School holidays can be a magical time spent making memories with the family, but the long summer break can sometimes feel too long.  When the kids are once again back at school, you might need some me time to decompress from the endless "mum", "dad", "I'm bored" talk.  Use this list that can help you plan some fun times without the kids.Smash your frustrations away!Don't wait, book in now to smash out those school holiday frustrations safely - at Rage Cage.  All the safety equipment is supplied, and it's just you in a room with a bat smashing to your heart's content!  Enjoy.Indulge in fried chicken followed by ice cream sans childrenIf you've spent the holidays trying to force fruit and veges onto the kids, saying no to takeaway and just setting a great example for the kids with healthy eating - then I applaud you!  And you probably need a cheat day...

We all know the summer days in Ipswich can get hot, but as the sun goes down it's the perfect time to head out and enjoy a drink with friends and family in the cool night air.See a show at BansheesBanshees Bar and Art Space hosts live gigs on the weekends.  In fact they've single handedly brought over 500 bands to Ipswich since they started operations five years ago.They're also great at whipping up cocktails and a great meeting place to kick off your night.

Start planning your weekends with these great walks in Ipswich.  From mountains to hike to lush gardens and reserves you'll find some nature here...Colleges CrossingColleges Crossing is a great place to take the family for a walk.  Check out the lake for fishing and kayaking.And there’s bike and scooter paths, walking tracks, a playground and sheltered tables.

Coming to Ipswich with family or friends and looking for a place to stay that is bigger than your average hotel room?Here are five options to try around the Ipswich region.Twigley FarmLinning's House at Twigley Farm is a luxurious, self-contained stay with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. There's views of the surrounding countryside with wrap around verandas. There's space for up to six people, private fire pit and patio with outdoor dining area and a deck.

If your ideal holiday is an adrenaline-pumping adventure, then get your thrills right here.  Mix and match your choices to create your perfect getaway…Spec Ops PaintballIf you’re a paintball, gell ball or Nerf fan, then Spec Ops Paintball will satisfy your action cravings.  Inside their dedicated indoor field you’ll navigate through rooms and blast your way through different games.  Perfect for all ages, even kids with the addition of Nerf battles, this is one spot not to miss on your trip to Ipswich.Stay at Oaks Ipswich Aspire Suites close to Spec Ops Paintball and next door to the award-winning Bakehouse Steakhouse, a top spot for dinner and a sneaky cocktail.

Spring in Ipswich is all about fresh air, new life, and outdoor fun. Cuddle baby animals, enjoy scenic picnics, stay on a farm, and find experiences the whole family will love – just in time for school holidays and Father’s Day.See some baby animalsIn spring you can usually meet some babies at Ipswich hobby farms. See baby sheep at Ewe Nique Hobby Farm as lambing season is from winter into spring each year, camels at Summer Land Camels and cria (baby llamas) at The Llama Farm.Unwind with the perfect picnicThere are some amazing places to have a picnic in Ipswich. Including businesses like Soul Nook that take care of all the hard work for you. Or you can opt to visit one of the fantastic parks around, all you need to do is pack the esky.

There have never been more reasons to visit the adventure playground on Brisbane’s doorstep. From world class mountain biking and hiking trails to adrenaline-charged thrills, markets and boutique shopping. There is also fine dining and a lively coffee scene.Hit the markets… Ipswich has a variety of colourful markets to take in. It’s a chance to wander outdoors with the family, grab a bite, maybe kick back to some cool sounds, stock up on fresh produce and browse stalls of clothing, jewellery, plants and homewares.  The Springfield Markets and Handmade Expo are on monthly. Here’s our full list of regular markets around the region.Take to the skiesA gentle hot air balloon float across the land at sunrise can turn an ordinary day into one that is completely unforgettable. 

If you’re looking for a road trip where you can bring your best mate, then look no further than Ipswich!Book in for a pet friendly stay at the luxurious Spicers Hidden Vale.The Chinese Cottage is pup-friendly and the pooch package includes daily a la carte breakfast, complimentary WiFi, a plush dog bed, water bowl, food bowl, lead, doggie bags, blanket and a long lasting bone.

Discover Ipswich's charming heritage sites, art and nature reserves with a fully inclusive group tour available through the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre.CBD Heritage TourIndulge in a delicious morning tea in Ipswich and a two hour guided heritage tour with knowledgeable tour guides on board your bus. Take in the Heritage City with iconic buildings and homes and then lunch at your choice of selected venues. From $45 per person.Queensland Museum Rail Workshops TourEnjoy morning tea at the Information Centre and then take a tour at Queensland Museum Rail Workshops. Lunch at a restaurant inside a beautiful heritage building that is now home to Jets Leagues Club. Visit the Ipswich Art Gallery or Ipswich Nature Centre in the afternoon. From $50 per person.

For that old-world charm of shopping in independent stores in a traditional streetscape, head to Ipswich’s historic Top of Town precinct.This Brisbane Street stretch oozes character and originality as well as the city’s trademark heritage charm. And even better – there are fabulous restaurants and cafes woven into the mix. Here are some of the retailers you’ll find in the Top of Town, Ipswich.The Old Flour MillThe historic Old Flour Mill Building is home to a range of business's including  completely charming and original boutique shops - Embers & Twine, The Soul Cauldron, and The Mill Coffee Shop. Here you'll find handmade gift items and scented candles, art, all things mystical and enchanting from books on spirituality to crystals. There's also beauty services and photography located here!