Things to Do in Brisbane

Brisbane's beloved urban oasis spans 17.5 hectares along the river, featuring the famous Streets Beach - Australia's only inner-city man-made beach with lagoon-style swimming. Stroll through lush rainforest walks, relax in beautiful gardens, and admire the Nepalese Peace Pagoda. The parklands host weekend markets, cultural events, and countless dining options. Perfect for morning jogs, afternoon swims, or evening walks with stunning city skyline views.

The world's first and largest koala sanctuary, opened in 1927, is home to over 130 koalas and 70+ other Australian species. Hand-feed kangaroos, spot playful platypus, and enjoy one of the few places in Australia where you can cuddle a koala for photos. Daily keeper talks, sheepdog shows, and raptor displays provide educational entertainment. Located 12km from CBD, accessible by scenic river cruise from South Bank or bus.

Queensland's premier contemporary art gallery showcases Australian, Asian, and Pacific art across multiple levels of striking modern architecture. Free entry to permanent collections featuring Indigenous Australian masters and rotating international exhibitions. The gallery hosts film festivals, artist talks, and interactive installations. Located in the Queensland Cultural Centre at South Bank, it's one of Australia's most visited art museums.

Brisbane's answer to the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb, the Story Bridge offers thrilling guided climbs up this 1940 heritage-listed cantilever bridge. Ascend 80 meters above the Brisbane River for 360-degree panoramic views of the city, surrounding mountains, and Moreton Bay. Twilight and night climbs showcase the illuminated cityscape. The bridge itself is an architectural icon connecting Fortitude Valley to Kangaroo Point.

Explore Queensland's natural history, cultural heritage, and scientific innovations at this family-friendly museum in South Bank. Highlights include impressive dinosaur skeletons, the Sciencentre interactive science exhibits, and displays on unique Queensland wildlife including the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem. Special exhibitions rotate throughout the year, and entry to permanent collections is free.

Brisbane's highest point offers sweeping panoramic views across the entire city, river, and out to Moreton Bay and the Glass House Mountains. The free lookout is especially magical at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle. Visit the adjacent Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha with its planetarium, Japanese garden, and extensive plant collections. A popular spot for picnics and bush walks through eucalyptus forest.

The world's largest subtropical garden in a city center, Roma Street Parkland spans 16 hectares of themed gardens, water features, and artistic installations. Wander through the Spectacle Garden, enjoy the Lake Precinct, or relax in shaded picnic areas. The park hosts free outdoor cinema and live music events throughout the year. Just a short walk from the CBD, it's a peaceful escape for reading, relaxing, or remote work on sunny days.

Brisbane's newest dining and entertainment precinct sits beneath the Story Bridge along the river. This beautifully restored heritage site features waterfront restaurants, craft breweries, and bars in converted warehouse buildings. The promenade offers stunning bridge views, particularly magical when illuminated at night. Home to the boutique Fantauzzo hotel, it's become a social hub for locals and visitors seeking quality dining with atmosphere.