What to Do in Brisbane: Top Activities and Attractions
With nearly 300 days of sunshine annually, Brisbane is one city that embraces each of its seasons in a warm, subtropical fashion. Whatever time of the year you decide to visit, there is always something going on in Brisbane. From cultural highs and outdoor action to local secrets and top eats, here’s your ultimate guide on what to do in Brisbane.
Cultural Hotspots of Brisbane
From history enthusiasts to art lovers and those eager to explore the rich cultural experiences the city has to offer, Brisbane is sure to impress. From immersive museums and art galleries, through the wonders of the heavens to historical landmarks, this guide will deepen your understanding of what truly sets Brisbane apart.
The Museum of Brisbane
Planning what to see and do in Brisbane? For a deep dive into the city’s dynamic history and culture, make sure to drop by the Museum of Brisbane. Situated right in the heart of the iconic City Hall at 64 Adelaide Street, Brisbane City, this museum is a repository of the city’s past and present.
The Museum of Brisbane retells the story of Brisbane through its interactive exhibitions, dynamic events, historical artefacts, and hands-on workshops. And the best thing? It’s completely free, making it an accessible way to experience Brisbane’s culture.
The Queensland Museum
When it comes to things to do in Brisbane, the Queensland Museum should be at the top of your list. Situated on the corner of Grey Street and Melbourne Street in South Brisbane, this complex enables visitors to undertake a journey through the history of Australia and items collected from around the world.
Exhibitions range from indigenous history to modern science, with an impressive exhibition of dinosaur skeletons. The Queensland Museum is perfect for those eager to enrich their knowledge about the world in which they exist.
South Bank Parklands
The South Bank Parklands melds rich culture with the beauty of the outdoors. This lifestyle and cultural hub is open 365 days a year and offers expansive outdoor gardens, scenic river walkways, and a variety of unique attractions that come together to create the ultimate leisure experience.
Covering 17 hectares of riverfront land, South Bank Parklands is one of Queensland’s top cultural destinations. Enjoy free swimming facilities, walking tracks, and licensed picnic areas while soaking up the atmosphere. For something special, consider travelling to the award-winning River Quay to enjoy a meal with unbeatable waterfront views.
The South Bank Cultural Precinct is one of the city’s cultural treasures. It houses a number of major institutions, including Queensland Performance Arts Centre, Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, and the State Library of Queensland. There is always an exciting array of exhibitions, performances, and educational activities perfect for discovering Brisbane’s artistic and historical heritage.
QUT Art Museum
Located at 2 George Street, Brisbane City, at the Queensland University of Technology campus is QUT Art Museum. It is a happening spot, with various exhibitions from the university collection among others. The QUT Art Museum is a must-visit, offering fascinating installations and free entry, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to tap into Brisbane’s creative pulse.
HOTA Gallery
A little further afield, the HOTA Gallery on the Gold Coast is well worth the trip. Its striking architecture and diverse collection of contemporary and Indigenous art make it a standout destination for art enthusiasts.
They offer an all-round experience in modern art. The gallery has six levels featuring a huge 1,000-square-metre space for special exhibitions and four floors devoted to permanent collections. There is also a particular emphasis on abstraction of the 1970s, ceramic art, and Indigenous art. With a family-friendly atmosphere and an impressive range of exhibitions, the HOTA Gallery promises a rich cultural day out.
Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Escapes
Brisbane’s nearly year-round sunshine and balmy temperatures make it the perfect city for outdoor adventures and scenic getaways.
Brisbane’s Iconic River Walks
The top thing to do in Brisbane is to soak up the beautiful outdoors of the city. Take a leisurely stroll down the Brisbane Riverwalk, offering a glimpse of the river and the serene cityscape. It’s a tranquil pathway from New Farm to the heritage-listed precinct of the Howard Smith Wharves, making it the perfect place for an easy Sunday stroll or an intense power walk, especially if you start at Teneriffe and take it past the Botanic Gardens.
Brisbane Botanic Gardens
The Brisbane Botanic Gardens are highly recommended for nature lovers. At the heart of 56 hectares of stunning gardens, discover the peaceful ambience of the Tropical Display Dome in its giant glass greenhouse. This place is tailor-made for people who love plants and escaping the bustling city centre.
Adventure On with Riverlife
If you are looking for something more adventurous, Riverlife provides some of the most exciting things to do in Brisbane. Kayak down the Brisbane River, descend the Kangaroo Point Cliffs or take a twilight kayak tour and watch the city’s skyline come alive.
Climb the Story Bridge
A not-to-be-missed experience in Brisbane is the Story Bridge Adventure Climb. This adventurous climb allows you to scale the iconic bridge and take in panoramic views of the city, Moreton Bay, and even the Gold Coast and Scenic Rim on a clear day. The climb offers daytime and twilight options, each offering a unique perspective of Brisbane’s stunning landscape.
Scenic Rim
If you’re up for a bit more adventure, the Scenic Rim offers breathtaking natural landscapes and endless outdoor activities. Recognised as one of the beautiful national parks, it’s home to epic hiking trails and stunning views—perfect for anyone looking to escape the city’s hustle and immerse themselves in nature.
Islands Near Brisbane
Just outside the city, water sports enthusiasts will find their paradise at Lake Somerset, where calm waters offer the perfect setting for skiing, wakeboarding, and fishing. For a more relaxed beach experience, explore the nearby islands. Moreton Island, with its stunning Tangalooma Wrecks and pristine beaches, is perfect for snorkelling and dolphin spotting. North Stradbroke Island, known for its laid-back vibe, offers serene stretches of sand, whale watching, and freshwater lakes. These islands are the perfect spots for those seeking to immerse themselves in Queensland’s natural beauty.
Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences
These unique and hidden gems showcase Brisbane’s diverse offerings, from cultural and artistic experiences to thrilling adventures and tranquil retreats.
Red Hill Cinemas
This cinema complex takes visitors on a nostalgic journey with a new twist. Once the iconic Red Hill Skate Arena, the space has been transformed with plush reclining seats and the convenience of in-seat food service. Despite the upgrades, Red Hill Cinemas retains elements of its rich history, incorporating recycled materials and preserving original graffiti from the building’s past. The blend of old and new creates an unusual yet charming atmosphere, making it a unique destination for film lovers.
No Lights No Lycra
Tucked away in Brisbane’s West End, No Lights, No Lycra offers a quirky yet liberating dance experience. Step into a dark room, let loose, and dance like no one’s watching! It’s a fun, therapeutic, and totally unique way to spend a night out in Brisbane, where you can shed all your inhibitions and enjoy the music.
Tivoli Drive-In
Step back in time at the Tivoli Drive-In, a nostalgic throwback to the classic drive-in movie experience, open every Saturday night. With a fully serviced café on-site, it blends the charm of vintage cinema with the comfort of modern amenities, offering a delightful way to relive the magic of watching movies under the stars.
Fish Lane
Fish Lane in South Brisbane is a foodie hotspot and one of the city’s most vibrant street art laneways. With fresh murals popping up each year, the laneway constantly evolves, offering a blend of culinary delights and visual art. This ever-changing space invites visitors to experience a creative fusion of food and art, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Brisbane’s cultural scene.
Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights
Begin your day with an unforgettable experience by taking a hot air balloon flight over Brisbane. As the sun rises, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of Ipswich, Somerset, and the Scenic Rim, offering a serene and awe-inspiring sight that’s hard to forget.
Mount Coot-tha Lookout
Offering breathtaking panoramic views of Brisbane’s CBD and beyond, Mount Coot-tha Lookout is a must-visit. Not only can you take in the sweeping cityscape, but the lookout is also the perfect starting point for a peaceful stroll along nearby nature trails, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape at your own pace.
Dining and Shopping in Brisbane
Brisbane’s dining options cater to every taste and style, offering a delightful experience for any visitor. Whether you’re after gourmet dining, trendy cafes, or boutique shopping, the city has something for everyone.
Howard Smith Wharves
From Greek at Hellenika to Japanese at Honto, Howard Smith Wharves offers a diverse culinary experience. For something more laid-back, head to Felons Brewery—the city’s favourite craft brewery—where you can enjoy great beer beside the Brisbane River. With stunning river views and a vibrant atmosphere, this riverside precinct is a must-visit for dining, drinks, and unbeatable scenery.
ZA ZA TA
Inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours, ZA ZA TA offers a modern twist on centuries-old culinary traditions in a lush, urban oasis.Located at Ovolo The Valley, ZA ZA TA features a creative vegetarian menu of beloved dishes alongside comforting classics. The lively, Tel Aviv-inspired bar complements the soulful, flavourful dishes, making it a must-visit for a unique and vibrant dining experience.
Little Stanley Street
Little Stanley Street, located next to South Bank Park, is a vibrant hub surrounded by renowned cafes, bars, and restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines, from Vietnamese and Italian to modern Australian fare. Among the hotspots are Ol’ School, known for its legendary fish and chips, and Hello Please, a trendy spot serving mouthwatering Southeast Asian food. Whether a quick bite, a leisurely brunch, or an evening of cocktails, Little Stanley Street has it all, making it a local favourite.
Grey Street
Running almost parallel to Little Stanley Street, Grey Street is another culinary gem in South Bank. This vibrant strip is home to various bars and eateries and features the popular South Bank Cineplex, known for its budget-friendly movie tickets. Grey Street is a foodie paradise where you can explore diverse restaurants and flavours all on one street, perfect for a leisurely day of dining and entertainment.
James Street
James Street is a hub of activity, high-end boutiques and exceptional dining experiences. Grab a quick bite at Botanica, or fuel up with award-winning coffee from Bellissimo or Campos Coffee. When you’re ready for something more substantial, indulge in the refined flavours at Ecco Bistro or the creative dishes at Gerard’s Bistro. James Street has it all, whether you’re shopping, sipping, or savouring.
Queen Street Mall
Brisbane’s top shopping destination, Queen Street Mall, offers a vibrant mix of high-street brands, boutique stores, and renowned department stores—all in one lively location. Whether you’re after a shopping spree or just a bit of retail therapy, the mall features a diverse selection of shops and eateries to explore.
West End
Located in Brisbane’s vibrant southern suburbs, West End is a treasure trove of quirky shops, vintage boutiques, and artisan markets. It’s the perfect spot to discover unique fashion pieces, handcrafted goods, and eclectic home décor.
STAY: Ovolo Hotels
For the ultimate Brisbane experience, look no further than Ovolo The Valley. This one-of-a-kind hotel, inspired by the creative pulse of the Valley, places you just moments from James Street’s trendy boutiques, the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, QAGOMA, and the bustling CBD.
Brisbane is a city that thrives on spoiling every taste and interest. From cultural experiences and thrilling outdoor adventures to hidden gems and epic dining spots, there’s always something new to discover. So, what are you waiting for? Immerse yourself in Brisbane’s vibrant landscape and make every moment count.