cool places to visit brisbane

The top 13 things to do in Brisbane

Jan 30, 2022 • 8 min read

The artificial lagoon at South Bank Parklands offers sandy shores, azure water and swaying palms, right in the heart of Brisbane © Peter Adams / Getty Images

Australia’s third-largest city makes its own waves. In exciting  Brisbane , you’ll find Australia’s largest public gallery of contemporary art, some of its most inspired chefs and musicians, and spectacular cycling trails right in the heart of the city.

So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a happily returning convert, these are the 13 best things to do in Brisbane.

1. Sample locally made favorites at a farmers market

Crates of fragrant mangoes, stalls piled high with fresh pastries, neighbors discussing weekend plans over takeaway almond lattes – to really luxuriate in Brisbane’s subtropical lifestyle, spend a morning at a farmers market. Saturday favorites include the Jan Powers Farmers Market in New Farm and the West End Markets . Shaded by giant figs, the latter has an especially bohemian vibe, complete with a caravan coffee cart and stalls selling everything from sustainable cork handbags to summery frocks. 

If it’s Sunday morning, catch the train to suburban Woodridge for Global Food Markets , where sizzling woks and stalls piled high with tamarind, taro, mangosteens, jackfruit and heady spices channel steamy Southeast Asia. Whichever market you choose, get there early.

2. Cool down at South Bank Parklands

Squint hard enough, and you could be in the  Whitsundays . Yet you’re in the heart of Brisbane, at Streets Beach . This large artificial swimming lagoon comes complete with sandy shores, azure water and swaying palms. Free and popular with families, it’s the centerpiece of the 17-hectare (42-acre)  South Bank Parklands , a fabulous riverfront park within walking distance of major museums and galleries. 

There are showers and changing rooms on-site, so bring a change of clothes to continue your explorations in nearby Little Stanley St, where the  Collective Markets peddle locally designed clothing, art and gifts on Friday nights and the weekend.

3. Catch an exhibition by the river

A short walk north of South Bank Parklands lie Queensland’s foremost public art museums: the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA). While the former houses important works by both past and present Australian artists, the latter is the nation’s largest contemporary art gallery. 

Dedicate an entire morning or afternoon to exploring either venue, both of which offer free general admission. If you have little culture vultures in tow, check what’s on at GOMA’s dedicated Children’s Art Centre .

4. Hear a few Brisbane stories at City Hall

Though the walls at Brisbane City Hall don’t talk, the tour guides thankfully do. Free, 45-minute tours of Australia’s largest city hall reveal some fascinating anecdotes, including the building’s connection to both Michelangelo and the Rolling Stones. Shorter, 15-minute tours of the soaring, panoramic Clock Tower are also free, reached via a vintage elevator. 

Combine either tour with an hour or more exploring City Hall’s free, family-friendly Museum of Brisbane , where exhibitions explore the city’s rich tapestry through themes as diverse as contemporary art, fashion and music. Book guided tours of the building and clock tower via the museum website.

5. Scale Story Bridge

The wow factor provided by Story Bridge – Australia’s longest cantilevered bridge – lies in the view: a high-impact, Manhattan-esque sweep of skyscrapers towering over the Brisbane River. You can safely walk or cycle its 282m (925ft) span, though nothing beats scaling the beast. From the top of the bridge, 80m (262ft) above muddy river waters, the 360-degree panorama is simply superb. 

Story Bridge Adventure Climb runs numerous bridge-climbing experiences for people aged six and up, from standard climbs to abseiling and daredevil lean-outs. If possible, book the Twilight Climb to watch the city slip into its glittering evening cloak.

6. Pedal along the waterfront

One of the most relaxing (and sustainable) ways to explore Brisbane’s beautiful riverfront is on a bike. Dedicated cycling and pedestrian trails flank large tracts of the city’s eponymous waterway, leading through parkland and past chic warehouse conversions and affording commanding skyline views. The ideal time to hit the pedal is in the morning before the heat and humidity really kick in. 

In Kangaroo Point, Riverlife rents out good-value adult and kids’ bikes. From here, consider cycling north over Story Bridge, then southwest around the perimeter of the CBD, crossing the river to South Bank and following the river back to Riverlife. Alternatively, cross Story Bridge and head southeast along the river to reach the Brisbane Riverwalk , an 870m (2854ft) trailway built directly over the water. An official map of the city’s cycling trails is an essential resource.

7. Taste the world at Eat Street Northshore

Upcycling gets an epicurean twist at riverfront Eat Street Northshore , a street-food village made up of 180 repurposed shipping containers. Come ravenous (and ideally with company) for a global food crawl, leaping from freshly shucked oysters to Japanese yakisoba , Chinese bao and Greek loukoumades . 

More than just a place to eat, this is a place to spend an afternoon or evening, with bars, musicians and a handful of shops adding to the all-ages carnival vibe. To really make it special, sail in on the CityCat  ferry, playing “Which waterfront property would I buy if I won the lottery?” en route.

8. Find art and cocktails in a laneway

Good things come in small packages, including vibrant alleyways Burnett Lane and Fish Lane . In the Central Business District (CBD), Burnett Lane is Brisbane’s oldest laneway and is packed with quirky details and exceptional eateries and bars. Be sure to seek out guerrilla artist Mace Robertson’s tiny red door and Blu Art Ninja’s duck in a top hat. 

Next, reward yourself with brunch at perennially cool cafe  Felix for Goodness , tapas at Alba , or an impeccable cocktail at Death and Taxes . Across the river in South Brisbane, Fish Lane and its surrounds are speckled with sculptures and murals by Brisbane creatives like Kuuki and Fintan Magee. Explore the latter mid-afternoon, just in time to score a coveted bar seat at pocket-sized Maker .

9. See and be seen on James Street 

A verdant strip of boutiques and sophisticated bars, Fortitude Valley’s James Street is the perfect spot to show off that new outfit (or hunt down your next new favorite look). The street boasts boutiques from a number of high-end Australian designers, including celeb-approved Sass & Bide and Camilla . It also claims some of the Valley’s most lauded eating and drinking spots. 

If possible, shop the strip in the afternoon before an aperitif at Gerard’s Bar and dinner at Thai-Australian standout Same Same . The best seats at the latter are at the counter (and should be reserved online in advance).

10. Catch a show at the Powerhouse

Brisbane Powerhouse has had numerous incarnations: 20th-century power station, derelict homeless shelter, graffiti magnet. These days, it’s a hulking culture hub, pumping out a year-round program of top-notch theater, music, cabaret, stand-up comedy, kids’ shows and exhibitions. Even if you don’t catch a show, the ground-floor cafe-bar is an excellent spot for a riverside coffee or beer. Flanking the center is the urban oasis New Farm Park, home to a fantastic children’s adventure playground and skyline views, with old figs and jacarandas beckoning with shade.

11. Sail to a lesser-known cultural asset

The University of Queensland Art Museum is one of Brisbane’s best-kept secrets, home to a highly regarded art collection. Exhibitions are engaging, timely and thought-provoking, showcasing innovative Australian and international artists exploring themes as diverse as technology, colonialism and cultural identity. 

The most scenic way to get here is on the CityCat , which terminates at the university’s lush, sprawling grounds. While here, look out for the university’s Great Court, a sweeping quadrangle flanked by beautiful heritage buildings in multi-hued Helidon sandstone.

12. Tap into the live-music scene

Mallrat, Ball Park Music, Hatchie, Jaguar Jonze: Queensland’s capital claims some of Australia’s top indie music acts and catching a gig at notable venues like the Zoo , Tivoli , Triffid and Bearded Lady is as Brisbane as an afternoon summer storm. An especially good time to visit is in September, when emerging talent takes over Fortitude Valley for the Bigsound festival, Australia’s biggest and most important showcase for new music. 

Whatever the time of year, music lovers should drop by Jet Black Cat Music in West End. Not so much a sharply curated record store as a local institution, its staff will happily direct you toward your new favorite “Brissie muso” (musician).

13. Escape to Mt Coot-tha

Mt Coot-tha offers more than the lofty view from its summit lookout (one that extends as far as the Sunshine Coast hinterland on a clear day). Some 6km (4 miles) west of central Brisbane, the city’s tallest peak is just as good for a tranquil, wildlife-spotting bushwalk. Gentle trails trace its wooded slopes, ranging from easy wanders to more-challenging treks. 

At the base lie the beautiful Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium , both serviced by bus route 471 , which reaches the summit. If you’re not driving, be mindful that the last city-bound bus leaves just after 4pm (5pm on weekends). If you do have your own wheels, stay for the sunset.

You might also like: Everything you need to know about Brisbane, from etiquette to sunscreen tips The 12 best free things to do in Brisbane Brisbane on a budget: the ultimate cent-saving guide

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50 Of The Best Things To Do In Brisbane

By Sarah Tran

9th Jan 2024

We've all had a ‘what are the best things to do in Brisbane/Meanjin?’ request from a visiting friend or family member and come up with an absolute blank when put on the spot. Or maybe you’re always just feeling like your weekends are incredibly empty, and you need a lengthy list of things to fill them with, free, paid or otherwise.

Well, bookmark this site and prepare to start ticking things off (or tell all your friends and take credit for Urban List's ideas—we won’t tell), because here are 50 of the absolute best things to do in Brisbane, whether you’re a local or not. 

Things To Do In Brisbane 

Wine and dine at howard smith wharves.

Ask anyone where to take someone who’s new to Brisbane and they’ll tell you:  Howard Smith Wharves . This riverside drinking and dining precinct   has become a firm favourite spot for lovers of great food, vibrant cocktails, and sunset views of the city from under the Story Bridge.

Dine In The Sky At Vertigo 

Definitely Brisbane’s most unique dining experience, Vertigo is perched on the edge of the rooftop at Brisbane Powerhouse, where you’ll enjoy a three-course meal from Bar Alto with your feet dangling 17 metres above the ground. This one is not for the faint of heart.

Sip Cocktails At A Swim-Up Pool Bar 

The Westin holds the title of Brisbane’s coolest hotel pool, which has its very own swim-up bar—the only one you’ll find in Brisbane. Best of all, they open it to the public every summer, when you can nab a ticket to enjoy sinking cocktails overlooking the city each weekend without being a guest. This summer they’re also doing floating breakfasts—count us in. 

Catch A Movie Under The Stars 

Brisbane has finally scored a permanent outdoor cinema, and it’s about damn time. At Dendy Powerhouse you can catch blockbusters, old school faves and arthouse flicks on a massive projector screen, with wireless headphones for optimum sound and a bar onsite. 

Take A Tour Of Brisbane's Food And Drink Scene

If you don't know where to start exploring Brisbane's ever-growing food and drink scene, Kiff & Culture have you covered with their  Artisan Food & Drink Tour , which stops at the likes of Southside, City Winery and Stone & Wood—they'll even drive you around the river city in a funky mini bus with your favourite tunes on full blast. While you’re scoping them out, check out everything else they offer, from private  Fire To Fork  experiences at incredible venues to multi-day food trails. 

You might also like: 

• What's On In Brisbane This Week, This Month And Beyond 
• Epic Things To Do In Brisbane This Weekend 
• Brisbane's Best Things To Do With Kids 

Tackle An Escape Room

Escape rooms are the ultimate bonding experience for the Pink Panthers among us. Look for clues, solve puzzles and enjoy a healthy dose of adrenaline—there’s plenty to choose from, and you’ll find Brisbane’s best escape rooms  here (there’s even one with its own bar).

Tick Off Brisbane’s Best Restaurants

Whether you’re craving Japanese, Greek, Italian or a mix of cuisines, Brisbane has a golden cohort of dreamy restaurants for you to dine in. From Same Same to Agnes , say hello to feeds like no other at the best restaurants in Brisbane .

Treat Yourself To A Bottomless Brunch

Introduce yourselves to the best meal of the day and before-noon drinking with a decadent bottomless brunch . Line your stomach's and catch up on the week's goss, all with a mimosa in hand. All of the best brunches are bottomless we say.

Get Competitive At Putt Putt

Whether you want to putt your way through a crazy, indoor course with a sugar-laden cocktail in hand or catch the breeze at a chill (but still licensed) outdoor mini golf arena, Brisbane has it all. Find the best putt putt courses in Brisbane here . 

Grab A Pint At A Local Brewery

Breweries are plentiful in Brisbane so you’ll have a great selection of venues to work your way through—preferably not all on the same day. With options for personal tours, or self guided experiences across the city, there's something for every type of beer lover. Quench your thirst at  Brisbane's bess breweries here . 

Start Your Day At A Suburban Cafe

If there’s one thing Brisbane has a lot of, it’s amazing suburban cafes, dishing up seriously good breakfasts. In fact, there’s so many of them, that we rounded up 50 to eat your way through with ease. Find Brisbane's best cafes here .  

Get Cultured At QAGOMA

Soak up the iconic permanent curation of art in the Queensland Art Gallery or the vibrant, thought-provoking exhibitions at the Gallery of Modern Art, situated next to the State Library and Queensland Museum in South Bank. One of the best things to do in Brisbane, there’s always something on for everyone—right now it's the unmissable ' Fairy Tales ' exhibition you've probably seen on Instagram.

Blend Your Own Wine At An Urban Winery

If you’re keen on blending your own wines, head for Brisbane's one and only urban winery, City Winery. During one of their  wine-blending workshops  they'll guide you through the entire experience, as you become a wine maker and connoisseur all at once. You’ll even be able to take home your personal blend—it’s a vino dream come true.

Sample Locally Made Gins

Brisbane is home to a number of distilleries, all of them crafting smooth gins with a multitude of options where you can xplore the subtle flavours and perfect pairings that all gin lovers should be well aquainted with. Check out  Brisbane's best gin distilleries here . 

Catch A Theatre Show 

There's always something hitting the stage in Brisbane, whether it's a smash hit Broadway musical at QPAC , a comedy or LGBTQ arts festival at Brisbane Powerhouse , a boundary-pushing play at La Boite  or a brand new theatre show at the Queensland Theatre . Head to the individual venues to see what's on the calendars, or you can see the upcoming Brisbane theatre shows we're excited about here . 

Enjoy The View From A Rooftop Bar

One good thing about Brisbane’s endless summer is that it always accommodates rooftop bar drinking. Get ready to feel like royalty gazing over the city centre with a cocktail in hand. Find our faves here .

Feast On A Nine-Course Degustation

Deer Duck Bistro in Milton is famed for their incredible  degustations , so if you’re looking for one of the best foodie experiences in town, this is it. Nibble your way through nine delectable courses in their old world surroundings, and always get the matched wines. Book in  here .  

Eat Your Way Through Eat Street

This  riverside containership market  is full of all the street food delights you can think of, so wear loose clothing and prepare to feast. We recommend sharing plenty of smaller dishes, so you can eat more—and trust us, you will overindulge no matter what. 

Take In The City Lights On A Night Climb

Enjoy Brisbane’s night life with a twist on this three hour night climb of Kangaroo Point Cliffs overlooking the sparkling city skyline. Everyone is welcome, from beginners to experienced climbers and equipment is provided so just show up and start climbing.

Enjoy A Game Of Barefoot Lawn Bowls

Young or old, a classic game of barefoot lawn bowls is a time honoured Brisbane pastime, and there's plenty of places to do it. Take your shoes off, put your best linen outfit on, and book yourself a session at one of the best bowls clubs in Brisbane .

Go Wild At A Grown Up Arcade Bar

B Lucky & Sons   is an adult playground, filled with classic arcade games that you can play with a cocktail in hand. Let your inner kid run free as you play everything from Mario Kart to Hoops. If you're after things to do in Brisbane, it doesn't get more fun than this. 

Try Your Hand At Axe Throwing

If you want to take a walk on the wild side why not try axe throwing at MANIAX . It's a great place for large groups or office parties. Let off some steam and enjoy a beer while you do it—just watch where you’re throwing.

Soak In Luxury At A Rooftop Bathhouse

If you’re looking to relax, Soak Bathhouse in West End is the place to do it. This hidden rooftop oasis has multiple spas, a sauna, steam room and cold plunge pools. Casual sessions or multipacks are available with something to suit everyone.

Shop Designer Labels On James Street  

Forget the Queen Street Mall, if you’ve got cash to splash,  James Street  is the best spot for some lavish retail therapy. Shop your way through Sass & Bide, Zimmerman, Witchery and more, then stop for a bite at one of the many James Street restaurants  or head for a Fortitude Valley bar . 

Picnic By The River At New Farm Park

Grab a blanket, some snacks and a cheese board and bask in the sunshine on a  picnic at New Farm Park —you can even order one from Mary Mae's right next door if you're feeling lazy. Hot tip: this is one of the few public places you can crack open a drink (Roma Street Parkland is another if you're curious), so pack a six pack too.

Discover Some Street Art

Hidden down laneways, emblazoned on bridges and brightening up plain walls, Brisbane’s street art will dazzle you, and have you exploring some hidden corners of the city. Have a stroll and go exploring—you can find some epic murals here .

Explore Brisbane’s Hidden Laneways

Have a little sticky beak in all of these laneways and discover the hidden gems of Brisbane. Trust us, you’ll feel like a tourist in your own city with all these tucked away spots, which are filled with boutique shops, bars, cafes and more.

Find A Sea Of Purple On A Jacaranda Walk

Around September or October every year, Brisbane is carpeted in purple, thanks to the jacaranda trees dotting the city. Enjoy a picnic on a purple blanket of flowers or take a walk through Brisbane's most iconic parks. You’ll find the best places to see them here.

Walk The Brisbane City River Loop

Get your sporty spice on while soaking in city and river views on the lengthy river loop  which includes a stroll through the City Botanic Gardens. Don’t worry, there’s plenty of places to get sustenance on the way, or you might even prefer to do it on a scooter.

Brush Up Your History At A Museum

Brisbane has a whole lot of fascinating museums waiting to be discovered by the budding historians inside us all. Who said education can't be fun? Save them for the next rainy day. If you have to pick just one, make it the Queensland Museum, where you'll currently find a massive Jurassic World LEGO exhibition to explore. 

Cruise The River In A Picnic Boat

Courtesy of GoBoat, you can cruise along the river in one of their electric picnic boats . Explore the Brissie river in style, perfect for the sunny summer months. Bonus, they’re dog-friendly, and you can BYO food and drinks (yes, even booze). 

Hit The Dancefloor At A Live Music Venue

Nothing makes you forget your troubles like a couple of drinks at a good gig, and Brisbane has plenty of epic  live music venues  offering up local talent and massive acts who deserve to be heard and appreciated.

Shop Up A Storm At Brisbane's Best Markets

Looking for fresh produce, artisan wares or tasty street food? You’ll find all of the above at Brisbane’s plethora of markets. Grab your favourite green bag (and pack your appetite) and find  Brisbane's best markets here .

Cuddle A Koala And Feed Some Roos

Nestled in Brisbane’s west side is Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary , where you can get up close and personal with a koala and meet a few other Aussie animals. Feed a kangaroo, pet a snake and enjoy our beautiful wildlife for a day. Their new nocturnal night tours are also worth checking out.

Hit The Bullseye At A High-Tech Darts Bar

Fortitude Valley's  Oche  features a modern twist on a classic game where you’ll bid farewell to the chalk scoring board and say hello to a high-tech automatic scoring system. Be on you’re A-game—there’ll be no room for fudged results in these dart games, no matter how many times you hit the bar.

Play Pinball At A Vintage Arcade Bar

Take your pick from 15 vintage pinball machines, 25 arcade games and classic board games from the 70s at Netherworld Arcade Bar. The venue doubles as a diner, serving food and drink until late, and they've even got a new purgatory-themed karaoke bar for when you get bored of arcade games.

See Stars And Bonsai Trees At Mt Coot-tha 

Sure everyone has been up to the top of Mt Coot-tha to see the views, but have you checked out the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha at the base of the mountain? Here you'll find star-watching opportunites galore at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium , tiny trees inside the bonsai house and unique plants galore. 

See The City By Jetski 

You could hop on a ferry to ride up and down the Brisbane River—or you could turn up the thrill level and hit the water on a jetski. With Jet Ski Tours Brisbane you can ride solo or tandem with a guide to take you up and down the river to seek out the best views, no license necessary.

Get Some Fresh Air At A Flourishing Garden

Inhale that fresh air and admire the botanical delights of the  best gardens  in Brisbane. Put on your Sunday best and be prepared for the endless photo opportunities. The Roma Street Parklands are one of our favourites, with endless areas to explore, from carefully designed gardens to bamboo groves and rainforest corners.

Watch A Movie In Style At Blue Room Cinebar

This is a movie night with a difference— this tiny boutique cinema  features comfy plush armchairs and lets you order dinner and drinks right to your seat, all for the standard ticket price of $18.50. Yes, you read that right—less than $20.

Puzzle Your Way Through A Challenge Hotel

Hijinx Hotel may look like a New York-style hotel bar, but inside are 10 challenge rooms to puzzle your way through, before you reward yourself with a drink at the bar. Make sure you give it your all, because you'll find out your position on the leaderboard at the end... 

Get Spooked On A Ghost Tour

Soak in a bit of Brisbane’s haunted history on a  ghost tour  of Toowong Cemetary, Queensland's largest burial ground and undoubtedly the city's spookiest spot. Bring a friend, it might get pretty chilling. 

Things To Do Near Brisbane 

Go chasing waterfalls.

Discover the best waterfalls in Brisbane all while getting your daily steps in at these epic locations . Some of them you can even swim  under, so check to see if you should don swimmers as well as hiking boots before you go. 

Lace Up Your Boots For A Nature Hike

If you’re looking to shake up your usual exercise routine, go for a hike and explore all the beautiful views, peaks and scenery around Brisbane. Who said you need to spend money to have a good time? Find our favourites  hikes in Brisbane here .

Venture Up The Mountain For A Wine Tasting

Witches Falls Winery  is tucked away in Tamborine Mountain, but they’re worth the drive for their amazing wines. You don’t need even to break the bank—book in a tasting for $10 and pair it with an epic cheese board. 

Picnic With An Alpaca

Sip wine and picnic in good company with an adorable alpaca (yes, you read correctly) thanks to  Mountview Alpaca Farm  in Canungra. You’ll leave with a new bestie—and plenty of selfies on your camera roll.

Pretend You’re At Hogwarts At A Harry Potter Store

Whether you need a new wand or you’re after a sorting hat,  The Store of Requirement  in Samford has it all. This magical experience will make you feel like you've stepped straight onto the pages of a Harry Potter novel. Jump on your broomstick and go. 

Island Hop Over To Tangalooma

It’s paradise on our doorstep— Tangalooma Island Resort  is home to breathtaking crystal clear waters, impressive sand dunes and friendly dolphins. Relax on the beach or join the activities on the island which is just over an hour’s ferry ride from Brisbane.

Take A Dip In A Stunning Natural Pool

Grab your togs and be swept away by the beauty of the hidden creeks, waterholes, lakes, waterfalls and beaches in and around Brisbane. Nothing beats the serenity of these pockets of natural paradise—find our favourite natural pools  here .

Whale Watch Like A Pro

Channel your inner David Attenborough and go  whale watching  at one of the many sites near Brisbane during the season. If you’re looking for a little magic in your lives, spotting one of these gentle giants will seriously make your week.

Looking for more things to do in Brisbane? Check out: 

• Brisbane's Best Date Ideas 
• Brisbane's Best Friend Date Ideas 
• Brisbane's Best Day Trips 

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Brisbane

11 BEST Places to Visit in Brisbane (2024)

Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and offers something for every kind of traveller. The bar, restaurant, and nightlife scenes are bustling, as is its cultural quarter around South Bank. It’s here you’ll find some fantastic museums which delve into the history of the region, which is the spiritual home of the Jagera people. There are some pretty cool galleries too where you can admire Australian and international contemporary art.

It would be a crime to visit Brisbane without getting further out into Queensland. After all the city is just a stone’s throw from the golden sands and crystal clear waters of Moreton Bay. There are a number of other natural attractions nearby too!

In this article, we’ll introduce you to the best places to visit in Brisbane, and help you make the most out of your holiday!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Brisbane:

These are the best places to visit in brisbane, faq on the best places to visit in brisbane, final thoughts.

Delicious restaurants, cosy cafes, sweet bakeries, eclectic event spaces, kicking coffee, and interesting independent boutiques are just a few of the amazing things that New Farm offers to its visitors.

• Eat fresh and delicious dishes at Botanica Real food.
• Grab pints at Newstead Brewing Co.
• Visit the Brisbane Powerhouse for excellent events and one-of-a-kind gatherings.

Yes, there is absolutely loads to do in Brisbane. Unfortunately, fitting all of the hotspots in when you’re only visiting for a short time can get very stressful. We’ve created an insider Brisbane itinerary to make sure you won’t miss out on the absolute must-sees, even if you’re only staying for a couple of days.

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#1 – Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – A very cool place in Brisbane to go for a day

• The world’s largest and oldest koala sanctuary
• 12km from the CBD
• One of the most famous places in Brisbane

Why it’s awesome: This is at the top of pretty much everyone’s Brisbane itinerary, and yours should be no different. One of the most interesting, fun, and educational days out in Queensland (especially if you’re travelling with the family), Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has over 130 furry grey residents for you to see. Not only that, but you can feed and pet these beautiful animals too! And it’s not just koalas that call Lone Pine Sanctuary home either! There are a number of other animals native to Australia, including kangaroos, the unusual duck-billed platypus, and the Tasmanian Devil!

What to do there: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is not just a place to admire the beautiful Australian wildlife, but to learn more about conservation and these animals’ natural habitats. Expert guides can teach you all about the creatures’ lifestyles, whilst letting you feed and pet them (although maybe don’t get too close to the Tasmanian Devil)! This is the perfect day out for solo travellers, families, or groups of friends. It’s a Brisbane must see!

#2 – South Bank – Cool place to see in Brisbane with friends

• Home to some of the best museums in Brisbane
• The heart of bars, restaurants, and nightlife
• Impossible to be bored here!

Why it’s awesome: South of the Brisbane River (hardly surprising given its name), this area is the place and is one of our top picks for neighbourhoods to stay in when visiting Brisbane . Set across 17 acres, you’ll find some pretty lovely parks to have a stroll around during the day. Or, you can head to one of the state’s top museums or galleries, before enjoying one of the world-class eateries for dinner. Then, it’s onto one of the coolest nighttime hotspots in Brisbane to dance the night away! You certainly won’t be bored in the coolest neighbourhood in town.

What to do there: There’s plenty! Art lovers should stop at the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of modern art (QAGOMA for short) as there are over 17,000 Australian and international works of art being shown at any one time! If you’re travelling with kids, then the Queensland Museum and Science centre is a great bet – as there are some cool natural history exhibitions shown here too. If you get a bit fed up with cultural sites, maybe it’s time to get some food or a drink at one of the fantastic restaurants or jazzy wine bars!

#3 – Brisbane City Botanic Gardens – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Brisbane

• Heritage listed botanical gardens
• Great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city
• One of the best places in Brisbane to relax

Why it’s awesome: You wouldn’t think that you’d be able to find such a peaceful atmosphere so close to the beating heart of Brisbane’s CBD, but this fantastic city just keeps on bringing up surprises! Queensland’s tropical climate is perfect for plants and trees to thrive, and when visiting Brisbane, you simply have to stop off at the Botanical Gardens.

The city’s oldest park dates all the way back to 1825 when it was used as a garden for convicts to plant vegetables for food! Nowadays, they’re just a lovely place to hang out, loved by both tourists and locals alike so it does get busy if you are visiting Brisbane for the weekend.

What to do there: Taking a leisurely stroll through the Botanic Gardens is a must while you explore Brisbane. You could also bring a book and relax on a bench, or even a picnic and chill out with your travelling companions! There are guided tours of the gardens too, where you’ll learn lots about the flora and fauna present. One last thing – don’t confuse Brisbane City Botanic Gardens with Brisbane Botanic Gardens. They’re located at our next stop – Mount Coot – Tha!

#4 – Mount Coot – Tha – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Brisbane

• A great chance to get outdoors
• One of the top Brisbane vacation ideas
• Check out the scenic lookout – the views are awesome!
• Bring your camera  and snap pictures

Why it’s awesome: This Brisbane must-see is one of the most popular tourist attractions in town, and it’s not hard to see why. The scenic lookout at Mount Coot – Tha offers views of not only the CBD skyline but all the way to Moreton Bay! It’s a great spot to get your legs working too, as the mountain offers a number of hiking and biking trails. You can really make a day of enjoying one of the coolest places in Brisbane!

What to do there: The first stop has to be the awesome Mount Coot – Tha lookout. Spend some time up there snapping pictures or just enjoying the view – bonus points if you can spot the hostel you are staying in ! But how are you going to get up there? Well, there are over 70km of trails on the mountain, so if you’re a keen hiker, you’re sorted. You can take bikes up too, but they’re probably a lot more fun on the way down! If you’re feeling peckish (and no one would blame you after getting to the peak), enjoy some food or drink at the Summit Restaurant or Kuta Café!

#5 – Eat Street Northshore – A must-see for foodies

• Enjoy eating in a shipping container
• Discover some of the best places to eat in Brisbane
• There are music and movies too!

Why it’s awesome: Unfortunately, if you’re visiting during the week you won’t be able to enjoy the fantastic Eat Street Markets. However, if you’re visiting Brisbane on a weekend then head down to sample cooking from around the world and fantastic views of the Brisbane River! These shipping containers are brimming with world food from wood-fired pizzas, to Thai street food, to Japanese dumplings! And of course, what could be better than enjoying delicious food with your mates or your significant other to the backdrop of some cracking live music?!

What to do there: You can’t go to Eat Street without trying the food. It’s basically the whole point! There are over 180 restaurants to choose from, and all we can recommend is that you go there and get stuff from as many places as possible! Of course, there’s the live music for you to enjoy too. Check out Eat Street’s events calendar to see if your favourite artists are playing any time soon!

#6 – New Farm Park – Awesome place to visit in Brisbane with kids!

• One of the biggest and oldest parks in Brisbane
• Right next to the Powerhouse Farmer’s Markets
• Relax and connect with locals

Why it’s awesome: Another of Brisbane’s lovely green spaces, New Farm Park is a great spot if you’re travelling with kids. There are loads of little amusements throughout the park that kids will love! It’s good fun if you’re travelling solo or with mates though too. There are plenty of wide-open spaces to play a bit of sport or just relax. You can even just curl up on a bench with a good book and while the afternoon away!

What to do there: As with many of Brisbane’s parks, New Farm Park is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a ball or a frisbee and some friends, and you’re sure to have a great time. Also, right next to New Farm Park is the brilliant Brisbane Powerhouse. Here, you can visit the farmer’s market, which is one of our top-rated Airbnb experiences, to pick up some tasty artisan breads, cheeses and more. Or, you can witness a live arts show or even a movie at the open-air cinema! The possibilities are endless!

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#7 – Story Bridge

• Climb Brisbane’s iconic bridge
• Get amazing views of the city and its skyline
• One of the most famous landmarks in Brisbane

Why it’s awesome: If you make a list of iconic landmarks in Brisbane to put into your itinerary, then Story Bridge has to be on there. You can just take a walk or a drive across it, but if you’re really daring then why not consider a bridge climb? This is the best way to get spectacular views of not only the CBD, but the city surroundings too. In one direction, you’ll see the sandy islands and blue waters of Moreton Bay, while in another you can gaze at the landscapes of the Glasshouse Mountains!

What to do there: If you’re not afraid of heights, then the bridge climb is one of the top activities in the whole of Brisbane. It’s a real bucket list activity, and the best part is you can pick the time of day you want to do it! So, a dawn climb will let you see the sunrise over Moreton Bay. A day climb will mean you can see as far as the Glasshouse Mountains, while a twilight climb will show you all the twinkling lights of the CBD! The choice is yours, and we’re sure that you’ll love it!

#8 – James Street – A great place in Brisbane if you love to shop!

• Explore Brisbane’s best shopping!
• Over 130 stores
• A surprisingly relaxed atmosphere

Why it’s awesome: You might not have much space in your suitcase (or budget) for the trendy fashion on offer at James Street, but it’s a great place to spend some time. After all, nobody said you can’t window shop! There are over 130 stores here showcasing the coolest lifestyle stores the city has to offer, as well as some of the best places to eat in Brisbane too! It doesn’t always feel like the centre of town though. The leafy suburban area gives a relaxed and laidback atmosphere, which we think you’ll love!

What to do there: First and foremost, people come to James Street to shop. If you’re on a broke backpacker budget you might want to skip a few of the high-end designers, but there are plenty of cool Aussie concept stores where you can pick up a cool gift or two for friends and family back home! Walking around and shopping is bound to work up an appetite, so head to one of the nearby eateries to fuel up for your next activity!

#9 – Suncorp Stadium

• Take in a game of rugby or soccer
• Over 50,000 seats!
• One of the most recognisable landmarks in Brisbane

Why it’s awesome: If you’re in town when there’s a game on at the Suncorp Stadium, you won’t want to miss being a part of it! Home to rugby league and international rugby, fans of the oval-shaped ball should definitely check out the stadium’s events calendar. It’s not all about sport though – the stadium, which holds over 50,000 people, also has some great concerts with world-famous artists. So, there really is something for everyone at one of the best places in Brisbane!

What to do there: If you don’t have time or money to fit a gig or game into your Brisbane itinerary. Don’t fret though, as you can still get to know the Suncorp Stadium! Take a tour of the stadium to find out about its history from its humble beginnings as a cemetery to what it is now! The home of rugby league, international rugby, and soccer in Queensland. Of course, you can also head to a gig, with acts such as U2 and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds having played here lately.

#10 – Cedar Creek Trail

• A great place to get out into the Aussie bush
• Climb the waterfall
• Take a dip in the pools

Why it’s awesome: Cedar Creek Trail is a great place to really get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 30km outside of Brisbane, this pretty nature trail will make you forget about the noise and bright lights. And have you even been to Australia if you haven’t got out into the bush?! The hike is a great way to see waterfalls, rockpools, and even some native wildlife! There is a restaurant in the vicinity too in case you forget to bring a picnic!

What to do there: Well, for starters we’d recommend bringing your swimsuit! Not only can you take a dip in the rockpools, but you can climb the waterfall too. You’re bound to get wet doing that! The hike along the Cedar Creek Trail isn’t too challenging, so you can do this whatever your fitness level. Just make sure you bring some sunscreen as the rays can be pretty relentless!

#11 – Yatala Drive In – Great place to visit in Brisbane for couples!

• The perfect date night in Brisbane
• Shows a film every night of the week
• Make sure you don’t forget the popcorn!

Why it’s awesome: If you’re looking to step back into the past while you explore Brisbane, then check out this place. Obviously, it’s best if you rent (or have) a car, but Yatala drive-in cinema is a magical place that you can enjoy with your other half! Showing films every night of the week, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a romantic date. It’s a great place to come with family or friends too. To be honest, it doesn’t matter who you’re with, nothing beats a night under the stars with popcorn and the big screen!

What to do there: If you don’t come to a drive-in cinema to watch a movie, it’s a bit pointless really! There are a few things to sort out before you arrive though. Load up on popcorn and a few drinks, and get a blanket to make the night really magical. Lie back in your seat and watch the stars through your sunroof or open roof (if you’ve got one!) It’s a quirky option, but still one of the best places to visit in Brisbane!

Get insured for your trip to Brisbane!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Brisbane

Where can I go in Brisbane today?

To find out which places are open today, check out GetYourGuide or Airbnb experiences . They offer guided tours, classes and entry tickets to some of the best attractions in Brisbane.

What are the best places to visit in Brisbane for couples?

These are some of the most romantic places to visit in Brisbane: – Brisbane City Botanic Gardens – Mount Coot – Tha – Yatala Drive In

Which places in Brisbane are free to visit?

Budget backpackers will love these free places to visit in Brisbane: – South Bank – Brisbane City Botanic Gardens – Story Bridge

Are there any scenic places to visit in Brisbane?

If you come during the right season, you can climb up the Story Bridge with a guided tour. Once you’re on top, you’ve got the best views of the city! Hopping on the ferry to cruise on the river is pretty scenic as well.

So, that concludes our list of the best things to do in Brisbane. Hopefully, you’ve found this list useful and informative and have a few more ideas up your sleeve for your upcoming trip! You’ll also be clued up on the best neighbourhoods in Brisbane too, and may already have a place to stay in mind.

Brisbane is a great place for a city break, as it combines great places to eat and sample the local nightlife. It’s also got rich art and culture, as you can see in the South Bank area. Add in friendly locals and how easy it is to enjoy some outdoor activities, and you’ve got a perfect few days lined up.

We hope that this list has not only given you an insight into the best places to visit in Brisbane but has also given you a bit of an idea of how to live like a local. So, thanks for reading our comprehensive guide to the best places to visit in Brisbane and we hope you have a fantastic holiday!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alexandria Zboyovski

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18 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Brisbane

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Karen Hastings and photographer Brian Hastings love visiting Brisbane for a culture fix when they're based on the Sunshine Coast. They last visited in December 2022."

Brisbane (or "Brissie" as Aussies affectionately call it) offers sophisticated big-city attractions in a sun-splashed riverside setting. In every season, you'll find countless things to do in this clean, green Queensland capital. Lush parklands punctuate the city, bike and walking paths radiate throughout, and the city hums with innovation and creativity.

River cruises are the best way to sightsee in the city. Brisbane is linked by bridges, with elegant historic buildings peeking out amid the gleaming skyscrapers. Hop aboard a cruise or ferry for an overview, then focus on your favorite spots later on foot.

In the Cultural Centre, you can ogle Indigenous art and cutting-edge contemporary creations alongside works from European masters.

East of the city, the blue waters of Moreton Bay hold even more allure. You can head out on rewarding day trips from Brisbane to subtropical islands. Families also appreciate the city's abundant free attractions and kid-friendly adventures .

Discover the best places to visit in this relaxed riverside city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Brisbane.

See also: Where to Stay in Brisbane

1. Explore South Bank Parklands

2. cuddle a koala at lone pine koala sanctuary, 3. hop on a brisbane river cruise, 4. visit the museums & galleries in the cultural centre, 5. stroll through brisbane botanic gardens mount coot-tha, 6. admire the views from the brisbane lookout mount coot-tha, 7. find inspiration at the queensland art gallery & gallery of modern art (qagoma), 8. bike or stroll along the brisbane riverwalk, 9. take the kids to roma street parklands, 10. feast at eat street northshore, 11. ride the wheel of brisbane, 12. shop at queen street mall, 13. climb the story bridge, 14. take a day trip to moreton island, 15. learn about the city's history at the museum of brisbane, 16. take a tour of customs house, 17. learn about aboriginal culture at spirit of the red sand, 18. catch a show at suncorp stadium, where to stay in brisbane for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to brisbane, map of attractions & things to do in brisbane, brisbane, australia - climate chart.

One of the best places to visit in Brisbane is South Bank Parklands. Strolling through the riverfront precinct on a sunny day is a great way to soak up the spirit of the city. This was the original site of World Expo in 1988, and it still buzzes with activities and events today.

Parklands, plazas, and promenades encourage you to linger in this popular pedestrian area. It sits directly opposite the CBD, with Streets Beach at its center, and a swim in the man-made lagoon here is a popular choice on a warm Brisbane day.

You'll also find a diverse array of restaurants at South Bank, and the precinct hosts some exciting Brisbane events and film screenings.

Ready to shop? The Collective Markets at South Bank sell everything from hand-made crafts and crystals to jewelry, vintage clothing, collectibles, and more. You'll find them on Little Stanley Street every Friday (5pm to 9pm), Saturday (10am to 9pm), and Sunday 9am to 4pm.

Other popular things to do in South Bank include working out at the free fitness classes, visiting the Epicurious Garden, and biking or strolling along the trails. You can also sign up for a host of free children's programs and tours .

Ever wanted to cuddle a koala ? At Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary , you can tick this lifelong dream off your bucket list.

You can also get up close with more than 70 species of other lovable Aussie animals. Hand-feed kangaroos, cackle with kookaburras, and watch as flocks of rainbow lorikeets descend during a feeding. Wallabies, wombats, dingoes, snakes, and even crocodiles also live in this compact sanctuary nestled on the Brisbane River.

Keeper talks and interactive demonstrations keep animal lovers engaged. Daily encounters and experiences include bird of prey flight demonstrations, platypus feeding, sheep dog and shearing shows, Tasmanian devil keeper talks, and barn animal encounters. Not surprisingly, visiting this famous Brisbane attraction is one of the top things to do in Brisbane with the family.

In addition to the ultimate cuddling a koala photograph, you can also take home a souvenir snap of you with a dingo or snake.

A popular way to travel here is on the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Admission with Brisbane River Cruise . The cruise departs from Brisbane's Cultural Centre Pontoon.

Address: 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket, Queensland

One of the best ways to go sightseeing in Brisbane is aboard a river cruise. The Brisbane River runs through the heart of the city, and many of the city's top attractions line its banks. This is an excellent way to gain a fresh perspective of Brisbane landmarks such as the Story Bridge , Kangaroo Point Cliffs , and even some of the wildlife, like the fruit bats that gather along the mangroves on the riverbank.

Once you experience a scenic overview of the city on the water, you can get your bearings, and pinpoint places to spend more time during your visit.

River City Cruises run some of the most popular tours. They range from 90-minute morning or afternoon cruises to sunset cruises and longer excursions. A great choice is the 3.5-hour Cruise to Lunch Package . Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories about Brisbane's history, and point out key Brisbane sites, all while you enjoy Devonshire tea with glittering river views.

Kookaburra River Queens offers lunch, high tea, and dinner cruises aboard their multi-tiered timber paddle wheelers. You can also hop aboard a Miramar Cruise to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

Prefer to captain your own boat? GoBoat Brisbane rents eco-friendly electric picnic boats for up to eight people. You don't need a boat license, and picnic tables are included.

Alternatively, hop aboard a CityCat . Gliding the twists and turns of the Brisbane River seven days a week, the fleet of CityCats and City Ferries offer 24 hop-on, hop-off terminals with a range of different cruises. Many include informative narration about the history and sights of the city. From the magnificent University of Queensland to the North Shore, the route takes in redeveloped industrial sites, riverside mansions, bridges, and parklands.

In the Brisbane city core, the CityHopper ferry service offers free cruises , stopping at attractions like South Bank 3 and the Maritime Museum.

On the banks of the Brisbane River, the heritage-listed Cultural Centre in South Bank is a fantastic, family-friendly destination for a day out. Here, you'll find an impressive collection of museums, galleries, and performance venues. Award-winning architecture adds to the precinct's beautiful setting on the river near picturesque parklands.

You'll find plenty of things to do here for the whole family. Browse the excellent collections at the State Library of Queensland ; keep the kids entertained with the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre's interactive exhibits; or admire thought-provoking, cutting-edge art at the popular Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA).

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) here stages world-class performances of everything from opera and ballet to comedy shows and contemporary music concerts.

Right nearby are the South Bank Parklands , where you can relax on the riverfront amid the lush lawns and gardens, or take a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane .

Address: Grey Street, South Brisbane, Queensland

Green thumbs are spoiled for choice when it comes to gardens in Brisbane. Lush parks and gardens punctuate every corner of the city, and Brisbane's botanic gardens are renowned for their impressive collections of subtropical plants.

First stop should be the stunning Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha (Mt. Coot-tha Road, Toowong) , about seven kilometers from the city. Offering panoramic city views, this top tourist attraction is a favorite place to visit with locals and visitors alike. Plus, it's one of the top things to do in Brisbane for free.

Diverse themed gardens take you on a journey through 128 acres of horticulture. Highlights include the beautiful Japanese gardens and the largest collection of Australian rainforest trees in the world , as well as sections dedicated to fragrant plants, bamboo, cactus, indigenous plants, and more.

Budding botanists will love the Hide 'n' Seek Children's Trail through the rainforest, and you can take advantage of the free guided walks and minibus tours. Best of all, entry to the gardens is free.

While you're in the area, stop by the Brisbane Lookout Mount Coot-tha , about a four-minute drive from the gardens.

Garden lovers should also save time to check out the 17-hectare, heritage-listed City Botanic Gardens (147 Alice Street, Brisbane). This serene oasis and prime picnic spot sits smack bang in the center of the city. Lily-topped ponds, fountains, bamboo groves, river views, and giant fig trees provide the perfect escape from the city buzz.

For one of the best views of Brisbane , drive up to the Brisbane Lookout Mount Coot-tha. Here, you can breathe in a breathtaking panorama over the entire area, with the city skyscrapers sprouting in the distance. Walking tracks weave through the national park, and a restaurant serves up delicious food with superb views.

If you're looking for things to do in Brisbane at night, many locals and tourists come here in the evening for views of the city at sunset.

The lookout is only about a four-minute drive from the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha, and it makes a perfect complement to a garden tour.

The excellent — and free — Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) occupies two adjacent but contrasting buildings along the waterfront in the South Bank Cultural Precinct . Together, they display more than 1,700 works of art from around the world, with a special focus on Australia, the Pacific, and Asia.

This bold collection is sure to spark animated conversations between art lovers of all stripes. Even the Gallery of Modern Art's award-winning, glass-encased building makes a statement.

Permanent exhibitions at the Queensland Art Gallery include the International and Asian Collection, with classic and contemporary works; the Indigenous Australian Collection; and the dramatic sculptures gracing the grounds. The interior is beautiful. Water features and giant chandeliers reflect the light that floods in through floor-to-ceiling windows.

At the Gallery of Modern Art , exhibits span all mediums, including sculpture, painting, video, film, and photography. Special exhibits mean there's always something new to see here. Don't miss the fascinating contemporary art installations.

Also within the complex, Australian Cinémathèque screens stimulating films from around the world, and the interactive exhibits at the Children's Art Centre keep little hands busy.

Before you leave, pop into the gallery's River Lounge for beautiful city views.

Address: Stanley Place, South Brisbane, Queensland

Paralleling the Brisbane River, the 5.3-kilometer Brisbane Riverwalk is another great way to see the city. You can stroll, jog, or bike along the Riverwalk — cycling and pedestrian lanes are separate — and the promenade perches right over the water, providing beautiful water views across to Kangaroo Point and beyond.

Officially, the route starts at Riverview Court in New Farm, one of Brisbane's hip inner city suburbs, and stretches all the way to Howard Smith Wharves . Here, you can relax at one of the many restaurants and cafés.

Feel like more of a workout? Continue walking all the way around the river to the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens . And if you're a couple looking for free things to do in Brisbane at night, this is the perfect place for a romantic stroll with the lights of the city shimmering on the river.

Looking for things to do in Brisbane with kids? Let them run wild at Roma Street Parklands. This 39-acre city park is the perfect spot for pint-sized travelers to get their wiggles out — especially if you have a busy day of museum- and gallery-hopping planned.

Playgrounds, climbing equipment, and swings tempt the tiniest members of the family, and they'll also love checking out the herb and veggie patch.

Roma Street Parklands are also the perfect place for a picnic. Spread out your blanket under one of the towering fig trees and soak up the botanical beauty around you. The park hosts one of Australia's finest contemporary display gardens . Mass plantings of palms and bamboo form a lush backdrop, and color-themed flower beds catch the eye.

Free guided walks provide insight into the park's history and horticulture, and a year-round lineup of events offer even more ways to enjoy this lush oasis in the heart of the city.

Address: 1 Parkland Blvd, Brisbane, Queensland

Eat Street Northshore is like a party for your taste buds. You can eat around the world at this nightlife hot spot , soak up the carnival-type atmosphere, and listen to rockin' good live music at the same time. Eat Street is a pedestrian precinct, and you can wander around here with the whole family - even your pooch.

Food is a highlight . Hundreds of vendors dispense treats from around the globe, from Malaysian to Mexican cuisine, and Peruvian to paella. It's not haute cuisine by any measure, but if you're looking for some international comfort foods - and creative versions of them - this is your place.

Mac and cheeseburger, anyone? Japanese pizza? Deep-fried camembert? You'll find it all here. The mind-boggling array of foods can be a little overwhelming. A great strategy is to buy some plates to share and taste a little bit of all your favorites. Kids will love the giant clouds of fairy floss (cotton candy).

This is not a great place to come if you're on a diet. That said, some vendors do cater to celiacs. Eat Street strives to be sustainable - all the vendors are in colorful shipping containers, fresh produce is grown on-site, packaging is compostable, and as much waste as possible is recycled.

Several stages host live musicians and novelty acts, so you can find a table based on your music tastes, and move around throughout the evening.

Parking is free, but a fun way to arrive here is by catching a ferry to Northshore Hamilton Ferry Terminal, a short 250-meter walk away. Wear your walking shoes - and stretchy pants.

You can't miss it. The Wheel of Brisbane rises 60 meters above the riverfront and is one of the top tourist attractions in South Bank. It opened in 2008 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the state of Queensland.

Hop aboard for an exciting 10- to 12-minute ride with a bird's-eye view over the river and city. Each enclosed, air-conditioned gondola seats up to eight people.

You can ride the giant Ferris Wheel during the day; at sunset, when the Brisbane skyline ignites with fiery colors; or at night as the city lights twinkle and reflect on the river. Your ride includes an audio tour of the Brisbane landmarks you can see far below.

You don't need a reservation to ride the Wheel of Brisbane. Just show up and buy a ticket, or pre-purchase one online before you arrive.

Address: Russell Street, South Brisbane, Queensland

When it comes to shopping in Brisbane, you have plenty of choice. The vibrant Queen Street mall in Brisbane's Central Business District is home to more than 700 retailers showcasing local, national, and international designs and labels.

You'll find everything here from Aussie favorites like R.W. Williams, Lorna Jane, and Zimmermann to high-end labels like Chanel, Dior, Tiffany & Co., and Louis Vuitton. The six-level Myer Centre department store anchors the mall.

Cafés buzz with shoppers throughout the day, and a labyrinth of heritage-listed arcades make it rewarding to explore the complex. On a budget? Don't worry, H&M and other discount retailers live along here, too.

Most Wednesdays, the area at the bridge end of the mall transforms into the bustling Brisbane City Markets selling local produce, flowers, and artisan products.

If you're on a mission to explore more of the best shopping in Brisbane, don't miss the high-end designer and home decor stores in Fortitude Valley . For vintage treasures, thrift stores, and antiques head to Paddington . It's also a popular breakfast spot.

Address: Queen Street, Brisbane, Queensland

Constructed during Australia's Great Depression in the 1930s, the attractive steel Story Bridge is a much-loved Brisbane landmark. As one of only three bridge climbs in the world (after Sydney and Auckland), this one also offers something totally unique: the choice to abseil the descent .

Catering to people of all fitness levels and those 10 years of age or older, the two-hour experience takes you 80 meters above the Brisbane River for uninterrupted views of the city.

New offerings including Walk the Plank , where you can conjure your inner pirate and tiptoe out on a plank 80 meters above sea level as traffic rushes past below. Another new adventure is the Cantilever Lean Out . If you sign up for this tour, guides hold your harness as you lean out as far as you can from the dizzying heights.

The Brisbane Story Bridge Adventure Climb includes an expert guide, safety demonstration, and a complimentary group photo after your climb.

Address: 170 Main Street, Kangaroo Point, Queensland

Looking for an idyllic island escape a short hop from the city buzz? You've found it! Easily accessible via a 75-minute ferry ride, Moreton Island is the perfect Brisbane day trip and one of Queensland's best-kept secrets. It's also the third largest sand island in the world .

Azure waters lap the powdery-white beaches, backed by perfectly arching palms, and the island is a wonderland for family-friendly outdoor adventures. More than 98 percent of Moreton Island is designated as a national park, with abundant wildlife both on land and in the sea.

Hop aboard a Day Cruise to Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island to explore this pristine paradise. This full-day cruise includes sand tobogganing, a wildlife/whale-spotting cruise, snorkeling the famous shallow-water wrecks, or an ATV Quad Bike Tour.

Other bucket-list adventures here include feeding wild dolphins, kookaburra and pelican feeding, helicopter tours, Segway beach rides, and more.

Housed in one of Brisbane's premier heritage buildings, this intriguing museum was redeveloped and reopened in 2013. This "small in size, big in stories" museum occupies the top level of City Hall , and brings the history of Brisbane and its people to life through a series of state-of-the-art exhibitions covering everything from convict history to Brisbane's floods.

Temporary exhibitions mean there's always something new to see at the Museum of Brisbane , and all the exhibits are designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Adding to the experience are the sweeping views of the city from the magnificent clock tower. Best of all, entry, and most of the tours are free!

Address: Level 3, Brisbane City Hall, Adelaide Street, Brisbane

Owned by the University of Queensland, this magnificent 19th-century building offers a cultural and educational experience. Although operating as a function center, Customs House includes plenty of public spaces, including an indoor/outdoor restaurant offering unparalleled river and Story Bridge views.

The daily high tea here is popular with locals and visitors, but reservations are essential. Free guided tours of the building are available on Sundays, and free music concerts are often staged in the Long Room.

Address: 399 Queen Street, Brisbane, Queensland

At the Spirit of the Red Sand Indigenous storytelling experience , you can learn all about the Earth's oldest culture. It's about a 30-minute drive from the CBD, but it's well worth the time to gain insight into a key piece of Queensland's history.

During the day, enjoy a traditional Welcome to the Country ceremony . This 1.5-hour interactive experience incorporates Dreamtime stories and cultural activities - listen to the thrumming of a didgeridoo; taste some Aussie bush tucker (food); and take part in traditional customs, like boomerang painting.

The evening dinner and theater experience is equally enthralling. In the gardens of the Beenleigh Historical Village, you'll enjoy an evocative performance of Aboriginal song and dance. The performance portrays the culture clash between the Indigenous people and the British, and is told through the eyes of Aboriginal families. What makes this performance so moving is the fact that the performers actually experienced some of these events. Along with the entertainment, you'll enjoy a delicious three-course meal spotlighting Indigenous ingredients.

Address: 205 Main Street, Beenleigh, Queensland

Official site: https://spiritsredsand.com/

Attending a concert or sports game at Suncorp Stadium is one of the top things to do in Brisbane for music lovers and sports fans. This is Brisbane's main events venue. Rock concerts, international soccer (football) matches, rugby league, and rugby union games are just some of the events you can see at this world-class 52,500-seat stadium.

If you're planning a visit to Brisbane, it's a good idea to check the schedule of events to see if anything takes your fancy. You can attend a Brisbane Broncos rugby match or watch performances by international mega-stars — Elton John, Justin Bieber, and Ed Sheeran are among the many performers on the star-studded lineup.

To find out more about Suncorp Stadium, consider booking a stadium tour. You'll learn all about the history of this popular entertainment venue, and even find out what's involved in staging a top sporting event or concert.

Address: 40 Castlemaine Street, Milton, Queensland

For first-time visitors to Brisbane interested in experiencing all the city's top attractions, the best place to stay is in the city center. Within walking distance are the parklands, promenades, and restaurants of South Bank; the Cultural Centre, with its museums and galleries; and Queen Street Mall. Here are some highly rated hotels in these areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• In Brisbane's CBS, the new Emporium Hotel South Bank oozes elegance and style - think curvaceous sofas, gold-leaf mirrors, and marble bathrooms. Highlights include the rooftop infinity pool, pillow menus, and dazzling views of Brisbane.
• A little farther out but still within walking distance of the city's top attractions is The Inchcolm by Ovolo . Decor is eclectic, with dramatic black accents and "Neo-Georgian design," and echoes the history of this heritage building - with a contemporary twist.
• Echoes of mid-century modern Hollywood design make The Calile Hotel a great new boutique choice in Fortitude Valley. Stroll to nearby Brisbane shopping, relax in a cabana by the sparkling pool, or unwind at the wellness spa.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In Kangaroo Point, Il Mondo Boutique Hotel offers friendly service in a convenient location - the Story Bridge and free City Hopper ferry is a short stroll away. Choose from four different room types, ranging from motel-style rooms to one-bedroom apartments and penthouses with full kitchens. Take advantage of the free parking and sun-splashed swimming pool during your stay.
• In a superb location, close to public transport hubs and an easy stroll from Queen Street Mall, the Cultural Centre, and South Bank, Meriton Serviced Apartments Brisbane on Herschel Street , offers exceptional value - especially for extended stays and families.
• In an Art Deco-inspired heritage building, Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane is a short stroll from Queen Street Mall and South Bank. Decor strikes a pleasing balance between classic and contemporary, and accommodations range from studios to three-bedroom apartments with full kitchens.

Budget Hotels:

• The family-owned and run Riverview Motel sits in a handy Hamilton location, a two-minute walk from the Brisbane River and a stroll from the cruise terminal and Eat Street. Rooms are cute and homey.
• Clean, bright, and recently refurbished, the George Williams Hotel is a great budget choice in the CBD. Stroll to Queen Street Mall in five minutes or cross the river to South Bank in 15 minutes.
• See the Sights: The small-group Brisbane Segway Sightseeing Tour is a great way to see the main tourist attractions in just over two hours. Cruise along the Brisbane River, through South Bank Parklands, and capture photos of Kangaroo Cliffs. Segway instruction is included, and you can choose either a morning or afternoon departure.
• Springbrook & Tamborine Forest Day Trip : Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the breathtaking beauty of a World Heritage-listed wilderness on the Springbrook and Tamborine Rainforest Tour . This full-day wilderness adventure includes a visit to Springbrook National Park, where you'll see beautiful waterfalls and the Natural Bridge. The tour also includes a stop at the Tamborine Mountain glow worm caves and a scenic drive and hike through the Numinbah Valley. This is a small-group tour, with a maximum of 21 people, and includes expert guides, coffee and tea, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, national park fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

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50 Things To Do In Brisbane That Feed Your Soul!

Posted on Last updated: October 18, 2023

Categories Travel Inspiration , Australia , City Secrets Unveiled , Pacific

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

It is hard not to feel captivated by all the top things to do in Brisbane. This is a remarkably cosmopolitan outdoor-lifestyle city located in the climatic goldilocks zone (not too hot or too cold) with the best of what its more prominent and older siblings cities have.

This includes a wealth of arts and cultural attractions, modern architecture, lush gardens, dining options galore – and a peaceful, meandering river that provides the backdrop for so many quintessentially Brisbane moments.

Add to this a zesty, youthful attitude of Brisbanites, a culture of enjoying life in the present moment and the overabundance of natural attractions on the cities doorstep – including ancient rainforest and picture-perfect islands – and you would only just begun to scratch the surface of what makes Brisbane such an incredible destination.

In curating this guide, we looked to unite all the best Brisbane attractions, from your typical tourist haunts to hidden gems, cliched (but still worth doing) activities to independent only-locals-would-know hotspots. Our list is an aggregate intended to give you a sense of Brisbane’s past, present, and future — with everything from boutique cafes and major museums getting a mention.

We couldn’t include all of Brisbane’s rousing neighbourhoods, unusual markets, and clandestine watering holes, but we’ve got our favourites. And they are certainly enough to lure you in. We are sure you’ll discover plenty more fun things to do in Brisbane along the way…

Page Contents

1. Queen Street Mall

2. fortitude valley, 3. lone pine koala sanctuary, 4. brisbane botanic gardens, 5. brisbane river cruises, 6. the gabba, 7. xxxx beer brewery tour, 8. city hall, 9. lgbt scene of brisbane, 10. queensland performing arts centre, 11. south bank parklands, 12. brisbane markets, 13. spicers balfour hotel, 14. surfers paradise, 15. queens wharf development, 16. howard smith wharves, 17. story bridge adventure climb, 18. brisbane cycle paths, 19. mount coot-tha, 20. miss jones, 21. brisbane powerhouse, 22. hellenika, 23. queensland museum and science centre, 24. brisbane distillery, 25. australia zoo, 26. iris rooftop bar, 27. stradbroke island day tour, 28. museum of brisbane, 29. tamborine mountain wine trail, 30. bunker coffee, 31. roma street parkland, 32. ping pong, 33. qut art museum, 34. moreton island, 35. queensland art gallery and gallery of modern art, 36. street artworks of brisbane, 37. birrunga gallery & dining, 38. high tea @ the w, 39. brisbane jazz club, 40. brisbane arcade, 41. springbrook national park, 42. saint john’s cathedral, 43. dutch courage officers mess, 44. theme parks of the gold coast, 45. the university of queensland art museum, 46. eat street northshore, 47. new farm riverwalk, 48. hyatt regency brisbane, 49. paddington, 50. whale watching cruise.

Queen Street Mall is a bustling open-air pedestrian mall in the centre of Brisbane, home to more than 700 retailers over 40,000 square metres of retail space, including six major shopping centres.

The initial pedestrian mall was initially opened in 1982 prior to the Brisbane Commonwealth Games and has been so popular it has been expanded and refurbished many times since.

Extending for approximately 500 metres from George Street to Edwards Street, Queen Street is fronted with big names and flagship stores, while smaller boutiques and stores are tucked inside shopping centres and arcades just begging to be explored. We also loved that the heritage-listed building facades have been preserved and integrated into new buildings, giving the mall a restored yesteryear feeling.

Even if you are not in Brisbane to update your wardrobe, there is something for every taste here – from galleries to dining, movies to rooftop cocktails. A hub of local life, more than 1000 events take place here each year with brand tie-ins, live music and picnic spots aplenty.

For the ultimate experience, stop in for a drink at Jimmy’s On The Mall – a glitzy split-level venue with a leafy exterior right in the centre of it all and open 24/7. The elegant pool bar at the Hyatt Regency Brisbane also offers a more subdued location to survey the street from – and the hotel is a central location to stay right on Queen Street Mall.

Fortitude Valley, or simply The Valley, as it is affectionately known by locals, was Australia’s first dedicated entertainment district and continues today to be a hub of nightlife and dining in Brisbane.

From the first early morning roasts of Bellissimo Coffee until the last dancers stumble out of the clubs and pubs in the early morning, Fortitude Valley is a suburb that never sleeps, a party precinct with the energy of Hell’s Kitchen New York , the luxe clubs of Las Vegas and the friendliness of Florida .

It’s a contradiction – grungy nightclubs sit next door to some of the city’s most glamorous spots, and Chinatown eateries along with upmarket European restaurants vie for your attention.

The rise of the suburban shopping mall and closure of Brisbane’s extensive tram network in 1969 led to some dark decades for Fortitude Valley when dilapidation reigned and illegal gambling houses and brothels set up shop. However, things began to turn around in the 1990s thanks to a united urban renewal campaign, and today around 50,000 people head to the Valley’s clubs, pubs, and restaurants each weekend night.

Around 30 venues here are licensed to trade until 3:00 am – with the Valley’s nightlife deserving of an entire article in itself.  Though if you are going to twist our arms, we love Laruche and Ei8ht mega-club, or Fluffy – a queer Sunday night party!

Even if you are not a night-owl, the Valley offers plenty to tempt before dusk with hip laneways, leafy streets, coffee shops, record stores and more.

How could any list of the best things to do in Brisbane not include a trip to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for some quality one-on-one time with one of Australia’s most famous animals.

Founded in 1927, this is the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary in the world covering 18-hectares in the Brisbane suburb of Fig Tree Pocket. Not only is it home to around 130 koalas but around 70 species of other native Australian animals. So not only can you have a bonding moment with a koala, but you can hand-feed kangaroos and lorikeets or get a chance to see their Tasmanian Devils and two rare but very playful platypus.

Guests are allowed to hold koalas for a fee which is used to fund new enclosures, research projects and the extensive eucalyptus plantations needed to feed these fuzzy marsupials. Strict state and federal regulations guarantee that every koala is not held for more than thirty minutes on any given day – so you can be assured of their welfare.

If you have hired a car for your visit , there is on-site parking. Otherwise, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary can be reached by public bus or arrive by boat on a Mirimar boat cruise departing daily from the Queensland Cultural Centre pontoon in South Bank.

Brisbane Botanic Gardens are located around 7 kilometres from the CBD at the foot of Brisbane’s tallest mountain, Mount Coot-tha but are well worth the effort to get to.

Open daily and free to explore, the 56-hectare gardens are recognised as Queensland’s premier subtropical botanic gardens and also hosts a variety of events and workshops, displays, exhibitions and free guided walks. A living museum of native and exotic plant collections presented in various themed sections, the Bonsai House and Australian Plant Communities are particularly noteworthy.

The stunning Tropical Display Dome lattice structure showcasing plants from the tropics is also not to be missed.

The Brisbane River is undoubtedly a focus of local life, and residents and visitors alike adore its many waterfront parks, landmarks and walks. However, to get the full experience – you will need to take to the water – either utilizing the Brisbane CityCat public transport ferry network, or by heading out on a dedicated Brisbane River Cruise.

There is is just something ephemeral about gazing out at the city skyline and watching it light up as a sunset with shades of red, pink, and orange reflect from the water. There is numerous options including those that are limited to the winding Brisbane River or those that head out further into the expansive blue of Moreton Bay but one of our favourites has to be the Kookaburra River Queen Old Timey Steamer Ferry which has romantic lunch cruise, high tea and dinner options. 

You can compare most of the Brisbane river cruise options here … you’ll quickly see that they don’t call Brisbane the river city for nothing.

The Brisbane Cricket Ground (commonly known as the Gabba because of the surrounding suburb in which it is found – Woolloongabba) is a major sports stadium in Brisbane and a top place to visit in Brisbane for any sports fan.

First established in 1895, the Gabba has hosted many major events in the past century, including cricket, AFL, baseball, rugby league, rugby union, Olympic soccer and major sell-out concerts. Today it is home to the Brisbane Lions, Brisbane Heat and Queensland Cricket and has a capacity of up to 42,000. However, the Gabba will likely be totally reconstructed for its role as the central venue for the 2032 Summer Olympics – assuming Brisbane is successful with its current status of preferred bidding city.

A true Aussie experience, check out what’s on at the Gabba over your Brisbane holiday dates and book accordingly.

XXXX Gold is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most iconic and popular beers, first introduced in 1924 and still today brewed in iconic Castlemaine Perkins Brewery in the inner-suburb of Milton in Brisbane – itself a landmark of Australia .

Given its notoriety and legendary status both in Australia and abroad it is no wonder that one of the most popular things to do in Brisbane is to book onto a XXXX brewery tour which takes you through the 140+ year history of Queensland’s most enigmatic brewery. You’ll learn all about this classic brew, their world-class brewing methods, ingredients and, obviously, how to pour the perfect XXXX. The tour takes around 90 minutes and is aptly concluded with a guided 4 beer tasting session.

If you are short on time, you can always pop into the on-site Alehouse Restaurant or get your hands on a schooner, stubby or can of this emblematic Queensland brew at most watering holes around town.

Brisbane City Hall is one of Queensland’s most elegant and grand heritage and cultural icons, and ever since its opening in 1930 has been a potent symbol of civic pride. Its symmetrical Italian Renaissance stylings, bronze awnings, and Daphne Mayo’s tympanum cement its landmark status outside.

As you enter the majestic King George Square foyer, the eminence of the marble staircases and the vaulted ceilings, chandeliers, and mosaic-tiled floors are impossible not to appreciate. At the time, it was the second-largest construction project in Australia, second only to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and stepping inside invokes feelings more often associated with visiting old-world architecture in spots like Vienna or Lisbon .

The only administrative functions remaining in the city hall today are the Council Chambers and the Lord Mayor’s and Deputy Lord Mayor’s offices. However, functions, concerts and events still grace its main auditorium, while the modern Museum of Brisbane is located on a purpose-built facility on the rooftop.

Free tours of the building and clock tower are available daily to discover the secrets of the heritage-listed City Hall building and should be booked in advance in peak seasons.

Warm hospitality is what Queensland is known for (well, besides pristine beaches and tropical islands), so it should come as no surprise that Brisbane has a healthy and thriving LGBTIQ+ scene with a variety of venues, attractions and events to keep queer travellers busy.

79.51% of Brisbane voted yes to legalising same-sex marriage in Australia, the highest rate for any city other than Sydney and Melbourne . While we would have loved 100% of people to have voted YES, it does give you an indication of just how gay-friendly Brisbane is.

We recommend reading the complete guide to Gay Brisbane provided by Queer In The World . Still, some stand-out highlights include the camp-pop gay dance party that is Fluffy held on Sundays, the BEATS mega-gay club, the laidback Sportsman Hotel and the annual Melt Festival Of Queer Arts And Culture.

One of Australia’s renowned centres for live performance, South Bank’s Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) encompasses a range of famous, emerging, local & new performances each year.

Housed in a remarkable brutalist concrete venue opened in 1985, QPAC is most known for big-name theatre and music, alongside ballet and comedy. There are four stages inside, with a fifth due for completion in 2022 (the building was future-proofed to a degree with expansion in mind) and hosted more than 1.3 million visitors and 1,200 performances in 2019. Given the population of Brisbane is only around 2.4 million, this indicates just how seriously the city’s residents take their arts and culture scene.

The Queensland Ballet, Queensland Theatre Company, Opera Queensland and Queensland Symphony Orchestra all the QPAC home and needless to say, a performance by any that tickle your fancy are worth planning your Brisbane itinerary around.

While the Brisbane City Gardens are a bit lacklustre, the South Bank Parklands are anything but and provide the central CBD parklands Brisbane is deserving of.

Comprising 17 hectares of prime riverfront land, the South Bank Parklands offers shaded walking trails, glorious picnic spots, free-swimming facilities and a year-round roster of fun events. Highlights include Streets Beach, Australia’s only inner-city, man-made beach, the Little Stanley Street foodie hub and the Arbour, a 1-kilometre curving patch with curling steel columns covered in bougainvillaea’s which flower throughout the year.

The famous Brisbane Sign is also located here, while many of Brisbane’s premier cultural institutions can be explored nearby, including the Queensland Performance Arts Centre, the Queensland Museum, the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art and the State Library of Queensland.

Pro tip – don’t miss the deluxe soft serves of Ice Dream located here, all begging to be posted on Instagram and with exotically decadent flavours like matcha, cherry ripe, fruit loops, choc birthday cake, dragon fruit and lychee.

Brisbane is a city that is obsessed with sunshine, the outdoors and shopping local, so it should come as no surprise that Brisbane simply buzzes with markets.

For delicious treats, unique designs, and great bargains, Brisbane’s intense market scene has you covered – each of which reflect the character, passions and style of the communities they are hosted in. The only problem can be picking which to visit! Our favourite markets for tourists in Brisbane, however, has to be the Jan Powers Farmer’s Markets held at the Powerhouse every Saturday morning held in an open park filled with dogs, live music and places to sit to enjoy your purchased snacks.

Other fun options include the Riverside Gardens Markets held in the City Botanical Gardens every Sunday or the legendary Suitcase Rummage flea market held on the first and third Sunday of each month in Reddacliff Place.

If you are looking for somewhere decadent, different and iconically Queensland to stay during your Brisbane travels, the Spicers Balfour Hotel might provide the answer. Sublimely located on the edge of Brisbane’s infamous Valley and posh New Farm with the CBD and Howard Smith Wharves easily accessible, this boutique accommodation offers luxuriously distinctive rooms and suites and a welcoming sanctuary to weary travellers.

Spread between a stately 1940’s art deco style Simla building and a renovated iconic ‘Queenslander’ house, the Spicers Balfour Hotel has surprisingly affordable rooms, incredibly friendly staff and all the small design features you would expect of boutique accommodations. Think antique designer furniture, Bose sound systems, Nespresso machines and rain showers.

Even if you are not on the hunt for accommodation in Brisbane, the fairy-lit courtyard or breezy veranda of award-winning Balfour Kitchen should be on your list for Vietnamese inspired, locally sourced dining. The Satay Cauliflower breakfast dish (Cumin roast cauliflower, satay sauce, crispy wonton skins, house pickles, herbs, fried egg) is as innovative as it was delicious.

Alternatively, for dinner, the Taste It All menu option is the best way to let the chef showcase their skills with sustainably sourced seafood, ethically farmed meats and hero vegetables balanced with Asian aromatics and the unique sweet, hot, sour, salty flavour of Vietnamese cuisine.

For guests and non-guests, the upstairs bar is a must-visit with a picture-perfect view of the Story Bridge and bougainvillaea’s and inspired cocktails like the avant-garde Negroni Shiro (Classic Brookies gin, Suze, Gekkeikan Sake and orange bitters) or the jolly Lychee & Pineapple Martini.

For rooms rates, restaurant reservations or more information, visit the Spicers Balfour Hotel website.

While not technically one of the best things to do in Brisbane, a great day trip option we always love to recommend is heading down to world-famous Surfers Paradise, a seaside resort on Queensland’s Gold Coast renowned for its soaring high-rise skyline rising above the golden Surfers Paradise Beach.

Surfers Paradise light rail station conveniently allows you to travel here from Brisbane central in around 1 hour 50 minutes, and from there, all the shops, cafes and lively bars of Cavill Avenue are just a stone’s throw away. Then soak up some rays on the beach or head up the towering Q1 building, with its SkyPoint observation deck offering panoramic ocean and city views.

If you can time your visit for a Wednesday, Friday or Sunday wait and watch as night falls and the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets pop up with over 100 stalls selling food, produce and local bespoke artworks. All with the calming sea breeze and sound of waves.

Seaside relaxation paired with delicious food and a bit of adrenaline – what’s not to love. Just don’t get lured in by the nightclubs and miss your train home.

Technically not one of the top things to do in Brisbane yet, but considering it is due to be completed in 2022, we couldn’t not mention what will be Brisbane’s newest tourism, leisure and entertainment destination.

Queens Wharf is a 3.6 billion AUD world-class integrated resort development being constructed which will blend beautifully repurposed heritage buildings with stunning contemporary architecture into five new hotels, over 50 food and beverage outlets, a casino, shopping, apartments and more. There is also a new public bridge, a wealth of art and public spaces planned and a breath taking sky park intended (think Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands) that all are intended to make the most of Brisbane’s subtropical climate, blue skies and outdoor river-city lifestyle.

For visitors before opening, you can spot the soaring cranes from South Bank looking back towards the city or spot by the onsite visitors centre for more information on the completed Queens Wharf Development (with a large-scale model and video room).

Another fabulous indoor-outdoor public space that makes the most of Brisbane’s tropical climate, the Howard Smith Wharves is a bustling, modern waterside development filled with eateries, bars and breweries. A heritage-listed wharf under the glorious Story Bridge between Brisbane City and Fortitude Valley, the redeveloped site was opened in late 2018 after being vacant since the early 1960s.

With a 180-degree vista of the city skyline and river and a pedestrian boardwalk perfect for people watching, the Howard Smith Wharves has plenty to draw in the crowds by day and by night. For a semi-casual affair, grab a craft brew and burger from the Felons Brewing Co in the late afternoon sun or join the glitterati of Brisbane at the uber-chic Hong Kong -inspired Stanley Restaurant for a dining experience you won’t soon forget. Later at night, channel the energy of Tokyo at the split-level bar Yoko or dance along with the in-house DJ spinning decks above an iconic mirrored bar at Mr Percival’s.

The best way to visit the Howard Smith Wharves is by foot, with kilometres of boardwalk joining the Wharves from Brisbane City through to New Farm. You can also access via two lifts from the top of the cliffs on Bowen Terrace, where the Wilson Outlook Reserve offers one of the best views in Brisbane.

If you are like us, you will be utterly obsessed with Brisbane’s most iconic structure, The Story Bridge, and want to take a closer look. Similar to the Jacques Cartier Bridge in Montreal , on which it was based, pedestrians can walk across on foot, but for the ultimate adventure, you have got to climb it. It’s one of only three bridge climbs globally and the only one you can climb up and abseil down!

From the top, you’ll get a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings, from the Glass House Mountains in the north to Moreton Bay in the east – not to mention the best views of the Brisbane skyline and its surrounds. There are eight different options to consider when booking . Still, we are particularly fond of the twilight climb, which allows you to experience the unique moment when the sun sets on the horizon, and the city comes to life with lights.

You’ll then descend under the soft glow of the ever-changing Story Bridge multi-coloured lighting system.

There is no doubt about it; Brisbane is a cycle lover paradise with hundreds of kilometres of riverside and separated bike lanes just begging for you to put your foot to the pedal and explore.

While the CityCycle scheme that allowed bikes to be taken and dropped off at designated docks is being phased out, dockless e-bikes are currently being introduced and joining the expanding Brisbane scooter fleet, a move that makes a lot of sense given Brisbane’s frequently humid climate. The 99 Bikes shop conveniently located on Elizabeth St in the CBD also does full-day and multi-day hires.

Our favourite bike paths around Brisbane include the New Farm Cycle trail (starting in bougie Teneriffe and following the river down to the Brisbane Powerhouse and around into New Farm Park) or the Boondall Wetlands trail, where you can ride through tidal flats, mangroves, salt marshes, grasslands and woodlands. There is also dedicated Brisbane By Bike tours which are a great way to experience the outdoor-urban lifestyle on offer here from a local’s perspective.

The closest elevation point to the Brisbane CBD, Mt Coot-tha, is an ideal destination for a panoramic view of Brisbane and the surrounding region of Moreton Bay. The Kuta cafe at the top offers average coffee with sublime views that more than make up for it, plus the dense bushland of the mountain allows for plenty of opportunities to explore on feet or by bike.

Australia’s longest zip-line from the summit of Mount Coot-tha down to the Brisbane Botanic Gardens was proposed in 2017 but has been called off due to public protests. You have to settle on the more grounded Spotted Gum Trail, connecting the Brisbane Botanic Gardens to the Mt Coot-tha Summit through 2.4km of archetypical eucalyptus forest.

Our pro-tip? Take the free shuttle bus from the Gardens to the summit first and walk back down the trail – it is a lot easier. Just be sure to do it before mid-afternoon as you will finish at the back of the Botanic Gardens, where the gates are only open between 8 am and 4 pm daily.

Alternatively, the Mount Coot-tha sunset sees the city bask in a golden glow before transforming into a wonderland of twinkling city lights and starry skies.

A debonair New Farm cafe and coffee shop where the aesthetics are just as delicious as the food. Stop by the bath in the pastel pink walls and soft lights of Miss Jones before tucking into a blossom scented semolina porridge with almond crumble, blackberry marmalade and a ginger coconut mousse.

For those with a sweet tooth, the nutmeg caramel hotcake with rhubarb blossom custard, brown sugar poached apple and hazelnut milk gelato will not disappoint, but even the smashed avocado on local sourdough with sweet potato hummus and rainforest dukkah will not disappoint your eyes or your taste buds.

Miss Jones is exceptionally popular, especially on the weekends, so we recommend visiting on the weekday to avoid disappointment in their top dishes being sold out. If it proves a little too busy, there is always the equally heavenly Balfour Kitchen around the corner.

Brisbane Powerhouse is Queensland’s headquarters for contemporary culture, a magnanimous power station of the 1920s reimagining as an arts centre right on the Brisbane River. With over 1,250 live shows taking place at the Brisbane Powerhouse each year, they are one of the busiest performing arts centres in the Asia-Pacific region.

Their year-round program features some of the best performing arts, visual arts, festivals, and free community events in Brisbane. The building is worth a visit on its own. The renovation keeps key elements that showcase the Powerhouse’s history, such as the gantry crane and switch from its power station days and graffiti from when it was abandoned and provided shelter for homeless and a location for illegal raves.

Inside there is the main 536-seat Powerhouse Theatre, the more intimate 200-seat Visy theatre, Turbine Hall, rooftop terrace, bar and restaurant, all of which allow for a wide variety of events and uses. There is a dedicated CityCat ferry terminal, ensuring it is easily accessible from the CBD.

Look at the schedule of events early to avoid missing out as tickets sell out in advance for popular shows. Before or after the show dine at Mary Mae’s, the onsite bar and restaurant whose riverside vibes epitomize the informal Brisbane lifestyle.

Fancy sipping on spritzes and partaking in saganaki in a sophisticated alfresco space? Now you don’t have to jet-set to the Greek Islands; you can simply make a reservation at the oh-so-trendy Restaurant Hellenika , set within Brisbane’s The Calile Hotel urban resort.

Entrees and small plates of kalamata olive-topped taramasalata, grilled saganaki, or the famous Hellenika zucchini chips with kefalograviera will undoubtedly get you feeling like you’re living your best Euro-holiday life. More extensive share options include juicy grilled Junee lamb cutlets, eggplant moussaka, chicken souvlakia and grilled octopus. The 500-plus bottle wine list is as bias towards the Greek drops as you would expect – though the poolside vibes are likely to have you wanting to dine cocktail in hand.

A bucket list dining experience if ever there was one, this glamorous Brisbane restaurant is the jewel in the Fortitude Valley dining scene and open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Opa!

The Queensland Museum in South Banks Cultural Precinct is the network’s flagship campus and is home to intriguing galleries dedicated to the natural history, cultural heritage, science and human achievement of Queensland.

The museum boasts permanent galleries including the Sciencentre; the Anzac Legacy Gallery; the Discovery Centre where guests can interact with hundreds of objects, animals and fossils; the Lost Creatures gallery about Queensland dinosaurs and megafauna; and the Wild State gallery focussed on Queensland’s unique biodiversity. Then there are the regularly changing national and international touring exhibitions.

The result is an educational and fun space that connects visitors to Queensland, its people and Queensland’s place in the world – past, present and future.

Gin is all the rage currently, and true devotees will want to make the pilgrimage to this city’s first grain to glass artisan distillery top of their list of things to do in Brisbane.

Located in the West End, the Brisbane Distillers is crafting new and compelling gins, rums and botanical vodkas, which can be bought by the bottle of sampled through their inspired cocktail list in the very chic 23-metre long bar.

However, that is not all – the Brisbane Distillery offers one of the world’s first gin school experience in a two-hour class where you get the chance to become a Master Distiller. Not only do you get to let your creative side run wild as you choose from over 120 botanicals to design and instil your one of a kind unique bottle of gin, but you will also learn first-hand about the history of gin, how to flavour it, and the Grain to Glass process.

Not to mention the four divine cocktails that are curated to showcase the versatility of gin (think an unexpectedly floral ‘Clockwork Orange Gin’ with notes of cocoa, rosemary, and orange served with clarified fruit juice and elder-flower infused strawberries) and will ensure you leave just a little tipsy.

A one-of-a-kind experience that we have yet to see repeated anywhere else in the world, any real gin aficionado will want to book well in advance as classes are limited and full up quick.

Located an hour north of Brisbane on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, this 700-acre zoo was opened by Bob and Lyn Irwin in 1970 and made famous by their son Steve (aka “The Crocodile Hunter”).

Since childhood, he supported his parents since childhood to care for crocodiles and reptiles oversaw the expansion and growing number of animals at the zoo until his untimely death in 2006. Today the Australia Zoo ensures that Steve’s legacy lives on with over 500 staff employed who continue Steve’s mission of “Conservation Through Exciting Education”.

It is still owned by Terri Irwin, his widow, who is involved in its day-to-day running along with their two children.  Billed as the world’s most interactive zoo, you can explore at your own pace and watch daily animal shows, including Showtime in the Crocoseum and hand-feeding the kangaroos at Roo Heaven. You can also pat the Koala’s at the Koala walkthrough, behind-the-scenes at the state-of-the-art Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital or visit the Tiger Temple, home to their magnificent Sumatran and Bengal tigers.

Those who have hired a car in Brisbane can self-drive; otherwise, there are guided day tour option from Brisbane . Alternatively, the Queensland Rail Citytrain has a seven-day service that operates between the Brisbane and Beerwah Station, from which Australia Zoo offers a courtesy coach.

Brisbane is a city full of glorious and worthy rooftop cocktail bars, but the new Iris Rooftop bar inside the chic Hotel X would have to be our current favourite.

With a glitzy fit-out, glamorous cocktails and breath-taking views like no other of the Brisbane City Skyline, Fortitude Valley, New Farm and beyond, can you blame us? It is a true oasis in the clouds with Mediterranean vibes befitting Brisbane’s climate. Our drink of choice has to be the Pink Pina Colada (Coconut, Pineapple, Bacardi Carta Blanca, Aperol, Pink Grapefruit) though the selection of sangria and watermelon daiquiri soda will surely prove worthy temptresses.

Bookings are accepted for lunch and dinner, but for drinks, only walk-ins are accepted (subject to availability). If you are looking for something similar on the other side of the city, the Terrace Rooftop Bar at the Emporium Hotel South Bank is a worthy alternative.

As much as we love the outdoor urban lifestyle that Brisbane does so well, sometimes you just want to escape the city on a holiday – and for that we recommend a Stradbroke Island Day Tour. North Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as locals affectionally call it, is an parasidical island that lies within Moreton Bay around 30 kilometres southeast of the centre of Brisbane.

A down-to-earth spot to exhale, a day trip will allow you to discover the beauty of this island for yourself including its endless beaches, local wildlife, and extraordinary scenery with a local guide and all transfers taken care of. Taking around 10 hours, some of the highlights will be a guided scenic walk along North Gorge, a lunch at a local pub overlooking Cylinder Beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters (or sunbathing on the beach) or spotting koalas and dolphins at Amity Point.

The Museum of Brisbane is the place to go to get a fuller understanding of the vibrant art, culture and history of life in Brisbane through a schedule of art and social history exhibitions, workshops, talks and tours.

Found atop the Brisbane City Hall in a custom-built space, the free museum is not only central to conversations about the evolving life of Brisbane but also allows an unparalleled view of two of the building’s heritage features – the Clock Tower and copper dome.

Located around an hour south of Central Brisbane, the Tamborine Mountain area boasts various award-winning artisanal wineries and breweries along with an exemplary distillery that makes it worthy of a day trip. Much like the vineyards of Queenstown and Central Otago , a self-drive winery tour is possible if you have hired a car.

Still, for the best experience and ability to drink without concern, we recommend a leisurely wine tour departing Brisbane , which stops directly at the cellar doors, where you can frequently meet the enigmatic business owner as you inspect their wares. Each venue will conduct private tastings on this tour, allowing you to try between 6 -10 varieties at each of the four venues, along with a stop at Tamborine Mountain Distillery and Witches Chase Factory for some cheese tasting.

Combine this with a delicious two-course lunch and spectacular views of rainforest and picturesque landscapes, and you have ingredients for a boozy and fabulous day trip you won’t soon forget.

A chic hole-in-the-wall coffee spot housed in a converted 1940s bomb shelter covered in lush figs vines and serving first-rate coffee and sweets – what’s not to love?

Locals rave about Bunker specifically for their coffee. Still, non-caffeine consumers will also find themselves well catered for with a house tea, Byron Bay ginger nectar, the typical assortment of juices and indulgent hot chocolates. We will make a bold suggestion and say go specifically for a hot chocolate! There are around a dozen flavours on offer, including peanut butter, coconut, lemongrass, lavender, and even tahini – all made with real melted chocolate.

Bonus points for planning your visit to the nearby Milton Sunday Markets and the similar concept Plant Bunker (with …well, plants instead of coffee).

Snuggled just a 10-minute walk from Brisbane’s CBD is the opulent Roma Street Parkland, the world’s largest subtropical garden in a city centre. Established in 2001, the parkland stars a mixture of themed gardens and open recreational areas, with a network of shaded pathways and boardwalks crossing cascading waterways and by works of local artists – perfect for a delightful stroll.

Alcohol consumption is even permitted in designated areas, provided it is with a substantial meal, so why not pack a picnic and make the most of your visit. An open-air amphitheatre here is also used for various events during the day and as an outdoor cinema during the summer months annually .

Lovers of Asian food and hyper-Instagrammable spaces will not want to miss this exceptionally pink outfit located in the Gasworks Plaza in Newstead.

Anticipate a verified feast for the senses, from tongue-tantalising Thai street eats and delightful cocktail slushies to mood-altering light installations and plenty of pictures taking. The ingredients are fresh, the portions are large, and the vibe is oh-so-cool, making Ping Pong an excellent option for lining the stomach before a night out in Fortitude Valley.

A hidden gem of Brisbane that many locals don’t seem to know, the QUT Art Museum is located on the edge of the City Botanical Garden and is an intimate university gallery showcasing rotating internally curated exhibitions, commissioned projects and touring exhibitions of modern and contemporary works by Australian artists.

Always thought-provoking, entry is typically free and visiting only takes around an hour. If you make it here, you should combine it with a visit to their sister gallery nearby in the stately Old Government House dedicated to the works of Australia’s pre-eminent landscape artist, William Robinson.

Another island day trip idea right in Brisbane’s backyard, Moreton island is a nature lovers paradise – an island made entirely of sand with no sealed roads, and covers 98 per cent of the island’s area protected by the Moreton Island National Park.

White sandy beaches tempt visitors to the island’s ocean side creating the perfect conditions for swimming, surfing and fishing, while the protected landward side is more subdued, with crystal clear blue water soothingly lapping along its shore.

Again, due to the logistical complexities of getting there, a guided tour is the best way to visit , with highlights being a snorkelling tour on the otherworldly sunken shipwrecks of Tangalooma, a buffet lunch, and the chance to spot bottlenose dolphins, giant loggerhead turtles and even dugongs.

Lovers of arts and culture will want to have the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) top of their list of things to do in Brisbane. Not only is it the largest museum of art in Australia, but it is also one of the preeminent institutions in the Asia-Pacific, contributing a range of compelling modern and traditional art experiences that will move and astonish you.

The main building is the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG), established within the Queensland Cultural Centre in South Bank. The second gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), is situated only 150 metres north. Each of the two galleries has their own well-defined personalities, but are focused in their purpose to share extraordinary art. Both offer ever-changing exhibitions and programs along with impressive architecture and riverside views that are certain to inspire and delight.

Allow at least a half-day to explore them both, and be sure to fuel up at the divine QAG Cafe before, after or during. It is a rather contemplative space with a glorious mural inside and a shaded Sculpture Courtyard outside where you can experience the animated water feature and elegant bronzes from the collection.

Brisbane is pampered when it comes to energetic street artscapes presenting a burst of colour, culture and discourse on to what would likely be an otherwise unremarkable street, path or laneway.

From grand street art murals and stencilled graffiti to bronze sculptures, street light installation and everything in between, Brisbane has mastered the craft of enrichening its urban tapestry through art, and it makes exploring this outdoor city just all the more interesting. Given how good the weather is here – is it any wonder Brisbane has moved its art outdoors?

Street art tends to be clustered in three main areas around West End, South Brisbane and Fish Lane, but amazing Brisbane graffiti and street art to be found right throughout Brisbane city and its suburbs. There are numerous guides online, and you’ll want to find an up-to-date one as programs like the Brisbane Street Art Festival, The Pillars Project and Airforce Traffic Signal Boxes ensure new works are constantly being created.

Many of the best sculptures and statues tend to be found in the CBD, and a few of which deserve to be sought out – including Confluence and the City Roos on George Street, a tree a rock a cloud on Eagle Street and the series of sculptures across the river in Kangaroo Point Park.

Aboriginal culture thrived in Australia for over 50,000 years, and a visit to the Birrunga Gallery and Dining in central Brisbane awards an opportunity to engage with it through indigenous art exhibitions, tours, classes and food.

Birrunga is the only Indigenous-owned and operated cultural hub in Meanjin (Brisbane) CBD and boasts an assemblage of mixed media artworks and handmade products by talented local First Nations Artisans found throughout the gallery. Should you be lucky enough to visit during the second Saturday of the month, you can support local and buy art directly from the hands that made them on market day.

In addition to great coffee, their cafe menu employs native herbs and ingredients to create unique flavours of Australia, which they describe as Native Bush Tucker, with a modern twist. Indigenous tourism experiences are an important way to gain cultural awareness and insights into the language and customs, history, native title and art of Indigenous Australia. While these opportunities are sparse in Brisbane, the Birrunga Gallery & Dining is a solid place to start.

Brisbanites seem to be obsessed with high teas, a British tradition crowning in bottomless hot tea and a three-tiered stand embellished with self-indulgent pastries and treats. It might have started in England , but it’s a tradition we think pairs perfectly with travel and have since sought out around the world, including a dedicated guide to the high tea options in Kuala Lumpur.

In Brisbane, our favourite high tea option has to be at the W Hotel Brisbane ,  whose modern Australian high tea includes a stellar line-up of childhood faves reimagined, from the iconic ‘Meat Pie’, ‘Lamington’ and ‘Milo’,  transformed into mouth-watering morsels with a quintessential twist.

Extravagantly served on a bespoke W stand, you be engulfed in an abundance of sweet and savoury treats infused with homegrown produce, including Toowoomba Free Range Eggs, Fraser Island Crab, Quandong, Native Finger Limes and an amazing finishing of Australian cheese to end High Tea on a high note.

No matter if you’re celebrating a special occasion, catching up with an old friend or just looking to relax after a busy day of sightseeing, there’s always time to indulge in this delightful tradition.

Showcasing a wonderful casual restaurant vibe that is neither stiff nor pretentious, the Brisbane Jazz Bar in Kangaroo Point is not only a place of elevated dining with delicious food and overflowing drinks, but it is also a bastion of marvellous live music attracting the best local, interstate and international jazz acts.

A community-driven, not-for-profit enterprise, the club is primarily run by fanatically devoted voluntaries and is one of the few jazz venues globally which boasts not only its own building and its own band; the 19-piece Brisbane Big Band, which, while independently run, has been the club’s resident band since 1974. 

Look up their schedule and book a table with gigs every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, plus regular monthly events. Even the less-polished acts can become a memorable night when combined with the historic clubs riverside location and skyline views.

A heritage-listed shopping arcade that runs from 160 Queen Street through to Adelaide Street in the Brisbane CBD be sure to pop in and marvel at its beauty, history and sense of yesteryear.

From Terrazzo floors and wooden balustrades to dado panelling and its high-end jeweller and antique store, the Brisbane Arcade still reflects the elegance of its original design. Take a wander through and be sure to use the antique elevator, which is an experience in itself. For those with more time and less money, the classic and charming tea room, Room With Roses, is located on the top floor and invites you to stay a little longer and bask in the view.

Interesting, it has administered by a board of trustees acting on the wishes of the estate of the last owners (James Mayne and Mary Mayne), who passed away in 1940. Since then, all operating proceeds have benefited the University of Queensland School of Medicine (now known as the University of Queensland Mayne Medical School in honour of the endowment).

Another intriguing day trip option from Brisbane includes exploring the ancient Gondwana rainforests of the Springbrook National Park, a World Heritage area just a short drive away. You can either self-drive, but one of the easiest ways to go is to take an organized day tour where you will be taken to see remarkable waterfalls and an improbable natural bridge. 

As towering giants surround you, you’ll have the opportunity to spot forest wildlife, including the shy pademelons, brush turkeys, goanna, and even water dragons. Following this, you will be treated to the glow worm caves at Cedar Creek and a remarkable winery lunch with a tranquil vineyard view.

While church visits are more typical of itineraries features European cities like Porto and Stockholm , Brisbane’s Saint John’s Cathedral demands to be seen – if only by virtue of being the only existing building with a stone vaulted ceiling in the southern hemisphere.

The cathedral is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register and was designed in the Gothic revival style, with the foundation stone laid in 1901. However, much like the Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals in the Middle Ages, the completion of the building design took place in stages over 100 years, and it was only finally completed in 2009.  The wood-carvings, stained-glass windows and 350 million-year-old limestone are all worth stepping inside to view in their own right.

Thankfully entrance is free, and there are a few well-educated and passionate volunteers who will be thrilled to show you around. Make sure to ask them to show you the pillars of ancient fossiliferous life and the very last flag flown at the evacuation of the Anzacs from Gallipoli.

Another of the top Brisbane attractions for gin lovers has to be the Dutch Courage Officers’ Mess on Alfred Street in Fortitude Valley.  A recently opened cocktail, gin, and tapas bar was inspired by the British colonial outposts of the late 19th century. This hidden gem provides a friendly alternative to the pulsating nightlife scene just a few blocks away.

It is just the ticket for a late-night craft cocktail or gin safari. For the ultimate experience, book into their monthly Gin Degustation Dinner on Wednesday evenings, where five elegant and original courses are paired with five marvellous gin cocktails in a complementary yet informal style. Of course, the knowledgeable staff can always recommend a fabulous gin pairing to accompany your meal on any other night.

The Gold Coast is not just famous for its Surfers Paradise tourist hot spot but also for being the theme park capital of Australia. Don’t miss the opportunity for a fun and adventurous day just because you are staying in Brisbane – you can quickly get down here for the day by hiring a car or getting a hotel transfer.

Zoom around on gravity-defying roller coasters at Movie World, relish marine life at Sea World and prepare to be thrilled on a variety of fantastic rides at Wet’n’Wild. Then there is also Dreamworld, Australia’s biggest theme park with over 40 rides and attractions.

If you plan on a visit over a few days, you can save time and money with this convenient 3-day admission pass to 3 of the Gold Coast’s most popular theme park s – which typically works out the same as one-day admission to a park on the gate.

You can never have too much art, and another space that cements Brisbane’s status as an arts and culture hub is The University of Queensland Art Collection , one of Queensland’s most significant public art collections.

Curated over 70 years, it highlights more than 4,400 works of art, comprised predominantly of Australian artists from the colonial period to the present. The Art Collection speaks to the Art Museum’s distinguished place within the University setting and has a strong focus on research and learning in its many forms. New artwork acquisitions contribute significantly to the museum’s identity as a place for progressive and contemporary creative inquiry, and it is now the second-largest public art collection in Queensland.

Located a short walk from the innermost extent of the City Cat river network, you can also take a bus from the central city, which is often faster – but not nearly as scenic.

Eat Street Northshore is a complete sensory overload with neon lights, live music acts, delicious smells and a wide variety of street food from around the world. A magical fairyland world of street food set in converted shipping containers on a disused wharf, Eat Street Northshore is a must for lovers of good food & entertainment taking place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.

You will be overwhelmed with over 70 food and beverage outlets to choose from, in addition to the four stages with 19 different bands on show and roving performers. No matter where you chose to dine, make sure to take time out for unique cocktails and to gaze up at the millions of fairy lights before heading for desserts at “KombiAlley” with hyper Instagrammable soft serve ice cream Cronuts, Funnel Cakes, Bombe Alaska, and creation replicated around the world like Doughnut Fries and Popcorn Doughnuts.

There is nothing else quite like it in the world, and you’ll want to plan at least a few hours here to take it all in. Even better, the Northshore Hamilton Ferry Terminal is located right next to the entrance of Eat Street Northshore, so you don’t need to bother with a bus or driving!

Constructed in 2014 to reconstruct the flood-damaged floating walkway, the Riverwalk is a unique pathway over the Brisbane River, which connects New Farm with the Brisbane CBD. Emphasizing sweeping views of the city and the Brisbane river, it’s a favourite route for locals who commute or enjoy running, as well as cyclers and visitors who want to promenade.

The start point is at the Eagle Street Pier ferry terminal in the city, which runs for 4.1 km through Howard Street Wharves to New Farm Park. If you are up for a longer walk, you can continue mainly along the river’s edges past the Brisbane Powerhouse and then through to Newstead and Teneriffe.

An ideal place to stay in the heart of Brisbane, the Hyatt Regency Brisbane offers a premium retreat adjacent to the Queen Street Mall with 292 guestrooms, a relaxed cafe, plus a rooftop infinity pool with a terrace bar and lounge overlooking the facades of the historic building.

If you love the idea of just nipping back to your room for a mid-afternoon siesta or a refreshing dip on the pool, the Hyatt Regency Brisbane provides a fabulous solution. It could not be any more central. At night, the infinity pool is lit up, allowing you to enjoy Brisbane’s perfect year-round weather with a classic cocktail and intimate views.

Exploring the tranquil inner-city suburb of Paddington is one of the first things most locals will recommend when you ask them about the top things to see in Brisbane. An affluent residential neighbourhood, Paddington is known for its hip shopping scene, with antique stores and flamboyant boutiques rubbing shoulders with vintage fashion and fashionable homewares.

Another drawcard is the expansive views out across Brisbane from the area’s many hills along with energetic brunch spots, gastropubs and contemporary restaurants. Start with a coffee at the adorable Lil Gypsy Caravan and keep exploring up Given Terrace, finishing at the mammoth Empire Revival antique emporium . Allow at least half a day.

Just when you thought Brisbane could not surprise you anymore, you discover that it is one of the world’s best whale-watching destinations. And who could possibly say no to a day of sunshine, salty sea breezes and see the magnificent humpback whale in its natural habitat?

The multi-million dollar vessel MV Eye Spy allows you to head out from Brisbane for a 5-hour whale watching extravaganza where you will enjoy a gourmet lunch while Captain Kerry Lopez (the only female skipper to own and operate a whale watching venture in the South Pacific) gets you to the best spots and vantage point in Moreton Bay. Even better, a portion of every ticket price is donated to ongoing whale research.

The only issue is that the cruise departs 30 minutes’ drive to the north of Brisbane’s CBD. You’ll need to either drive/Uber or take public transport, which is 1.5 hours each way.

50+ fun things to do in Brisbane city

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: September 7, 2022  - Last updated: April 29, 2023

Are you planning to visit Queensland’s capital city, or perhaps you live here and are looking for something different to do this weekend? Our comprehensive guide of things to do in Brisbane city has ideas for all interests, ages and weather conditions.

With over 50 attractions and activities in this article, we’ve only got the space for a brief introduction to each but they all deserve their place on the list. Many we’ve covered in more detail in other guides and reviews on this website so click through to those articles with the links provided to help you plan your visit and find more information. To make it easier we’ve grouped the ideas into localised areas and categories.

Table of Contents

Swim at South Beach

The wheel of brisbane, city botanic gardens, queen street mall, brisbane city hall, kayak on the brisbane river, eat street markets, jan powers markets, visit the epicurious garden, explore the city laneways and cafes, north stradbroke island, bribie island, up close with wild dolphins, whale watching from brisbane, coochimudlo, dive or snorkel the wrecks on morton island, walk to king island, wynnum boardwalk, bayside park in manly, take a scenic waterfront walk, redcliffe jetty and weekend markets, settlement cove lagoon, take a ferry up the brisbane river, city heritage walk, old government house, lone pine koala sanctuary, sunrise up mt coot-tha, osprey house environmental centre, walkabout creek discovery centre, daisy hill koala centre, mt coot-tha botanic gardens, roma street parklands, southbank parklands, kangaroo point cliffs, indigiscapes, sherwood arboretum, goma – gallery of modern art, queensland museum, go stargazing at brisbane planetarium, check out the evolving street art scene, riverwalk from the city to new farm, walk, or climb, the story bridge, venman bushlands, boondall wetlands, christmas in the city, night noodle markets, buddha day festival, brisasia festival, best time to visit brisbane, exploring southbank.

One of the fabulous public lagoon pools in the region is Streets Beach in Southbank. The huge pool area is a great place to cool off, there’s a sandy beach to stretch out or used the terraced access and seating and small picnic nooks scattered around.

You’ll find lifeguards on duty for added safety and the surrounding parklands offer many spaces for BBQ’s, sports and entertainment. There’s a view of the city skyline as you float around and you’re never far from the fabulous restaurants and coffee spots of South Brisbane.

A little further from the city you might also enjoy checking out some of the other free public lagoon pools in the Brisbane area .

The 60-metre tall Wheel of Brisbane was installed in the city in 2008 as part of the Worle Expo 20th anniversary. Although intended to be temporary it has remained popular and survived several rumoured removals to remain a familiar part of the city skyline.

The Wheel has 42 capsules carrying up to 336 passengers. The capsule configuration is typical with seating on either side facing each other with windows right around. Capsules are air-conditioned which is essential in a Brisbane summer and 2 are fitted for wheelchair access. The ride lasts 12-minutes including a stop at the top to enjoy the full 360-degree view over the city

Find deals for the Wheel of Bri sbane

Today the City Botanic Gardens on the banks of the Brisbane River are more a huge public park with extensive green space and mature shade trees than the typical collection of botanical subjects that they started out as.

The city’s primary botanic gardens moved from this site to Mt Coot-tha in 1976 after repeated flooding risked losing many valuable and irreplaceable plants. However, the space was maintained as an extensive parkland in the central city for the enjoyment of residents.

It makes a good walking loop from the city, through the gardens, over the goodwill bridge to Southbank, through the parklands and back across the Victoria Bridge to the city.

The heart of downtown Brisbane is the Queen Street Mall, the open air pedestrian and entertainment space runs for 500 metres from Edward Street to George Street. It encompassing 6 major shopping centres and over 700 retailers along its length.

Most days you’ll find some form of entertainment along here from buskers and balloon artists to shows and parades. Every Wednesday you’ll find the bustling City Markets at the river end outside the library with 85 stalls focused on fresh produce, artisan products and ready to eat treats.

City hall is a short detour from Queen Street Mall situated on King George Square. The heritage building was opened in 1930 with a dramatic facade of columns inspired by the classic lines of the Patheon. Although it is a working civil building, it is surprisingly welcoming to visitors. Step inside the entrance hall with wide sweeping staircases and ceiling arches to discover more.

Free 45-minute guided tours of City Hall are held throughout the week giving an opportunity to see the architecture, learn some of its behind the scenes secrets and see the Father Henry Willis & Sons Pipe Organ made up of 4,400 pipes.

The bells of the Westminster clock tower chime every 15-minutes throughout the working day and you can take a free short trip up the tower to see behind the clock face and get a 360-degree view across the city. It was only Brisbane’s tallest building until 1967 but it is still worth taking in the sights from up here.

During December each year, the facade and features of City Hall are illuminated at night with a modern Christmas story aimed at children but enjoyed by all.

Another alternative perspective on the city is from the Brisbane River. You can get out on the river on your own boat, jetski or kayak but an option for visitors who want to put a bit more activity into their day is to take a kayak tour on the river checking out Southbank, the Story Bridge and the city skyline.

Food and drink highlights

Brisbane’s food and entertainment scene has gone from strength to strength in recent years and continues to evolve. We discussed our favourite Brisbane Cafes previously but below you’ll find more highlights foodies you will want to consider during your stay.

South East Queensland isn’t home to a lot of wineries but Sirromet in Mount Cotton is worth a visit. Walk amongst the vines, spot wallabies relaxing in the afternoon, sit out on the deck with a glass of wine and platter or enjoy fine dining at Lurleen’s. You can take a guided tour and tasting at the winery by appointment or try a few wines to take home in a private tasting from the cellar door.

Sirromet is a regular host to major music events on the expansive lawns and you can also stay the night on-site in their fabulous new glamping tents .

This exciting food and entertainment hub evolved from a disused wharf and 180 recycled shipping containers. The space now houses 70 vendors with a diverse range of food and drinks covering most dietary requirements and food styles. Whether you are after burgers, seafood, dumplings, food for the ‘gram, healthy options, feeding your sweet tooth, or something taking inspiration from the cuisines of Italy, Turkey, Japan, Mexico, Greece, South America or India you are likely to find it.

Eat Street Markets are every Friday through Sunday from 4 pm. You can get here either by taking the CityCat ferry to the Northshore-Hamilton terminal and then walking 400 metres (5 minutes) to the gate or there is free parking for over 1400 cars if you prefer to drive.

These produce and foodie markets are held across Brisbane each Saturday. In addition to a diverse range of fresh supplies for the week, there are food trucks, seasonal treats and live music to keep everyone entertained.

The original markets are hosted weekly in New Farm Park alongside the Powerhouse from 6 am to 12 pm. There’s fantastic energy and lots of ready-to-eat treats and great coffee available to make a morning of it with a riverside picnic.

The Manly market happens on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month on the waterfront adjacent to the marina. The vibe here is a little more relaxed, the crowd a little smaller but the quality and selection still excellent. Again the ready-to-eat food vans and coffee carts are in place with a good selection to eat within the market or carry across to the park and waters edge.

You’ll find the Epicurious Gardens just up from River Quay in the Southbank Parklands. Entry is free and it’s a fun space to discover some new fruits, vegetables and herbs, get ideas for your own garden or just enjoy being in the beautifully presented productive space.

A team of volunteers and horticulturists tend the garden and while you can visit at any time the best opportunity is in the morning from Tuesday until Thursday. From 7 am to 2 pm the Harvest Cart is open and you can collect fresh produce on a first-in basis, be mindful of others and take only what you can use. Volunteers tend the garden from 7 am to 11.30 am and are a wealth of knowledge on the plants, what grows well in Brisbane and tips for new gardeners so take the opportunity to have a chat with them.

Laneways took a while to take off in Brisbane City but there are plenty of good options to choose from now. Heading out consider exploring top spots Fish Lane in South Brisbane, Bakery Lane, Winn Lane and California Lane in Fortitude Valley or head into the CBD for Albert Lane, Eagle Lane and Burnett Lane.

Out on Morton Bay

For an island escape within greater Brisbane, it is hard to go past North Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as it’s called by locals. This stunning sand island is a great place for spotting wildlife with frequent sightings of whales, dolphins, dugongs, rays, sea turtles, koalas and kangaroos.

Take the vehicle ferry across from Cleveland or travel as a walk-on passenger using the bus service that conveniently meets every ferry.

Head to Point Lookout for the gorge walk, spend the day on the beach at Cylinder, Frenchmen’s or North Gorge Beach, check out the nature around the blue and brown lakes, hire a moped and zip around the sights or camp out at Amity Point.

Those two links have all the top spots to include on Straddie and tips for planning a day trip with a hire scooter or your own vehicle.

Another sand island in the Brisbane area is Bribie Island . For this one you don’t even need a ferry, there is a bridge so you can drive across from the mainland. The western side of the island is sheltered swimming beaches while the western side is made up of surf beaches.

At the southern end, it’s reasonably built up now but over a third of the island is protected as National Park. There are plenty of walking tracks and it makes a great family day at the beach.

There are two places in Queensland where you can have a ‘virtually certain’ encounter with wild dolphins and possibly even the opportunity to feed one. Morton Island is one of these spots, the other in Tin Can Bay in the Wide Bay region above the Sunshine Coast.

I say virtually certain as these are free and wild dolphins, if they have something more pressing happening then some or all may skip a few days but since the 1970s the pod has been dropping into the bay at Tangalooma Resort on Morton Bay most evenings.

In order that the dolphins are safe and don’t become reliant on human interaction, it’s all done under the close watch of trained staff and there are strict rules that must be adhered to. The fish provided can also only make up a small portion of their total daily food requirements.

Read more: Our experience on the Tangalooma whale, dolphin and resort day trip from Brisbane

Like most of Australia’s east coast, the annual whale migration passes close to the shoreline making a day out on Morton Bay a great spot for whale watching. The whale watching tour we’ve done and regularly recommend is based out of Morton Island, you take the boat across in the morning, join the tour at the allocated time and then spend the rest of the day being as active or relaxed as you want on the island.

In addition to humpback whales passing and breaching really close to the boat, we also saw dozens of dolphins in a superpod, a dugong and sea turtles. The boat seeks out the best spots around the island’s coast, pointing out key attractions such as the Morton wrecks, Flinders Reef and the historic lighthouse along the way.

Book a whale-watching tour on Morton Bay

Coochiemudhlo is a small residential island in Morton Bay. It’s only 10 by ferry from Victoria Point but it feels so much more removed from the mainland. The ferry only costs $5.40 for an adult making it very affordable as an island escape for the day.

Take a walk around the island, hire a tinny to go fishing, kayak, swim or plan a BBQ on the beach. Watch out for the local birds and wildlife or hire some clubs and play a round on the island’s own 9-hole golf course.

Morton Island is easy to visit on a day trip, it’s also popular with campers and you’ll find the Tangalooma Resort here too. While on the island some will choose to swim, soak up the sun and relax while others might want to try out some more active pursuits.

There is plenty to do on Morton Island like boarding down the massive sand dunes, riding along the sand on the fat tyred beach bikes or renting a kayak to glide over the wrecks.

The 15 wrecks that were scuttled here between 1963 and 1984 now form a man-made reef that is home to over 100 species of fish and you regularly also see dolphins and dugongs around them. There are guided snorkelling tours run from the resort and dive tours are also available.

Explore the bayside

With the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast nearby it’s easy to forget that Brisbane also has coastal suburbs and parks. These are a few you might want to take a look at:

Wellington Point is a popular beach for families offering a sandy swimming beach, boat ramp, pier for fishing, playground, BBQ and picnic facilities.

One of the really fun things to do here is to watch the golden pathway rise up from the ocean as the tide recedes making it possible to walk all the way out to King Island in the distance on low tide. You can start the 1 km walk a little earlier if you don’t mind paddling in the water in parts.

The Wynnum Boardwalk through the mangroves was updated a few years back to provide this path above the tidal mangrove flats. It’s a fantastic spot to walk in the shade of the established trees that filter the sediment run-off of rainwater that makes its way down from the mountains to Morton Bay.

There are several viewing platforms to observe life in the mangrove forest and at the northern end, it joins to a gravelled then sealed path that makes its way up to a bird hide. All the way along is great for spotting birds, regulars along here are sacred and collared kingfishers, mangrove gerygone, several types of egrets and herons, black swans and pelicans. As you make your way through to the grass and dry tree line you’ll often see tawny grassbirds, golden-headed cisticola, quail, fairy-wrens, eastern yellow robins and dollar birds.

Manly in Brisbane’s Bayside has a large waterfront park, marina, small beach area, fantastic children’s playground, sheltered tables and BBQs, plenty of grass area for games and picnics and a break wall to walk out over the water and fish.

Across the road there are plenty of cafes, little shops and galleries to enjoy, you can pick up fish and chips to eat out in the park and there are regular weekend markets to wander through and pick up fresh produce and crafts.

From the Wynnum Boardwalk through to Lota at the southern end, you can follow the waterfront path on foot, cycle or scooter. Watch the signs, most of the way is a shared space but there are a few parts that are pedestrian-only but a shared space off-road alternative is still available through those sections.

In Wynnum stop off at the beach, wading pool or walk out along the pier, we’ve seen turtles, dolphins and dugongs from the wharf. In Manly walk out along the break wall opposite the Marina, we’ve seen dolphins here too fairly regularly and fishing from the wall is a popular option. There are picnic facilities and children’s playgrounds when you reach Lota and at many other spots along the way.

The Redcliffe jetty has been a feature of Redcliffe since 1885 but the current one, the third to be built here, dates back to 1999. With a beach suitable for swimming, several cafes and restaurants located just across the road from the beach and a weekend market held every Sunday from 8 am until 2 pm this makes a great day out with the family.

Look out for Bee Gees Way if you remember the 70’s bank with a touch of nostalgia. The Gibb brothers were local boys, their first regular gig was down at the Redcliffe Speedway and they signed their first music contract from their Redcliffe family home.

The outdoor walkway tribute includes life-sized bronze statues, a nightly lights display, photos and stories from their career.

On the waterfront in Redcliffe is this fabulous lagoon swimming pool. It has all the facilities you need to make a day of it or head down for a refreshing swim and BBQ tea on a hot summer’s evening. There are toilets, showers and changing rooms, picnic shelters, BBQs and a playground available for public use.

You can walk the coastline from Redcliffe on a waterfront promenade all the way back to Clontarf and the bridge.

Brisbane heritage

There is a range of ferries that operate on the Brisbane River from Hamilton to the University of Queensland. Others just crisscross the river like the one between Bulimba and Teneriffe. During workday commutes they can be quite busy but they are a great option for getting out on the weekend and for tourists they are an essential and very affordable way to discover the city from the water.

The key terminals you might choose to disembark and explore include Bulimba, New Farm Park, Riverside (city) and Southbank. Consider picking up a Go Card to quickly and conveniently access most public transport at a discount over paper tickets. You can also use the Cityhopper ferries for travel between the seven stops from North Quay to Sydney Street, New Farm at no cost.

Brisbane became a permanent settlement in 1823 and was declared a town in 1834, a relatively young city by world standards but that doesn’t mean there isn’t an interesting heritage to discover as you wander through the central city and surrounding areas.

If you have the time you might want to look at some other self guided heritage walks published by Brisbane Council . Alternatively, you can start in the Queens Street Mall and discover the Regent Theatre and Brisbane Arcade, wander through to City Hall completed in 1930 on King George Square and across to the Albert Street Uniting Church opened in 1889. Other highlights include the Windmill Tower, Central Railway Station, the General Post Office, St Stephens Cathedral, the Bond Store and Old Government House.

Behind the city botanic gardens and adjacent to the University of Queensland’s city campus is the old Government House. Once the home of Governor Lord Lamington this heritage building overlooking the river is also credited as the origin of the lamington, a small cake coated in chocolate and coconut. Kiwis might challenge the claim but you might as well try one baked here on the premises in the cafe.

Most of the once public parts of the house are decorated in their original styling and furniture while the staff quarters have been converted into a cafe and administrative area. Upstairs is a gallery often featuring interesting collections from local artists.

City Parks and wildlife

Koalas are quintessentially Australian, loved by locals and visitors alike and there is no better place to get up close and personal with them than at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. You have the chance to hold a koala here and to watch them at all ages and stages of their development.

In Queensland, a koala can’t be released from captivity to the wild so all the animals at Lone Pine have been rescued so aren’t able to be rehabilitated for release or were born in captivity.

It’s not only the koalas that are at home above the river in Lone Pine, there is a large walk-through enclosure with kangaroos, wallabies and emus, a bird of prey show and many other Australian natives. The location is superb, pack a picnic and spend the day and if you are looking for something different you can take the cruise from the central city to their own pier.

We have an article to help you plan your day at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and you will find cruise and entry tickets here.

Mt Coot-tha is only a 15-minute drive west of the city centre. The lookout offers spectacular views of the city out to the coast which makes it a stunning spot to see the sunrise but it’s a great view at any time of day with a panorama of the surrounding area.

The Mt Coot-tha Reserve is 1600 hectares of open eucalypt and rainforest with many picnic areas and short walks. You can also walk down from the lookout to the botanic gardens, or if you are getting around on public transport catch a bus to the gardens and walk up from there.

The Osprey House is an environmental and educational centre on Dohles Rocks Road in north Brisbane. It’s located on the Pine River and opens daily from 10 am until 4 pm. There is an osprey Nesting platform where we have regularly been able to watch the birds either maintaining their nest or tending the chicks. You can watch from the ground but there is also CCTV with live monitoring to watch from inside the centre.

There are picnic areas and boardwalks with a bird hide and viewing platform. For those interested in birds, it’s not only a good spot to see Ospreys but smaller birds in the mangroves and migratory waders that make the annual pilgrimage from the northern hemisphere to Australia and back.

Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre is at the entrance to the D’Aguilar National Park but only 12 km from the city centre. This is a popular family spot during weekends in summer. The discovery centre is a chance to get up close and learn about the local Queensland wildlife, there is a lakeside bushwalk, and you can take a swim and cool off in the lake, hire a kayak or SUP and head a bit further out on the lake, go mountain biking on the shared trails or take on the skills course.

Make a day of it on its own or make it your first stop on a road trip up Mt Nebo to the lookouts, hiking trails and picnic spots.

The Daisy Hill Koala Centre is located on a small detour off the highway south of the city. It first opened in 1995 and is nestled into the extensive gum-covered hillside with picnic spots and walking trails where you have a good chance of seeing kangaroos, wallabies and koalas in the wild.

The Koala Centre is free to enter and open daily from 10 am until 4 pm. From the 2 levels inside you can see the current resident koalas which are all wild born. Some are being rehabilitated for release while others are unable to be returned to the wild for various reasons due to the illness or injury that had them rescued initially. While we were last there a couple of the carers had joey pouches for young koalas who had been rescued before they were weaned and needed 24-hour attention. This is a huge obligation with frequent feeding but so rewarding when they are released and join the wild population.

Parks and gardens

Brisbane has 2 botanic gardens, the City Gardens were the original but when the river flooded destroying valuable specimens in 1974 a decision was made to move the gardens to higher ground west of the city centre in the foothills of Mt Coot-tha.

The 56-hectare gardens are free to visit and you can get here by private vehicle or on public transport from the city. They are an excellent sub-tropical garden with a dramatic domed hot house, fernery, rainforest walks, multiple lakes, bonsai house, Japanese garden, edible garden and sections that feature arid garden plants, native Australian plants, bamboo grove and a Pacific Island collection.

This view from the lookout within the botanic gardens back to the city is pretty good but you can continue to walk up the hillside to the Mt Coot-tha lookout if you are feeling energetic.

This 16-hectare parkland is just a 10-minute walk from the CBD and directly adjacent to the Roma Street train station.

There are events of some form on here pretty much every weekend with bigger events like the Enchanted Garden Christmas lights popular and well worth watching out for. You can also take one of the regular guided tours during the week through the Spectacle Garden, behind the scenes or learn about Bush Tucker and the rainforest. The park is currently celebrating its 20th anniversary.

This 17-hectare riverside parkland stretches from the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) through to the Maritime Museum with a footbridge across to the city located at either end. The area was transformed in 1988 for the World Expo and became the cultural heart of the city ensuring the much-loved space continued as a public park permanently.

Today you will find something for everyone here, averaging around 100 events annually it is always buzzing, take a swim in the lagoon pool, dine at the 90+ restaurants and bars that surround it or just take a few quiet minutes relaxing on the manicured green lawns as the city passes by.

Kangaroo Point is one of Queensland’s oldest suburbs and while largely now comprised of back-to-back skyscraper apartments you can still find some greenspace in the parklands down at the river level beneath the Story Bridge and up the top of the cliffs.

The River Walk continues around the point on the riverside with the Holmon Street ferry stop on the eastern side and Kangaroo Point stops closer to the city. The 107-step stair climb to the top of the cliff might seem daunting but it’s worth it. At the top are some great views, a good sunset spot, a cafe (you would probably want a coffee after those stairs) and plenty of BBQ and picnic space.

On weekends you might even watch the adventurous abseiling down the sheer cliff face.

This 14.5-hectare tract of bushland in Capalaba has been a good site for us to spot koalas over the years. There are a couple of short walking tracks, a platform over the lagoon for spotting turtles and eels, themed botanic gardens featuring native plants, a children’s play area, an environment information centre and a cafe on site.

There are also several picnic tables and a BBQ opposite the centre and along closer to the children’s play area where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Read more: Planning your visit to the Indiscapes bushland and visitors centre

This park is a heritage-listed arboretum and one of 3 Brisbane botanical gardens. There are a variety of trails to follow depending on your interests, through the sprawling groves of mature trees, in search of the diverse birdlife found here, particularly around the ponds and the avenue of Kauri Pines planted in the 1920s.

There is a fabulous children’s playground set amongst the huge trees, a waterfront walkway, picnic and BBQ facilities and a variety of events throughout the year. It’s laid out in zones with information plaques explaining the areas such as the coastal, lowlands and wetlands zone.

Culture and the arts

Located just past the western end of Southbank Parklands is the much loved GOMA or Gallery of Modern Art . Most of the exhibitions here are free and curated from a large established collection and borrowed works. Occasionally there is a special international exhibition that charges an entry fee, those I’ve been to such as the works of flamboyant Japanese Artist Yayoi Kasuma and the Cai Guo-Qiang exhibit have been well worth the fee.

The Queensland Museum is a natural history, culture and science museum located in the cultural centre adjacent to South Bank. It provides detailed educational experiences across the age spectrum with permanent displays and visiting exhibits throughout the year.

Co-located with the Mt Coot-tha botanic garden is Brisbane’s planetarium. The distinctive dome is the place to head for Stargazer. Entry to the informative displays is free while tickets are required for shows in the circular theatre, the cosmic Skydome.

Brisbane took a little longer to arrive on the Street Art scene than most metropolitan cities around the world, but it has well and truly arrived with some incredibly talented local and international artists represented in works large and small around the city and wider Brisbane area.

The biggest concentration is in South Brisbane, from the train station cross and make your way along Fish Lane then through the surrounding streets, loosely make your way out towards the Go Between bridge at the end of Merrivale Street where there are some great murals on the bridge pillars. Along the way, there’s no shortage of good food and coffee.

Take a walk

Riverfront walking tracks extend throughout Brisbane city, Southbank and out to neighbouring suburbs. Together with cross-river footbridges, they provide a commuter link, a fun day out and an ideal opportunity for some inner-city exercise.

This section linking the city to New Farm was rebuilt after the old floating walkway was washed away in the 2011 floods. It’s a unique section built out into the river with a meandering zigzag pattern. Be aware that there are only a couple of shelters along here so it gets HOT in the summer sun, bring a hat and water.

Read more: New Farm to City River Walk

Walk across the Story Bridge from Kangaroo Point to Fortitude Valley with great views of the river below and back across to the city. You can take a large loop from Southbank along the river past the Kangaroo Cliffs, up onto the bridge, across and down rejoining the waterfront path at Howard Smith Wharves and back along to the city.

Another option for those with an appetite for excitement is to join a Story Bridge adventure climb . These are especially popular at sunset with views back over the city to Mt Coot-tha and the spectacular colours of the evening sky beyond the hills.

The 415-hectare tract of native bushland was once logged the turned into cattle pasture until Jack Venman, a local bushman decided to regenerate it back to what it had been 200 years ago. Today there are a variety of tracks through this gorgeous bush park in the Redlands. it’s a great spot for spotting a variety of wildlife including wallabies, koalas, reptiles and a good selection of bird life including owls which are increasingly difficult to see in wider Brisbane.

The Tingalpa Creek Circuit or Venman Circuit are a good place to start and don’t forget your picnic or BBQ to enjoy in the relaxed setting.

Read more and plan your visit to Venman Bushlands

Just 15 kilometres north of the city are 1150 hectares of tidal flats, mangroves, melaleuca wetlands, saltmarshes, grasslands and open forests known as the Boondall Wetlands. The environment provides a filter as water makes its way from the mountains to the bay and is both home and nursery to many creatures both in the water and about the ground.

Follow the walking paths through the wetlands, out to a bird hide over the estuary, explore the environmental centre or cycle the family-friendly, 8 km return, cycle path. You can increase the ride to 12 km return and go through to Nudgee Beach but that includes a road section that would be unsuitable for young children. There are clean toilets and picnic facilities at the environmental centre along with plenty of parking.

The Billai Dha-Gun track is only 2 km long but if you are hoping to spot wild inhabitants like this family of Tawny Frogmouths you are going to need to regularly scan from the paths to the sky. It’s almost impossible to get the whole family of these birds in one photo although if you keep looking you will almost certainly see both parent birds, one stays with the chicks and the other takes a higher perch nearby to keep an eye on things.

Festivals and events

During December Brisbane lights up with a whole range of Christmas events, you can read more about them here . They include the animated Christmas story put to music and projected onto the stunning architectural frontage of City Hall.

They may well be feel-good children’s stories but I still make sure to end up in the city to see the new production at least once each festive season. Each year has a slightly different theme, some reflecting shows on in the city that year and the Australian animals one was a personal favourite but they are always worth seeing.

It’s a great option to tie up with the Enchanted Garden light up at the Roma Street Parklands, dinner in the city and the Myers Christmas window.

Festivals and food, what can be better than bringing the two together? With Brisbane’s mild winter evenings it’s the perfect time to head into the city for the Noodle Night Markets and fill your belly with some delicious winter warmers, a big bowl of udon, delicious dumplings in a selection of flavours or a generous serve of okonomiyaki.

After being a fixture of the Southbank Parklands for many years this year it will take a turn on the other side setting up the market stalls in the City Botanic Gardens from the 15 – 26 June 2022.

Buddha’s birthday is celebrated on May 8th and the festival is held on the nearest weekend. For 22 years it’s been one of the most popular events in the Southbank Parklands. For the past couple of years, including 2022, it has been relocated to the host temple, Chung Tian due to restrictions around large gatherings.

We hope to see it return to its city venue again this year but in either location, it’s a wonderful community event with spiritual and cultural activities and celebrations including the baby blessing, tea ceremony, meditation, Buddhist talks and multicultural performances.

Possibly the biggest event on the Brisbane calendar each year is Riverfire, a stunning fireworks display over the river set to music that kicks off the Brisbane festival. Some years have definitely been more dramatic than others but overall this is an event that you should not miss if you are in the city for the right weekend in September.

In addition to the pyrotechnic displays launched from barges in the river, off the various bridges and from the tops of the city’s tallest buildings; the flyovers by military helicopters and planes and the ground entertainment make it a night worth heading out for.

There is a range of great vantage spots to watch it from but it’s hard to beat River Quay in the city or the Southbank Parklands to be right in the centre of the action. Other options include Kangaroo Point, Wilsons Lookout and the City Botanic Gardens.

Riverfire is scheduled to take place on Saturday 3rd September 2022.

This annual festival is held for 3 weeks each year during February and celebrates Asian art and culture. The festival celebrates our multicultural city through participation in events including art, fashion, food, films, music and discussion.

Brisbane has a subtropical climate with only two seasons.  Summers are hot and humid and can be rainy although that depends on the year.  Winter is mild and generally dry with a high proportion of sunny days.

Southeast Queensland’s mild climate rarely experiences any real extremes or heat or cold making it a great spot to visit throughout the year. Many interstate or international visitors may prefer the winter or shoulder seasons when there are fewer crowds and the temperature is still suitable for most outdoor activities. Brisbane is very much an alfresco city.

If you found this article useful please consider saving it to Pinterest. It makes it easy for you to find it again, it helps us, and it helps other travellers to find the information they are looking for.

Feeling hungry? Don’t miss our pick of the top cafes in Brisbane to try for your next brunch.

We were based in Brisbane for 15 years and spent most weekends out exploring. If you are planning a visit and have any questions please ask in the comments below or chat with us on our Facebook Page .

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Saturday 5th of November 2022

Amazing places to go! Wonderful pictures and thanks for your guidance.

Monday 26th of September 2022

Thanks for sharing. I loved your article. It's time to head out and explore new places. Thanks Regards

70 Fun Things to Do in Brisbane, Australia

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As Australia’s third-largest city, the Sunshine State’s focal point brings together everything we could ever want in a vacation destination.

Brisbane will inspire you to tap into your wild side at the Australia Zoo, made popular by Steve Irwin. Fans will surely want to stop by the Crocoseum to get a spectacle that will keep them on the edge of their seats!

Speaking of, where else can you have a close encounter with fuzzy koalas, thus making your Aussie dreams come true? Don’t forget to step into the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for that one!

Enjoy the beauty of the Brisbane River by day on a kayak tour, and by night, on a dinner cruise, with friends or your partner for the perfect end to your day.

With a vibrant nightlife, award-winning restaurants, year-round warm weather, craft breweries popping up around every corner, plus close proximity to world-class theme parks, animal sanctuaries, beaches, and hiking trails, the list of things to do in Brisbane goes on… and on… and on.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip!

1 – Feed the colorful lorikeets at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

If you’re an animal lover, add this to your list of things to do in Brisbane. The 27-hectare Sanctuary hosts Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, dingoes, emus, echidnas, and so much more.

While you’re there, why not help feed the lorikeets? With dozens of stunning colorful birds flocking around you, it’ll feel like a scene from Snow White.

Make sure to book your tickets early for the best rates, with a bonus photo op, and even additional activities included in your ticket.

• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary tickets

2 – Explore Moreton Island

This slice of paradise is only accessible by four-wheel-drive — but once you’re there, the opportunities are endless: drive the beach down to Queensland’s oldest lighthouse; roll or toboggan down the sloping sand dunes; paddle a transparent kayak over the clear sapphire waters with nearby shipwrecks available to snorkel; or even scuba.

Travelers love the eerie Tangalooma Shipwrecks, so make sure to go snorkeling or scuba diving and explore the deliberately-sunken fleet — these days, the coral and sea-life have made it their delicate and lively home.

If you want to keep your feet dry, there are plenty of land activities like volleyball and croquet, along with white sandy beaches perfect for working on the tan.

So, why not take a day to explore the third-largest sand island in the world?

• Moreton Island day trips

3 – Cuddle a koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Wind down the Brisbane River on a cruise boat toward Lone Pine —  the world’s largest and oldest Koala Sanctuary — where you can actually cuddle a koala, see the gruesome snake-feeding, and watch the majestic Birds of Prey show where owls, kites and eagles soar above your head before swooping down on their lunch.

Why not treat yourself to a local beer or wine on the boat back to Brisbane?

• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary tours

4 – Experience The Claw at Dreamworld

This theme park has everything so you can tick off a lot of things to do in Brisbane. Family-friendly and kids’ rides? Check. Whitewater slides? Check. Wildlife park with tigers and koalas? Check. Thrill rides? Double-check.

Thrill-seeking travelers can’t get enough of the Claw, a spine-tingling ride that rockets you from side to side at speeds of up to 64 km/h!

What’s better than Dreamworld? Dreamworld plus WhiteWater (water park) access for the ultimate day!

• Dreamworld tickets

5 – Browse modern and Indigenous art at the Gallery of Modern Art

QAGOMA is an eclectic and interactive art gallery full of the dynamic colors of Indigenous Art, rising Australian artists, and plenty of traveling exhibits showcasing everything from Marvel Cinematic Universe costumes and props to Ai Weiwei and art around motorcycles.

The gallery will open and delight your eyes, showing off some of the culture Brisbane has to offer.

Entry to the museum is free, except for special exhibitions or events, which will need prior ticket purchase.

6 – Take a day trip to the Gold Coast

Fancy a day trip? The Gold Coast is a stone’s throw from Brisbane and offers plenty of entertainment along with golden beaches for a day trip or a weekend.

Drive, train or bus to the coast so you can put your feet up, party the night away, explore the theme parks, or have some retail therapy! Make sure to catch a sunset and some waves too.

• Gold Coast tours

7 – Wind through the streets of Brisbane on a segway

With a local guide leading the way, Segways are a fun and unique way to navigate the city, often stopping at the landmarks and zipping through the gorgeous gardens.

Whether you’re free for 1 hour or 2, there are segway tours that will match your itinerary, perfectly.

Discover the real Brisbane and don’t worry about falling over; the Maserati of segways (the i2) stays balanced for you — just enjoy the ride!

• segway tours in Brisbane

8 – Scream as loud as you can on the DC Rivals HyperCoaster at Warner Bros Movie World

With almost a mile of track and top speeds of over 470mph, DC Rivals is officially the Southern Hemisphere’s tallest, longest, and fastest HyperCoaster — a surefire ride to thrill you to universal proportions.

Discover more galactic thrills at the Green Lantern Coaster and Superman Escape, or sit in the Batmobile and watch the Hollywood Stunt Driver show. There is plenty of excitement for all ages!

• Warner Bros Movie World tickets

Check out the best Gold Coast Theme Parks .

9 – Chow down with a filling lunch on the Brisbane River

Hop on a boat reminiscent of the old Mississippi timber paddle boats and set sail past some glorious views of the cityscape — keep an eye out for Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park and the Channel Seven Wheel.

The friendly guides are always happy to talk about Brisbane’s remarkable history, all while you’re sitting down for a buffet lunch (with dessert and a bar). On weekends, enjoy the live music on board too, or an evening view of Brisbane on a sunset cruise !

Relish a stunning view of golden hour hitting the sparkling ocean, and then enjoy the sight of the dozens of city lights illuminating the night sky.

• boat tours in Brisbane

10 – Walk the Mount Coot-Tha Botanical Gardens

Find the Tropical Dome to meet some local plants and wildlife, then absorb the tranquillity of the Japanese Garden and its lake (complete with lily pads).

Stop by the Living Museum of Native and Exotic plant collections, showcasing a wild variety of plants, plus their properties.

Find the Bonsai House and African glade, then when you’re done with the gardens, climb to the summit of Mount Coot-Tha for the best view Brisbane has to offer! There’s that perfect photo you were after.

11 – Meet dolphins and penguins at Sea World

Along with some rides and plenty of spots to splash, Sea World boasts incredible opportunities to interact with animals.

Don’t see the penguins from behind glass; put on a beanie and step onto the ice to get up close and personal with them instead! Then, change your beanie for budgie smugglers and swim with the dolphins as they perform tricks.

Behind the glass, there are also polar bears and sharks to ogle at.

• SeaWorld Gold Coast tickets

12 – Have wine and cheese at Mt Tamborine

If you’re a foodie, add this to your list of things to do in Brisbane!

Spend all day being driven through the beautiful Mt Tamborine for a full-day tour as you stroll through and sample the local boutique wineries . On top of that, there are spirits, cheese, nuts and fudge (*drools*).

Thanks to the chauffeured bus, there’s no need to worry about who’ll be the designated driver.

• Mount Tamborine tours

13 – Explore the wonders at Stradbroke Island

Known by locals as “Straddie,” Stradbroke Island is the second largest sand island in the world, and with ample amounts of activities to connect with nature.

A common place for locals to visit for a day trip from Brisbane, Stradbroke Island is a wonderful natural oasis with wild nature, stunning cliffs, quaint beaches, dense forests, and more.

One way to explore its wild side is on a thrilling Jeep tour , guiding you through sandy trails that lead to stunning beaches.

• Stradbroke Island day trips

14 – Feel the magic inside a Candlelight Concert

Featuring a classic rendition of your favorite song, or a spectacular ballet show are just a few of the acts that you’ll find when you look into the new and popular Candlelight Concerts.

Enter some of the best theaters and venues in Brisbane, and be dazzled by the tens of thousands of candles bringing the space to life in an ambient way.

From classical renditions of Queen to Adele, be ready for a magical night.

• candlelight concerts in Brisbane

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15 – Walk amongst dinosaurs and war machines at Queensland Museum

Museum fans, consider the Queensland Museum one of the essential things to see in Brisbane! The galleries house a wide array of interactive exhibits, spanning the grueling experience of Australian diggers in WWI to a dinosaur garden with a full-sized T-rex and Triceratops.

While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to see native animals up close at the Discovery Center, and make sure to check out the rotating exhibition calendar (previously housing themes such as weddings, textiles, and sea life).

16 – Take a kayak tour of Brisbane

No matter your skill level, taking a guided kayak tour of Brisbane is bound to leave your eyes opened and your arms just a little sore.

With daytime and nighttime sessions available, there’s no bad time to explore the city’s waters — by day, try your kayak soccer and basketball skills; by night, just bask in the lights and sounds of Brisbane: the River City.

• kayaking in Brisbane

17 – Become a Wildlife Warrior at Australia Zoo

Crikey! The colossal Australia Zoo made famous by Steve Irwin has so much to see and experience, but the Crocoseum takes it up a notch.

You’ll be inducted as a Wildlife Warrior as the zookeeper puts on a show of giant snakes, colorful birds and colossal saltwater crocodiles while letting you know about the fight to protect the animal kingdom and conservation issues.

• Australia Zoo tours

18 – Get sucked into the Black Hole at Wet’n’Wild

Headlined by the vertical drop of the Aqualoop and the catapulting SkyCoaster, Wet’n’Wild offers a huge collection of adrenaline-fuelled water slides and coasters, plus places to relax in the water and cool down.

Don’t miss the Black Hole either: a unique slide that twists and turns and drops, all without even a speck of natural light.

Ticket combos and multiple-day passes start at $130 USD, when pre-booked, as well as transfers, to get you to and from the park.

• Wet’n’Wild tickets

19 – Swim at Streets Beach

Brisbane couldn’t bring itself to the beach, so it brought the beach to Brisbane! Walk along the Brisbane River until you find the crystal blue lagoon with white sand and plants.

The beach may be artificial, but the vibes are very real! After you swim, look out for nearby pop-up markets, eateries, and bars to complete your beach experience.

Kids will also love the experience, as they can splash around at the interactive water-play park and other kiddie water games.

Enjoy a seductive show by Brisbane’s Magic Men

Looking for a little excitement? Then the Magic Men’s newest show is sure to get your heart racing!

Watch as Australia’s best male dancers put on a performance you won’t soon forget. With complimentary bites and glasses of sparkling wine available, this is the ideal outing for ladies’ night!

20 – Shop the day away at Queen Street Mall

This open-air pedestrian mall has over 700 stores and hosts over 1000 events every year, so you’re guaranteed to find something exciting!

It’s a vibrant hub of activity where two historical arcades meet modern designer shops and entertainment venues, flanked by restaurants, bars, cafes, day spas, hotels and Brisbane’s casino.

So whether you’re looking to buy a few clothing items from Aussie brands, or you forgot to pack something, this is your place!

21 – Take a trip through time at the Museum of Brisbane

Inside the refined and iconic Brisbane City Hall, the Museum of Brisbane presents Brisbane’s history, spanning Indigenous inhabitation to being European settlement, and its time as a penal colony.

The insights into the natural floods and disasters which plagued its upbringing are intriguing, likewise the story of hosting the Commonwealth Games.

Take a tour of the City Hall and Clock Tower while you’re there.

22 – Keep your torch off at the Glow Worm Caves

The Mt Tamborine Glow Worms Caves have become a hugely popular destination for locals and tourists to visit, providing nature’s Christmas lights all year round. In a pitch-dark cave, thousands of creatures illuminate the cave and captivate audiences with their beauty.

The guide will go over the fascinating life cycle, behavior and threats to these enchanting animals.

To save time and money, make sure to book your ticket in advance!

• Glow Worm Cave tours

23 – Watch for dolphins at Moreton Island

If Moreton Island’s soft white sands, sea-life, and shipwreck snorkeling aren’t enough, Moreton Bay Marine Park is a playground for bottlenose dolphins, dugongs, loggerhead turtles and even humpback whales in the winter!

Spotting wild dolphins is always amazing; spotting them from your window during an exotic lunch — we’ll that’s just unforgettable.

The day long activity should be booked in advanced, as it is a popular one! It also comes at different price points, so it’s very accessible.

• dolphin watching in Brisbane

24 – See a show at Brisbane Powerhouse

What was once a power station is now a cultural hub on the Brisbane River. The Powerhouse offers tours of the formerly shabby building, complete with heritage-listed street art and even some ghost stories.

There is also a twilight cruise stopping at the Powerhouse, but the shows — ranging from comedy to magic to burlesque and more — are the undisputed highlight.

With free activities and paid shows, there is something for everyone. Check online for what’s on, and prices to book ahead!

25 – Stargaze at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium

Visit the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium , recline your chair and watch the 40-foot widescreen in the Cosmic Skydome, before being guided through Brisbane’s night sky and told which planets, stars and asteroids to look out for.

Explore the Display Zone with fragments of asteroids and a replica of Neil Armstrong’s spacesuit, then grab a selfie with a statue of Mr Brisbane himself!

Though entering the Cosmic Skydome shows requires a fee, general access to the planetarium is free.

26 – Explore Springbrook National Park

Take the breathtaking drive through Numinbah Valley on the way to this park in the lush Gondwana Rainforests. Once you’re there, tour the scenic rainforests and waterfalls — with more than 2000 species of flora and fauna, the forest is absolutely brimming with life.

Make sure to check out the Glow Worm caves and hike the Curtis Falls track, flanked by gum trees and with viewing platforms over Curtis Creek and waterfalls.

• Springbrook National Park tours

27 – Sip local beers on a brewery tour

Aussies and beer go together like Americans and apple pie. As more microbreweries pop up, so do the smorgasbord of delicious and inventive beers.

Take a brewery tour to uncover some interesting breweries, as well as the chance to sample some classic Queensland XXXX (a staple at all local pubs).  Green Beacon Brewery makes everything from rosé sour beer to oat cream ales, so it’s best to find a tasting paddle and try a little of everything on offer.

Visit Brisbane’s original pub at Brisbane Brewing Co , for a taste of local, inventive, and refreshing beers that are authentically “Brisbanest”.

Step into the taproom at Black Hops Brew and Stone & Wood Brewery where the only other cool thing with the beer and menu, is the lively ambiance.

Lastly, get a view and taste of the valley, at Valley Hops Brewing , sipping on independent brews at their iconic rooftop.

Enjoy a hearty lunch at the breweries, keep the beers flowing, and see where the evening takes you!

• beer tasting in Brisbane

28 – Indulge in high tea at Customs House

The heritage-listed and sublime Victorian-era Customs House maintains its elegance in central Brisbane and offers the best high tea experience in the land.

Explore the grandiose building before sitting down to premium champagne, finger sandwiches, delightful canapes, handcrafted desserts, and organic tea.

Worried you won’t be able to attend because of dietary restrictions? The Custom House accommodates Gluten-Free and Vegetarian substitutes.

Make sure to make your booking on their online portal at least 24 hours in advance.

29 – Go abseiling at Kangaroo Point Cliffs

Looking out over the Brisbane skyline across the meandering river, the edge of the Kangaroo Point Cliffs is a stunning vantage point.

Snap that amazing photo, then step over the edge for the 65-foot descent down the rock face where the thrills of abseiling meet the panoramic views of Brisbane for an unmissable experience.

Worried about being a newbie? No worries! This experience is completely beginner friendly, designed to meet you where you are, so don’t hold back!

• abseiling in Brisbane

30 – Learn about the details inside the Cathedral of St. Stephen

Book a walking tour to discover the details and intricacies inside the Cathedral of St. Stephen , a Roman Catholic Church situated in the middle of Brisbane.

Donning a Neo-Gothic style of architecture, the church was originally built in 1874. Inside, there is a shrine to Saint Mary Mackillop, who along with her sister, dedicated her life to helping impoverished women and children, amongst other fascinating details.

A place to visit for worship as well, the outdoor gardens are also considered a must-visit.

31 – Take the Treetop Challenge at Mt Tamborine

What’s the best way to explore 9 acres of bushland? From the treetops, of course! With high-ropes and wires, suspended bridges, skyfall jumps, and swimming, this outdoor adventure course offers uncapped beauty and excitement. Add on the Canyon Flyer Zipline Tour to glide 230-feet over a canyon and feel like Tarzan!

With over 120 different challenges varying in difficulty, there’s something for all skill levels.

• Treetop Challenge tickets

32 – Ride the Channel Seven Wheel of Brisbane

If you want 360-degree views of Brisbane from almost 200 feet above the ground, head to the Channel Seven Wheel . Enjoy the air-conditioned gondola and check out Sky High Picnics — a delightful blend of great food, fine wine, and stellar views over the city.

The wheel is best ridden at both daytime and nighttime, each showcasing the city in a different but spectacular light.

33 – Sample all the local goodies on a foodie tour

Queensland cuisine goes wider than the humble lamington! Discover the full gamut with a four-course Sunshine Coast foodie tour with a different dish and drink at each of the four picturesque stops along the fan-favorite route.

With the best wine and seafood pairings, along with the best coffee and dessert shops, you’ll come out a Brisbane foodie expert before you know it!

There are additional stops at beautiful parts of the Sunshine Coast, but little beats the Glass House Mountains National Park.

• food tours in Brisbane

Hot tip : Don’t miss our list of fun things to do on the Sunshine Coast .

34 – Farm sheep and mine opals at Paradise Country

A perfect activity for small children, enjoy a variety of tickets offering a variety of experiences to get close to these curious animals.

For a souvenir, try your luck panning for gold or mining for opals like the prospectors of old.

• Paradise Country tickets

35 – Do it all at Howard Smith Wharves

A trip to Brisbane is not complete without enjoying a moment in the heart of Brisbane’s entertainment district, Howard Smith Wharves .

A place to enjoy a wonderful meal, or catch up with others over craft cocktails, the HSW aims to create a community in the middle of a bustling city with everyone who visits, even the tourists.

From exquisite eateries and bars, check out the dozens of upcoming events including free concerts, seasonal celebrations, outdoor yoga, and trivia games.

36 – Wear your detective hat in an escape room

A totally thrilling, immersive and head-scratching experience; you and some mates are locked inside a room and have 60 minutes to get yourselves out! As the clock ticks down, it’s all up to you to find the clues, crack the codes and solve the puzzles so you can escape before time runs out.

If you’re traveling in a larger group, split yourselves in half and race each other!

• escape rooms in Brisbane

37 – Feel enchanted with the manicured gardens of Roma Street Parkland

A space of over 16 hectares is the stunning Roma Street Parkland, a beautiful garden with the most colorful, diverse botanicals to see in Brisbane.

Located centrally in the city, you can visit simply walking through its various scenic and aromatic paths, or make a full day out of it and use the barbeques for a fun cookout with your friends.

Bring your kids to hop on the Parkland Explorer, wandering through the park’s most beautiful corners.

38 – Go whale-watching

Nothing can describe the feeling of seeing one of these massive, beautiful creatures up close. In the Australian winter, humpbacks find their way up to Brisbane; and hopping on a whale-watching yacht to spy them in their natural habitat is a must-do.

Book your spot on a yacht, bring your cameras, and help yourself to a gourmet lunch onboard!

What’s more, a portion of every ticket sale, depending on the tour, goes to whale research and care.

• whale watching in brisbane

39 – Try camel milk at Summerland Camels

Did you know Australia has the wildest camels in the world? It’s little wonder then that some Australians have discovered the therapeutic and health benefits of camel milk for both drinks and skincare products.

Learn all about it with a tour of Summerland and say hi to their camels too. On top of the camel milk, there’s also plenty of boutique wines to sample and a scrumptious lunch to enjoy.

• Camel Farm tours

40 – Taste the local flavors at the best restaurants

With jam-packed flavors and homemade bread at the Middle Eastern Inspired Gerard’s Bistro , to the modern take on Thai cuisine in a modern, and sleek ambiance at Same Same , Brisbane is proving more and more its food game as top tier.

Dine an exquisite multiple-course meal made completely over an open fire at Agnes , that’s if you book your table in advance (recommended), and if you’re craving fresh, Japanese-style seafood, look no further than Takashiya .

41 – Go surfing on the coast

Australians from all over come to Queensland for the great surf. For beginners, Bribie Island Surf School at Woorim Beach does lessons and the waves don’t get much higher than 3 feet.

However, you can step it up a notch at Cylinder and Main Beach on North and South Stradbroke Island, or if you want a quicker fix, hang 10 at the popular Main Beach on the Gold Coast.

• surf lessons in Brisbane

42 – Ride high on a helicopter tour

Take the opportunity of a lifetime, and hop on a helicopter tour, exploring the magnificent sights of the city of Brisbane, from Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, Story Bridge, the Botanic Gardens, and beyond.

Take on the scenic journey, whether you’re trying to surprise your partner, or you’re treating yourself to an incredible view of Brisbane.

Combine your Brisbane helicopter tour with an all-encompassing tour of other sights, including Mount Coot Tha , a mountain suburb with a small population.

• helicopter tours in Brisbane

43 – Safari on a jetski at South Stradbroke Island

Explore uncharted territory throughout the Gold Coast, and get excited to meet animals of all varieties from wallabies, to turtles and dolphins, when you hop on a jet ski with Jet Ski Gold Coast .

Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, explore the abundant amount of multiple different ski jet tours, starting with the ½ hour jet ski safari to a 2.5 ultimate jet ski safari, taking you through unruly nature and mangroves, with a cool drink in between.

44 – Walk the treetop canopy at Lamington National Park

Firstly, get to the top of Mt Tamborine for an extraordinary panorama of the Pacific Ocean to the rainforest. Then, head to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat to spot the vibrant native birds in the canopy walk (and even feed them when on the ground!).

Finally, why not try a lamington — an Aussie dessert staple made from sponge cake, chocolate and coconut while in Brisbane?

• Lamington National Park tours

45 – Do a loop-the-loop in a biplane over Brisbane

Hold on to your hats, people! Ride in an open-cockpit biplane for a one-of-a-kind scenic flight over Brisbane is nothing short of extraordinary.

The exhilarating flight over beaches, streets and countryside will leave you breathless, and if you’re up for some heart-stopping aerial ace acrobatics, pilots love to perform loops and aerobatics with you (almost) in the driver’s seat.

Wondering how to book this thrilling activity? Consider Brisbane Biplanes , offering rides inside renovated WWll planes.

46 – Run around Brisbane on a Scavenger Game

For a unique experience exploring the city, consider downloading a scavenger game to your phone, where you’ll follow a set of clues and prompts, detailing the hidden gems that most travelers don’t see in any walking tour.

Go deep into the stories, noticing interesting objects throughout the city, making sure to snap your photo that will have others wondering where it was taken.

Scavenger games can be done with friends or on your own, as well as on your own time!

• scavenger games in Brisbane

47 – Drive a real tank at Tank Ride

Make your way to scenic Tamborine and find Tank Ride , home to a myriad of experiences: travelers love riding around in the open-roof six-wheel Gamma Goat armored personnel carrier, as well as the heavy-duty Vietnam War-era Centurion Gun Tank Ride.

For something that little bit extra, get behind the wheel of the 52-ton Centurion or the zippier Supacat 6*6.

With numerous tours offered, make sure to check the different tours, combining different experiences for the best time.

48 – Hit a (mini) hole-in-one at Victoria Park

Holey moley! Next to a full-sized golf course and a driving range lies a challenging but stunning putt-putt mini-golf that adults will love too.

The course offers panoramic views of the Brisbane CBD and includes sand bunkers, water traps, and obstacles such as swinging poles.

You won’t mind taking your time on the course — the venue is licensed to serve a drink with these views.

49 – Cheer on the Maroons at Suncorp Stadium

Queenslanders love their rugby, meaning that the 52,000-seat Suncorp Stadium is a roaring colosseum whenever the home side is on show. Any match is worth attending, but keep an eye out for the State of Origin, a yearly fixture where Queensland and New South Wales fight out a bitter rivalry.

Outside of regular matches, why not tour the stadium to learn how it started life as a cemetery before evolving into the city’s heartbeat?

50 – Brush up on your Aussie slang at Aussie World

G’day! Get around Aussie World , the uniquely Aussie theme park where you’ll find bumper cars in the Rev Shed. You’ll get used to the lingo and by the end of the day; we promise you’ll know your cozzies from your mozzies (your swimming costumes from your mosquitoes).

Don’t miss out on Professor Bogglesworth’s Illusionarium — a place guaranteed to boggle the mind and take on a multiverse adventure.

51 – Zoom in a rally car at Willowbank

Channel your inner Carlos Sainz, kicking up dust for a dozen speedy laps in a WRX rally car.

After you drive your 12 laps, take the passenger’s seat while one of the pros takes you on an adrenaline-filled hot lap that leaves you gripping your seat. Then enjoy an afternoon tea afterward to wash the dust down.

For rev-heads, this is one of the best things to do in Brisbane.

• driving experiences in Brisbane

52 – Stay overnight at Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a slice of heaven and you’ll want at least two days to take full advantage.

Fill your camera reel with wild kangaroos at Cooloola National Park, the orange Yidney Dripping Rocks and the fateful Maheno Shipwreck; hike through the nearby jungle and take an all-terrain vehicle down 75 Mile Beach, and then cap it all off with a well-earned swim in Lake Birrabeen.

• Fraser Island tours

53 – Join a cycling tour of Brisbane

Faster than a walk and more intimate with your surroundings than being in a car or a tour bus, a bike is a great way to explore a new town! Cycle past the river, over Story Bridge, and through the artistic Botanical Gardens until you reach the historic Kangaroo Point.

Riders regularly rave about the riverfront — an area lined with noteworthy restaurants.

• bike tours in Brisbane

54 – Mine for treasure at ThunderBird Park

Calling themselves ‘the Rainforest Playground’, ThunderBird Park is full of activities from high-ropes and flying foxes to pickleball and an onsite restaurant.

However, the highlight for many travelers is the ability to discover treasures amongst prehistoric volcanic lava in the Thunderegg Mine, the largest mine of its kind in the world!

Visitors can also pan for crystals in the river before taking home what they find.

55 – Watch a show at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre

The focal point of Brisbane’s Cultural Centre, QPAC ’s stages host every kind of show from hit Broadway musicals to cabarets, ballets, and concerts.

Take note of Robin Gibson’s architecture before you step in, then be captivated by the elegance of the interior — in particular, the bright lights of the Concert Hall where (if you’re lucky) you’ll find the renowned Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra.

56 – Ride the Supertubes HydroCoaster at WhiteWater World

Nestled in the Dreamworld theme park, WhiteWater World has a great mix of places to cool off from the harsh Queensland sun and rides to rock your socks off.

The Wedgie  HydroCoaster sports a fun vertical drop, as well as featuring a combination of open-air and enclosed sections. Grab your friends and take the plunge!

With multiple 2-3 day passes for easier access back to back available, this is a great activity to do especially on hot days.

• WhiteWater World tickets

57 – Go fishing at Shorncliffe Pier

This pier, built in 1872, is still popular with joggers and fishermen. Head there early enough to witness the sunrise before casting off to catch some delicious whiting, bream, flathead, tailor, or garfish.

If you don’t catch a fish but can’t come home empty-handed, find the fish market at nearby Sinbad Street.

If you’re a Yacht aficionado, the Shorncliffe Pier is the perfect spot to grab a seat for the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, taking place in early April.

58 – Climb the Brisbane Story Bridge

A little less famous than its counterpart at Sydney Harbour, climbing the Story Bridge on a clear day or in the twilight is a great place to start your Brisbane adventure.

Ascend 260 feet for 360-degree panoramic views of Brisbane with an audio tour to help you choose where to visit next, then ask your guide for a group photo and their recommendations of things to do in Brisbane!

• Brisbane Story Bridge Climb

59 – Play golf with the sharks

There are some truly stunning golf courses around Brisbane! Brookwater , designed by Greg ‘the Shark’ Norman, is surrounded by quiet bushland. Not to be underestimated, however, is the Brisbane Golf Club , a famous course that’s hosted the prestigious Queensland Open 21 times.

Then there’s Pacific Harbour Golf , a challenging but stunning course surrounded by wetlands, and Carbrook , a course with sharks in the lake!

60 – Watch the Spirits of the Red Sand

This unprecedented roving theatre takes you through 60,000 years of Indigenous Aboriginal history into a 19th-century Australian village where Indigenous history collided with British settlement.

All your senses will be delighted with traditional song and dance, stunning visuals and a three-course dinner with crocodile, kangaroo, and emu!  Once the show’s done, the cast and crew often stay behind for friendly meet and greets!

• Spirits of the Red Sand shows

61 – Indoor skydive over the virtual Swiss Alps at iFLY Brisbane

Put on your VR goggles and change the channel to the Swiss Alps, Hawaii, Dubai or California as you experience a heart-in-mouth 60-second freefall equivalent to a 12,000-foot skydive.

The adrenaline will course through your veins as you try to control your body while suspended in mid-air. You’ll feel like you’re flying, or at least falling with style in this truly intoxicating experience.

• indoor skydiving in Brisbane

62 – Satisfy your curiosity at SparkLab, ScienCentre

A highlight of family-friendly things to do in Brisbane, SparkLab is designed to engage the senses and get kids interested in science through interactive and informative experiences.

Youngsters are regularly inspired by the exhibits, some of which include activities where they can invent musical instruments, help scientists mix chemicals, and see what happens to a marshmallow in outer space.

To enter, you must book your tickets in advance, starting at $15 AUD for adults and children 5-18 $12.50 AUD.

63 – Have a feast at Eat Street Northshore

The 100 shipping containers at the Northshore now sell food, drinks and gifts; include entertainment stages for live music, and host an outdoor cinema!

With the lights, smells, tastes and sounds of the venue, it will be a feast for all the senses from Friday night to Sunday night every week.

Make your own candle, sample a local beverage, and choose from any number of cuisines to eat.

64 – Watch a cricket or Australian Football match at the Gabba

Occasionally nicknamed ‘the Gabbatoir’, this 42,000-seat stadium was first used (and remains) as a cricket ground where the national team usually play every summer.

During the winter, the local Brisbane Lions play in the Australian Football League (AFL). Buy a ticket to either and simply cheer for the home team!

No trip would be complete without a stadium tour of its over-100 year history.

65 – Get ready to feel the magic at The Magic Men Live Event

Are you traveling with your girlfriends for a fun trip? Spice it up with tickets to the Feel the Magic: Magic Men Live event, featuring some of Australia’s most attractive dancers, ready to put on a show for you and your friends.

From the talented and good-looking dancers killing it on stage to the equally attractive male waiters, you can rest assured that the evening will be one to remember!

Tickets to this talk-of-the-town event also includes wine and complimentary food.

• Feel The Magic tickets

66 – Soar over Brisbane in a hot-air balloon at sunrise

Queensland is Australia’s Sunshine State, so catching this sunrise is an absolute must. As the sun gleams across, float over tranquil countryside and city streets including the tantalizing Ipswich Historic District.

While the unbelievable and dynamic aerial views are incredible (to say the least), the fact that guests are treated to a sparkling wine breakfast upon landing makes it all the more memorable.

• hot air balloon in Brisbane

67 – Enjoy the Australia Outback Spectacular show

The Outback is still the centerpiece of Australia, and this show takes the mythologies and the lore of the big red desert and puts it into a mesmerizing performance featuring live animals and a captivating story of two battling Aussie farmers.

The show includes a three-course dinner and a traditional stockman’s hat to take home.

Make sure to check out the calendar with show dates, packages, and general admission prices to book your tickets in advance.

• Australia Outback Spectacular tickets

68 – Sway to the sound of Live Music

Swing by The Tivoli and The Princess Theater , with both having more than 30 years worth of entertaining experience, and offering a variety of music, from electronic, rock, R&B acts, and more.

Step into The Triffid any day of the week for its themed nights, including acoustic Wednesdays and Sunday Garden Sessions, From folk to rock. Enjoy the musical acts at The Zoo , as you order from their famous pizza menu, as well as at Sound Garden , offering great food and drinks inside their 2-story venue.

Lastly, check out the calendar for what’s on at The Fortitude , hosting seasonal concerts like a performance of famous movie soundtracks, and drag shows.

69 – Dance the night away at a rooftop bar

Enjoy the phenomenal views of Brisbane and beyond at Iris Rooftop , while The Terrace Rooftop Bar & Restaurant caters to travelers seeking to treat themselves extra to sleek and chic rooftop vibes, with a signature cocktail in hand or an exclusive wine.

Lastly, something is always happening at Eagles Nest Brisbane , so check their calendar, and make sure to make it to their stunning rooftop for sunset drinks.

70 – Move your body at the best dance clubs

A complete nighttime entertainment hub, The MET Brisbane is sure to keep you busy with a good time in its 5 bars and 4 dance floors on its 3 separate floors.

Also located in Fortitude Valley is Suzie Wongs Good Time Bar , offering visitors a club with wildly good tropical drinks, and live music ranging from punk to blues, and rock. As so, this is why locals describe the vibe as grunge meets surf shop.

How to get to Brisbane?

There is one airport in Brisbane, Brisbane Airport (BNE) with various modes of transportation to the city center, from trains, buses, and shuttles.

However, one of the best ways to avoid issues of figuring out transportation systems to get into town is pre-booking an airport shuttle , offering you a quick ride into town to your hotel, in less than 20 minutes.

Where to stay in Brisbane?

Stay only a few feet away from the Queen Street Mall when you stay at Capri by Fraser Brisbane . A sleek and modern hotel with all the bells and whistles, enjoy the swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, and much more. Enjoy the central location to visit the Museum of Brisbane and the City Botanic Gardens.

Make Amora Hotel Brisbane your homebase while visiting, with a great central location near places to see like the Queen Street Mall and the Suncorp Stadium. Enjoy a lovely lunch or dinner at the onsite restaurant The Pantry Restaurant, or a coffee in the morning at the Two Donkey’s Cafe, inside the hotel.

Feel like royalty when you stay at Royal On The Park , featuring beautiful views of the park from the room floor-to-ceiling windows. If you’re in Brisbane for work, enjoy the work-exclusive amenities like ergonomic work desk and work spaces with ample lighting.

• best hotels in Brisbane

Where to go next?

Once you’ve seen all there is to see in Brisbane, check out all the other best places to visit in Australia , starting with the Gold Coast.

The Gold Coast is more famously known as one of the best vacation spots for travelers and Aussies for it’s nearly perfect weather, incredible beaches, amazing eateries, and lively nightlife.

From an abundance of nature activities like jet skiing through South Stradbroke Island, paragliding, and taking up a fun core challenge stand up paddleboarding, you’ll see why you can never get bored in the Gold Coast.

The natural splendor that deserves to be experienced, goes without saying, from a peaceful moment contemplating Byron Bay, to experiencing Springbrooke National Park caves and waterfalls – you just have to see it to believe it.

Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the view from the impressive SkyPoint Observation Deck in Surfer’s Paradise .

A must-see for beach lovers is the Sunshine Coast , a scenic stretch of coastline north of Brisbane. Famous for its sunny beaches, surf spots and charming hinterland villages, the Sunshine Coast offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and vibrant coastal culture.

Continue heading north and stop by the seaside town of Hervey Bay , known for access to Fraser Island and great whale-watching experiences. With calm waters and a long pier, Hervey Bay offers a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of water sports, fishing, and beach biking.

To explore it all, including the gems near Brisbane, consider booking a multi-day trip , taking you to explore nearby sites with transportation and a guide.

Final thoughts

We hope you’re feeling inspired as we are to book your trip to Brisbane. From it’s picture perfect national parks, to admiring the Brisbane Story Bridge, and the view from it, you’ll surely find “your thing” to do in this city.

With this list of things to do in Brisbane, we’ll leave you filling in your itinerary with your must-sees.

Happy travels!

• Places to go
• Things to do
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• Inspiration

Brisbane region: Things to do

Kooroomba Lavender Farm, Scenic Rim

Whether you’re a Brisbane local, staying for a while or just passing through, there’s an abundance of experiences to help you make the most of your free time. Spend your days exploring the Brisbane region’s scenic mountains, expansive lakes, ancient rainforests, pristine bays, idyllic islands, wineries, breweries, farms and towns. Not sure where to start? We’ve got 25 great ideas to help spark inspiration. What are you waiting for? Get out there and experience the best of Brisbane, right on your doorstep!

1. Get lost in Lamington National Park

Home to some of the oldest trees in Australia, Lamington National Park is filled with flowing waterfalls, lush Gondwana Rainforest and treks for all abilities. Pitch a tent or retreat to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat for a relaxing weekend away. 

2. Cook up a storm at Scenic Rim Cooking Classes

Ignite your passion for food, cooking and entertaining, and book a session at Scenic Rim Cooking Classes . Learn from passionate local foodie, Caz Osborne, and finish with a sit-down meal in her beautifully restored Queenslander, Hammermeister House, washed down with local beverages – you’ll leave as a pro. 

3. Wander through the lavender fields at Kooroomba Vineyards & Lavender Farm 

Nestled in the Fassifern Valley at Mt Alford, Kooroomba Vineyards consists of a cellar door, restaurant and lavender shop that overlook a six-hectare vineyard and a breathtaking purple lavender field. Get lost in the lavender fields, while being surrounded by magnificent views of the Scenic Rim mountains. 

Summerland Camels, Scenic Rim

4. Get up close and personal with Summer Land Camels 

While camels may not be the first animal that comes to mind when you think of Australia, they are etched into our nation’s history.  Summer Land Camels  is Australia’s largest wild camel training centre and dairy operation. You can meet gentle camels, feed them, take photos, go for a ride and taste the benefits of camel milk. 

5. Spicers Scenic Rim Trail 

Whether you’re walking high across the commanding Great Dividing Range or immersing yourself deep in the lush canopy of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest, the beauty of the Scenic Rim Trail is complemented by a stop or a stay at the nearby Spicers Peak Lodge.

Redlands Coast

6. glamp at sirromet winery .

Escape the everyday, reconnect with nature and glamp among the gumtrees at Sanctuary by Sirromet . The tented pavilions offer elegant comfort in a bushland setting. Indulge your senses and dine on locally sourced produce from the onsite restaurant. You can even book a winery tour and tasting as part of your stay. 

7. Throw some clay at Carys Martine Ceramics

Start a new ceramics hobby or finetune your skills with a workshop at Carys Martine Ceramics . The workshops are designed to build knowledge and get you started on crafting a piece – whether it’s a simple coffee mug or a one-off piece of art. 

8. Get your flippers on and head to Bay Island Water Sports

Bay Island Water Sports gets you out on the water with a huge range of water sports and activities including water bikes and kayak tours, suitable for all ages and abilities. Head to Raby Bay Foreshore Park and prepare to make a splash. 

9. Sink a pint at The Pumpyard

Four Hearts Brewing opened The Pumpyard in Ipswich to serve house-made brews and tasty food to hungry locals. The 1910 Heritage-listed building was originally the first water source for Ipswich in the mid-1800s. At the bar, sample a brew from one of its 10 rotating taps, five pouring directly from the brewery tanks. 

10. Hidden Vale Adventure Park by Spicers

Located just one hour from The City, Spicers Hidden Vale combines the style and comfort of a luxury retreat with the warmest of country welcomes. Explore more than 110km of world-class mountain bike trail networks within Hidden Vale Adventure Park, as well as activities such as bushwalking, swimming, croquet and an animal farm. 

11. Fly sky-high with Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights

If you’ve ever wanted to explore Brisbane’s big backyard, why not do so from the sky? Enjoy this unique experience with phenomenal views of Brisbane and its surroundings from a perspective that you don’t get every day. Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights is conveniently located just 30 minutes west of Brisbane City. 

12. Take the kids to The Workshops Rail Museum

Step back in time at this award-winning interactive museum. Once a workplace with more than 3000 rail workers, the historic grounds now hold beautifully restored locomotives, Queensland’s largest model railway , interactive exhibitions and more.

A woman learning indigenous weaving, North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah

North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah

13.  learn about first nations culture in north stradbroke island/minjerribah.

Join local Quandamooka guide Elisha Kissick from  Yura Tours  and hear sacred, untold Dreaming stories, identify bush tucker plants and learn about medicinal bush plants, trees and ochre. Experience local tales, see the sights by the bay and enrich your knowledge of Aboriginal culture.  

14. Learn to surf with North Stradbroke Island Surf School 

Dive into the crystal-clear ocean at Point Lookout with the North Stradbroke Island Surf School . You might even be lucky enough to see dolphins or whales pass by while learning to surf in this patch of paradise. Treat yourself at Oceanic Gelati & Coffee Bar afterwards. 

15. Explore the Salt Water Murris’ Quandamooka Indigenous Art Gallery 

A trip to North Stradbroke Island/ Minjerribah isn’t complete without a taste of indigenous culture. Be sure to stop by the Salt Water Murris’ Quandamooka Indigenous Art Gallery . The gallery stocks unique First Nations art, Quandamooka designs, textiles, accessories, gifts and souvenirs. 

Moreton Bay Region

16. visit the cellar door at ocean view estate .

Ocean View Estate  is the perfect place to stop for a relaxing lunch in the restaurant, followed by a cellar-door wine-tasting experience. Be sure to wander the fields and take a few snaps to make your friends jealous. 

17. Gondola ride on Pumicestone Passage

Experience Bribie's spectacular pink and orange sunsets from the comfort of your own gondola . Each vessel fits up to six people, can cater breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert and floats along the scenic Pumicestone Passage. 

18. Explore Walkabout Creek and D’Aguilar National Park 

The closest national park to The City, D’Aguilar is an easy yet fascinating place to explore in a day. Trek through the bushland and rainforest or cool down at Enoggera Reservoir. 

19. Grab your binoculars and join Brisbane Whale Watching

Get a glimpse of the magnificent Southern Hemisphere humpback whales as they migrate to and from Antarctica with  Brisbane Whale Watching . You’ll be in awe of these gentle giants as they relax in your company, breach, blow and play metres from the boat. Tours operate from June to November during peak migration season.

20. Disco your way down Bee Gees Way 

The three famous Gibb brothers who formed the Bee Gees grew up on the Redcliffe Peninsula. This  walkway  honours the world-famous pop group with a life-size statue, more than 60 photographs, 13 album covers, personal stories, a mural and more. 

Moreton Island/Mulgumpin  

21.  tour moreton island/mulgumpin with australian sunset safaris .

Chase starfish by day and stargaze by night on Moreton Island/ Mulgumpin.  Australian Sunset Safaris  will take you sandboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, trekking and exploring across the large sand island. 

22. Feed wild dolphins 

Moreton Island/Mulgumpin is home to a wild population of about 600 bottlenose dolphins. At sunset each day, a small pod congregates in the shallow waters off Tangalooma Island Resort where resort guests can hand-feed these majestic creatures. 

23. Race your mates at Kingston Park Raceway 

Put your pedal to the metal at Kingston Park Raceway and get competitive with friends on the course. There are four types of go-karts and three separate racetracks for all levels of ability and experience. 

24. Visit the koalas at Daisy Hill Koala Centre 

The Daisy Hill Koala Centre is set within bushland south of Brisbane and home to a protected population of koalas. Besides housing cuddly koalas, the centre provides valuable insight and information about the species. 

25. Experience a cultural awakening at Spirits of the Red Sand

Open your eyes to the history, beauty and vibrancy of the Aboriginal people through Spirits of the Red Sand . Sharing 60,000 years of culture, meet the Aboriginal elders and mobs of this great Southern Queensland region who share the true stories and vibrant spirit of Aboriginal Australia.

Wander rainforests, island hop, sample local produce and much more.

Be inspired.

10 Best Things to Do in Brisbane

What is brisbane most famous for.

The best things to do in Brisbane include exploring the city's popular attractions, world-class museums and galleries, and cool neighbourhoods. These points of interest make visiting the vibrant capital of Queensland a more enjoyable experience.

This coastal metropolitan area is famous for its beautiful parklands, scenic lookouts, bustling local markets, and vibrant waterside districts. You can take leisurely walks along the Brisbane River, visit world-class museums and galleries, enjoy the local cuisine at restaurants and cafes, or simply relax in one of the many parks or gardens.

What are the best things to do in Brisbane?

A vibrant riverside parkland and entertainment neighbourhood.

South Bank is a vibrant riverside neighbourhood situated just south of Brisbane's city centre, spanning 17 hectares along the Brisbane River . It's a premier cultural destination that boasts expansive parks and swimming areas, top-notch restaurants, and year-round events.

At the heart of South Bank lies the picturesque South Bank Parklands , offering free swimming facilities, a riverside walking track, picnic areas, and iconic landmarks like the Wheel of Brisbane and the Brisbane sign . The bustling Grey Street , which runs parallel to the river, is home to many international restaurants, hotels, and art galleries, making it a must-visit destination for foodies and art lovers.

Location: Grey St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Roma Street Parkland

Expansive gardens, waterways, and playground area.

Roma Street Parkland is Brisbane’s lush and beautiful park area that you can easily reach after a 10-minute walk from Brisbane's CBD. The park’s grounds span 16 hectares with beautifully landscaped gardens, expansive lawns, children's playgrounds, and historical landmarks – all spaces within the park provide a welcome respite from the bustle of the business district.

The parkland is a wonderful spot for a relaxing family picnic. But you’ll be in for a real treat if you visit in spring when Roma Street Parkland’s colourful flowers burst into a full bloom of colours. Free barbeques are often held on the lawns. And as the sun sets, the park takes on a magical vibe, with the Moonlight Cinema offering a unique outdoor cinematic experience under a starry sky.

Location: 1 Parkland Blvd, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

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Mount coot-tha summit lookout, scenic views over brisbane.

Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout is the highest point in Brisbane and is where you can enjoy the best views over the city. You can reach the lookout after a 20-minute drive west from the CBD, beyond the Mount Coot-Tha Botanic Gardens. As one of the best viewpoints in the region, it offers stunning panoramic views across the city, the surrounding parkland, and the Brisbane River.

The drive from Brisbane CBD to Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout is equally pleasant, with lush vegetation and rolling hills along the way. There is ample parking at the lookout, and it is just a short walk further up to the hilltop. You can also visit the nearby café to enjoy lunch or sip coffee with the view. Outdoorsy types can further explore by taking any of the several forest hiking and biking trails around the lookout.

Location: 1012 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia

Phone: +61 (0)7 3403 8888

Queen Street

Brisbane cbd's main shopping street.

Queen Street is one of the major thoroughfares in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD. Its southern half is home to the Queen Street Mall, a bustling open-air pedestrian shopping spot that hosts well over 700 stores. You’ll find a diverse range of shops in this primary shopping precinct, ranging from street-front stores and heritage-listed arcades to smaller malls clustered together along the strip.

Major flagship stores call Queen Street home. Well-known brands you’ll find include Portmans, Zara, Mecca, Saint Laurent, and Burberry. The precinct also features the largest department stores in the city, namely David Jones and Myer. Dining options also abound, either in the form of fast-food chains, wine bars, cafes, or cool spots inside hotels.

Location: Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

The West End Markets

A weekend farmers' market in west end.

Head down to Davies Park by the Brisbane River for the West End Markets, held every Saturday. This lively hub features an eclectic mix of independent creators and vendors, alongside an array of musicians and diverse cooks. With over 150 vendors attending each week, it's no surprise that the West End Markets are one of the best places to browse for a one-off find.

At the West End Markets, you'll often be hopping from one section to another, checking out fresh produce, delectable hot foods, handicrafts, and boutique fashion items. The market is bustling with activity, with stalls, family-friendly events, and live music from early on Saturday morning and throughout the day. As parking can be limited, it's best to get here by public transport or bike.

Location: Montague Rd &, Jane St, West End QLD 4101, Australia

Open: Saturdays from 6 am to 1 pm

Phone: +61 (0)4 3584 0810

Queensland Art Gallery

A premier art gallery on brisbane river.

The Queensland Art Gallery is located within the Queensland Cultural Centre in South Brisbane. As part of the impressive precinct situated on the Brisbane River, the gallery showcases a variety of contemporary and ancient art from Australia and across Asia. With a focus on art that depicts various historical events and cultural trends, it offers an interesting way to uncover the state's history.

Visitors can explore the special exhibitions on display, as well as the permanent collections across the various gallery halls. Surrounding the gallery, you can also admire some fascinating sculptures in the precinct. Just 150 metres away, you can pay a visit to the joint Gallery of Modern Art, which opened in 2006, and the Children's Art Centre, an interactive facility for kids and families.

Location: Stanley Pl, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Open: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

Famous botanic gardens on the brisbane river.

The Brisbane City Botanic Gardens is a heritage-listed garden space located in the Brisbane CBD. Situated on the banks of the Brisbane River, just a short walk from Queen Street, the gardens cover 17 hectares of land in front of Old Government House. The garden features various parts, including open lawns, rainforest, lily ponds, mangroves, and water fountains.

Entry to the Botanic Gardens is free, making it a perfect budget-friendly place to visit in Brisbane. Inside, visitors can explore numerous walking and cycling paths that take them between the different areas of the gardens. Additionally, the Riverstage outdoor venue plays host to music and other live events throughout the year.

Location: City Botanic Gardens, 147 Alice St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

New Farm River Walk

A shared path along the brisbane river.

The New Farm River Walk is a riverside pathway that links New Farm to the Howard Smith Wharves. The wide path is partly suspended in the water as it winds its way along the riverbanks from one neighbourhood to the next, making it the perfect way for pedestrians and cyclists to get around and explore the city of Brisbane.

The New Farm River Walk starts at the end of Riverview Court in New Farm and heads up to Howard Smith Wharves. Visitors can then connect onto the city boardwalk, which runs down the other side of the river to the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens.

Location: Riverview Ct, New Farm QLD 4005, Australia

Queensland Museum

The science, culture, and history museum of queensland.

The Queensland Museum is the hub of science, culture, and history in Australia's easternmost state. Situated within the Cultural Centre precinct in South Brisbane, the museum is a highly popular family-friendly attraction in the city, and the best part is, it’s free to visit!

At the museum, visitors can explore permanent and special exhibitions and collections that showcase the natural history, cultural heritage, and scientific achievements of Australia and around the world. There are also numerous children’s programs and experiences available during school holidays. While on-site parking is available, public transport and bicycle paths are in close proximity too.

Location: Grey Street &, Melbourne St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Open: Daily from 9.30 am to 5 pm

Phone: +61 (0)7 3153 3000

Howard Smith Wharves

A bustling waterside precinct with restaurants and breweries.

Howard Smith Wharves is a lively waterfront development situated north of Brisbane's CBD. It's located just across the famous Story Bridge, near Fortitude Valley, and has been converted into one of the city's premier foodie and lifestyle destinations.

Inside the precinct, you'll find many excellent restaurants and bars with outdoor seating that extends onto the decks overlooking the water. You can choose from a range of cuisines and places, including Japanese, Greek, local breweries, trendy wine bars, and more. At night, the area is a hub of activity, with the city lights illuminating the scene, and the bars remaining open until late.

Location: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

Phone: +61 (0)7 3188 9090

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Places to Visit in Brisbane

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Places to See in Brisbane

Here is the list of best places to visit in brisbane:.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

As stated in the Guinness Book of World Records, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the first of its kind and also the largest koala sanctuary in the world. The place is famous for being the home for 130 koalas and it has an experience of 85 years. The place is located in the southern part at distance of 12km from the city centre. Apart from koalas one can see kangaroos, wombats, possums, birds and other Aussie critters. One can enjoy the beautiful animals here and also click some quick snaps hugging the koalas by shedding some extra bucks. There are exclusive buses as well as Mirimar cruises which can be availed to reach the sanctuary based beside Brisbane River. There are several shows organised n the sanctuary which can be enjoyed.

Location: 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket, Brisbane

Timings ; 9am to 5pm 

Wheel Of Brisbane

The Wheel of Brisbane is one of the popular Brisbane tourist attractions located in the heart of South Bank, a vibrant precinct in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. The wheel stands at 60 metres and offers panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. It features fully-enclosed, air-conditioned glass capsules that provide a comfortable and unobstructed view of the city.

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Queen Street Mall

The Queen Street Mall is Brisbane, Queensland, Australia's premier shopping and dining Places to Visit in Brisbane. Located in the city's heart, the mall is home to over 700 retailers and a wide range of dining options. The mall has everything from high-end fashion and designer labels to more affordable options. In addition to the shopping options, the Queen Street Mall is also home to several dining options, including quick bites and fast food, sit-down restaurants, and cafes. 

City Botanic Gardens

Located in the heart of Brisbane, these beautiful gardens offer a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the main Brisbane attractions of the City Botanic Gardens is the diverse range of plants and flowers on display. The gardens are home to over 8,500 plants, including native Australian and exotic plants from around the world, making it one of the best Places to Visit in Brisbane.

Nepalese Peace Pagoda

The Nepalese Peace Pagoda in Brisbane is one of the must-visit Places to Visit in Brisbane for anyone interested in Buddhism, peace, or simply looking for a peaceful and relaxing place to visit. Located in the suburb of Orleigh Park, this beautiful pagoda is a replica of the Shanti Stupa in Lumbini, Nepal, the birthplace of Buddha. It's a great place to learn about Buddhism, experience peace and tranquillity, and celebrate cultural diversity.

Queensland Gallery Of Modern Art

The Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in Brisbane is one of the must-visit Places to Visit in Brisbane for anyone interested in contemporary art, culture, and innovation. This world-class gallery is located in South Bank and is home to a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art from Australia and worldwide. But GOMA is not just about art. It is also a place of cultural exchange, with a strong focus on engaging with the local community and promoting cultural diversity.

Streets Beach

Located in South Bank, Streets Beach in Brisbane man-made beach is one of the perfect Places to Visit in Brisbane to relax, swim, or soak up the sun. But Streets Beach is not just about the beach and the activities. It is also culturally significant, with a rich history and a strong connection to the local community. The park is home to several important landmarks, including the South Bank Cultural Forecourt and the Nepal Peace Pagoda. It hosts a range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

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Story Bridge

Located in the heart of the city, the bridge spans the Brisbane River and provides stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding areas. But the Story Bridge is more than just a beautiful spot to take in the views. It is also an important piece of Brisbane's history and culture. The bridge was completed in 1940 and was the first steel bridge built in Queensland. It was named after the city's founder, John Dunmore Lang, and has become a city symbol.

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Cultural Centre

Based across the river, close to the South Bank, lies the extensive Culture Centre Complex which s described as the epitome of cultural significance in Brisbane. The complex includes the sprawling structures of Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (or QAGOMA), Queensland Museum, the State Library, Queensland Theatre Company and not to forget Queensland Performing Art Centre. The concert halls and the galleries remains well filled with regular footfalls, especially with events organised in these centres. Exhibitions, debates, talks, musical performances, film screenings, theatre, drama all are scheduled in this location making t one of the sought after destination for the natives as well as the visitors. There are so many things to explore in this location that spending some good hours in this location is always entertaining.

Location: Stanley Place, South Bank, Brisbane, Queensland 

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Museum Of Brisbane

The Museum of Brisbane is a cultural institution located in the heart of the city, dedicated to celebrating and preserving Brisbane's rich history and culture. Housed in the beautiful and architecturally significant City Hall building, the museum offers a range of exhibits, educational programs, and events that showcase the city's past and present.

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Glass House Mountains

Located just an hour's drive north of Brisbane, the Glass House Mountains are a collection of thirteen stunning peaks that rise dramatically from the surrounding landscape. These ancient volcanic peaks are named for their appearance, which resembles the glasshouses used for growing tropical plants in the 18th and 19th centuries.

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Roma Street Parkland

Roma Street Parkland is a large public park located in the heart of Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, Australia. It is situated on a 16-hectare site and features a range of amenities and attractions, including walking and cycling paths, gardens, water features, and playgrounds. The parkland is home to a variety of plant and animal species, and it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

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The Brisbane River

The longest river based in the south west part of Queensland is the beautiful Brisbane River. One of the preferred places to visit in Brisbane is experiencing the Brisbane Riverwalk, a water highway amidst the scenic beauty of the city. One can enjoy a gala view of the city as well as the sounds of rippling waters which makes the stroll more fascinating. The track is much popular for the pedestrians and the cyclists jutting down the way.

 The walkway is about 870m long above the river and what more the distinguished pathways are for both cyclists and pedestrians. About 3.5m path is dedicated for cycling and about 2.5 m for walking. There are few rest shelters on the way which makes the walk more attractive lessening the tiredness of the walk. The stretch is from New Farm area and ends at Howard St Wharves.

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South Bank Brisbane

South Bank is a vibrant precinct home to many attractions, including parks, museums, galleries, and restaurants. The precinct is located on the south bank of the Brisbane River and is easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation. Some famous attractions in South Bank include the Wheel of Brisbane, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Queensland Art Gallery, and the South Bank Parklands.

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Mount Coot Tha Botanic Gardens

Mount Coot- Tha Botanic gardens is based at a height of 287metres from the sea level, at a distance of mere 15 minutes drive from the city centre. The location is based close to in the popular tourist destinations Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium. One can also view the exotic Moreton Bay Islands from here. To reach the destination one can fetch a bus from Adelaide St which bang opposite King George and the bus drops off before Botanical garden. The place is a beautiful 52 hectare garden offering a picturesque venue to enjoy and photo shoot. Entry in the garden is free and there are free guided tours every day except Sunday from 11am to 1pm. There are licensed cafe and restaurant present in the premises which can be visited for refreshments. The capacity of the restaurant is nearly 150 people so one can enjoy dining with lovely Australian cuisine amidst natural surroundings

Location: Mt Coot Tha Rd, Brisbane 

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People Also Ask About Brisbane

What are the things to do in brisbane.

There is a whole wide range of exciting things to do in Brisbane like: 1. Take the birds-eye view of the city from the Wheel of Brisbane : With this 88 meters tall Wheel you can enjoy the beautiful views of Brisbane and also learn about some iconic attractions of the city when it halts at the top for an audio session. 2. Attend a history workshop at the Museum of Brisbane : If you are an art lover then this is the best choice for you where you can take a look at the new artworks of budding artists. 3. Go for a dip at the street's beach : This is the perfect spot for relaxation and here you can take a dip in the crystal clear waters! 4. Explore the local farm markets: Mostly on Wednesday these farm markets are set up near the Queens mall and one can shop for flowers, veggies, crafts, and a lot more. 5. River Cruise: Surely a thing that one must not miss is the river cruise on the Brisbane waters to explore the city in the best way.

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Which are the best tourist places to see in Brisbane?

Which are the best places to visit in 3 days in brisbane, what is the best time to visit brisbane, what are the best australia tour packages available on thrillophilia.

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