Best Indoor Activities to Escape the Heat in Brisbane this Summer
Things to Do in Brisbane on a Balmy Summer Day: Must-Do Indoor Activities
When Brisbane's iconic blue skies and sunshine crank up the heat, it's time to trade sizzling sidewalks for cool indoor escapes. This river city isn't just about outdoor adventures— its buzzing cultural hubs, playful attractions, and world-class entertainment ensure no shortage of fun when you need to beat the heat. Whether you're ducking into an air-conditioned gallery, indulging in an epic multi-level go-karting track, or unravelling puzzles in a thrilling escape room, Brisbane's indoor adventures promise to keep you cool while soaking in the city's unmistakable charm.
When it's too hot to brave public transport or walk in the sweltering heat, GoGet's air-conditioned carshare rentals provide the perfect solution. With convenient pick-up pods around Brisbane, you can glide from one indoor activity to the next in comfort, making your day both stress-free and (sweat-free).
Explore Brisbane's Museum Exhibitions and Theatre Performances
Humid summer days are the perfect excuse to dive into the arts. The Museum of Brisbane is currently showcasing "New Light: Photography Now & Then", a captivating exhibition highlighting photography's evolution. Over at QAGOMA (Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art), the 11th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art presents thought-provoking works from artists across the Asia-Pacific region, featuring innovative installations, paintings, and digital media. APT11 offers a unique perspective on contemporary art, making it a must-see for culture enthusiasts in Brisbane. The exhibition runs from 30 Nov 2024 to 27 Apr 2025.
Theatre Performances
Indulge in Brisbane's thriving theatre scene with critically acclaimed performances. Watch the Queensland Theatre Company's classic adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, running from 20 Feb – 9 Mar 2025, or catch the dark, riveting Macbeth at La Boite Theatre from 6 – 22 Mar 2025. These shows promise immersive storytelling and live entertainment that will transport you into another world while staying cool.
Unleash Your Inner Adventurer with Brisbane's Best Indoor Play Centres
Take the family to Jungle Adventure Play, one of Brisbane's largest indoor play centres. This massive jungle-themed wonderland offers thrilling activities for kids and adults alike, with climbing walls, slides, and obstacle courses in an air-conditioned environment.
If climbing is your passion, head to Crank Indoor Climbing Centre. This state-of-the-art facility features bouldering walls and climbing courses catering to all skill levels, ensuring an indoor adrenaline-pumping experience. Or, if you really want something out of the ordinary, the iFLY Brisbane Indoor Skydiving provides a thrilling experience that simulates the sensation of freefall. This activity is a great way to enjoy the excitement of skydiving without stepping outdoors.
Beat Brisbane Heat: Go-Karts, Arcades, and Escape Rooms, Oh My!
Rev up your engines at Slideways Go Karting Brisbane, where you can enjoy an epic European-style multi-level indoor kart track. With 425 meters of adrenaline-pumping action, it's one of Brisbane's most exhilarating indoor activities. The kart track's neon-lit twists and turns provide the perfect setting for some friendly competition.
For a more relaxed pace, Brisbane's X-Golf Indoor Golf offers a high-tech, immersive golfing experience, taking you way beyond basic putt-putt with state-of-the-art simulators and challenging virtual courses. Alternatively, dive into the retro and modern offerings of Brisbane's arcade scene, starting with B. Lucky & Sons in Fortitude Valley, where vintage arcade games meet quirky cocktails for an unforgettable experience. Over in Woolloongabba, 1UP Arcade caters to purists with over 200 classic arcade cabinets, all set to free-play mode for unlimited fun. These venues are the perfect way to stay cool and entertained while reliving childhood favourites or discovering new gaming adventures.
Escape Rooms: Puzzles and Thrills Around Brisbane
Who doesn't love a good escape room when trying to avoid the humidity? Rainy days—or sweltering ones—call for unique indoor adventures, and escape rooms deliver the perfect blend of mystery, adrenaline, and brainpower. Brisbane boasts a variety of venues offering immersive, themed puzzles to challenge your wits and teamwork. Fox in a Box in Bowen Hills offers gripping scenarios like "Prison Break" and "Tesla's Mystery," perfect for groups craving intense problem-solving. Arcadium Adventures adds a whimsical, steampunk twist in West End with its beautifully crafted rooms, including "The Witch's Lair" and "The Misadventures of Maximilian". For horror enthusiasts, Escape Manor in Brisbane City sets the stage for eerie experiences, like escaping a haunted cabin or a mad scientist's lab. These thrilling activities guarantee an unforgettable escape from Brisbane's outdoor extremes.
Discover Brisbane's Best Restaurants and Gourmet Experiences
Treat yourself to the extensive culinary scene in Brisbane. Start your gastronomic journey at Rosalie Gourmet Market in Paddington, a haven for fresh, local produce and gourmet treats. For a cozy café experience, The Gunshop Café in West End offers hearty breakfasts and artisanal coffee in a charming, rustic setting. Or try one of the abundant Bubble Tea Shops in Brisbane for a refreshing Taiwanese-inspired drink. If you're craving international flavours, Bianca in Fortitude Valley serves authentic Italian dishes in an authentic atmosphere. From markets and casual cafes to high-end eateries, it's a no-brainer to duck into a restaurant to ride out the heat wave.
Celebrate the Season with Christmas After Dark Events
If your blazing day coincides with the holiday season, Brisbane offers plenty of festive indoor activities to keep you cool while embracing the holiday cheer. Head to Christmas After Dark at South Bank, where you can shop for unique gifts at the twilight markets, enjoy live entertainment, and sip on festive cocktails—all in air-conditioned comfort. Catch a movie at indoor venues like Five Star Cinemas in New Farm for a cinematic treat. Don't miss the indoor fun at Westfield Chermside, which hosts festive face painting, Santa photo opportunities, and interactive holiday workshops for kids. These events make it easy to celebrate the season while staying out of the summer heat.
Brisbane's indoor activities ensure that no matter how hot it gets outside, you can still enjoy what this vibrant city offers. From world-class exhibitions and thrilling go-kart tracks to indulgent dining and immersive escape rooms, there's always something to keep you entertained. Whether you're a local looking for a fun escape or a visitor exploring the city, these activities are just the beginning. For even more inspiration, check out The Best Things to Do in Brisbane and plan your ultimate itinerary. Don't forget to use GoGet to navigate the city in comfort and style, making it easy to visit every must-see spot without breaking a sweat.
Looking for more to do around Brissy? Check out our list of 13 Awesome Free Things To Do in Brisbane or Soak Up the Sun: Brisbane's Ultimate Bucket List.
Discover Brisbane’s Coolest Indoor Activities with GoGet!
From thrilling escape rooms to neon-lit go-kart tracks, GoGet has the perfect ride to get you from one indoor adventure to the next. Book a car by the hour or day or longer, and explore Brisbane’s coolest escapes without breaking a sweat!
