Ripley's Believe It or Not! Surfers Paradise
Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland
Found on Queensland’s Gold Coast, this 9,000-square-foot gallery is filled with exhibits that are equal part fascinating and head-scratching. Whether you attempt to navigate the expansive mirror maze, dive into an immersive experience at the 7D Moving Theatre (which blends movies and video games), or check out the many Australia-themed exhibits, visiting Ripley’s will help you get to know the weirder side of Australia.
A visit to Ripley’s is the perfect option for a rainy day with the family—the kids will be mesmerized by the interactive Funplex, but there are plenty of exhibits for the grownups to explore as well. Visitors typically spend at least an hour exploring and experiencing the hands-on exhibits, but don’t forget to make time for the gift shop. Your tickets offer complete flexibility for your visit, so you can use them for up to a year after purchasing.
The area surrounding the attraction offers plenty of parking opportunities if you bring your own car.
While the gift shop offers snacks and candy, no café exists in the Ripley’s complex.
Both the Odditorium and the 7D Moving Theatre are wheelchair accessible.
Ripley’s is open 365 days a year—including public holidays—so you can pick the perfect time to visit.
The museum is right off Surfers Paradise Beach, making it the perfect spot to escape the sun. Found on Cavill Avenue, you can access it by turning away from the beach while walking on the esplanade. It’s right in the heart of Surfers Paradise and easily accessible from the surrounding hotels.
It’s best to arrive early to beat the afternoon rush. Otherwise, wait until later afternoon and enjoy a shady respite from the Australian heat. Avoid visiting during school holidays as it’s a popular spot for families (summer holidays in Australia run from mid-December to late January).
Open until later in the evening than many traditional museums, a visit to Ripley’s makes for a perfect date night or activity with friends. Afterward, the surrounding neighborhood is full of bars and restaurants where you can experience the nightlife of the Gold Coast. The beachfront Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club is a favorite, with a laid-back atmosphere and an unbeatable view.
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