Things To Do Around Brisbane, Australia

Top 8 Things to do in Brisbane

1. Park Lands

Rich in cultural history, South Bank Parklands saw their first glimpse of promise in its post-industrial-period when World Expo 88 opened the area up for public visitation. Enjoyed by so many and seen as a valuable public space to Brisbane after Expo, South Bank’s Parklands were redeveloped for public enjoyment, and that lush inner-city oasis is still enjoyed by the public today.

Considered a haven of natural beauty and flanked by major attractions including The Wheel of Brisbane, Stanley Street Plaza, Little Stanley Street, and River Quay, the Parklands create a domain of escapism and leisurely enjoyment for all who visit. Regardless of the time of day, the Parklands always put on a spectacular show. Whether it’s the sun streaming through the famed bougainvillea-draped Arbour or a glorious red-tinted sunset dancing light along the river’s surface, views from the Parklands always inspire a breathless moment (and usually a photo or two).

Interwoven paths snake their way through the Parklands, meeting to allow you to take small jaunts to wherever you wish; to the Nepalese Pagoda, or to the numerous playgrounds and water activities for kids; for a quick dip at Streets Beach, or to pick some fresh herbs from the Epicurious garden.

There’s so much to see and do, you’ll delight in returning to South Bank time and time again, each time having the opportunity to marvel at native flora, stop and refuel at one of our many cafes and restaurants, and get swept up in the ways you can while away the time in this iconic location. The Parklands is also equipped with Wi-Fi, which is free to use 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The best part about the Parklands is its chance of discoveries and hidden spots. Take some time to explore this natural sanctuary and discover some of South Bank’s best-kept secrets and most-loved hideaways.

Source — Eatsouthbank.com.au

2. Story Bridge

Anyone with a thirst for excitement will fall in love with the Brisbane Story Bridge climb. Of all the great things to do in Brisbane, this is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating. A must-do for thrill-seeking visitors and locals, there are a few ways to experience the Story Bridge adventure.

Climbs are offered at dawn, during the day, at twilight and at night. Watch the city come alive while the sun rises over scenic Moreton Bay on a dawn climb, see it at its brightest during the day, or witness the magic of sunset and the emerging twinkling stars on a twilight climb. And if you're brave enough, you can even opt for a night adventure under the multi-coloured LED glow of the Story Bridge lights.

What is included in a Story Bridge climb?

The main attraction for many is the chance to see the best view in Brisbane! Kangaroo Point is where the adventure begins. You'll start at a Story Bridge adventure climb base camp, located right under the structure. Here, you'll receive your kit and be briefed on climbing techniques and safety. First-time climbers (Story Bridge or otherwise) are more than welcome.

Wondering what to wear? You’ll be given a fully-enclosed climb suit to wear over your own clothes. But feel free to ask your climb leaders about what else to wear during the bridge climb if you’re unsure. Fully enclosed rubber-soled footwear is a must, but the adventure climb team will be able to provide you with accessories and clothing including hats, rain-resistant jackets, sunglasses, and even sunscreen to make your climb as comfortable as possible.

For safety reasons, you can’t take items, including cameras, with you on the bridge climb. However, lockers are provided and your climb leader will take photos, which will be available to you after the climb.

How high is the Story Bridge climb?

The Story Bridge is around 74 metres in height. The climbing route is a journey of almost a kilometre, with a viewing platform high above the Brisbane River.

It’s the perfect place to take in the 360-degree views of the Brisbane skyline and beyond. From the top of Story Bridge, Brisbane’s panoramic views stretch from the Glass House Mountains in the north to the world-heritage listed Lamington National Park in the south.

Moreton Bay and some of the largest sand islands in the world lie to the east, while Mt Coot-tha and Brisbane Forest Park are to the west. It may not be as high as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, but there’s certainly no shortage of breathtaking sights from the top of the Story Bridge.

Source — Adrenaline.com.au

3. Mount Coot-Tha

As the closest elevation point to the CBD, Mt Coot-Tha is the place to go to take in a panoramic view of Brisbane and get glimpses of the surrounding region of Moreton Bay. 

As you walk the length of the observation deck, you can read a historic timeline of this iconic destination before popping a gold coin in one of the telescopes for a closer look at the suburbs below. 

Head there at sunrise to see the city radiate in a golden glow as day breaks, go by day for the picturesque backdrop or visit at night for a romantic fairyland of glittering city lights and starry skies. 

Many bushwalks will take you through the dense bushland of the mountain, and choosing the right one can be the hardest part. There are beginner tracks to the more advanced to choose from, while the Summit track will take you from the bottom to the top where the promise of an ice-cream will please the kids and kidults alike. 

A word of warning: Be careful not to choose a mountain biking track as you may leave your walk imprinted with tyre marks! 

Source — Visitbrisbane.com.au

4. Moreton Island

You have arrived at Moreton Island's best visitor information and tourism website. Moreton Island "The Gem of South East Queensland" is one of the best experiences that Australia has to offer. 

Brisbane is fortunate in having on its doorstep one of Australia's largest sand islands, making Moreton Island perfect for that much-needed getaway. 

Moreton is almost completely sand with no roads, so a 4wd is needed if going further than walking distance from the ferry landing points.

 Just across the bay from civilisation, Moreton is quickly being discovered as an unspoiled paradise for people wanting to relax and enjoy nature. This is a place where the crashing of the waves sets the pace of your day.

Imagine seeing the spectacular sunset as it falls behind the Glass House Mountains while lazing about on the soft white sand beaches of Moreton. 

Once the sun goes down the stars come out for the spectacular light show in the night sky, so clear without any city lights you could almost reach out and touch them. 

Then sleep under the stars in a tent, in beachfront accommodation, or at the resort, all just steps away from the crystal clear water of Moreton Bay that twinkles like diamonds in the light. Imagine no more all this is right across Moreton Bay on beautiful Moreton Island.

Source — Visitmoretonisland.com

5. Kangaroo Point Cliffs

Kangaroo Point, considered one of Brisbane's oldest suburbs (and Queensland's first penal settlement), is situated just outside of the city above the Brisbane River and has quite a rich history.

Well known for the Kangaroo Point Cliffs which are located on the east bank of the river, Kangaroo Point is also home to some of Brisbane's most iconic landmarks. There's the Cliffs, Brisbane's Story Bridge, and Yungaba House, an iconic building that was constructed in the 1880s.

The amazing views that can be witnessed from Kangaroo Point make the suburb not only a fantastic picnic and lookout spot but a very popular location for rock climbers and abseilers.

At night these rhyolite cliffs light up with tiny lights that allow climbers to use the area at night.

The area is also a popular walking spot with a particularly popular walk taking you under the Story Bridge to Dockside. Underneath the cliffs is the popular Story Bridge Hotel which is great for a drink in the afternoon.

Also directly below the cliffs is Captain Burke Park which is a popular picnic and BBQ area. It offers great views of the river and you can watch the rock climbers go up and down the cliffs. It's no wonder that this suburb is a popular choice for those visiting in Brisbane - browse for Kangaroo Point accommodation and book online!

Source — Brisbane-australia.com

6. Brisbane Whale Watching

Brisbane’s coastal aspect and easy access to the open ocean make it a city that blends all the benefits of modern urban construction with plenty of emphasis for enjoying water-based activities, with its iconic river, waterfront areas and nearby islands all being prime examples of this.

Heading out on the water in some form is thus a must while you’re here, and during the yearly whale watching season Brisbane offers a great opportunity to get out and see the gentle giants of the ocean, as the calm waters of the adjacent Moreton Bay, offer a place for the Humpbacks and Southern Rights to rest and tend to their young.

 Brisbane’s whale watching season takes place between June and November each year, and operator Brisbane Whale Watching provides eager participants with the chance to head out on the water and encounter the most surface-active of all whales.

Displaying playful behaviour that has to be seen up close to be fully appreciated, the Humpbacks are surprisingly agile given their mass. The sheer size of the creatures is impressive and combined with their surprising agility as they breach, it’s truly a sight to behold.

One of the added benefits of Brisbane’s whale watching offerings is the short distance you’ll have to travel for your first whale sighting; given how close Moreton Bay is to the city, it’s often possible to encounter your first whale after a mere 30 minutes worth of seafaring – something of a rarity amongst the world’s capital cities. 

Of course, given the wild and uncontrolled nature of the experience, there can’t be guarantees about how close the whales will approach, but this largely beats encountering animals in a comparatively sterile, manufactured zoo-style environment. If a whale breaches right in front of your eyes, you can be sure the behaviour was completely spontaneous which makes the occurrence all the more magical.

Source — News.experienceoz.com.au

7. North Stradbroke Island

Leave busy Brisbane for a full-day tour that showcases the natural beauty of North Stradbroke Island. Swim in the surf or freshwater lakes, take a short guided hike, view whales and other marine animals from the beach and coastal lookouts, visit small towns including historic Dunwich and Amity, and go in search of the island’s population of wild kangaroos and koalas. Your small-group tour has numbers limited to 21 people, which ensures a more personalized experience with your knowledgeable guide. 

Get an early start with pick up from the Transit Centre, then ride in an air-conditioned coach to the North Stradbroke Island ferry stop, located about one hour away. Board the ferry for the 30-minute crossing of Moreton Bay to reach the island. 

During your day out on North Stradbroke Island, your guide takes you to all the top sights, allowing you to do and see more without the hassle of driving and navigating. One of your first stops is Brown Lake, one of more than 100 freshwater lakes on the island. Have time to take a refreshing dip in the lake or relax on the white-sand lakeshore beach. You’ll also stop at Myora Springs, a freshwater spring surrounded by tropical forest, and hear about its significance to the local Aboriginal people. 

Take a guided walk coastal trail called North Gorge Walk where you can spot migrating humpback whales (from May to October), dolphins, turtles or manta rays swimming below and at Point Lookout. Your guide also takes you to locations in the interior where you might find wild koalas munching eucalyptus leaves and kangaroos lounging in the grass. 

Enjoy an included lunch at Stradbroke Island Hotel, along with stops for morning and afternoon tea (own expense). Visit small developed areas including the historic town of Dunwich, the fishing village of Amity, Cylinder Beach, and Frenchman’s Beach. You’ll then have free time in the afternoon to explore at your leisure. 

Source — Viator.com