The top 13 things to do in Brisbane
Jan 30, 2022 • 8 min read
The artificial lagoon at South Bank Parklands offers sandy shores, azure water and swaying palms, right in the heart of Brisbane © Peter Adams / Getty Images
Australia’s third-largest city makes its own waves. In exciting Brisbane , you’ll find Australia’s largest public gallery of contemporary art, some of its most inspired chefs and musicians, and spectacular cycling trails right in the heart of the city.
So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a happily returning convert, these are the 13 best things to do in Brisbane.
1. Sample locally made favorites at a farmers market
Crates of fragrant mangoes, stalls piled high with fresh pastries, neighbors discussing weekend plans over takeaway almond lattes – to really luxuriate in Brisbane’s subtropical lifestyle, spend a morning at a farmers market. Saturday favorites include the Jan Powers Farmers Market in New Farm and the West End Markets . Shaded by giant figs, the latter has an especially bohemian vibe, complete with a caravan coffee cart and stalls selling everything from sustainable cork handbags to summery frocks.
If it’s Sunday morning, catch the train to suburban Woodridge for Global Food Markets , where sizzling woks and stalls piled high with tamarind, taro, mangosteens, jackfruit and heady spices channel steamy Southeast Asia. Whichever market you choose, get there early.
2. Cool down at South Bank Parklands
Squint hard enough, and you could be in the Whitsundays . Yet you’re in the heart of Brisbane, at Streets Beach . This large artificial swimming lagoon comes complete with sandy shores, azure water and swaying palms. Free and popular with families, it’s the centerpiece of the 17-hectare (42-acre) South Bank Parklands , a fabulous riverfront park within walking distance of major museums and galleries.
There are showers and changing rooms on-site, so bring a change of clothes to continue your explorations in nearby Little Stanley St, where the Collective Markets peddle locally designed clothing, art and gifts on Friday nights and the weekend.
3. Catch an exhibition by the river
A short walk north of South Bank Parklands lie Queensland’s foremost public art museums: the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA). While the former houses important works by both past and present Australian artists, the latter is the nation’s largest contemporary art gallery.
Dedicate an entire morning or afternoon to exploring either venue, both of which offer free general admission. If you have little culture vultures in tow, check what’s on at GOMA’s dedicated Children’s Art Centre .
4. Hear a few Brisbane stories at City Hall
Though the walls at Brisbane City Hall don’t talk, the tour guides thankfully do. Free, 45-minute tours of Australia’s largest city hall reveal some fascinating anecdotes, including the building’s connection to both Michelangelo and the Rolling Stones. Shorter, 15-minute tours of the soaring, panoramic Clock Tower are also free, reached via a vintage elevator.
Combine either tour with an hour or more exploring City Hall’s free, family-friendly Museum of Brisbane , where exhibitions explore the city’s rich tapestry through themes as diverse as contemporary art, fashion and music. Book guided tours of the building and clock tower via the museum website.
5. Scale Story Bridge
The wow factor provided by Story Bridge – Australia’s longest cantilevered bridge – lies in the view: a high-impact, Manhattan-esque sweep of skyscrapers towering over the Brisbane River. You can safely walk or cycle its 282m (925ft) span, though nothing beats scaling the beast. From the top of the bridge, 80m (262ft) above muddy river waters, the 360-degree panorama is simply superb.
Story Bridge Adventure Climb runs numerous bridge-climbing experiences for people aged six and up, from standard climbs to abseiling and daredevil lean-outs. If possible, book the Twilight Climb to watch the city slip into its glittering evening cloak.
6. Pedal along the waterfront
One of the most relaxing (and sustainable) ways to explore Brisbane’s beautiful riverfront is on a bike. Dedicated cycling and pedestrian trails flank large tracts of the city’s eponymous waterway, leading through parkland and past chic warehouse conversions and affording commanding skyline views. The ideal time to hit the pedal is in the morning before the heat and humidity really kick in.
In Kangaroo Point, Riverlife rents out good-value adult and kids’ bikes. From here, consider cycling north over Story Bridge, then southwest around the perimeter of the CBD, crossing the river to South Bank and following the river back to Riverlife. Alternatively, cross Story Bridge and head southeast along the river to reach the Brisbane Riverwalk , an 870m (2854ft) trailway built directly over the water. An official map of the city’s cycling trails is an essential resource.
7. Taste the world at Eat Street Northshore
Upcycling gets an epicurean twist at riverfront Eat Street Northshore , a street-food village made up of 180 repurposed shipping containers. Come ravenous (and ideally with company) for a global food crawl, leaping from freshly shucked oysters to Japanese yakisoba , Chinese bao and Greek loukoumades .
More than just a place to eat, this is a place to spend an afternoon or evening, with bars, musicians and a handful of shops adding to the all-ages carnival vibe. To really make it special, sail in on the CityCat ferry, playing “Which waterfront property would I buy if I won the lottery?” en route.
8. Find art and cocktails in a laneway
Good things come in small packages, including vibrant alleyways Burnett Lane and Fish Lane . In the Central Business District (CBD), Burnett Lane is Brisbane’s oldest laneway and is packed with quirky details and exceptional eateries and bars. Be sure to seek out guerrilla artist Mace Robertson’s tiny red door and Blu Art Ninja’s duck in a top hat.
Next, reward yourself with brunch at perennially cool cafe Felix for Goodness , tapas at Alba , or an impeccable cocktail at Death and Taxes . Across the river in South Brisbane, Fish Lane and its surrounds are speckled with sculptures and murals by Brisbane creatives like Kuuki and Fintan Magee. Explore the latter mid-afternoon, just in time to score a coveted bar seat at pocket-sized Maker .
9. See and be seen on James Street
A verdant strip of boutiques and sophisticated bars, Fortitude Valley’s James Street is the perfect spot to show off that new outfit (or hunt down your next new favorite look). The street boasts boutiques from a number of high-end Australian designers, including celeb-approved Sass & Bide and Camilla . It also claims some of the Valley’s most lauded eating and drinking spots.
If possible, shop the strip in the afternoon before an aperitif at Gerard’s Bar and dinner at Thai-Australian standout Same Same . The best seats at the latter are at the counter (and should be reserved online in advance).
10. Catch a show at the Powerhouse
Brisbane Powerhouse has had numerous incarnations: 20th-century power station, derelict homeless shelter, graffiti magnet. These days, it’s a hulking culture hub, pumping out a year-round program of top-notch theater, music, cabaret, stand-up comedy, kids’ shows and exhibitions. Even if you don’t catch a show, the ground-floor cafe-bar is an excellent spot for a riverside coffee or beer. Flanking the center is the urban oasis New Farm Park, home to a fantastic children’s adventure playground and skyline views, with old figs and jacarandas beckoning with shade.
11. Sail to a lesser-known cultural asset
The University of Queensland Art Museum is one of Brisbane’s best-kept secrets, home to a highly regarded art collection. Exhibitions are engaging, timely and thought-provoking, showcasing innovative Australian and international artists exploring themes as diverse as technology, colonialism and cultural identity.
The most scenic way to get here is on the CityCat , which terminates at the university’s lush, sprawling grounds. While here, look out for the university’s Great Court, a sweeping quadrangle flanked by beautiful heritage buildings in multi-hued Helidon sandstone.
12. Tap into the live-music scene
Mallrat, Ball Park Music, Hatchie, Jaguar Jonze: Queensland’s capital claims some of Australia’s top indie music acts and catching a gig at notable venues like the Zoo , Tivoli , Triffid and Bearded Lady is as Brisbane as an afternoon summer storm. An especially good time to visit is in September, when emerging talent takes over Fortitude Valley for the Bigsound festival, Australia’s biggest and most important showcase for new music.
Whatever the time of year, music lovers should drop by Jet Black Cat Music in West End. Not so much a sharply curated record store as a local institution, its staff will happily direct you toward your new favorite “Brissie muso” (musician).
13. Escape to Mt Coot-tha
Mt Coot-tha offers more than the lofty view from its summit lookout (one that extends as far as the Sunshine Coast hinterland on a clear day). Some 6km (4 miles) west of central Brisbane, the city’s tallest peak is just as good for a tranquil, wildlife-spotting bushwalk. Gentle trails trace its wooded slopes, ranging from easy wanders to more-challenging treks.
At the base lie the beautiful Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium , both serviced by bus route 471 , which reaches the summit. If you’re not driving, be mindful that the last city-bound bus leaves just after 4pm (5pm on weekends). If you do have your own wheels, stay for the sunset.
You might also like: Everything you need to know about Brisbane, from etiquette to sunscreen tips The 12 best free things to do in Brisbane Brisbane on a budget: the ultimate cent-saving guide
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The City: Things to do
Riverbar, Brisbane City
Whether you consider yourself a local expert or are exploring The City for the first time, this list reveals the best things to do in the heart of The City. From hitting busy shopping streets to quiet riverside strolls, and chic high-end restaurants to laid-back laneway beers – discover awesome ways to while away a lunch break or fill a whole weekend. Read on to discover our go-to guide to where to shop, dine, stay and play in The City.
Christmas in Brisbane
Christmas has arrived in Brisbane City, and there's a jam-packed program full of free events for the entire family to enjoy, from festive-themed tiny doors to the iconic 22-metre Christmas Tree. Discover the full program here .
01. But first, coffee.
When it comes to good coffee , The City centre is ready to greet you with quality and specialty cafes using the latest and greatest brewing methods. Start your day with one of the best brews in Brisbane. We recommend Brew , Coffee Iconic, Coffee Anthology or Industry Beans . If you need a hearty breakky to go with your coffee, here are a few of our favourite spots .
02. Shop up a storm
The City is a fashion lover's dream destination with more than 500 stores ranging from local boutiques to international, high street and luxury brands. Start in the centre at Brisbane’s largest open air shopping precinct, the famous Queen Street Mall where hundreds of stores await. If you're looking for something specific, we’ve pulled together a guide to shopping in the heart of Brisbane City .
03. Visit Brisbane City Markets
Pick up some fresh goodies ahead of the weekend or conveniently ‘forget your lunch and visit one of the tasty food stalls for a mid-week treat. The Brisbane City Markets pop up in Reddacliff Place every Wednesday from 8am to 6pm and in Cathedral Square every Thursday from 8am to 2pm.
04. Belt out a tune at karaoke
Dust off those vocal cords and power through a spot of karaoke in The City. We recommend Music City , Strike Bowling and Fat Louie’s to belt out your power ballads and ‘90s throwbacks.
05. Eat at an award-winning restaurant
The City is home to some of the best fine dining in Queensland. Try Malt Dining , Donna Chang , Walter’s Steakhouse or Alchemy Restaurant and Bar .
06. Relax in the botanic gardens
Gather the family, pack a picnic rug and spend a lazy afternoon in the sunshine or pop on your walking shoes and stroll along the river on your lunch break. Whatever your style, the City Botanic Gardens is Brisbane’s original botanic gardens and offers a relaxing green space where you can chill on the lawn or wander the many pathways and themed gardens.
07. Go on a laneway crawl
Raw and historic Burnett Lane is filled with cool restaurants and bars, while Albert Lane and Gresham Lane are bursting with delicious options for lunch. Have a read of the hidden gems you can find weaved through the bustling city streets.
08. Visit the Museum of Brisbane
Be captivated by the stories of Brisbane through the Museum of Brisbane ’s curated exhibitions that feature local artists and the culture and history of The City. The gift shop is a must-visit for Brisbane-made and Brisbane-designed treasures by local artisans.
09. Live and local music
Keep your ears on red alert. City Sounds is Australia’s largest free music program with local and touring artists performing in pop-up locations throughout Queen Street Mall and The City.
10. Explore the Brisbane Quarter
Beneath the five-star W Brisbane sits Brisbane Quarter . Here, Brisbane Phoenix offers a contemporary brand of traditional yum cha while Persone brings homely yet elegant Italian from Brisbane’s iconic hospitality family, the Gambaros .
11. Sink your teeth into a steak
As the capital of a beef-producing state, it’s not surprising that Brisbane City is stacked with amazing steak restaurants. Between Black Hide Steakhouse , Walter’s Steakhouse , Moo Moo, Rothwell’s and more, you’ll be spoilt for choice in satisfying a red meat craving.
12. Hunt for fairies in The City centre
Did you know Brisbane is filled with fairies? It's true. From laneways to botanic gardens to a magical collection of places in between, enchanting fairy lights are spread across The City . They make for an atmospheric evening stroll through the city streets.
13. Shop down Edward Street
While Queen Street Mall is the heart of shopping in The City, neighbouring Edward Street is the spot for luxury, high-end and unique clothing, shoes, accessories and gifts. Here you’ll find bespoke menswear, international luxury labels and local boutiques.
14. Organise the perfect picnic
There’s an abundant sprawl of green space in The City . Lunch on the lawn at Post Office Square or take a quick break at Queens Gardens. Pick up pastries on the way from Le Bon Choix , Inter/Section featuring handcrafted croissants from The Whisk or Mica Express . Jocelyn’s Provisions also has a beautiful array of sweet and savoury takeaway treats.
15. Go on a craft beer crawl
Put aside an afternoon to tackle this craft beer trail , hopping between breweries, bars and bottle shops in The City. A delightful array of bars and pubs have turned our love of craft beer into an obsession, so wander through The City and experience them all.
16. Sell your unwanted clothes at Suitcase Rummage
Take action against the pile of clothes shoved at the back of your closet by booking a stall at a Suitcase Rummage market. It’s also a great place to nab some bargains and you can barter your way to great brands at a steal. Enjoy these markets on the first and third Sunday of each month.
17. Satisfy the chocolate craving
Beat that 3pm sugar craving with Noosa Chocolate Factory’s fresh rocky road, chocolate slabs and decadent drinks. If your sweet tooth needs satiating treat yourself to an indulgent brownie from Dello Mano in Wintergarden.
18. Drink cocktails at a higher altitude
Sipping cocktails and swigging ales is more fun sky-high and with so many perfect skyscrapers, The City is king of the rooftop bar. Mingle with margaritas at WET Deck before wandering down to Sixteen Antlers and popping over to Hibiscus Room overlooking Queen Street Mall. Continue the bar hop with our list of The City’s best bars .
19. Bust a move
Mad Dance House studio offers a wide range of dance classes including ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, hip hop and more, taught by some of the industry's best teachers. For a more vertical experience, head to The Pole Gym where fun, dance and fitness combine for a surprisingly challenging full-body workout.
20. Feast on the finest Asian food
From street eats to fine dining, The City’s Asian food outlets pack a punch. Treat yourself to Thai at Kinn Imm QueensPlaza, fun fave Pochana or award-winning Jumbo Thai Restaurant and Bar . Enjoy modern Asian with a view at Madame Wu , fusion street eats at Mr Wabi or some of Harajuku’s famous gyoza. The City is also home to a plethora of Asian-inspired outlets for a quick bite. Duck into the food courts in Uptown, Post Office Square , QueensPlaza and Wintergarden .
21. Celebrate “la dolce vita”
There’s nothing sweeter than the comfort of Italian cuisine. Persone , Olive and Angelo, Massimo and Toscano Bar and Kitchen are some of our fancy faves, while Corbett and Claude, Marchetti and Vapiano are delicious casual options for when those carb cravings kick in.
22. Kick putt at Holey Moley
Fore! Holey Moley has constructed a wild and wacky mini-golf club inside Wintergarden shopping centre on Queen Street Mall . There are nine holes to putt your stuff with fun names like ‘Drop it Like It’s Slot’.
23. Sip sparkling with an epic view
Grab an ice-cold beer, pop champagne or order a cocktail jug and kick back with picture-perfect panoramas of The City, Story Bridge and out over the Brisbane River to Kangaroo Point and South Bank. Some long-standing faves include Riverbar & Kitchen , Blackbird Bar & Grill and Bar Pacino .
24. Shop locally made fashion
In a world of fast fashion, the idea of having something timeless made for you by someone local is the definition of luxury. Meet Brisbane’s local fashion designers inside the boutiques of Brisbane Arcade , the gorgeous almost-100-year-old gallery mall where small fashion houses and couture designers work and play. Hot tip: while you’re there, take some time to drool over diamonds at one of the centre’s many bespoke jewellers.
25. Follow this self-guided art trail
The City is filled with incredible public art hidden down laneways, in foyers or on the facades of buildings. This trail will help you hunt out all the art spots. Best of all we've thrown in some suggestions for lunch or cocktails along the way.
26. Shop small with the Brisbane Twilight Markets
This is the only Brisbane market that sells 100 per cent locally made products – yep, it’s your chance to meet the makers and shop artisan goods in the heart of The City. The Brisbane Twilight Markets pop up about once every two months. Dates are scattered throughout the year, so check the website for updates.
27. Enjoy a meal with a view of the CBD
Do you love a bit of people-watching? The City is filled with incredible venues that overlook the buzzing urban landscape. Visit Stanton, Jimmy’s on the Mall and Beach House Bar and Grill.
28. Lose track of time with your nose in a book
Embrace your inner bookworm at the Brisbane Square library or one of The City’s boutique bookstores. Hunt out Archives Fine Books for second-hand treasures, Dymocks for more mainstream titles on every possible topic and Pulp Fiction to satiate your desire for fantasy, crime and science fiction.
29. Take a little staycation
If you've caught the wanderlust bug but don't have funds or annual leave for a huge vacation, treat yourself to an inner-city staycation for some quality R&R, an epic shopping trip or just to use the fancy hotel spa and pool.
30. Put the focus on paddock-to-plate dining
If you love to explore a destination one plate at a time, Settimo and Patina at Customs House go above and beyond to ensure that their dishes and drinks come from within the local region as much as possible.
31. Discover the role Brisbane played in the Second World War
Visit the MacArthur Museum to glimpse the front lines of World War II and see the role Brisbane played from 1939-1945. You can even visit the office of General Douglas MacArthur, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Forces in the South-West Pacific. If this is an area of interest, you may also enjoy the Anzac Square and Memorial Galleries free tour .
32. Find that perfect ring
There are more than jewellers located in The City so if you're looking for that special engagement ring or treating yourself to celebrate a promotion or birthday, your perfect match is waiting in The City.
33. Spend a day on the river
Take in the beautiful sights of our river city at twilight from your own illuminated Riverlife kayak. When you return to the shore feast on buckets of fresh ocean king prawns and jaw-dropping views of The City. Are boats more your thing? Set sail on an electric GoBoat and enjoy an on-water picnic.
34. Play tabletop games
Put down your phone and embrace offline board games. Head to Vault Games where they let you play hundreds of games for free (just buy a drink) or pick up some unusual titles to take home. Keen board gamers will also adore a trip to Mind Games in Uptown.
35. Feel fancy at high teas
The old-world glamour of putting on your best frock and sitting down for high tea can be found in The City. From ritzy hotels to heritage venues, The City is home to an elegant variety of high tea settings.
36. Go bowling
Grab a group of mates and test your skills at Strike Bowling in Wintergarden . You can also try your hand at laser tag, escape rooms, karaoke and more.
37. Settle in for a tipple at Brisbane City's cosiest bars
If the weather turns crisp or you want to hide indoors, snuggle up at Dr Gimlette , Brooklyn Standard and Death & Taxes.
38. Markets in the gardens
Head to the Riverside Gardens Markets , home to dozens of market stalls selling quality local and important handcrafts and food and drinks. Street performers add to the festive weekend vibes from the Albert Street entry throughout the City Botanic Gardens . This market pops up by the river every Sunday from 7am to 3pm.
39. Cut laps in The City
Next to the City Botanic Gardens at the QUT Gardens Point campus is a huge YMCA fitness and aquatic centre with a big 50-metre Olympic swimming pool. Swimming is a great way to work your whole body and cardiovascular system, plus you’ll burn almost as many calories as running.
40. Drink gin at these cocktail bars
These rooftop, riverside and laneway bars offer variety and focus on quality drinking – with large ranges of gin. The City is yet to have a bar dedicated solely to the spirit but plenty of establishments are more than willing to help you experiment with new-age Australian and international gins and cocktails.
41. Explore Old Government House
You can tour Queensland’s first public and heritage-listed building, Old Government House , and enjoy the restored grandeur of 1860s architecture. There are often art exhibitions at the William Robinson Gallery or join the one-hour guided tour.
42. Spruce up your home
If you’re looking for knick-knacks, cool art and additions to your home’s interior, we’ve rounded up the best homeware stores in The City here .
43. Fine-dining palate on a student budget?
A week to go before payday and you're feeling the pinch? There are plenty of spots to eat out. Read through our cheap eats round-up.
44. Sip single malts at The Gresham
It's not just us who rave about beloved small bar The Gresham . Gourmet Traveller awarded this whisky saloon Best Bar in Australia in 2015 and 2016 and it’s won a stack of accolades since. Grab a chesterfield couch and settle in for a session.
45. Get your mouth around a burger
The classic can’t be beaten. Try Red Hook , Betty’s Burgers , Hellcat Maggie, Grill’d and Miel Container for the very best burgers in The City.
46. Tummy rumbling past 9pm?
It’s true, Brisbane-ites tend to wake up early and eat dinner early but don't worry, you're not destined for greasy fast food or sad servo snacks after 9pm. We've sourced the best late-night eats in The City that you won't regret the next morning.
47. Explore the QUT Art Museum
There are more than 3000 pieces of art in QUT Art Museum , making it one of the largest collections in Queensland. Expect a dynamic program of exhibitions from the QUT Art Collection, touring exhibitions and new works by QUT staff and students.
48. Konichiwa, delicious food!
Indulge in quality sashimi, rich ramen or crispy karaage at Brisbane's best Japanese restaurants. From cheap and cheerful to top-quality fine dining , The City has them all.
49. Eat pancakes at all hours
The Pancake Manor is a Brisbane institution and the one place that will curb your pancake cravings 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 364 days a year (they close on Christmas Day). Housed in a beautiful old church, the Pancake Manor serves up delicious meals in a gorgeous setting, no matter the time of day or night. It also has gluten-free and vegan pancakes. Huge win.
50. Get jazzy at Doo-Bop Bar Brisbane
Get your jazz fix at one of Brisbane’s best music bars Doo-Bop Bar, with over 50 free and ticketed live music sets scheduled each month. Nothing soothes the soul like some smooth tunes.
Dine, shop, play and stay in the heart of Brisbane.
Be inspired.
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