Brisbane

Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Brisbane

Brisbane, the vibrant capital of Queensland, Australia, is a city with sunshine in its soul. Known as the “River City,” Brisbane boasts stunning natural beauty alongside a bustling urban scene. This guide will help you navigate the best of what Brisbane has to offer and make your trip memorable.

Table of Contents

  • I. Getting to Know Brisbane:
    • A Brief Introduction to the City
    • Best Time to Visit
  • II. Must-See Attractions:
    • Natural Wonders:
      • South Bank Parklands:
      • Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary:
      • Brisbane Botanic Gardens:
      • Mount Coot-tha Lookout:
      • The Story Bridge:
      • Cultural Experiences:
      • Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA):
      • Queensland Museum:
      • Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (QAG):
        • Art and Culture:
          • Explore the diverse collections at the QAGOMA, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, European masterpieces, and contemporary Australian works.
          • Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene with performances at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) or catch a show at one of Brisbane’s many live music venues.
        • Cultural Events:
          • Check out local festivals like the Ekka (Brisbane Exhibition), Riverfire, and World Science Festival for a taste of Brisbane’s lively culture.
  • III. Beyond the City Centre:

IV. Exploring the Outdoors:

  • Parks and Gardens:

Enjoy the beauty of nature in the heart of the city at:

  • South Bank Parklands:
    • Parklands: Explore lush green spaces, relax by the Brisbane River, enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of Mount Coot-tha, or visit the vibrant street art scene.
  • QAGOMA: Immerse yourself in the world of art and culture at this renowned museum, home to both contemporary and historical exhibitions.

South Bank Parklands:

V. Exploring the Parks and Gardens:

  • What makes them special?

The South Bank Parklands are a vibrant hub of activity, offering a mix of cultural experiences, green spaces, and outdoor activities. Located right on the Brisbane River, these 17 hectares (42 acres) are home to:

    • South Bank’s Iconic Features:
    • Riverside Green:

Relax in this sprawling parkland with its open-air amphitheater, picnic areas, and beautiful river views.

  • The Wheel of Brisbane: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city from 63 meters (207 feet) above ground level.

IV. Beyond the Basics:

A. Where to Eat:

  • Fine Dining: For a special occasion or a luxurious treat, try:
    • Aria: Award-winning restaurant with stunning river views, renowned for its modern Australian cuisine and exquisite wine list.
    • The Restaurant at The Treasury: Located in a historic building, this fine dining establishment offers an elegant ambiance and a menu featuring modern interpretations of classic dishes.

B. Casual Dining:

  • South Bank Markets: Indulge in fresh local produce and artisanal treats every weekend.

V. Culinary Adventures Beyond the City:

  • The Gabba: Enjoy classic Aussie pub fare and drinks with a view of this iconic cricket ground.
    • Howard Smith Wharves: Savor delicious meals at one of the many restaurants overlooking the river, while enjoying the ambiance and stunning views.

C. Cafes & Bars:

  • The Coffee Club: A Queensland institution, you’ll find plenty of locations for a quick bite or coffee break.
  • Coffee shops on the streets: Brisbane has a vibrant cafe culture with independent cafes offering unique culinary experiences.

D. Something Special:

  • Eat Street Markets: Explore a variety of cuisines from around the world at this bustling food market.
  • Brisbane Brewing Co.: Enjoy locally brewed craft beer and tasty food in a relaxed brewery setting.

V. Food Trucks and Restaurants:

  • South Bank Eats: A haven for foodies, these markets feature diverse culinary offerings and a lively atmosphere.

V. Explore the City’s Beauty:

  • River Quay Green: Relax on the grassy riverside lawns while enjoying free events like outdoor movies and concerts.
  • Roma Street Parklands: Stroll through this tranquil oasis and enjoy the lush greenery, gardens, and walking paths.

C. Food & Drinks:

  • The Wandering Cooks: This is a food hub for independent vendors with an eclectic mix of cuisines in a communal setting.
  • Queensland Craft Beer: A variety of local breweries offer unique beers like those from the XXXX Brewery.

D. Art and Culture:

  • Try the Wheel of Brisbane: Enjoy the views while sipping on a coffee or beer.

E. Explore the City’s History:

  • QAGOMA: The Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art offers historical exhibitions, art workshops, and live music performances.
  • Queensland Brewery Tours: Discover the history of brewing in Brisbane with a tour at one of the breweries (like the XXXX Brewery) or explore the city’s historic pubs and breweries.

II. Food and Drinks: Experiences Beyond the Usual

  • Breweries:

Enjoy the craft beer scene, with a variety of breweries offering tours and tastings.

  • Queensland Brewing History: Visit historical sites like the Queensland Brewing Company and the Brisbane Brewing Co. to learn about the state’s brewing heritage.

  • Explore the City’s Vibrant Food Markets:

    • Brisbane Farmers Markets: Held every week, these markets are a great place to find fresh, local produce and sample delicious food from local vendors.

  • Enjoy the vibrant street art scene:

Find it along Brisbane’s laneways, bridges, and even in unexpected places like public restrooms and alleyways.

E. Cafes & Bars (cont.):

  • The Coffee Club: Known for its coffee and casual dining experience, The Coffee Club offers a wide variety of dishes from the “usual suspects”

(burgers, pizzas) to unique culinary creations.

  • Enjoy delicious meals at local restaurants:

Explore Brisbane’s diverse culinary scene with a visit to one of the many restaurants offering international cuisine.

  • Fringe Benefits: Enjoying the vibrant nightlife and dining options on the South Bank Parklands

  • Sample local delicacies:

Try out the variety of cafes and bars along the South Bank

(e.g., “XXXX Brewery” for a classic Queensland experience).

  • A. Faves Market:
    • Located in various spots around Brisbane, this market offers a wide range of food options, including fresh seafood, local produce, and craft beers.**
  • B. Explore the state’s brewing heritage:

Visit the historic brewery and learn about its traditional brewing methods.

  • Brisbane Brewing Trail:

Enjoy a variety of beers from different breweries while exploring the city.

  • Market experiences:

  • Brisbane Markets: A diverse range of local markets offer fresh produce, artisan crafts, and unique goods.

V. Exploring the City:

  • Queensland Museum: Explore exhibits on natural history, paleontology, and archaeology.
  • The Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA): Experience contemporary art installations from local and international artists.

Brisbane: A City for Every Taste

These are just a few ideas for your time in Brisbane.

Remember, the “River Quay” is right on the river, so you can enjoy the views while sipping on your drink.

  • Queensland Art Gallery:

Explore Queensland’s art scene and enjoy the stunning architecture of the building itself.

Beyond the “Brisbane Botanic Gardens”:

  • Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA): A great place to find out about local artists and exhibitions.
  • The Queensland Art Gallery: Offers a variety of workshops and events throughout the year.
  • Experience the vibrant arts scene:
  • Enjoy the “Brisbane River” experience:

V. Things to do in Brisbane:

  • Explore the bustling streets: Discover the city’s hidden gems, like the “Valley Fiesta” and the “South Bank Parklands”.
  • Visit the historical buildings: The Queensland Gallery of Modern Art offers a variety of exhibitions, but also has a modern architecture.

Brisbane: A City with a Variety of Food Experiences

Remember to enjoy the local food scene!

A. Enjoying the Culinary Delights:

  • The Coffee Club: This popular Australian chain offers delicious coffee and a range of other drinks and dishes for every occasion.
  • Explore “South Bank”:

V. Beyond the usual:

  • Brewery tours: There are many breweries in Brisbane offering tours and tastings, so you can explore the history and process of brewing.

  • Queensland Brewing Company (XXXX Brewery): Enjoy a brewery tour and learn about the iconic “XXXX Gold” and other local beers.

  • Beyond the breweries:

Explore the diverse restaurants on the South Bank, including:

  • South Bank Brewhouse: This brewery offers a wide range of craft beers, along with a delicious menu of pub food and international cuisine.
  • The Wheel of Brisbane: Enjoy a variety of food stalls and vendors offering different types of food.
  • Queensland’s Diverse Food Scene:

Visit one of the many restaurants or cafes on the South Bank.

  • Dining Beyond the Restaurants:

Explore the vibrant “South Bank Parklands” for free events, like:

  • Outdoor markets: Enjoy local delicacies, browse unique crafts and enjoy the atmosphere.

B. Immerse yourself in the local culture:

  • Explore the “Brisbane Markets”

(e.g., the “Jan Powers Farmers Markets”)

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and sample food from various vendors:

Try local produce and artisan foods at the “South Bank Farmers’ Market”.

GOMA:

  • Visit the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in Brisbane to experience its vibrant and diverse art scene.
  • Explore the Riverfront:

The “South Bank Riverfire” event is a highlight for many.

Enjoy a picnic or explore the markets and cafes, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere:

  • Exploring the “Brisbane Showgrounds”:

  • Live Music & Entertainment:

Enjoy a variety of musical performances at the “Brisbane Arts Festival”.

  • Explore the local art scene:

Experience the vibrant and diverse culture of Brisbane.

  • The Brisbane Powerhouse: This iconic venue hosts a range of events, from theatre to live music and comedy.

  • South Bank is a cultural hub:

  • Visit the South Bank Parklands:

  • Explore the “South Bank Markets”:

Enjoy the variety of art & culture experiences at the

  • “Brisbane River” Experiences (cont.):
  • Exploring the Arts:

Discover the vibrant nightlife and enjoy the views.

  • The “South Bank Parklands” are a haven for foodies:
  • Explore the South Bank markets:
  • Food Trucks:

Enjoy the diverse food scene and try out different cuisines.

  • Farmers Market:

Find a variety of local producers and vendors selling fresh produce, delicious treats, and unique souvenirs.

  • Local Markets:

Remember to check out the “Valley Markets” for a vibrant mix of arts and crafts.**

  • The “Brisbane River” offers a variety of experiences:
  • Markets:

Explore local markets like the “South Bank Markets” and others for:

  • A. Unique food and drink options: From local Australian fare to international cuisine, the choices are endless.

GOMA:

  • Explore the “Brisbane Arts Festival”:

Enjoy a variety of experiences at the “South Bank Parklands”:

  • Music & Food:

Enjoy the vibrant and diverse art scene.

Discover the various types of music available in Brisbane:

  • The “Valley Market” offers local food, drinks, and entertainment on a regular basis.

  • Live Music Venues:

Enjoy a variety of musical experiences, from live bands to acoustic sets.

  • The “South Bank Markets”:

Explore the vibrant nightlife and enjoy a variety of unique cuisines.

  • Local Artisans: Discover local artists and artisans showcasing their work at the “South Bank Market”.

A. Enjoy the “Riverfire” Fireworks:

  • “West End”:

Enjoy the variety of local artists and performers who showcase their talents.

  • “South Bank Markets” (cont.):

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and experience the diverse food scene:

  • Local Artisans & Designers:

Experience the vibrant cultural offerings of Brisbane’s “South Bank”:

  • Explore the vibrant South Bank, a popular destination for local artists and musicians.

The “South Bank Markets” are a great place to find unique foods and gifts. *

Enjoy a variety of local artisans and performers who showcase their talents at the market.

  • B. Local Produce:

Enjoy the fresh ingredients available.

  • Unique Experiences:

Enjoy the variety of events happening on the “South Bank”.

  • Explore the “Brisbane River”:

Enjoy the vibrant cultural offerings and explore the local cuisine.

  • “Brisbane Riverfire”:

Experience the excitement of the annual fireworks display over the Brisbane River. *

A. Local Markets:

  • The South Bank Markets:

Offer a variety of food and drink options, from fresh seafood to local brews. *

Enjoy the diverse culinary offerings of Brisbane’s riverfront markets.

  • Food Trucks & Festivals:

Explore the vibrant nightlife on “South Bank” with its popular bars and restaurants. *

B. Explore the “Brisbane River”

  • (at a variety of locations) like “South Bank”:

Enjoy local brews and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

  • The “Valley”:
  • The South Bank:

Discover the history of the “XXXX Brewery” and its role in Brisbane’s story.

  • Local Food Markets:

Explore local markets for a taste of Queensland cuisine, fresh produce, and unique experiences.

Experience the “South Bank”: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and explore the variety of local artisans. *

Enjoy the various “South Bank” events and enjoy the culinary scene.

C. Enjoying the “South Bank”:

  • XXXX Brewery: Explore the diverse food scene, with a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from.

  • Local Food & Drink:

Explore local markets for delicious food trucks and discover the vibrant atmosphere

  • The South Bank Parklands:

Enjoy the vibrant cultural offerings like the “South Bank” Arts Festival:

Enjoy the unique experience of the city’s history,

Enjoy the variety of “South Bank” experiences.

Remember to enjoy:

  • Local Culture:

Explore the diverse local culture and its attractions.

  • The South Bank Arts Festival:

Celebrate the vibrant “South Bank” community. Enjoy the variety of events, from

  • South Bank Markets:

Enjoy a variety of unique treats and goods

  • Local Craft & Food Vendors:

Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Brisbane. **

South Bank “Riverfire” Fireworks:

Remember:

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Brisbane.

  • Experience the “South Bank”:

Explore the variety of events and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere

  • The South Bank: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the markets, restaurants, and bars.

  • Explore the Market:

Experience the vibrant culture:

  • Support local artists and businesses by visiting their stalls at the “Riverfire”:

Enjoy the fresh food and drinks they offer.

  • Discover the unique offerings:

Explore the South Bank Markets (cont.):

B. “South Bank Riverfire”:

Explore the variety of food and beverages available at the market.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and variety of local crafts

  • Local Food & Drink:

Enjoy the unique flavors of Australia’s diverse culture

A. Enjoying the “South Bank”: a Variety of Experiences: *

The South Bank is renowned for its vibrant markets, offering fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and food stalls.

B. The “South Bank Riverfire”:

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the event

Explore the local artisan scene:

Explore a variety of local artists:

  • “South Bank Arts Market”:

Enjoy the experience of a bustling market with live music, delicious food, and unique crafts.

  • “South Bank Markets”:

A popular destination for fresh produce, artisanal brews, and local

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and discover local delicacies like:

  • The “South Bank” seafood festival:

This event celebrates the abundance of seafood on the Brisbane River.

Enjoy the diverse culinary offerings and experience the city’s culture.

  • Local breweries:

Offer a variety of craft beers, from classic lagers to

A. Products:

B. The “South Bank”:

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with its local artisans and makers:

Enjoy the fresh ingredients and unique crafts available at

  • The “South Bank” is a great place to discover local talent:

Explore the South Bank Arts Market for

  • Local Markets:

Enjoy the variety of artisan crafts, local produce, and handcrafted goods.

  • Unique Products:

Discover a variety of art vendors showcasing their craft and skills. **

Visit the “South Bank” and enjoy the diverse atmosphere:

Enjoy the variety of food and drink options, from local food stalls to international

restaurants.

  • The “South Bank”:

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and discover the variety of restaurants and eateries. **

  • Local Markets:

  • Brisbane’s bustling markets:

A. Enjoy the diverse range of activities and events offered.

  • Visit the South Bank:

Enjoy the local produce and artisanal goods at the “South

Bank” markets.

  • Enjoy the variety:

B. Explore the “South Bank” (cont.):

Enjoy a variety of food and beverages.

A. Local Crafts & Food Vendors:

The South Bank Markets offer a variety of local crafts and artisanal goods, making them a great place to experience the vibrant culture of Brisbane.

Remember: The South Bank is known for its diverse offerings. **

You can enjoy the vibrant history by:

Attending events like “Riverfire” which celebrate the city’s riverfront location. **

**

Learning about the local producers who showcase their talents at the market.

**A. B. Enjoy