We Rank Ipswich’s 8 Top Tours & Experiences

Ipswich may be Australia’s historic inland city, but it’s also a surprisingly lively hub of unique tours and experiences. Whether you’re into spooky ghost stories, private guided adventures, or hands-on crafts, Ipswich offers options that will make your visit memorable. We especially like the Haunted Ipswich CBD Ghost Tour for its spooky charm and detailed storytelling, and the Blacksmithing Chef Knife Making Workshop for those who want to create something with their own hands. These experiences showcase Ipswich’s blend of history, creativity, and a touch of the supernatural.

For those wanting a flexible, personalized adventure, the Private Group Tour Brisbane & Gold Coast offers tailored day trips across southeastern Queensland. Whatever your style, Ipswich’s tours promise authentic, engaging moments that go beyond typical sightseeing. Now, let’s take a closer look at each experience on our list.

1. Haunted Ipswich CBD Ghost Tour

This tour is a 2-hour walk through Ipswich’s dark and creepy city center, uncovering tales of ghostly apparitions and haunted landmarks. It’s rated a perfect 5.0/5 from nine reviews, reflecting its popularity among history buffs and thrill-seekers alike. The itinerary features stops at The Baby in the Well, the Mystery of the Skulls, Ginn Cottage, and the old Flour Mill, weaving a narrative that brings Ipswich’s past — and its ghosts — to life.

What makes this ghost tour special is its focus on local legends and authentic stories. For example, visitors learn about the creepy Cribb house and a secret beneath the police station. The guide shares tales of a woman in the attic window and a mysterious man who watches visitors from the museum. The tour’s value is high at just over $27 per person, offering a rich experience at a modest price. Reviewers praise the storytelling and the chance to see Ipswich from a different perspective: “Really enjoyable night. Would recommend to anyone who enjoys history and storytelling.”

Bottom Line: If you’re interested in history mixed with ghostly tales, this tour delivers a captivating evening exploring Ipswich’s darker side.

2. Goodna Cemetery Haunted History Tour

This 2-hour tour explores one of Australia’s most haunted graveyards — the Goodna Cemetery. Rated 5.0/5 from seven reviews, it’s known for its eerie atmosphere and intriguing stories about urban legends and supernatural mysteries. The tour visits notable sites like the Headless Angel, stories of black magic, and mysteries surrounding the asylum graves.

Participants encounter stories of children leaving handprints on cars, an old haunted castle, and tales of convicts and bushrangers buried in the grounds. The tour’s unique angle is its focus on haunted graves and legends, making it a perfect pick for horror lovers or those interested in ghostly folklore. Despite its slightly shorter duration (around 1.5 hours), the tour packs in a lot of chilling tales for just over $27 per person. Reviewers mention the engaging narrative and the thrill of exploring a “haunted graveyard,” with one saying, “Hearing the stories and exploring the cemetery gave us a glimpse into the lives of long-gone people.”

Bottom Line: For a dark, atmospheric experience that combines history and ghost stories, this tour stands out for its focus on mysteries buried in Ipswich’s past.

3. Private Group Tour Brisbane & Gold Coast Personal Tours

If you prefer a customized day trip, this private tour can be tailored for up to 13 people, perfect for families, friends, or small groups. It’s an 8-hour experience that includes visits to Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and other destinations such as Byron Bay or Toowoomba/Darling Downs. The tour is priced around $896, offering good value for a personalized adventure.

Your guide, Tania, can craft an itinerary based on your interests — whether it’s relaxing at Sunshine Beach, exploring Springbrook National Park, or visiting the Skypoint Tower. The tour allows flexibility on timing and destinations, making it ideal for travelers with a specific plan or those who want to explore less touristy spots. The itinerary includes stops at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, the beaches of the Gold Coast, and national parks, with options for sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing.

While the tour is more expensive, the personalized service and tailored itinerary make it a good investment for those who value a flexible schedule and exclusive access. It’s especially well-suited for groups wanting to maximize their time and customize their experience.

Bottom Line: For a bespoke, all-in-one day trip, this private tour offers flexibility and comfort, ideal for those wanting a tailored experience.

4. Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tour

This 2-hour guided walk through Ipswich’s historic cemetery is rated 4.5/5 from 14 reviews. It explores the eerie grounds of Ipswich General Cemetery, with stories that include The Boy, the Ghost of the Walloon Saloon, and Dan Kelly. The tour touches on convicts and bushrangers, as well as forgotten graves and haunted castles.

What makes this tour stand out is its historical depth combined with supernatural stories. The guide, Molly, is praised for her engaging questions and storytelling style. The tour’s focus on reading old tombstones and exploring long-forgotten stories makes it a compelling experience for those interested in local lore and ghostly legends. The tour is priced at just over $27, making it an affordable option for a spooky evening. One reviewer said, “Reading the old tombstones gave us a glimpse into lives long gone and their stories helped keep them alive.”

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those who want an intimate, historical ghost walk that combines storytelling with a walk through Ipswich’s historic cemetery.

5. Makeup and Sip Experience with a Professional

For something completely different, try the Makeup and Sip Experience — a 2-hour interactive class led by a professional makeup artist. Priced at $121.92, it includes learning techniques that you can easily repeat at home. All products are vegan and cruelty-free, and the class includes a makeup kit valued at $210 AUD that you get to keep.

During the session, Katrina, the makeup artist, shares tips tailored to your features, selecting products to suit you. The cafe offers vegan and vegetarian drinks, making it a fun, relaxed atmosphere. This is ideal for fashion enthusiasts or anyone wanting a confidence boost while learning new skills. Reviewers mention the personalized advice and the fun, interactive nature of the class.

Bottom Line: If you’re interested in beauty, learning new techniques, and taking home a quality makeup kit, this experience is a delightful way to spend an afternoon.

6. 6 Hours Private Blacksmithing Class in Brisbane

This beginner-friendly class offers a 6-hour hands-on blacksmithing experience, where participants learn the ancient art of forging metal. Priced at $251.04, it’s suitable for solo travelers or groups wanting a creative, physically engaging activity. No prior experience is necessary.

Participants will learn basic blacksmithing techniques, shape their own projects, and take home their handcrafted item. It’s perfect for those interested in craftsmanship and industrial arts. The class is flexible enough for beginners and offers a chance to learn techniques such as shaping, heat treating, and hand grinding. The focus on learning a new skill makes it a rewarding choice for creative types. Since there are no reviews yet, it’s best for those who enjoy tactile, manual activities.

Bottom Line: For a unique, hands-on crafting experience, this class offers a great introduction to blacksmithing and a memorable keepsake.

7. Blacksmithing Chef Knife Making Workshop – Brisbane

If you’ve ever wanted to make your own chef’s knife, this 6-hour workshop is the ideal choice. Priced at $303.60, it provides a comprehensive experience with personalized instruction. Participants will learn designing, shaping, heat treating, and finishing a custom knife.

The focus on quality craftsmanship makes this workshop perfect for culinary enthusiasts or those wanting a meaningful gift. The guide shares the story of a durable, well-used knife, emphasizing the lasting value of handmade tools. Since there are no reviews yet, it’s best suited for people who are interested in culinary arts or DIY projects. The class offers a rare opportunity to craft a functional item that can be passed down through generations.

Bottom Line: For food lovers and DIY fans, this knife-making experience combines craftsmanship with practical skill-building.

8. Full Day Knife Making Classes at Brisbane

This comprehensive full-day class is for those eager to learn everything about knife making, from design to finishing. For $322.76, participants spend roughly 6 hours mastering shaping, heat treating, sanding, and epoxy resin techniques. It also covers marketing and advertising your work, making it suitable for those considering a future in artisan crafts.

The course is designed for serious hobbyists or aspiring blacksmiths who want an immersive experience. Since there are no reviews, it’s ideal for dedicated craft enthusiasts willing to invest time in honing their skills. The class emphasizes techniques like heat treating and resin color theory, offering a full behind-the-scenes look at professional knife making.

Bottom Line: For those wanting an in-depth, all-day immersion into knife making, this class delivers detailed instruction and lasting skills.

How to Choose Your Perfect Ipswich Tour

Choosing between these experiences depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you love a spooky thrill, the Haunted Ipswich CBD Ghost Tour or Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tour are top picks. For a private, flexible day, consider the Brisbane & Gold Coast Tour, especially if you’re traveling with a small group. Artisans and craft lovers will find the Blacksmithing workshops and Knife Making an unforgettable hands-on experience.

Budget-minded travelers should note that most ghost tours are around $27, offering good value for cultural and spooky storytelling. If you prefer a tailored experience, private tours give you the flexibility to choose your destinations and pace. For those interested in personal skills, classes like Makeup and Sip and Blacksmithing provide meaningful takeaways.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Think about how much time you want to spend and what kind of activity excites you most — Ipswich has something for every curiosity.

In summary, Ipswich offers a diverse array of tours and experiences—from spooky ghost walks and private guided tours to craft workshops and hands-on blacksmithing. Whether you’re after a thrilling night of ghost stories or an artistic skill for life, your perfect experience awaits. Grab your spot early, and enjoy your time exploring this fascinating Australian city.