Top 10 things to do in Brisbane
Discover Brisbane's top 10 attractions, from the stunning Mt Coot-tha Lookout to the vibrant Howard Smith Wharves. Explore art, culture, and scenic waterfronts. For a guided walk, book a Brisbane Greeters tour.
You don't need to look far to find things to see and do in beautiful, subtropical Brisbane. Here are 10 places to visit to explore Brisbane's attractions and sightseeing locations.
1. Mt Coot-tha precinct
You won't find a better spot to enjoy Brisbane's outdoors than the Mt Coot-tha precinct. Discover nature at the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, featuring diverse native and exotic plants across 56 hectares.
While you're there, head up the mountain to the Mt Coot-tha Lookout for the best view of Brisbane.
If you're looking for a challenge, hike the short, beginner-friendly Summit Track in Mt Coot-tha Reserve. Afterward, treat yourself to ice cream from The Summit Cafe.
2. QAGOMA
Discover our world through the eyes of local and international artists at the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). Each gallery features amazing art exhibitions and hosts various programs and events year-round. It also features the Children's Art Centre which offers interactive art activities families to explore their creativity.
3. Howard Smith Wharves
Howard Smith Wharves is Brisbane's best lifestyle and entertainment destination. The ever-evolving precinct brings a diversity of food, music and community together. With several restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from, there's something for everyone.
4. Queensland Museum and Museum of Brisbane
Experience Brisbane's vibrant culture and history at its top museums. The Museum of Brisbane, located in City Hall, highlights the city's history. For a look at prehistoric giants and modern achievements, visit the Queensland Museum across the river. Spend the day exploring ancient creatures and cultures, or have fun with interactive science activities in SparkLab.
5. Guided city tours
A must-do for locals and visitors, the Brisbane City Hall Clock Tower Tour lets you explore a piece of the city’s history. Take fifteen minutes to ride one of Brisbane's oldest lifts and peek behind Australia's largest analogue clock faces.
Want to learn more about some of Brisbane's most iconic spots? Book a Brisbane Greeters tour. Try the Bulimba walking tour, Nundah German history tour, or explore Indooroopilly's Walter Talyor Bridge – all for free.
6. Archerfield Wetlands Discovery Trail
Located in Brisbane's southwest, Archerfield Wetlands Parkland has a new three-kilometre trail perfect for walking or cycling. The Wetlands Discovery Trail guides visitors through floodplains, open grasslands, native forests, and across creeks. Take a break at the shady lookout over an open water section of the wetlands.
7. New Farm Park and Brisbane Powerhouse
With its rich heritage and expansive river frontage, New Farm is know for its grand park and the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse. New Farm Park is one of Brisbane's oldest and largest parks. It features large open spaces framed by giant fig trees and the Brisbane River making it the perfect spot for a picnic.
Craving some entertainment? Brisbane Powerhouse hosts over a thousand performances and events each year. Catering for all preferences, take your pick of theatre, comedy, dance, music, film, visual arts and more.
8. Brisbane's best playgrounds
Brisbane has playgrounds your kids will love, featuring attractions like flying foxes, skywalks, tube slides, and mouse wheels. Check out favorites like Bradbury Park in Kedron, Frew Park in Milton, and Calamvale District Park. For more ideas, explore Brisbane's best new parks and playgrounds.
9. Seaside adventures
Put aside a weekend to explore Brisbane's bayside. The Sandgate to Shorncliffe bayside walk is a gorgeous coastal stroll, with plenty to see along the way. If you're keen for a fish, or just want to take in the view, The Shorncliffe Pier is the perfect spot.
South of the river, you will find the hugely popular Wynnum Whale Park. Feauturing a large playground, boardwalk, jetty and water play space, it is a great place to spend a warm weekend with family and friends. Discover more about Wynnum parks.
10. Catch a CityCat
What better way to see the city than from the water! Council runs 24 CityCats and 5 KittyCats along a network of terminals from St Lucia to Northshore Hamilton. A fun and affordable experience, it is suitable for all ages.