7 Fun Attractions and Days Out in Australia

Published February 2009

7 Fun Attractions and Days Out in Australia

The best way to enjoy a stay in Australia is to take advantage of all the country has to offer. The following are the seven most fun attractions and days out in Australia that shouldn't be missed!

1. Theme Parks on the Gold Coast

You really can't go wrong with the theme parks located on Australia's Gold Coast! There's something for everyone here: SeaWorld Theme Park, WetnWild, and Dreamworld Theme Park are just some of the amazing options. Here, visitors will find rides and activities: you can zoom down some of the world's most exciting roller coasters or take part in some water-based fun over at Wet n Wild. These theme parks are great for people of all ages: adults and children alike are sure to have fun! Located a short 15 minute drive from the beaches of Surfers Paradise the theme parks of the Gold Coast are never far away from the rest of the action which makes it easy for families with children to hit the beaches and the theme parks all in one day! The best way to get around is to hire a cheap car on the Gold Coast, either at Surfer's Paradise or Coolangatta Airport.


2. Luna Park, Sydney

This is an amazing place to visit if you are interested in experiencing some of the city's famous icons. Here, children and adults alike can experience some great rides and games: drive on the Dodgems, watch the entertaining events in The Big Top, or watch the world from atop the famous Ferris Wheel. The best part is that admission to this Park is free of charge but if you want to go on the rides you will need to buy a Go Wild Pass with prices varying from AU$20 - AU$48 depending on your height. The cheapest time to go and enjoy Luna Park is Friday night after 5pm when tickets are only AU$25. If you've arrived into Sydney and fancy navigation through Sydney's traffic then arrange yourself car hire at Sydney Airportand head north across the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge to where Luna Park is situated.


3. Australia Zoo, Queensland

Founded and run by the late Steve Irwin, the world famous Crocodile Hunter and his family, this Zoo is one of the most respected and well known in the world. If you are interested in truly getting up close and personal with some of the most beautiful animals in the world, then this is the place to visit. They have a huge range of reptiles, mammals and birds; Camels, Cheetahs, Dingoes, Echidnas, Elephants, Foxes, Kangaroos, Koalas, Lemurs, Otters, Rhinos, Tasmanian Devils, Tigers, Wombats, Cormorants and Darters, Exotic Parrots, Boas and Pythons, Crocodilians, Lizards, Tortoises, Turtles and Venomous Snakes. The best way to get there is to book yourself some cheap car rental from Brisbane airport and drive the 1 hour+ north to the easy-to-find Zoo.


4. Blue Mountains

This area is one that should not be missed. It is perfect for people who want to experience nature's beauty. People can visit the Edge Cinema for a panoramic view of the Mountains, head to the Giant Staircase track, visit the Jenolan Caves, or experience the Scene Skyway's glass bottom aerial cable car, among other activities. One of the most iconic scenes of the Blue Mountains are the Three Sisters. Asides from the scenery, visitors can go 4WD driving, abseiling, rock climbing, cycling, horse riding and more. Also, there are loads of events and attractions taking place in the area year round such as the Kowmung Music Festival and Blue Mountains Fine Food Festival. For the kids, take them on a trip to the Misty Ridge Cuddly Animal Farm where the they can pet lambs, kid goats, calves, piglets, rabbits, chickens, ducks and one of our well known Border Collie sheepdogs.


5. Rottnest Island

This Island truly is a utopia away from Australia's mainland. Situated 25 minutes away by ferry from the Western Australian city of Perth, the beaches and scenery on this island are gorgeous. This place is perfect for people who want to get away from it all and experience everything from snorkeling and scuba diving and for those who want to see some beautiful coral reefs. Visitors to Rottnest Island can also go for nature walk, lounge on the beach or take in the Island's excellent surfing. Plus there are the little 'quoka's' (pronounced "quaa-kaa") who forage around for food on Rottnest that are adorable!


6. Canberra

A visit to Canberra should not be missed: it has some of the best museums and landmarks in the whole country. Here, people can visit the New Parliament House to witness its stunning architecture. Additionally, the National Gallery should not be missed. World-wide attractions in the area also include the moving Australian War Memorial and the breathtaking National Botanic Gardens.


7. Adelaide Hills

This area is something that has something for everyone. There's the stunning Mount Lofty Botanic Garden to walk and picnic in, the historic home and studio of famed artist Sir Hans Heysen, the carhead mecca of the National Motor Museum, and excellent golfing at the Mount Lofty Ranges. Additionally, Adelaide Hills plays host to such famous events as the Adelaide Hills Wine Festival and Oakbank Easter Racing Carnival, among others.