With the forever-friendly weather of this city, there is a truckload of things to do in Brisbane for you. The capital city of Queensland never fails to deliver the greatest possible joy to its tourists. Brisbane City is one of the most happening places in the world, and the level of elegance in this city will leave you dazzled.
This city has everything you need on a vacation and more. Beautiful green gardens, fun riverside walkways, alfresco bars and restaurants, islands with sand dunes, refreshing beaches, shopping streets, and more.
Australia’s third-largest city is a hub of attractions with numerous family attractions and adventures for kids. Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Brisbane.
1. Fun Things to Do In Brisbane
Brisbane City offers some crazy yet fun things to tourists. Let’s list some of the most awesome things to do.
1.1. Explore Entertainment Activities at The Brisbane River
The Brisbane River is in South East Queensland, Australia, and flows through the city of Brisbane. Additional information is required to confirm the socioeconomic status of the area and the availability of Dinner Cruises on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, as well as the visibility of specific landmarks from the river during such cruises.
You can also stroll along the river walk and enjoy the flabbergasting view. Another interesting activity is kayaking on the river. While having fun kayaking, you can also view the Brisbane Wheel.
Lastly, tourists will be fascinated by taking a paddlewheel ride with Kookaburra Showboat Cruises to the Brisbane River. All the activities at the Brisbane River are worth it.
1.2. The Brisbane Botanic Gardens—Mount Coot Tha
The Brisbane Botanic Gardens are recognized as Queensland’s premier subtropical botanic garden. When we talk about Brisbane attractions, these gardens occupy the top place. The doors are opened daily from 8 AM to 6 PM in summer and 8 AM to 5 PM in winter. There is no entry fee to the gardens.
The Brisbane Botanic Gardens are the best green spaces in Brisbane City. Tourists can stroll along Mt Coot-tha’s walking spaces for scenic views of Moreton Bay, Brisbane, and surrounding areas. These botanic gardens are located seven kilometres from the city centre.
They offer many environments, like displays of native Australian plants, mostly from eastern Australia. Featuring an artificial lagoon that captures rainwater from the mountain, the area includes tropical and sub-tropical rainforests. There’s also a little cafe by the garden called The Gardens Cafe. It is worthwhile if you get to dine inside. New-day Australian cuisine is served in the cafe, along with light snacks, Devonshire teas, and delicious ice creams.
Explore the tranquil surroundings in these immensely beautiful gardens and admire the flora and fauna within. Enjoying the beauty of nature is one of the things to do for tourists.
1.3. Spend time at the Queensland Art Gallery
The Gallery of Modern Art is 128 years old and is as scintillating as it can get. Shortly known as QAGOMA (Queensland Art Gallery—Gallery of Modern Art), this attraction in Brisbane will leave you stunned! Here’s why.
The two galleries here have unique personalities, and they both showcase an amazing art collection. The residents of these galleries have been at South Bank since 1982.
The collection has exquisite contemporary art from Australia, Asia, and The Pacific. The staggering architecture of riverside galleries will be an amazing start to your visit to the place.
The galleries are also home to a Children’s Art Centre, which consists of engaging artworks for families and kids, a cinema that broadcasts films from across the world, and a gallery shop with art, books, and cultural work.
I have no doubts that something or the other will win your heart. Also, visiting these art galleries is among the perfect things to do.
1.4. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium opened on 24 May 1978. It has a Cosmic Skydome (hemispherical planetarium theatre), which is a 12.5-meter diameter projection dome. You can visit the Planetarium to tour Brisbane’s night sky, Display Zone, and multiple informatory shows.
This Planetarium is named after Sir Thomas Brisbane, the governor of New South Wales (1821-1825). Sir Thomas was also a popular astronomer of southern skies. Brisbane City Council administers the place.
This place also consists of wide photographic and model displays in the Foyer and Gallery, including the 1969 Moon landing, the Space Shuttle, and Mars expeditions. The mini theatre features a Space Telescope Science Institute web feed and Foyer Theatrette.
The focus is always on education for kids and adults. The entry inside is free. However, there is a charge for Cosmic Skydome shows.
Apart from the ones mentioned above, the other attractions are the Galaxy Gift Shop and Sundial Courtyard. For family and kids, this planetarium has to be amongst the best learning things.
1.5. Party with Your Friends at Fortitude Valley
Fortitude Valley is the place where one can have the time of his/her life. The Valley was Australia‘s first entertainment district and is the best place for nightclubbing in Brisbane and one of the best in the country.
The Valley has multiple bars and clubs, enough for a party person to choose from. The nightlife of The Valley is the reason why it is very happening and lively. Furthermore, swimmers may have the chance to practice their swimming skills at the Valley Pool.
Another fun activity is to shop along James St. There are more than 130 stores in the area, and you are likely to find all kinds of stuff, including flagships, local boutiques, and Brisbane designer items.
Partying at Fortitude Valley is one of the coolest things! There are tons of exciting activities at Fortitude Valley.
1.6. Visit the Museum of Brisbane
Opened in 2003, the Brisbane Museum is located in the City Hall and is home to the most historic and modern cultures in the city.
The Museum of Brisbane houses the city’s vibrant art and culture to showcase them through exhibitions, workshops, tours, events, and children’s activities.
Entry inside the museum is free, and it is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. On Fridays, the Museum’s hours extend till 7 PM for visitors to explore in peace.
The guides at this museum are the finest storytellers in the city. Visitors opt for a guide even during the visit to City Hall and the top of the incredible Clock Tower.
Undoubtedly, visiting the Brisbane Museum is one of the most productive things.
1.7. Get a Beautiful View of the Brisbane Vibe at Howard Smith Wharves
Howard Smith Wharves sits between the classical Story Bridge and the New Farm Park. This is considered Brisbane’s modern-day dining and lifestyle precinct.
This famous landmark is only a 10-minute walk away from Brisbane CBD (CBD colloquially referred to as “The City”). It has multiple bars, restaurants, hotels, and ample event spaces.
You can connect with locals, sit by the water, drink, and enjoy dinner with the beautiful River View at any of the world-class restaurants here. Make sure to visit at night to live the legendary experience.
With such elite dine-in places and lovely waterfront locations.
1.8. Take a Look at the City from The Top of The Clock Tower
The Clock Tower in the city hall is 92 meters tall and integral to Brisbane. The Tower is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, and there is no fee to get inside. There is no mention of extended hours on Fridays.
Located with the Museum of Brisbane, it is one of the tallest buildings in the city, and the views from the top are absolutely magnificent.
Fun facts about the tower are: It has the oldest manual elevator in Australia, and the face of each clock is almost 5 meters wide, with the minute hands being 3 meters long. Along with the museum, visiting this huge Clock Tower is for tourists.
1.9. Explore the Brisbane Twilight Markets
The Brisbane Twilight Markets show up only a few times a year. Most events conducted at King George Square are free of cost.
This market presents homemade goods prepared and delivered by local artists and designers. From summer clothes, cushions, and wall hangings to resin jewellery and typewriter keys, you will find every little and big thing here.
If you are in the city during the placing of such markets, shopping along with your family, kids, or friends.
1.10. Go Out for Dessert
Dessert anyone? Well, Brisbane has got some mouth-watering dessert spots for you.
Gelato Messina South Brisbane is one of the best ice cream parlours in the city. They have tasty flavours like coconut and lychee, Tiramisu and pear, and rhubarb. These are the top-rated ones. Apart from these, you can check your favourite ones on display.
No matter the crowd at this place, the wait will be worth it once you have got your hands on ice cream. Apart from food, trying different desserts is one of the most delicious.
Flour & Chocolate Patisserie is another dessert spot for you. The chocolate-drizzled croissants, eclairs, cakes, and sweet pastries at this place will blow you away. Choose according to your taste.
1.11. Go For a Walk at Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Very few places in Brisbane can match the panoramic views of Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Locals and tourists prefer this place over others for a night stroll due to the amazing lighting system in the area.
The views of the river, mountains, and city from the cliffs are exquisite, be it during the day or night! When you arrive at the place, you will be welcomed by bikeways, parklands, playgrounds, riverside picnic, and barbecue points.
All in all, an evening walk on the cliffs is one of the best things for you. Take some time out and walk through the natural beauty of this place.
1.12. Admire the Beauty of Roma Street Parkland
The Roma Street Parkland is located in Brisbane City. It is an oasis of designer gardens and stretched lawns that wind around the 16 hectares of this splendid parkland.
This one is for garden lovers who seek fresh air and vibes out in the open. There’s no better place than this one. It is a famous tourist destination with barbecues, two playgrounds, various events to catch your attention, and picnic spots.
The garden is open seven days a week, and it is the perfect relaxing spot for your family and kids.
Also, The Moonlight Cinema at Roma Street Parkland is a great place if you want to live the experience of watching a movie under the stars.
If you are looking for green spaces, visiting this garden is probably for you.
1.13. Visit the Queen Street Mall
Brisbane’s Queen Street Mall has more stuff than any other mall in Queensland. This best-known pedestrian mall includes more than 700 retailers like home-grown talent, designer stores, and international labels.
The mall is not only restricted to shopping but also has entertainment activities for families and kids. You can have delicious food in the food section.
The mall has two historic and remarkable arcades, Brisbane Arcade and Tattersall’s Arcade. It would be best if you visited both of these arcades.
Apart from fashion, you can discover so many things in every corner of the mall. From film, festivals, and park picnics to rooftop cocktails and galleries, every year so many events occur at this mall. Mall explorers are roaming at the Queen Street Mall.
1.14. Have Fun at Moreton Island
Moreton Island is located 40 kilometres northeast of Brisbane and is the third-largest sand island in the world! Clear and beautiful lakes exist among the dunes, and plenty of wildflowers and hot beaches on the Island.
You can feed dolphins with your hands, dive among the Tangalooma wrecks, and watch silhouettes of fishermen casting lines in twilight!
The other best activities you can try are biking, four-wheeling, sand tobogganing, climbing Mt Tempest, swimming in Blue Lagoon, whale watching, Kayaking, viewing the island, catching a fish, viewing historic gravesites, rock climbing, and checking other wrecks.
1.15. Explore the BrisStyle Destash Market
The BrisStyle Destash Market allows makers to tradecraft supplies with other creative people. Get to this market, look out for things you might need, and bargain well before finalizing the deal.
This market will have a large number of items ranging from vintage tea towels to fabrics from Japan, beading supplies, mannequins, vintage teacups and saucers, yarn, buttons, knitting and crochet supplies, heavy glass bottles, vintage doilies, patterns, sewing supplies, paper and everything else that you can imagine.
Entry to this market is free, and you can spend as many hours here as you want. You can also try going to Wynnum cafes nearby for a latte.
You’d be unlucky not to attend this market while being in the city. The Destash market delivers a chance to bring new materials that may require space to your homes or workplaces.
Strolling through and purchasing stuff in this unique style market is undoubtedly for all tourists.
1.16. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Brisbane is considered a River City wherein you are expected to go for maximum water sports activities. Trust me, it is more fun than you would have imagined!
Stand-up Paddle Boarding is a famous water sport worldwide and one of the most entertaining things to do in Brisbane.
Pumice Stone Passage, Donnybrook is one of the top places recommended for this activity. While you are heading towards Moreton Bay, take a detour at Pumice Stone Passage. It isn’t close to the city centre, and thus, it is a calm place.
The beach is rejuvenating, and you will see multiple jet skis by and on the water. You can also try one of those hands-on.
Some other places to try water sports activities are Enoggera Reservoir, The Caboolture River, Shorncliffe/Sandgate/Brighton, The Brisbane River, Currimundi Lake, Victoria Point’s Thompson’s Beach, and Raby Bay.
1.17. Take Your Family and Kids to Aquavity Park
Located on Brisbane’s South Bank, Aquavity is a friendly and entertaining water park.
It was made to encourage families to come by and have real fun in the great outdoors. The place is open on weekends and school holidays from 10 AM to 5 PM.
In addition to the wonderful water park, Aquativity has educational play elements referencing the river, which helps create an easy understanding of the water cycle and its preservation. The kids can swim, splash in water, and play all year round.
The other facilities are Barbeque, Café, Carpark, Picnic Area, Public Toilet, Disabled access available, and Free WiFi.
If you are looking to make the most out of your time on weekends, taking your family along to this park is among the most advantageous to do in the Brisbane region.
1.18. Dine in at Fish Lane
Fish Lane is located in South Brisbane and is full of lively bars, restaurants, and street art. Enjoy fine dining anywhere with your favourite cuisine, and get into a cocktail bar, wine bar, or beer garden post-dinner.
This place has also opened up chances for artists to show creativity in terms of art. Explore the ever-changing artwork and sculptures that are present on every surface along the laneway.
The nearest train station is only a few hundred meters away, and you can get to the Lane easily. It is said to be the apt spot to spend an evening of culture. You can always talk to a greeter or two for your convenience and wander around in the correct directions.
Spending an afternoon or evening here is one of the most satisfying.
1.19. Climb Story Bridge at Night
Story Bridge is the spot from where you can view the entire city and witness the busy lifestyle. In the North, you can see the Glass House Mountains, and towards the South, you can see the mighty Scenic Rim Mountains.
The views will not be limited to these as you can also bless your eyes with the captivating views of the capital of Queensland.
To climb the Story Bridge, you must be in good physical condition. I would highly suggest you not go for the adventure if you have a height phobia. Otherwise, the climb is safe, and trained guides are appointed to assist you.
While talking about all the adventurous things, climbing Story Bridge is among the top three.
In The End
I have listed the best possible activities for you with the hope that you will have a fabulous time in the capital of the Sunshine State.
Get on the train, plane, bus, or any transport feasible and explore this enormous city in the country. Eat healthy food, spend time elating yourself, befriend local people, listen to music at events, and do not miss out on the fun, especially on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Additionally, explore the Brisbane Quarter and weekend markets, go for a date night, listen to popular stories from locals, learn about Sydney (The most populous city in the country), and visit world-class restaurants.
Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by avnibedse