Brisbane is brimming with attractions that make it a must-visit destination for everyone. From theme parks to outdoor activities, Brisbane is a delightful blend of urban chic and natural beauty. Indigenous art meets contemporary innovation, and for families in particular, Brisbane doesn’t disappoint.
If you are wondering what to do in Brisbane we’re here to help you avoid option paralysis by trimming down the super long list into something a lot more manageable.
Brisbane is a city that effortlessly blends modern vibrancy with laid-back charm, offering an array of attractions that cater to all interests. That means nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers will find something to pique their curiosity. Here’s a roundup of what to do in Brisbane:
Ever dreamed of cuddling a koala? Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary makes that dream come true! Located on the Brisbane River, this sanctuary is home to a variety of Australian wildlife. Hand-feed kangaroos, meet kookaburras, and spot wombats, dingoes, and crocodiles.
The sanctuary offers engaging keeper talks and interactive demonstrations, including platypus feeding and bird of prey shows. For a truly memorable experience, consider combining your visit with a Brisbane River Cruise for a scenic journey to the sanctuary. The Brisbane River meanders through the city, and a river cruise is the perfect way to take in landmarks like the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs.
Brisbane’s Cultural Centre is a treasure trove of museums, galleries, and performance venues located on the banks of the river. Here, you’ll find the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), where you can admire a diverse collection of art from around the world. The Queensland Museum and Sciencentre offer interactive exhibits perfect for families, while the State Library of Queensland provides a peaceful retreat for book lovers. Catch a performance at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) for a taste of the city’s cultural scene.
If you are looking for outdoor activities, Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha is the ultimate choice. You won’t have to drive far from downtown to reach these gardens, which showcase an impressive array of subtropical plants, including a large collection of Australian rainforest trees. Stroll through themed gardens, take a free guided tour, or explore the Hide ‘n’ Seek Children’s Trail. Adjacent to the gardens is the Brisbane Lookout Mount Coot-tha, which has some must-see panoramic views of the city and beyond (perfect for a sunset visit).
There is plenty to explore at QAGOMA, which features over 1,700 works of art. The Queensland Art Gallery highlights classic and contemporary pieces, while the Gallery of Modern Art showcases innovative exhibits across various mediums. The complex also includes the Australian Cinémathèque, which screens films from around the globe, and the Children’s Art Centre, where younger visitors can engage with interactive art.
Every Brisbane resident will tell you to indulge your taste buds at Eat Street Northshore. You dine on a variety of international cuisines, from Malaysian street food to Mexican favourites. The lively atmosphere, live music, and colourful shipping containers make this a fun destination for all ages.
Escape the city with a day trip to Moreton Island, a paradise of white sandy beaches and clear waters. Accessible by a short ferry ride, Moreton Island is ideal for outdoor adventures. Explore the Tangalooma Island Resort, try sand tobogganing, snorkelling, or feed wild dolphins. With 98% of the island designated as a national park, it’s a haven for nature lovers.
Discover Brisbane’s history at the Museum of Brisbane, located in the historic City Hall. This engaging museum offers insights into the city’s past, from convict times to contemporary issues. Enjoy the sweeping views from the clock tower and explore the museum’s ever-changing exhibitions.
Travelling from Brisbane to the Gold Coast is a breeze, offering a variety of convenient transportation options. If you prefer to sit back and relax, the train has regular services running from Brisbane’s Central Station to Helensvale, where you can easily connect to local trams or buses. The trip takes about 90 minutes, and for those who enjoy driving, the journey down the M1 motorway takes around an hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Along the way, you can take in the scenic views and even make a pit stop in one of the charming towns or nature reserves that dot the route.
Veriu Hotels can be found all over Australia, including the new regional Punthill property in New South Wales, but when it comes to where to stay in Brisbane, Punthill Spring Hill in Brisbane CBD is the best choice.
Located in Astor Terrace, you’ll be positioned a few minutes’ walk to the CBD, staying in stylish serviced apartments with luxurious king beds, a private balcony, and more. Punthill ensures Brisbane is convenient; book your stay today.
Brisbane’s South Bank and parkland areas are among the most visited tourist landmarks in Australia. An estimated 14+ million visitors swing by every year, making it one of the most popular spots to check out.
Brisbane offers free activities showcasing the city’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. You can start by exploring the South Bank, visiting the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, or heading to Kangaroo Point for stunning river views. A scenic walk up to Mt Coot-tha for a breathtaking city panorama is also always a good move.
People head to Brisbane for the sunshine! Brisbane’s humid subtropical climate is hot and often warm in winter with relatively small amounts of rainfall. The hottest time of the year is January, with average temperatures of around 29 °C.
