Brisbane’s Best Secret Gardens

Do you ever wish you could disappear into a magical world, where you can explore and experience new things? Or may you just want to go somewhere green and peaceful to recharge from the busyness of the world. 

Well sometimes these hidden little worlds are closer to home than you think.  It is amazing how many hidden little gems there are around our beautiful city, for example, the plethora of beautiful parks and secret gardens that most people don’t even know about. Here are our top six secret gardens around Brisbane:

Alice’s Wonderland - Newstead Park

Tucked away in the grounds behind Newstead House, is Brisbane’s very own wonderland. Complete with Alice Through the Looking Glass themed play area, talking tree, maze and interactive chess board, the kids will feel like they jumped straight into a fairytale. While you are there, take a picnic to have on the lawn by the river, explore the war memorials or take a tour through the historic wonder that is Brisbane’s oldest dwelling. 
 
Where: 199 Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead

Learn more:  Alice's Wonderland website

Chung Tian Temple - Logan

If you are looking for some more Zen in your life, then this is the place for you. A breathtaking traditional Buddhist temple sits in the middle of beautifully manicured Chinese style gardens, complete with bonsai, dragons, stone elephants and Arhat statues. Find enlightenment strolling the beautiful grounds or explore the temple which is open to the public Tues-Sun 9am to 5pm. You might even like to partake in some chinese tea at the Water Drop Tea House or take a class in meditation or calligraphy. 
 
Where: 1034 Underwood Road, Priestdale 

Contact: (07) 3841 3511

Learn more: Chuntian website  

 

image credit: http://www.chungtian.org.au/

Kumbartcho Sanctuary - Eatons Hill

While this community forest itself is no secret, there are many hidden wonders within its boundaries. Your kids will delight in finding the miniature fairy garden hidden amongst the trees, with its Tooth Fairy School, Fairy Post Box and Gnome Hollow. Then take a bush walk through the sanctuary and see how many native animals you can find. Look for lizards, possums, koalas, native birds, turtles and more. The kids will also love the interactive displays at the environment centre and if they have any energy left, having a romp in the playground. Don’t forget to pick up some native plants from the nursery before you!
 
Where:  15 Bunya Pine Ct, Eatons Hill

Contact: (07) 3264 3953

Learn more: Kumbartcho website

 

Christ Church Refectory Garden - Milton

This is truly one of Brisbane’s best kept secret gardens. Dwarfed by the shadow of Suncorp Stadium sits heritage-listed Christ Church. The rectory gardens offer a tranquil hideaway with an abundance of old world charm. Here you will also find the Memorial Reserve, some of which commemorate members of well known pioneer families. 

Where: 16 Hale Street, Milton

Learn more: Christ Church Milton website  

The Coffee Iconic Garden Cafe - CBD

How magically is a garden that serves coffee?! Well, tucked away in the CBD you will find just that. The Coffee Iconic not only serves amazing food and great coffee, it also offers a tranquil green oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The perfect place to start the day with a great coffee and good vibes. Or pop down during the day to recharge your batteries and grab a side of zen with your lunch. 
 
Where: 340 George Street, Brisbane

Contact: (07) 3211 3040

Learn more: Coffee Iconic Garden Cafe Brisbane website  

Nerima Gardens - Ipswich

Hidden behind the well known Queens Park in Ipswich are these idyllic Japanese gardens. Wander along the paths and boardwalks over the ornamental lake to find a model traditional Japanese tea house. Keep an eye out for turtles, water dragons and birdlife. These beautiful gardens are a tranquil contrast to the vibrant and bustling energy of the Park’s other offerings such as the Playground and Nature Centre.

Where: Goleby Avenue, Ipswich

Learn more: Discover Ipswich website

 

Love adventure? Check out these ideas:

• 5 Outdoor Experiences You Can Have In One Day At Tangalooma
• 6 Things To Do On A Day Trip To Redcliffe
• 6 Of The Best Family Day Trips From Brisbane

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Hero image credit: https://www.kumbartcho.org.au/