Best 20 things to do in Brisbane, Australia

Welcome to the funky and vibrant land of Brisbane, where the sun shines brighter than Hugh Jackman's smile. Don't miss out on a dip in the Streets Beach, where you can soak up the sun while profusely applying sunscreen. Fancy a unique experience? Hop on a CityCat ferry and enjoy a breezy ride while gazing longingly at the city skyline. Wrap up your adventure with a stroll through South Bank's food precinct, because what better way to end a day than by devouring copious amounts of food and pretending you're on MasterChef!

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1. Brisbane Riverwalk

4.5 (2)

45D Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

Welcome to the Brisbane Riverwalk, where you can strut your stuff while simultaneously avoiding the dreaded act of walking directly beside cars. This riverside masterpiece is a delightful path, perfect for those who wish to maintain their land legs while still enjoying the scenic views of the city's iconic river. So, grab your joggers or leisurely stroll along this 870 meter floating oasis, and remember that no matter how tempting it may be, it’s probably best not to reenact the Titanic scene while you’re here.

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2. City Botanic Gardens

4.7 (11008)

City Botanic Gardens, 147 Alice St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

Welcome to the City Botanic Gardens in Brisbane, where you can indulge in some serious botanical bliss while subtly competing with random joggers to achieve the ultimate zen. Immerse yourself in a garden so green that even the Incredible Hulk would turn green with envy (pun intended). Be sure to find a shady spot to enjoy a picnic, unless you fancy lunching with the resident ibis gang, who are always ready to snatch your sandwich like an avian Mission Impossible team.

www.brisbane.qld.gov.au

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3. Streets Beach

4.7 (277)

Stanley St Plaza, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Welcome to Streets Beach, the urban oasis that will make you question if you took a wrong turn and landed on a tropical island instead of Brisbane! This man-made wonder boasts crystal-clear waters that are sure to give you the illusion of being a mermaid or a dolphin, depending on your personal aspirations. And fear not, dear visitor, for this beach has no risk of that pesky seaweed hugging your ankles; just a smooth and sandy bottom that will make you feel like you're walking on butter.

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4. XXXX Brewery Tour

3.8 (1142)

Level 1, Cnr Black &, Paten St, Milton QLD 4064, Australia

Welcome to the XXXX Brewery Tour in Brisbane, where beer and hilarity flow side by side! Get ready to embark on a liquid adventure through the sacred halls of this iconic Aussie brewery. As you step foot into this hop-filled wonderland, prepare to become one with the aromas of malt, barley, and Burleigh Heads backpackers discussing their latest surfing adventures. Take a quirky journey behind the scenes of the brewing process, where the magical ingredients are carefully combined to create the holy elixir known as XXXX beer. Witness the mischievous brewers in action, juggling giant vats of frothy goodness like circus performers, or maybe just stumbling around after tasting a little too much of their own creation. As you delve deeper into the wonderland, be enchanted by the tales of the legendary XXXX brewmasters, who guard their secret recipes with the ferocity of a overprotective emu guarding its eggs. Discover the fascinating history of XXXX, from its humble beginnings as a small family business to its current status as a beloved Australian icon, loved by bogans, hipsters, and even the occasional kangaroo playing the didgeridoo. To top off the experience, indulge in a tasting session where you'll savor the flavors of different XXXX brews. Whether you're a fan of the classic XXXX Gold or prefer the boldness of XXXX Bitter, there's a beer to tickle every taste bud within these walls. Just remember, moderation is for quokkas, so drink up and immerse yourself in the frothy delight of the XXXX Brewery Tour, where fun and fermentation collide!

www.xxxx.com.au

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5. Fortitude Valley

Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia

Welcome to Fortitude Valley, Brisbane's vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that's always ready to party! Here, the spirits are high, and so are the buildings. Brace yourself as you stroll through the Valley's streets, where towering skyscrapers intertwine with quirky clubs, creating a skyline that resembles a tipsy game of Jenga. Prepare for an adventure through the Valley's maze-like laneways, where you can discover hidden gems amidst a sea of hipsters. Be sure to step into the myriad of trendy boutiques, where fashionistas flock to find the latest threads and have been known to engage in heated debates over the "right" way to wear a beanie. As the sun sets, the Valley truly comes alive, transforming into a nocturnal playground for party animals and night owls alike. With its pulsating nightlife, you'll find crowds descending upon the Valley's bars and clubs, where dancing and questionable decision-making rule the night. Embrace the chaos, sip on a quirky cocktail, and prepare to dance like no one's watching in this spirited slice of Brisbane.

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6. Queensland Museum and Sciencentre

4.6 (7060)

Grey Street &, Melbourne St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Welcome to the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre in sunny Brisbane, mate! This unique gem will leave you so entertained, you won't even have a chance to miss those beachy waves. Prepare to explore the fascinating world of dinosaurs, marvel at the rarest of gemstones, and even challenge your brainpower with interactive science exhibits. Leave your sunscreen behind, because this place is an all-weather adventure packed with laughter, knowledge, and a few questionable dance moves by the animatronic T-Rex. Don't forget to grab a selfie with the famous fossilized kangaroo — a must for any aspiring archaeologist or wildlife enthusiast like yourself!

www.museum.qld.gov.au

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7. New Farm Park

4.7 (3739)

1042 Brunswick St, New Farm QLD 4005, Australia

Welcome to New Farm Park, the vibrant oasis nestled in the heart of Brisbane! Prepare to be amazed by a sprawling green haven where Instagram-worthy picnics and dog-watching competitions reign supreme. Indulge in leisurely strolls along palm-lined pathways, but beware of rogue joggers who may accidentally whip past you at the speed of Usain Bolt on a caffeine high. Don't forget to soak up the sun with a casual game of Frisbee, where the competition is fierce and the risk of accidentally aiming for a stranger’s face is alarmingly high—extra points for managing to hit a passing seagull.

www.newfarmpark.com.au

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8. Suncorp Stadium

4.5 (9475)

40 Castlemaine St, Milton QLD 4064, Australia

Welcome to Suncorp Stadium! Nestled amidst the bustling city of Brisbane, this cheeky architectural gem is where the Vikings play football and the unicorns root for rugby. With its impressive canopy roof that resembles a dinosaur's backside, it not only shields you from unpredictable weather but also doubles as an umbrella for any unexpected supersized dinos roaming around. Prepare to be blown away by the electric atmosphere and a seating arrangement that promises a closer bond with your neighbor than your usual online dating app. So, put on your lucky socks and get ready to cheer until your voice cracks like an overenthusiastic teenager hitting puberty!

www.suncorpstadium.com.au

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9. Roma Street Parkland

4.7 (8465)

1 Parkland Blvd, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

Welcome to Roma Street Parkland, where nature gracefully struts its stuff right in the midst of the bustling city of Brisbane. This park is like the resident superhero, only without the cape, saving the day when skyscrapers give folks a crick in their necks and urban life leaves them parched for greenery. You'll find lush gardens where plants frolic like they're at a botanical disco, stunning water features that will make you wish you had gills, and a serene aura that could make even a melodramatic pigeon contemplate the meaning of life.

www.visitbrisbane.com.au

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10. Wheel of Brisbane

4.4 (5209)

Russell St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Welcome to the Wheel of Brisbane, where you'll find yourself spinning high above the bustling streets of Brisbane in a delightful, oversized hamster wheel for humans. Get ready to defy gravity and embrace the sensation of being a colossal puppet on some celestial string as you rotate gracefully 60 meters into the air. With panoramic views of the city that will make your heart skip a beat (or two), this wheel promises not only a marvelous sightseeing experience but also a surefire way to convince your friends that you're living life on the edge...quite literally!

www.thewheelofbrisbane.com.au

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11. Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)

4.6 (8155)

Stanley Pl, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Welcome to the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in Brisbane, where art aficionados and cheese enthusiasts unite! Get ready to have your mind blown by mind-boggling installations that make you question your life choices - but don't worry, you can ponder over them while sipping on overpriced coffee at the hipster café conveniently located in GOMA's premises. Who needs a Picasso when you can stare in awe at the infamous painting of a seemingly abstract brushstroke that just screams, "I swear I could have done that!"

www.qagoma.qld.gov.au

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12. Museum of Brisbane

4.4 (1875)

Level 3, Brisbane City Hall, 64 Adelaide St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

Nestled in the heart of Brisbane, the Museum of Brisbane is not your typical stuffy museum. Here, you can bid adieu to yawn-inducing exhibitions and prepare to have your mind blown by a delightful fusion of history, art, and creativity. Its vibrant displays will make you feel like you've stumbled into the fanciest attic party in town – complete with ancient artifacts, modern masterpieces, and interactive installations that may or may not transport you to another dimension (no guarantees, though).

www.museumofbrisbane.com.au

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13. Mount Coot-tha

Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia

Welcome to Mount Coot-tha, the crown jewel of Brisbane's natural scenery! Soar high like a keebler elf on a sugar rush as you take in breathtaking views from the mountain's summit. Don't panic if you forgot your hiking boots; there's a cheeky local tradition of ascending the trails in flip-flops, also known as "thong trekking" - just make sure to channel your inner ninja to avoid embarrassing toe malfunctions!

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14. Story Bridge Adventure Climb

4.8 (746)

170 Main St, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169, Australia

Welcome to a Brisbane adventure that will leave you reaching for the skies, or at least the top of a gigantic steel structure! The Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers a thrilling climb to conquer the towering heights and provides stunning panoramic views that'll make your fear of heights momentarily take a backseat to absolute awe. Get those calf muscles working, as you embark on an adventure that promises unparalleled views and the occasional wind-swept hairstyle upgrade.

storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au

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15. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

4.6 (8370)

708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket QLD 4069, Australia

Welcome to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane, the place where cuddliness rises to unBEARable levels! Prepare yourself for a wild encounter with Australia's most beloved creatures, where you can unleash your inner koala hugger without judgment. Get up close and personal with these eucalyptus-munching, snuggling experts, and don't forget to snap a selfie to convince your friends you have started an elite koala cult.

koala.net

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16. Queen Street Mall

4.4 (10395)

Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

Welcome to the Queen Street Mall in Brisbane, where shopping enthusiasts can indulge in a delightful frenzy of purchasing extravagance! Prepare to be swept off your feet as you weave through a maze of stores offering everything from stylish fashion to ridiculously cute koala-shaped trinkets. Don't be surprised if you find yourself leaving with a smile on your face and an empty wallet – but hey, who needs money when you're surrounded by retail therapy haven?

www.visitbrisbane.com.au

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17. The Gabba

4.4 (4741)

Vulture St, Woolloongabba QLD 4102, Australia

Welcome to The Gabba in Brisbane, affectionately known as the "beach without an ocean" due to its sandy surrounds. Securely tucked away from any actual beach, this iconic cricket ground offers a one-of-a-kind experience for sports enthusiasts and seagulls alike. Visitors can soak up the sun, while pretending to catch waves of anticipation as they cheer on their favorite teams, or count how many cricket balls have found temporary refuge in the neighboring Brisbane River.

www.thegabba.com.au

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18. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium

4.5 (369)

Mount Coot-Tha Rd, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia

Nestled in sunny Brisbane, the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is like a cosmic Starbucks for star enthusiasts. It's a celestial hotspot where you can sip on the universe, with a sprinkle of quirkiness. Step inside and be dazzled by its eye-popping dome, as if you've stepped into a real-life snow globe curated by aliens. Marvel at the galactic wonders and let your imagination blast off like a rocket (don't worry, it won't ruin your hairdo).

www.brisbane.qld.gov.au

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19. South Bank Parklands

4.7 (299)

Clem Jones Promenade, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Welcome to South Bank Parklands in Brisbane, where the sun always shines brighter than a smiley-faced emoji! This lively oasis is a paradise of cool riverside breezes and enough activities to make an Australian kangaroo do a double hop. With its epic lagoon, bustling markets, and an abundance of food that will have you loosening your belt buckle like a true connoisseur, South Bank Parklands is a perfect blend of relaxation and action for the fun-loving traveler.

www.visitbrisbane.com.au

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20. Brisbane Powerhouse

4.6 (4346)

Yagara Country, 119 Lamington St, New Farm QLD 4005, Australia

Welcome to the Brisbane Powerhouse, where you can get your dose of culture with a side of quirky. This former power station has traded coal for comedy and boasts an electric atmosphere. From captivating theater performances to art exhibitions that will leave you scratching your head, this riverside venue is sure to charge up your Brisbane adventure.

brisbanepowerhouse.org

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Brisbane, Australia by plane is to fly into Brisbane Airport. There are many airlines that fly to Brisbane from various destinations across the world. Some of the major airlines that fly to Brisbane include Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Emirates.

Car

The best way to get to Brisbane, Australia by car is to drive from major cities such as Sydney or Melbourne. You can take the Pacific Highway from Sydney to Brisbane, which is a scenic route that runs along the coast, or you can take the Newell Highway from Melbourne to Brisbane.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train that goes directly to Brisbane, Australia. However, you can take a train to a nearby city, such as the Gold Coast, and then take a bus or drive the rest of the way to Brisbane.

Boat

The best way to get to Brisbane, Australia by boat is to take a cruise that stops in Brisbane as part of its itinerary. There are many cruise lines that offer cruises to Australia, with stops in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Bus

The best way to get to Brisbane, Australia by bus is to take a Greyhound bus from various cities across Australia. Greyhound has buses that run daily from major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne to Brisbane, with various stops along the way.

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Escape to Brisbane for a Romantic Getaway

Escape to Brisbane with your special someone and experience the perfect romantic getaway. Stroll hand in hand through the picturesque Botanic Gardens or dine under the stars in South Bank's riverside restaurants. End your magical evening watching the city lights from the top of the iconic Story Bridge.

Fall in Love with Brisbane: A Romantic Day Trip

Brisbane, Australia is an ideal destination for a romantic trip with your partner. This vibrant city is full of charming cafes, romantic parks, and breathtaking landscapes that you can explore together. With its warm climate and relaxed atmosphere, Brisbane is a perfect getaway for couples looking to spend some quality time together.

Brisbane for Broke Backpackers: A Budget Guide

Brisbane, Australia is a great destination for travelers on a limited budget. From free walking tours to affordable public transportation, there are plenty of ways to stay within your budget. With beautiful parks, markets, and cultural attractions, you can enjoy everything this city has to offer without breaking the bank.

Brisbane Bliss: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure

A trip to Brisbane, Australia promises a delightful family-friendly experience. With its sunny weather, vibrant culture, and abundance of outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. Explore the iconic Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, take a leisurely stroll along South Bank Parklands, and enjoy the stunning views from the Wheel of Brisbane for a memorable and exciting family vacation.