Inside GCA

5 Kid-Friendly Things to do at Gold Coast Airport

Waiting at the airport with kids can feel like a test of patience. They’re hungry, restless, and somehow, five minutes feels like an hour. But at Gold Coast Airport, there’s plenty to keep your little ones entertained (and you sane) before you board.

From puppy cuddles to plane spotting, here are five ways to turn the pre-flight waiting game into a fun one.

Kid-Friendly things blog

1. Meet the dogs on duty

Got a little one who’s obsessed with dogs? Our AmbassaPAW Program brings volunteer therapy dogs into the terminal to offer cuddles and calm anxious travellers. Trust us when we say a little four-legged therapy goes a long way.

Whether your child is nervous about flying or just loves a furry friend, these gentle pups make waiting for your flight a whole lot more fun. Spot them near Departures' Check-in on select days:

  • Tuesday: Bonnie
  • Wednesday: Alice
  • Thursday: Chappie
  • Friday: Lucy

P.S. A cuddle with one of these VIPs (very important pups) might just be the best part of your trip.

2. Let them pilot their own adventure

For little travellers who love to explore, the interactive Flight Deck in the International Departure Lounge is the perfect stop. The aviation-themed play station lets kids engage with the magic of flying – press buttons, explore aviation concepts, and get a taste of life in the cockpit.

Plus, the viewing area is another great spot. Watch as planes take off, land, and get prepped for their next journey. It’s a little glimpse into airport life (and a great way to keep kids entertained while you relax).

3. Print out an activity book

Make the airport journey way more fun with the Airport Activity Book! Packed with I-Spy, colouring pages, and word searches, it’ll keep the little ones entertained. Plus, they can tick off important steps like check-in, security, and boarding (who doesn’t love a good checklist?).

Just be sure to download and print it before you head to the airport! 

Download our Airport Activity Book

4. Stop for a quick meal

Hangry kids? Not on our watch. Hungry Jack’s and Schnitz have dedicated kids' meals to keep tummies full and moods in check. Hungry Jack’s Kids’ Meals come with a burger or crispy nuggets, plus a side, drink, and a surprise toy. Over at Schnitz, the "Little Rascals" menu serves up mini schnitzels with tasty sides.

5. Grab some goodies at Kids Stop

Keeping kids entertained mid-flight starts before you even take off.

Luckily, WHSmith’s Kids Stop is your one-stop shop for last-minute boredom busters. Think colouring books, puzzles, toys, lollies, and snacks to curb in-flight cravings. Whether you need a new game or just an emergency stash of snacks, this spot has it all.

And let’s be honest – it’s hard not to smile when you see the kids’ faces light up as they explore all the fun toys and treats.

Takeoff in 3…2…1…

Travelling with kids doesn’t have to be a juggling act. With puppy cuddles, play areas, plane spotting, and snacks, we have plenty to keep them entertained. So next time you're flying out, make the wait fun – for them and for you.

Want more? Visit Travelling with Children for helpful information

aboriginal-flag Acknowledgement of Country

Gold Coast Airport respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the cultural landscape on which Gold Coast Airport is situated, the Bundjalung and Yugambeh people, and pays respect to their Elders past, present and future.