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Hidden Vale Adventure Park (HVAP)

Natural Attractions

Hidden Vale Adventure Park (HVAP)

Hidden Vale Adventure Park (HVAP) at Grandchester brings a unique outdoor experience to the region, with a multi-use 100-plus kilometre trail network for mountain bike riders, runners and walkers, winding through the expansive 12,000 acre Nature Refuge property. Operating out of the luxurious getaway, Spicers Hidden Vale, it's the perfect way to explore the great outdoors in this stunning location just a 30-minute drive from Ipswich. Users sign in and out at their Trailhead office located near Spicers Hidden Vale where you collect a map, and then you have a world-class trail network at your disposal to explore, with great bush scenery, kangaroos for company, and even passing by an abandoned light plane. You also have access to Spicers' top-quality food and beverage options. You can participate in timed rides and races and even set up camp during the events, making it perfect for a family-friendly getaway.

Grandchester QLD

0.5 km away

Where the brave live forever — Image credit: Valhalla Paintball

Amusement and Theme Parks

Valhalla Paintball

Prepare yourself for an adrenaline-fueled adventure like no other at Valhalla Paintball. Play at Brisbane's ultimate outdoor paintball centre, where the brave live forever. The days of hiding behind trees & in the bush are far, far from over. Set on 120 acres in a hidden valley located midway between Brisbane and Toowoomba. Valhalla Paintball is owned and run by a former Australian pro paintball player, who brings the same passion & dedication to providing exceptional customer service, as they did when they stepped onto the tournament field to beat the competition.

Calvert QLD

5.8 km away

Grandchester Model Steam Railway

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Grandchester Model Steam Railway

Fancy a family fun day out in the country? Half an hour from Ipswich you'll find the Grandchester Model Steam Railway, where train enthusiasts young and old are in their element. When you arrive, it's like the hustle and bustle of a real railway station only the locomotives are scaled down versions of actual coal burning steam engines. While you wait to board your train in front of the original signal cabin from Yarongmulu (a town on the Little Liverpool Range between Laidley and Grandchester circa. 1866), you'll see the train drivers busily stoking the coal, topping up the water, releasing the steam and blowing their whistles, ready to go on the green traffic light. This attraction is open on the first Sunday of the month and if you're planning to ride the trains, please make sure you wear fully enclosed shoes.

Grandchester QLD

6.3 km away

Laidley Pioneer Village and Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Laidley Pioneer Village and Museum

Located south of the Laidley township, in the Lockyer Valley, the museum features a unique collection of machinery and old wares from our early pioneers. Displays include restored wagons, a fully furnished 110 year old year school. Other displays include an authentic police station with restraints display, Vintage Linn Tractor-C 1928 (Restored and operational). The Laidley Pioneer Village is situated across from the RV and Caravan park at Narda Lagoon and within walking distance to the picturesque Lions Park and suspension bridge. Established in 1972, the Pioneer Village has developed into the excellent complex it is today through the vision and hard work of the foundation members and many volunteers of the Laidley District Historical Society. This was the first of such heritage villages in Queensland and has contributed to the education of thousands of visitors and schoolchildren. The Pioneer Village has an established school education programme where school groups are catered for with packages that include guided tours, project books, and free entry. Wedding and Special Occasion hire of grounds also available. Church and buggy for photos is also available.

Laidley QLD

11 km away

Das Neumann Haus Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Das Neumann Haus Museum

German Settlement Museum and Coffee Shoppe. Das Neumann Haus, hand-built by German immigrant Hermann Neumann in 1893, is located in Laidley, a town that retains a nostalgic feel. The house has been restored to its former condition, refurnished in the style of the 1930s and opened to the public as a house museum. Once considered the cultural hub of the community, now volunteers enthusiastically tell the stories of the Neumann family and the history of Laidley whilst serving barista made coffee and light meals. Relax on the alfresco deck or under the shade of the 100-year-old Jacaranda tree in the park whilst you sample delicious cakes, smoothies and more from Annie's Place Coffee Shop. Special events include the Lockyer Valley Heritage Festival, held annually in April and the Laidley Spring Festival, held annually in September.

Laidley QLD

12 km away

Lake Dyer Caravan & Camping

Natural Attractions

Lake Dyer Caravan & Camping

Situated only minutes from the townships of Laidley and Forest Hill, in the beautiful Lockyer Valley. Lake Dyer is a great location for either a picnic, bbq or camping getaway. Day trippers and campers are welcome to enjoy the shaded picnic areas, children's playground, and walking trails. Camp grounds include powered and unpowered sites for camping and caravans, picnic tables, toilets, showers, walking trails, BBQ's, playground. Visitors can stay up to date on Recreation and Safety Notices on SEQ Water's website. Water activities are available when water levels permit. Camping fees apply.

Laidley Heights QLD

13 km away

Ipswich Motorsport Precinct

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Ipswich Motorsport Precinct

Motor racing enthusiasts take note, Ipswich is home to the renowned Ipswich Motorsport Precinct, including the signature facilities of Queensland Raceway (circuit track) and Willowbank Raceway (drag racing). If the smell of gasoline gets your motor running, just get out on the Cunningham Highway and head to Willowbank, 15 minutes from Ipswich Central. Queensland Raceway hosts the V8 Race Experience where you can get behind the wheel of a race-prepared V8 – Ford or Holden, Camaro and Mustang – and feel the buzz of driving with a pro at your side guiding you. Or if you prefer you can take your own street machine, hot rod or import for a spin in Powercruise or one of the other regular driving events. You can also bring the kids along for go karting at the dedicated track. Next door is Willowbank Raceway, which hosts the Winternationals – the largest drag racing event outside of North America, with all the top pro categories including fire-breathing Top Fuel Dragsters. And the regular Test ‘n’ Tunes let you race the clock or your mates with your own car or bike in a safe, controlled environment.

Willowbank QLD

19 km away

Queensland Raceway

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Queensland Raceway

Just 15 minutes from Ipswich Central, Queensland Raceway is one of Australia's premier permanent race circuits – and the beating heart of motorsport in South East Queensland. Affectionately known as "The Paperclip" for its distinctive layout, the circuit hosts an electrifying calendar of major national events including the Supercars Championship, Australian Superbike Championship and crowd-favourites like Drift Matsuri and Powercruise. But the action isn't just for spectators. Visitors can get behind the wheel with the V8 Race Experience, driving a race-prepared Mustang, Camaro or classic Holden and Ford V8 at exhilarating track speeds under professional guidance. It's a bucket-list moment for revheads and first-timers alike. Queensland Raceway is also home to the Focus Driver Performance Centre, offering race simulators, driver coaching, cognitive training and performance programs for those serious about elevating their driving skills. Whether you're chasing high-speed thrills, major event energy or a truly unforgettable motorsport experience, Queensland Raceway delivers full-throttle excitement just minutes from the heart of Ipswich.

Willowbank QLD

19 km away

Meet our friendly camels — Image credit: Summer Land Camels

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Summer Land Camels

Australia's largest Camel Farm & Dairy. Located within the beautiful Scenic Rim of South East Queensland, Summer Land Camel Farm is only 45 minutes from Brisbane and just over an hour from Toowoomba and the Gold Coast. Meet their gentle camels, feed them, take photos and learn about the anti-aging and immune health benefits of Camel Milk. See their products being made and experience the freshest products straight from the farm. Enjoy country fare in their cosy Café, taste delicious camel milk, gelato, their amazing cheeses, cakes and their famous camel-cino. Try their anti-aging skin care products and learn why camel milk is the ultimate ingredient for skincare.

Harrisville QLD

19 km away

Willowbank Raceway

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Willowbank Raceway

For more than three decades, Willowbank Raceway has thrilled crowds with a powerhouse calendar of national and international events. The jewel in its crown is the Gulf Western Oil Winternationals — the largest championship drag racing event held outside the United States — where fire-breathing Top Fuel Dragsters and elite professional categories light up the strip each June. But you don't have to be a professional to race here. Regular Test 'n' Tune events give drivers and riders the chance to take their own car or bike down the quarter mile in a safe, controlled environment. Whether you're chasing a personal best or lining up against mates, it's a bucket-list experience for revheads of all levels. Family-friendly, high-energy and unmistakably loud, Willowbank Raceway delivers pure horsepower and heart-pounding excitement just a short drive from Ipswich and 45 minutes from Brisbane.

Willowbank QLD

20 km away

Marburg Harness Racing Association

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Marburg Harness Racing Association

Just 25 minutes from Ipswich in the historic country town of Marburg, the Marburg Harness Racing Association is one of only three remaining harness racing tracks in Queensland — and proudly keeps the tradition alive. Established in 1982 as a trialing venue, Marburg has grown into a lively racing destination hosting regular race meetings throughout the year. On race days, drivers guide powerful standardbred horses around the compact country track in fast-paced, tactical contests that are thrilling to watch from the rail. When meetings fall on Sundays or public holidays, the atmosphere shifts into full community celebration mode. Family-friendly race days feature kids' activities including waterslides, face painting, markets, mini trots and the chance to meet and pat a pony after the races. Off the track, visitors can enjoy classic country race-day fare, relaxed hospitality and the opportunity to back a winner. Run by a passionate committee of volunteers, Marburg offers an authentic, grassroots racing experience where community spirit and sporting heritage go hand in hand.

Marburg QLD

21 km away

Styled Bell Tent Picnic Setting — Image credit: Taryn Ryan

Shopping and Markets

Soul Nook

A hidden gem in the historic town of Marburg, halfway between Brisbane and Toowoomba, and just 10mins outsid of Ipswich, you will find Soul Nook! A curated selection of boutique fashions and locally sourced and handmade giftwares in an old church, serving locally roasted coffee and delicious baked sweets - whilst out on the beautiful grounds, they offer fully catered Luxury Bell Tent, Chill'd or Pod Picnics, bespoke elopements and luxe large-scale events in a stunning Star Shade Marquee. Soul Nook offers the perfect spot to treat yourself or book a picnic for your next special celebration, birthday or romantic escape or as an effortless and elegant wedding venue. You can also try your hand at getting creative by booking into one of their weekly Artisan Workshops. Why not make it a day trip and visit their lovely neighbours around the corner! The Special Branch Collective offers coffee, plants and beautiful pots and The Black Museum/ Scotland Yard Antiques are worth a stop in! Finish off your day with a nice cold treat at the Marburg Pub.

Marburg QLD

21 km away

Scotland Yard Antiques

Shopping and Markets

Scotland Yard Antiques

In the country town of Marburg, just off the Warrego Highway halfway between Brisbane and Toowoomba, you'll find one of the most interesting and browse-worthy antique shops in all of Queensland. Owner Les Birnie has been in the antique trade since 1961 and has run Scotland Yard Antiques for almost three decades. He likes to specialise in rustic country Australian furniture but at your first step inside this shop, what strikes you is the incredible variety on display. Every era and genre seems to be covered, from large gilt-framed paintings and mirrors to elaborate chandeliers, carved furniture, rustic workbenches and vintage signage. Scotland Yard spills out to a rear yard full of salvage pieces that also attracts many a fossicker. Les's son, Athol, has followed in his father's footsteps with his own shop, The Black Museum, just a couple of doors along while daughter Emily has Special Branch Collective, a plant and coffee stop, next door. This trio of unique businesses, sitting across from the popular weekend lunch destination, The Marburg Pub, have helped put the town on the map in recent years. Scotland Yard Antiques is open daily.

Marburg QLD

21 km away

Special Branch Collective

Shopping and Markets

Special Branch Collective

In the charming and historic country township of Marburg, you will find Special Branch Collective nestled along the main street offering plants, garden décor, homewares – and coffee. Inside you'll find antique goods, local art and homewares, whilst outside you can enjoy coffee and snacks amongst the colourful potted plants and with views to the historic Marburg Hotel across the road. Peruse the antiques in the neighbouring Scotland Yard Antiques and The Black Museum and see what treasures from yesteryear you can uncover. Coffee from local brewer, Dancing Bean, is on the menu along with yummy treats like melting moments and brownies Special Branch Collective in Marburg is conveniently located halfway between Brisbane and Toowoomba, only 50 minutes from each.

Marburg QLD

21 km away

The Black Museum

Shopping and Markets

The Black Museum

Head to the country town of Marburg and discover a unique set of browse-worthy offerings. Among them is The Black Museum, housing a cleverly sourced and curated collection of curios, art and antiquities – all of which are for sale. It’s obvious the minute you walk in, that there’s an expert’s eye involved. Owner Athol Birnie grew up surrounded by remnants of bygone eras, and eventually helping in the business his father Les has run for many years now, Scotland Yard Antiques, just a bit further along Marburg’s main street. The vast ever-changing collection includes pieces priced from a few dollars right through to stunning hard-to-find art valued into the several thousand. Open 9:00am - 4:00pm on the weekends and by appointment during the week. The name continues the theme set by Scotland Yard Antiques – the famed London police headquarters where there is a Black Museum housing crime memorabilia. Athol’s Sister Emily also runs with the theme in her garden shop and coffee stop next door, Special Branch Collective.

Marburg QLD

21 km away

Henry Lawson Bicentennial Park

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Henry Lawson Bicentennial Park

Henry Lawson Bicentennial Park, located opposite the state school in the township of Walloon, is just 15 minutes drive from Ipswich. The park, home to the Babies of Walloon memorial, is one of the key points of interest on the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive. The striking memorial to the lost Babies of Walloon commemorates the tragic drowning at a local waterhole of two school children, sisters Bridget and Mary Broderick. The tragedy became the subject of a poem by Henry Lawson “The Babies of Walloon”, and the text of this haunting poem is carved in railway sleepers placed around the memorial. The park isn’t just about poetry however, with other facilities including playground equipment, BMX track, skate park, sheltered barbecue areas and public toilets all being part of the fabulous amenities.

Walloon QLD

23 km away

Purga Nature Reserve

Natural Attractions

Purga Nature Reserve

For unique nature walks just 15 minutes from Ipswich Central, Purga Nature Reserve is a peaceful getaway. It has the largest protected remnant of Swamp Tea Tree in Australia, and there are short, self-guided walks amid the ghostly, ashen trees. The Swamp Tea-tree is used by Traditional Owners for medicinal purposes. The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties can treat coughs, colds, sore throats, headaches and other ailments. Swamp Tea-Tree are also home to ghost moth larvae (hepialus humuli) also known as witchetty grub or ‘Jebbim’ to Traditional Owners, who used them as a food staple. The reserve has two Class 2 tracks for easy level walking, including the 350-metre wheelchair-accessible Tea Tree Boardwalk Circuit, raised high enough to keep your feet dry even if the wetlands have had rain. The longer Melaleuca Circuit is a fairly short stroll on flat land, and with the native herbs, wildflowers and ground covers in place, it’s an inviting habitat for birds. Keep your eyes peeled for Eastern Grey kangaroos, koalas and echidnas. Purga Nature Reserve’s popular frog pond, depending on the time of year and rainfall, is host to the Green Treefrog, Eastern Sedgefrog and Striped Marshfrog, and you can also see willy wagtails, skinks and rarely, red-bellied black snakes. With picnic tables and compost toilets this Reserve offers a great short nature experience.

Purga QLD

23 km away

Ellia's Garden Shed/Shop — Image credit: Ellia's Garden

Amusement and Theme Parks

Ellia's Garden

Ellia's Garden: Unlock Your Best Life! Forget the mundane. Delivering an electrifying, unforgettable experience set against a backdrop of gorgeous, sprawling nature. Adventure is calling! Kids can run wild with exciting activities and conquer the legendary Hay Castle. Grab a paddle and hit the water in the row boats or make a splash in the swimming area. Top it all off by harvesting your own joy in the Pick Your Own (PYO) garden. Every visit is a vibrant memory in the making!

Moorang QLD

24 km away

Raysource Road

Natural Attractions

Raysource Road

If you’re an avid watcher of our feathered friends, you’ll delight in ‘discovering’ this quiet, rural bird watching hot spot. Get to the corner of Kamp Road and Raysource Road in rustic Walloon - about 14 kilometres from the Ipswich Central Business District – and bird-watch where the locals in the know go! Park at the junction of Raysource Road and Haigslea Cemetery Road and walk west on Raysource Road (flat graded road that changes to bush track) and south on Kamp Road. You’ll spot a range of bush birds along the way – from Grey-crowned babblers, Speckled warblers, Wrens, Owlet-nightjars, Brush and Fantail cuckoos, Fuscous honeyeaters and more. When on the western walk along Raysource Road, which changes from a flat, graded road to bush track, look out for Nankeen night herons and other waterbirds at the nearby dam. Please be cautious of passing traffic when parking and walking on these roads and note that the surrounding properties are privately-owned with no access permitted – which also means there are no public toilets nearby.

Haigslea QLD

24 km away

Haiglsea Ewe Nique Hobby Farm

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

EWE Nique Hobby Farm - Haigslea

As the name suggests, this hobby farm offers a unique outing for families. You'll be able to get up close and personal and pat and feed their friendly animals - alpacas, sheep, lambs, goats, geese or perhaps get some pictures of the wandering chooks for your Instagram feed. Also come n see the D's (Dino's) with fish and birds. Included in the entry price Farmer Dave and Penny have added coffee to the mix too – parents can order a latte and sip it on a hay bale and take in the rural setting. Fantastic coffee and yummy eats for morning tea. This is a popular outing just 45 minutes from Brisbane. Penny and Dave like to keep numbers manageable so that every visitor has a ewe-nique experience -so bookings are essential. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to see what's new on the farm and check their current opening hours.

Haigslea QLD

25 km away

RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre

Anyone interested in aviation or military history will love a visit to the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre, near Ipswich. Housed in hangars at RAAF base Amberley, Australia’s largest operating airbase. You can walk around and get up close to the F-111, known for its iconic "dump and burn". There is also a WWII Boston Bomber, Vietnam-era Canberra bomber, Caribou airlifter, Sioux and Iroquois helicopters, and WWII Jeeps on display. There are also Sabre and Mirage fighter jets. The museum focuses on the RAAF’s important role in South-East Queensland in both war and peace times, with exhibits, armaments, aircraft modules, engines and more. Reservists and volunteers act as friendly guides so you can feel free to ask them anything. There’s a gift shop selling model planes, DVDs, books and clothing, plus a sausage sizzle and coffee van during Open Days. The Centre is open every third Sunday of the month, except December. For School and Community groups, by prior arrangement, the centre is open Tuesday and Thursday between 9am and 3pm. Entry is free, however visitors must complete pre-registration to meet the base security access requirements to access the base. Donations are welcome.

Amberley QLD

25 km away

Queensland Transport Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Queensland Transport Museum

Step Inside the World of Military Transport Journey through time and uncover the power, resilience, and legacy of military transport at this exclusive exhibition. Showcasing original military vehicles dating back to World War I, each artifact tells a story of courage, innovation, and the engineering behind wartime transport. From rugged army trucks to essential field gear, explore intricately restored vehicles and historic relics that once kept troops moving. For younger visitors, a Kids' Activity Corner offers interactive ways to connect with history, including letter-writing to veterans, themed artwork, a quiet reading nook, and hands-on Lego fun. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious, this exhibition at the Queensland Transport Museum is a rare opportunity to reflect, learn, and experience history up close. Only for a limited time!

Gatton QLD

25 km away

Lake Apex Precinct

Natural Attractions

Lake Apex Precinct

Discover the serene Lake Apex Precinct – just minutes from Gatton CBD, nestled in the heart of Gatton. The Lake Apex Precinct boasts a range of cultural and recreational activities. The Queensland Transport Museum, Lockyer Valley Art Gallery, and the Lights on the Hill Trucking Memorial are just a few of the cultural initiatives that await you. With a waterfront park, visitors may view over 150 different species of birds, have a picnic, or use the park's playground equipment, barbecues, skate park and exercise facilities. Additionally, Lake Apex Park is dog-friendly and features a paved walking track that encircles the lake. Whether you're planning a family outing or a solo adventure, Lake Apex Precinct has something for everyone. Every Saturday the park is home to the Gatton Park Run starting at 7am.

Gatton QLD

25 km away

Customer sanding their knife handle — Image credit: NGKnives

Galleries, Museums and Collections

NGKnives: The Art Of Making

NGKnives offers immersive blacksmithing experiences in a working forge environment. Visitors step away from screens and schedules and into a hands-on craft that has existed for thousands of years. Each experience focuses on learning by doing. steel is heated, shaped and transformed using traditional tools and techniques. Guests work alongside an experienced blacksmith and are guided through every stage of the process. no prior experience is required. NGKnives is known for its slow, intentional approach. Classes are small. Time is taken. The focus is on skill, patience and connection rather than speed or perfection. Every piece carries the marks of the maker. The forge is also a space for mental reset. The physical nature of the work encourages focus and presence. Many visitors describe the experience as grounding and deeply satisfying. NGKnives stands apart by offering authentic blacksmithing in a real workshop, not a staged setting. The emphasis is on heritage skills, personal achievement and creating something meaningful by hand.

Gatton QLD

26 km away

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