So, you’re thinking about heading to Brisbane, Australia. Good call. Tucked away in the sunny state of Queensland, this city is a total gem that often gets overshadowed by its flashy southern cousins, Sydney and Melbourne.
But let me let you in on a little secret: Brisbane has its own unique, laid-back charm that’s downright irresistible.
Get ready to fall head over heels for this river city. We’re about to dive into the absolute best things to do in Brisbane, from cracking the code on its vibrant neighborhoods to finding those hidden-gem spots that locals love.
This isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill list. We’ve got the inside scoop on everything from epic animal encounters to quirky cultural hubs. Buckle up, because your ultimate Brisbane adventure starts right here, right now.
1. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – Best Overall Experience
Let’s kick things off with what might just be the most Australian thing you can possibly do. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary isn’t just a place you visit; it’s a core memory in the making.
Founded way back in 1927, it holds the title of the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. But it’s so much more than just a bunch of cute, cuddly koalas, though there are over 130 of those.
You can actually hold one for a classic photo op. It’s a surreal feeling, having that fluffy, eucalyptus-munching buddy snuggle into your arms. Beyond the headline act, you can hand-feed a mob of wild kangaroos in a massive, open-range enclosure.
It’s a seriously cool experience to have these iconic creatures eating right out of your palm. The sanctuary is also packed with other Aussie natives like wombats, dingoes, and a rainbow of parrots.
It’s an absolute must-do and easily tops the list of the best things to do in Brisbane for an authentic Aussie day out.
2. South Bank Parklands – Best For Families & City Views
After getting your nature fix, head straight to the South Bank Parklands. This place is the city’s beating heart and a premier playground for both locals and visitors.
It’s a stunning cultural and recreational hub located right across the river from the central business district. The views of the city skyline from here are absolutely killer, especially as the sun starts to set.
The star attraction for families is without a doubt the Streets Beach. It’s a genius concept: a man-made beach right in the middle of the city, complete with a sparkling lagoon, white sand, and sub-tropical plants. It’s free, it’s safe for the kids, and it’s a total blast.
When you’re done swimming, you can stroll through the beautiful Arbour, a long walkway covered in vibrant pink bougainvillea. With weekend markets, heaps of dining options, and sprawling lawns for a picnic, this is one of the top Brisbane activities you can’t afford to miss.
3. Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout – Best For Panoramic Views
Want a picture-perfect, postcard view of the entire city? Then you gotta make the quick trip to Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout.
Just a 15-minute drive from the city center, this spot offers the most breathtaking, uninterrupted 360-degree panoramas you can find. You can see the Brisbane River snaking through the urban sprawl, all the way out to Moreton Bay.
It’s spectacular during the day, but it’s pure magic at night when the city lights up like a blanket of stars. The best part? Access to the lookout is completely free. You can drive right up, or for the more adventurous, there’s a scenic hiking trail from the base.
There’s also a lovely cafe and restaurant up top if you want to enjoy a meal with a side of incredible scenery. For anyone compiling a list of what to do in Brisbane, this view is non-negotiable.
4. Eat Street Northshore – Best For Foodies & A Fun Night Out
Prepare your taste buds for a sensory overload at Eat Street Northshore. This isn’t your average food court; it’s a dazzling, vibrant village made from over 180 recycled shipping containers. Located by the river in Hamilton, it’s a Friday and weekend extravaganza that is a feast for all your senses.
The energy here is absolutely electric, with live music floating through the air and the air thick with the smell of incredible food from every corner of the globe.
Whether you’re craving Spanish paella, loaded German bratwurst, gooey American grilled cheese, or fresh vegan dumplings, you’ll find it here. There’s something for every single palate.
Grab a bite, find a spot at one of the communal tables, and just soak in the fantastic, buzzing atmosphere. It’s a social experience as much as a culinary one, making it a standout entry for fun things to do in Brisbane at night.
5. CityCat Ferry Ride – Best Budget-Friendly & Scenic Transport
One of the cheapest and most enjoyable Brisbane activities is simply hopping on a CityCat ferry. This isn’t just a mode of transportation; it’s a fantastic way to see the city from a whole new perspective.
For the price of a regular public transport ticket, you get a scenic boat tour along the beautiful Brisbane River. The catamarans are fast, smooth, and the views from the open-air decks are unbeatable.
You can ride the entire route from one end to the other, gliding past the towering skyscrapers of the CBD, under the iconic Story Bridge, and alongside the lush Parklands at South Bank. It’s the perfect way to get your bearings when you first arrive.
You can hop on and off at different stops to explore neighborhoods. It’s a relaxing, wind-in-your-hair kind of adventure that gives you a real feel for how the city lives and breathes around its river.
6. Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha – Best For A Peaceful Stroll
Nestled at the base of Mount Coot-tha, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens are a sprawling 56-hectare oasis of tranquility. This is the place to come when you need a break from the city’s hustle.
It’s a world of themed gardens, from the fragrant and exotic Japanese Garden to the arid, spiky wonders of the Australian Plant Community garden. The Tropical Dome is a particular highlight, a giant glasshouse filled with a steamy, lush rainforest environment.
You can easily spend hours here just wandering the peaceful paths, discovering hidden ponds, and enjoying the stunning plant collections. Entry is free, and they offer guided walks if you want to learn more.
It’s a perfect spot for a quiet picnic, a leisurely read, or simply to recharge your batteries surrounded by nature’s beauty. This is one of the most relaxing Brisbane attractions for a serene afternoon.
7. Story Bridge Adventure Climb – Best For Thrill Seekers
For those who like their vacations with a hefty dose of adrenaline, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb is your jam. This isn’t just any old bridge; it’s a Brisbane icon, and you get the rare chance to climb right to the top of it.
Suit up, harness in, and follow your guide on a two-hour journey up the steel framework of this massive structure. The climb is challenging but totally manageable for anyone with a reasonable fitness level.
The reward? Unbeatable, heart-pounding, 360-degree views of the city, the river, and the distant mountains. You’ll get a unique perspective and some absolutely epic photos.
You can even choose to do a twilight or night climb to see the city light up beneath you. It’s an unforgettable experience that truly lets you see Brisbane from the top. This is, without a doubt, one of the most thrilling Brisbane things to do.
8. Howard Smith Wharves – Best For Dining & Precinct Vibes
Tucked underneath the colossal Story Bridge, the Howard Smith Wharves precinct has completely transformed a historic part of the city into Brisbane’s coolest hangout. This place is buzzing with energy and has a killer vibe day and night.
It’s a beautifully designed area that blends heritage-loved sheds with modern architecture, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the bridge and the river.
Here you’ll find a incredible variety of restaurants and cafes, from upscale dining to casual eateries, with plenty of vegan and meat-loving options to satisfy every craving. The lush, green lawns of the parklands are perfect for lounging with friends.
It’s a fantastic spot to simply hang out, people-watch, and soak in the modern, vibrant spirit of the new Brisbane. It’s a premier destination for a great meal and a great time.
9. GOMA & Queensland Art Gallery – Best For Culture Lovers
If you have even a passing interest in art and culture, you cannot miss the Queensland Cultural Centre at South Bank. The Gallery of Modern Art, or GOMA as the locals call it, and the Queensland Art Gallery next door are an absolute powerhouse of creativity.
GOMA is the leading institution for modern and contemporary art in Australia, and its exhibitions are always thought-provoking, bold, and incredibly engaging.
The best part? The permanent collections are free to enter, though you might want to spring for a ticket to one of their major international touring exhibitions—they are always worth it.
The spaces are light-filled and inspiring, and the art ranges from mind-bending installations to classic paintings. Spending an afternoon here is one of the most enriching Brisbane activities for any visitor looking to connect with the city’s creative soul.
10. New Farm Park – Best For A Relaxing Picnic
For a truly local experience, grab some snacks and head to New Farm Park. This is one of Brisbane’s oldest and most beloved parks, and it’s easy to see why.
Located right on the river, it’s a massive, green paradise famous for its stunning rose garden, sprawling fig trees, and incredibly peaceful atmosphere. It’s the ideal spot to lay down a blanket, unpack a picnic, and just while away an afternoon.
The park connects to the Riverwalk, a fantastic pathway that’s perfect for a walk, jog, or bike ride with gorgeous water views. It’s a favorite weekend spot for families and friends to gather, play some frisbee, or simply relax.
When you’re here, you feel a million miles from the city, even though it’s just a stone’s throw away. It’s a little slice of paradise and a perfect, low-key Brisbane attraction.
11. The Wheel of Brisbane – Best For A Quick, Iconic Spin
Right in the heart of the South Bank Parklands, you can’t miss The Wheel of Brisbane. This giant observation wheel offers a more leisurely alternative to the Story Bridge climb but still serves up some absolutely stunning views.
Each fully enclosed, air-conditioned capsule gives you a bird’s-eye view of the city, the river, and the parklands for about 10-12 minutes per rotation.
It’s a fantastic, quick activity to get your bearings, especially if you’re short on time. It’s also incredibly romantic at night. The capsules are comfortable and provide a peaceful, elevated perspective that’s perfect for photos.
For a brief but beautiful overview of the city’s layout, a spin on the Wheel is one of the most convenient and fun Brisbane things to do for visitors of all ages.
12. Explore the West End – Best For Quirky Shops & Cafes
To experience Brisbane’s bohemian, multicultural heart, you need to spend some time wandering through the West End. This suburb is a vibrant, eclectic mix of cultures, ideas, and flavors.
The main drag, Boundary Street, is lined with an incredible array of unique, independent boutiques, second-hand bookstores, vintage clothing shops, and funky art galleries.
The food scene here is off the charts, with a huge range of authentic, family-run restaurants serving everything from Greek and Italian to Vietnamese and Middle Eastern cuisine, with loads of vegan-friendly spots. The atmosphere is laid-back, creative, and fiercely local.
Exploring the West End is less about a single destination and more about the joy of discovery. It’s one of the top Brisbane activities for anyone wanting to experience the city’s diverse and quirky character.
Conclusion
And there you have it. Brisbane is so much more than just a stopover; it’s a destination that packs a serious punch with its unique blend of urban energy and laid-back, natural beauty.
From cuddling a koala to climbing an iconic bridge and eating your way through a shipping container village, the best things to do in Brisbane offer something incredible for every type of traveler.
So what are you waiting for? Your Aussie adventure is calling. Start planning your trip to this sunny, surprising river city today. You’re gonna have an absolute blast.