helps showcase everything that makes the Gold Coast one of Australia’s most exciting destinations.

Explore the Best Gold Coast Attractions

Browse our comprehensive directory below to discover the best Gold Coast attractions, family activities, adventure experiences, wildlife parks, tours, entertainment venues and must-see destinations.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a long-time local looking for your next adventure, you’ll find plenty of amazing things to do right here on the Gold Coast.

Level Up Arcade

Level Up Arcade

5627 0633

The Oasis, Surf Parade, Broadbeach QLD, Australia

Open from 9am daily

https://www.instagram.com/leveluparcade_broadbeach/

Level Up Arcade is the newest entertainment venue to hit the Coast.  This upmarket amusement centre for kids, adults, teens and families. Read more…

SkyPoint

07 5582 2700

9 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD, 4217, Australia

7.30pm - 9.00pm

https://www.instagram.com/skypoint_au/

SkyPoint – The Best Views on the Gold Coast Towering above the heart of Surfers Paradise, SkyPoint Observation Deck offers unrivalled 360-degree views of the Gold Coast,… Read more…

Dreamworld

07 5588 1111

1 Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera QLD, Australia

https://www.instagram.com/dreamworldau/

Dreamworld – Australia’s Favourite Theme Park Located on the Gold Coast, Dreamworld is Australia’s favourite theme park, offering an unforgettable mix of thrills, family fun, wildlife and… Read more…

Maleny Botanic Gardens

Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World

+61 (7) 5344 0010

233 Maleny Stanley River Road, Wootha QLD, Australia

9.00am - 4.30pm

https://www.instagram.com/malenybotanicgardens/

Set on 110 acres Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World are positioned high on the escarpment and covers more than 18 acres. Read more…

Tweed Regional Museum

Tweed Regional Museum

02 6670 2493

2 Queensland Road, Murwillumbah NSW, Australia

https://www.instagram.com/tweedregionalmuseum/

Are you looking for a FREE activity to do?  Why not check out the Tweed Regional Museum.  The Tweed Regional Musuem is dedicated to preserving and sharing… Read more…