The Sunshine Coast: The Ginger Factory Play All Day

If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly day out on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, The Ginger Factory’s Play All Day offers a surprisingly versatile experience. For just $18 per person, you gain access to unlimited rides on the charming Ginger Train and the playful Overboard Boat Ride, plus a host of additional activities. The entire experience lasts about a day, and with a 4.7 rating, it’s clear that most visitors find it a worthwhile outing.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and engaging it is for all ages. The train ride takes you through lush gardens, giving a peaceful break from the more energetic attractions. Meanwhile, the Overboard Boat Ride adds a splash of adventure as you chase the Gingerbread Man around the world in a fun water adventure. And the best part? We can go on both rides as many times as we like — perfect for families or groups who want to maximize their day.

One small consideration is that some of the additional experiences, like the Live Bee Show, Factory Tour, or Harvest Tour, are not included in the standard ticket price. Also, if you’re after a sit-down meal or snacks, you’ll want to budget for extra food and drink. This tour suits families with young children, nature lovers, and those who enjoy a mix of gentle rides, art, and lush scenery.

Key Points

• Unlimited rides on the Ginger Train and Overboard Boat Ride provide great value for a full day of fun.
• The rainforest trail and Rainbrella art installation transform the Gardens into an engaging outdoor gallery.
• Plenty of free children’s activities like jumping castles and soft play make it ideal for families.
• The scenic train journey is a relaxing way to learn about the local ginger industry and Yandina’s history.
• Additional activities and tours are available but cost extra, so budget accordingly.
• The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect at The Ginger Factory

The Ginger Train: A Scenic Journey with a Taste of History

The Ginger Train is more than just a ride — it’s a gentle cruise through beautifully maintained gardens and rainforest trails. Operating from 9:30 am until about 4:30 pm, the train’s open-air carriages offer fresh air and vistas that make it easier to appreciate the subtropical surroundings.

What stands out is how the train combines entertainment with education. As you glide past, your guide (likely an engaging local guide, possibly named in reviews) shares snippets about the ginger industry and the history of Yandina. Visitors often mention the “delightful” ride as a peaceful highlight amid the energetic day.

The Overboard Boat Ride: A Playful Water Adventure

Boarding a lifeboat-themed vessel, you’ll chase the Gingerbread Man on a water journey around the world. This ride, open from 9:30 am to 4 pm, is designed to be fun and suitable for all ages. Visitors often note how children find it especially entertaining, with a sense of adventure as they see if the Gingerbread Man can escape the hungry chefs.

Comments from guests include, “We loved the way the ride was lively and interactive,” which speaks to its appeal as a lighthearted water adventure. Since you can ride it as many times as you like, it’s an excellent option for those who want a bit more water-based fun without additional cost.

Rainforest Trail and Art Installations

Beyond rides, the Rainbrella Project is a visual treat — rainbow umbrellas hanging from the treetops. It’s a captivating art piece that creates perfect photo opportunities and adds a splash of color to your walk through the gardens.

The subtropical gardens and rainforest trail are equally impressive, offering lush scenery and a chance to connect with nature. The gardens are well-maintained and accessible, making for a relaxing stroll between rides or activities.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Activities: Soft Play, Jumping Castle, and Zog Trail

For the little ones, the indoor soft play area and the jumping castle are included at no extra cost, providing a safe space for energetic kids to burn off some steam. The recently added Zog Trail, an augmented reality experience, is a creative way for children to learn and play while exploring the grounds.

Guests frequently mention how these activities keep children entertained for hours, making it a perfect day for families with young children. The activities are free, which adds significant value to the overall experience.

Food and Amenities

The large café offers a variety of lunch and snack options, including handmade gelato — a treat that visitors rave about for its creamy texture and flavors. While the ticket price covers most activities, you’ll need to pay separately for food and drinks, so plan your budget accordingly.

The venue is wheelchair accessible, with plenty of shaded areas and benches, ensuring comfort for all visitors.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Timings: Check the specific opening times for rides — the Overboard and train rides start at 9:30 am and close by 4 pm. Plan your day accordingly.
• Unlimited Rides: Make the most of the unlimited ride option. Don’t feel pressured to rush; take your time and enjoy multiple trips.
• Extra Costs: Consider budgeting for extra activities like the Live Bee Show or factory tours, which are not included in the basic ticket.
• Weather: Since much of the experience is outdoors, bring sun protection or rain gear depending on the forecast.
• Accessibility: If mobility is an issue, note that the gardens and trail are accessible, but check in advance if you need specific accommodations.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This outing is particularly well-suited to families with young children, thanks to the free soft play, jumping castle, and rides. It’s also great for garden lovers and art enthusiasts — the Rainbrella installation and lush scenery provide delightful visual moments. Nature lovers will appreciate the rainforest trail and gardens, while history buffs can enjoy the train ride with its storytelling about the local ginger industry.

If you’re seeking a relaxing yet playful day that offers a mix of scenic beauty, gentle rides, and creative attractions, this is a solid choice. It’s not a high-adrenaline theme park, but rather a laid-back, engaging experience that appeals to a broad age range.

In The Sum Up

The Ginger Factory’s Play All Day provides excellent value for a family outing or a leisurely day exploring Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. With unlimited rides on the charming Ginger Train and the whimsical Overboard Boat Ride, combined with free children’s activities and stunning art installations, it’s a well-rounded experience. The gardens and rainforest trails add a peaceful touch, making it more than just a rides park.

The pricing—$18 per person for all-day access—makes it an affordable way to fill a day with fun without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Plus, the accessibility and variety of attractions mean everyone, from young kids to grandparents, can find something to enjoy.

If you love family-friendly outings that mix nature, history, and playful rides, this is an experience worth considering. Just remember to set aside enough time to explore the gardens fully, take multiple rides, and indulge in the excellent local gelato.

FAQ

Is the Play All Day Bundle suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, with activities and rides suitable for children and relaxing enough for adults.

Can I go on the rides as many times as I want?
Absolutely. The ticket includes unlimited rides on both the Ginger Train and Overboard Boat Ride for the day.

Are there any additional costs besides the ticket?
The rides and many activities are included in the price. However, extra experiences like the Live Bee Show, Factory Tour, or food and drinks are not included and cost extra.

What are the opening hours?
The Overboard Ride and Ginger Train operate from 9:30 am until about 4 pm, with the last train departing at 4:30 pm.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Ginger Factory is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to check availability and book ahead, especially during peak times, but the experience can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

In all, a visit to The Ginger Factory is a charming, value-packed day that combines scenic beauty, lighthearted rides, and engaging activities. It’s perfect for families wanting to enjoy Queensland’s outdoors, learn a bit about local history, and indulge in some creative art. Just bring your curiosity, your camera, and an appetite for handmade gelato.

You can check availability for your dates here: