Ipswich is celebrating a huge result in the 2026 Best of Queensland Experiences Program, with 49 local tourism businesses recognised among the state’s top visitor experiences.Best of Queensland Experiences are tourism businesses recognised by Tourism and Events Queensland for delivering exceptional visitor experiences. For travellers, it’s a handy signpost to operators known for quality, service and memorable moments.This year also introduced new recognition tiers — Gold, Silver and Teal — adding even more prestige to the program. Ipswich didn’t just make the list, it stood out on it, with one Gold winner and four Silver tier winners among the region’s 49 recipients.

With inbuilt trampolines, an inclusive merry-go-round, custom parkour inspired obstacle course, and swings – all surrounding a mammoth three-story climbing tower and giant slide – kids of all ages will be bouncing, swinging and climbing to their hearts content on the new Orion Springfield Central Playground which is now open!Orion Springfield Central Manager, Melissa Crittenden, is over-the-moon to deliver this transformational project.“The centrepiece of this innovative play space is the custom built 11 metre tower. The slide from the top of the tower rewards little adventurers, while the 16-metre walkway offers children a new elevated vantage point to engage with the space around them.”

If you’ve never explored the city, you’re in for a treat. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of photo spots in Ipswich to take some Instagram-worthy snaps! Here are 10 of our favourites (this week!) from some incredibly talented photographers.Queensland Museum Rail WorkshopIpswich gets some exceptional sunrises and sunsets. This one was taken through a fence behind Queensland Museum Rail Workshops in North Ipswich by @getoutandwalk.WillowbankSpeaking of sunrises, this phenomenal snap above was an early morning labour of love from Ian Barnes out at Willowbank. There’s plenty of air force action and wildlife snaps to get around the city, @nicksteelephoto captured both simultaneously at Willowbank.

Just because the mornings are crisp, doesn’t mean the days will be miserable. Winter days in Ipswich tend to be sunny and reach highs of 22 degrees – the perfect temperature to explore outdoor activities.Have a picnicPack the esky, bring a rug and get ready to soak up some sun! There are some amazing places to have a picnic in Ipswich.  Whether you want someone to take care of all the hard work for you, or just visit one of the fantastic parks around, we have a few ideas the whole family will love. Explore your inner farmerSpend a weekend exploring farms, tasting produce and meeting animals.  Learn all about farm life and at the end of the day stay in a rural retreat with gorgeous country views. Find out how here.

EWE Nique Hobby Farm at Haigslea just west of Ipswich Central has become a favourite for young families and school classes over the past six years since opening. Now the hobby farm has added a new bevvy of creatures to the offering – including static displays of the prehistoric kind.​Large scale dinosaur sculptures have been embedded into a wonderland of huge-leafed plants and shimmering palms. The enclosed arena is also home to flying colourful budgies and finches, and covered ponds of goldfish.EWE Nique’s owners Penny and Farmer Dave wanted to create a peaceful nature-filled experience for young children.

Ipswich is home to some of the best kid's parks in South East Queensland. Parks in Ipswich include water parks, modern playground equipment, skate parks, fitness circuits, sports fields, Australian wildlife and much more.These parks offer some of the best free things to do in Ipswich. Here is a list of 10 of the best parks right across the entire Ipswich region.10. Robelle DomainRobelle Domain is arguably one of the best parks in the entire Ipswich Region. These parklands are spread out over 24 hectares. They contain everything from a water park, cafes, cycling tracks, walking tracks, playgrounds and a swimming lagoon. The water park includes a zero depth play area with 700 litre tipping bucket and jet sprays.