To Do in Brisbane

Discover Brisbane inside out! This vibrant city has its own distinct vibe, unique personality and seemingly endless offering of things to see and do. Welcoming you to the city are lush parks and historic buildings with an edgy arts scene, pumping nightlife, and great coffee and restaurants are all folded in the meandering Brisbane River. Experience the local low-laying sandy isles, beaches and passing parade of whales, turtles and dolphins as Brisbanites do. “Give me Brisbane any day.”

1. City Hoppers

Sure the City Cats are sleek, fast, and cover Brisbane’s river route from Hamilton to St Lucia but if you’ve got time on your side and want to explore the inner-city at a leisure pace, jump aboard a City Hopper. The free service uses reconditioned Brisbane City Council ferries and meanders along the river, stopping at North Quay, South Bank 3, Maritime Museum, Thornton Street, Eagle Street Pier, Holman Street, Dockside and Sydney Street terminals. The red-hued City Hoppers run every 30 minutes between 6 AM and midnight seven days a week.

2. Rooftop Cinema

This cinema has the best view in town. The rooftop bar of Fortitude Valley’s Limes Hotel screens classic films and recent releases on Thursday nights at 7.30 PM while moviegoers recline on pillows and couches or set themselves up at bar tables. The bar opens at 5 PM, serving drinks and tapas, and stays open after the movie ends until midnights. Tickets are $10.

3. Visit Southbank Parklands

Featuring a stunning inner-city beach, miles of tree-lined walks, fabulous shopping and restaurants, Southbank is the one place you have to see in Brisbane. Located a short hop over the river from the CBD, it’s easy to get to and easy to spend a full day amongst the many attractions. Don’t forget to jump on the Wheel of Brisbane to get a birds-eye view of the city.

4. Expand your horizons in the Cultural Precinct

The best cultural spaces are grouped together near Southbank in an area called the Cultural Precinct. Just across the river from the CBD, this area features the largest gallery of modern art in Australia (Gallery of Modern Art), the Queensland Art Gallery, Queensland College of Art, Queensland Conservatorium, Queensland Museum (incorporating the kids’ favourite – Sciencentre), Queensland Performing Arts Centre and the State Library of Queensland. There’s always something new and exciting to see and many of the exhibitions are completely free.

5. Taste the local seafood

You’ve heard of Moreton Bay bugs before, so head to one of Brisbane’s fine seafood restaurants to taste the real thing amongst the other delicious local delicacies. Wilson’s Boathouse, Gambaro’s, Brett’s Wharf and Jellyfish are just a few of the award-winning dining establishment around Brisbane.

6. Enjoy the view from Mt Coot-tha

Mt Coot-tha (pronounced Mount Cootha) has breathtaking panoramic views of Brisbane city with views out to Moreton Bay by day. A favourite for locals and visitors alike, enjoy a meal or just a coffee looking out over the city and its surrounds. Catch the local 471 bus from the city or buy a pass for the hop-on, hop-off City Sights Bus.