Introduction

Are you planning a trip to Brisbane and wondering what activities to prioritize? The capital city of Queensland, Australia boasts over 2000 independently reviewed attractions for you to explore.

Our curated list of the “10 Must-Do Activities to Experience the Best of Brisbane” will guide you through top sights, adventures, and cultural experiences that make this city distinct. Ready for a memorable adventure Down Under?.

Key Takeaways

• Strolling around South Bank offers a vibrant fusion of culture and relaxation with its lush parklands, world-class eateries, and stunning river views. Don’t miss the iconic Wheel of Brisbane for panoramic city views.
• Visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must-do activity for animal lovers, where you can cuddle koalas, feed kangaroos, and hand-feed wild lorikeets.
• Taking a river cruise on the Brisbane River allows you to soak in the beauty of the cityscape and enjoy informative commentary while gliding along the calming waters.
• Exploring Roma Street Parkland offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city with beautifully manicured gardens, picnic areas, playgrounds, and even a lake to relax by.
• Taking a tour of the XXXX Brewery provides insight into Australia’s brewing traditions while enjoying award-winning brews in a vibrant atmosphere.
• Enjoying the view from Mount Coot – tha Summit Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of Brisbane’s skyline and surrounding natural beauty. Don’t forget to visit nearby Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium for astronomy enthusiasts.
• Visiting both Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt. Coot – tha and City Botanic Gardens allow you to immerse yourself in lush greenery, tranquil ponds, themed gardens, and stunning views of their respective locations.
• Taking a ride on the City Hopper ferry is an affordable way to explore Brisbane from its picturesque riverbanks while enjoying stunning views of iconic landmarks like South Bank.
• A visit to Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) showcases contemporary art from local and international artists in an impressive gallery that pushes boundaries and challenges traditional notions.

Top 10 Must-Do Activities In Brisbane

Stroll around South Bank – Enjoy a leisurely walk along the vibrant South Bank Parklands and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Brisbane’s cultural hub.

Stroll Around South Bank

Strolling around South Bank is your first stop on this journey through Brisbane’s top attractions. This thriving hub of activity offers you an array of experiences with its lush parklands, world-class eateries, and stunning river views.

As one of the city’s premium leisure spots, it’s here that local culture meets relaxation in a vibrant fusion that keeps visitors coming back for more. Don’t miss out on South Bank Parklands – a haven for both nature enthusiasts and those seeking family-friendly fun with playgrounds and picnic spaces galore.

The iconic Wheel of Brisbane also calls this place home – offering panoramic views over the city from its giant Ferris wheel. Whether you’re up for outdoor activities or keen to savour delicious food while soaking up riverside vistas, South Bank guarantees an unforgettable start to your Brisbane adventure.

Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

A trip to Brisbane wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the renowned Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. As the world’s largest koala sanctuary, it offers visitors an up-close and personal encounter with these adorable creatures.

You can cuddle a koala, feed kangaroos, and even hand-feed wild lorikeets. With over 130 koalas, you’re sure to leave with plenty of cute and memorable photos. But that’s not all – the sanctuary also houses other native Australian wildlife including wombats, dingoes, echidnas, and platypus.

Immerse yourself in Australia’s unique fauna by attending one of the many animal talks or shows throughout the day. Learn about their habits, characteristics, and conservation efforts undertaken at the sanctuary.

Take A River Cruise On The Brisbane River

Experience the beauty of Brisbane from a whole new perspective by taking a leisurely river cruise on the iconic Brisbane River. This is a must-do activity that allows you to soak in the stunning cityscape and enjoy the calming waters as you glide along.

Marvel at the architectural wonders such as Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs, while learning about their fascinating history from informative commentary onboard. Take advantage of various sightseeing cruises available, ranging from short scenic tours to longer dinner cruises with delicious food options.

Sit back, relax, and let the gentle breeze caress your face as you capture breathtaking views of Brisbane’s skyline and its vibrant surroundings. It’s an experience not to be missed during your visit to this incredible city.

Explore Roma Street Parkland

Roma Street Parkland is a must-visit attraction when exploring Brisbane. This sprawling parkland offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, with beautifully manicured gardens and vibrant floral displays.

Take a leisurely stroll along its winding pathways and discover hidden pockets of tranquility amidst the urban landscape. Marvel at the stunning subtropical plantings and lush greenery that make this park an oasis in the heart of Brisbane.

There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and even a lake where you can relax and unwind. Don’t forget to visit The Spectacle Garden, which showcases stunning seasonal displays throughout the year.

Take A Tour Of The XXXX Brewery

Explore the rich history and flavors of Brisbane by taking a tour of the iconic XXXX Brewery. Discover how this famous Australian beer is crafted, from the brewing process to its unique ingredients.

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas as you walk through the state-of-the-art facilities, guided by expert brewers who share their passion for beer-making. Learn about the brewery’s fascinating heritage and how it has become an integral part of Brisbane’s culture.

Don’t forget to taste some of their award-winning brews along the way! This behind-the-scenes experience at XXXX Brewery is a must-do activity that offers both insight into Australia’s brewing traditions and a chance to savor quality beers in a vibrant atmosphere.

Enjoy The View From Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout

Looking to take in the breathtaking sights of Brisbane? Head to Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout for an unforgettable experience. As you reach the summit, prepare to be mesmerized by the panoramic views of the city skyline, Brisbane River, and beyond.

With its elevated position, this lookout offers a perfect vantage point for capturing stunning photographs and taking in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

But it’s not just about the view – there’s plenty to do at Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout. Take a leisurely stroll along one of the many walking trails and soak up the tranquility of your surroundings.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not bring a picnic and enjoy a scenic lunch overlooking this picturesque landscape? And if astronomy piques your interest, make sure to visit the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium located nearby.

Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout is truly a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Brisbane. Whether you’re indulging in some solo reflection or seeking a romantic spot with your loved ones, this iconic viewpoint promises an experience like no other.

Visit The Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt. Coot-tha

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Brisbane by visiting the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt. Coot-tha. Located on the slopes of Mount Coot-tha, this expansive garden showcases a stunning collection of plants from all over the world.

Take a leisurely stroll through lush pathways and explore themed gardens, including Japanese, Australian Rainforest, and Fragrant Plants. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium for an awe-inspiring look at our universe.

With breathtaking views of the city skyline and beyond, a visit to the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt. Coot-tha is an essential part of experiencing all that Brisbane has to offer.

Explore The City Botanic Gardens

Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and serene beauty of Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens. These gardens, located along the banks of the Brisbane River, are a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Take a leisurely stroll through pathways lined with blooming flowers, towering trees, and tranquil ponds. Discover hidden pockets of tranquility as you explore different sections like the Bamboo Grove or the ornamental ponds adorned with water lilies.

The gardens also offer picnic spots where you can relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of riverfront landscapes. Whether you’re a nature lover seeking solitude or just looking for some outdoor relaxation, visiting Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens is an absolute must-do activity to truly experience the best that this vibrant city has to offer.

Take A Ride On The City Hopper Ferry

A ride on the City Hopper ferry is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Brisbane. This free hop-on, hop-off service allows you to explore the city from a unique perspective – the beautiful Brisbane River.

As you cruise along the river, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks and skyline. Whether you’re looking to visit popular attractions like South Bank or simply enjoy a leisurely ride on the water, the City Hopper ferry offers a convenient and affordable way to get around.

So jump aboard and immerse yourself in the beauty of Brisbane as you glide along its picturesque riverbanks.

Visit The Gallery Of Modern Art

A visit to the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) is an absolute must when exploring Brisbane. Located in the vibrant South Bank precinct, GOMA showcases contemporary art from local and international artists.

With its sleek design and impressive collection, this gallery offers a truly immersive experience for art enthusiasts.

Inside GOMA, you’ll find a diverse range of exhibits that push boundaries and challenge traditional notions of art. From thought-provoking installations to captivating multimedia displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The gallery’s commitment to showcasing emerging artists means that you’ll always discover something new and exciting during your visit.

One particularly iconic feature is the ‘Watermall,’ a stunning water-filled corridor lined with incredible artwork. As you stroll along this mesmerizing pathway, taking in the beautiful pieces on display, you can’t help but feel inspired by the creativity and talent on show.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Brisbane is a vibrant city with an array of must-do activities that showcase its beauty and charm. From strolling around South Bank to visiting the iconic Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, there is something for everyone in this wonderful city.

With its stunning river cruises, picturesque parklands, and world-class attractions such as the XXXX Brewery and Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane truly offers a memorable experience for tourists seeking adventure or cultural enrichment.

So pack your bags and get ready to explore the best of Brisbane!

FAQs

1. What are the must-do activities to experience the best of Brisbane?

To experience the best of Brisbane, you should consider visiting popular attractions such as Story Bridge, South Bank Parklands, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and Mount Coot-tha Lookout. Exploring cultural hubs like Fortitude Valley and West End, enjoying a river cruise on the Brisbane River, and trying out local cuisine at vibrant food markets are also recommended.

2. How can I get to Story Bridge in Brisbane?

You can easily access Story Bridge by car or public transportation. If you’re driving, there are designated parking areas nearby. Alternatively, you can take a bus or train to Central Station and then walk or catch a taxi or rideshare service to reach the bridge.

3. Are there any entry fees for visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?

Yes, there is an admission fee for visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. The entrance fee helps support the conservation efforts undertaken by the sanctuary to protect and care for native Australian wildlife species. Please check their official website for current admission prices.

4. What is unique about South Bank Parklands in Brisbane?

South Bank Parklands is a vibrant waterfront area that offers a range of recreational activities along with stunning city skyline views. It features beautiful gardens, swimming lagoons including Streets Beach – Australia’s only inner-city man-made beach-, multiple dining options ranging from cafes to fine dining restaurants and boasts impressive art installations throughout its premises creating an eclectic artsy atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics by riverside promenades while enjoying open-air cinemas during summer evenings.