Fun things to do at night on the Brisbane River
Discover exciting things to do at night along the Brisbane River. Enjoy scenic CityCat rides, starlit picnics, and vibrant dining at riverfront restaurants.
Looking for things to do in Brisbane after dark? We've pulled together a bunch of the city's best waterfront places and venues with views of the Brisbane River.
Getting around
In Brisbane, nothing is more iconic than zooming along the river on a CityCat. Luckily, you can enjoy water travel well into the evening. For the best night river experience, go upstairs on a double-decker CityCat for a 360-degree skyline view.
The free CityHopper service is another way to travel Brisbane's inner-city along the river. Featuring the KittyCat ferrys, you will be amazed by the views from the wide panoramic windows. The service runs between 5.30am-midnight Sunday to Thursday, with later services operating on Friday and Saturday nights.
Gateway to the Valley and beyond
The Howard Smith Wharves ferry terminal are the gateway to Fortitude Valley and New Farm. Relax with a meal at Mr. Percival's waterfront bar, then take a lift to Bowen Terrace and walk to your chosen venue. Whether you enjoy Fortitude Valley's nightlife or a meal at La Costa on Brunswick Street, it all begins with a CityCat ride.
Picnic under the stars at New Farm Park
Brisbane's oldest and grandest park isn't just popular among day-trippers. Brisbane's oldest and grandest park attracts more than just day-trippers; it shines at night too! Gather your friends and find a spot by the riverbank for a starlit picnic, or cozy up with a blanket and enjoy the scene.
Looking to find entertainment? The historic Brisbane Powerhouse is an easy, five-minute walk from the New Farm Park ferry terminal. It regularly hosts live performances, comedy, and cultural events. It also houses two much-loved riverside hangouts - Mary Mae's Bar & Kitchen and Bar Alto.
Other great picnic spots include Newstead Park, home to Brisbane's oldest house, Newstead House, Oreligh Park, and Rocks Riverside Park.
Eat your heart out at Eat Street
If doughnut fries, cronut ice cream, or Snickers cannoli tempt your taste buds, spend a night at the famous Eat Street Northshore in Hamilton. Take a CityCat to Northshore Hamilton and head to the colorful shipping containers. Enjoy delicious food and music every Friday and Saturday from 4-10 PM, and Sunday from 4-9 PM. You will likely wish to visit multiple times to sample everything available.
Take a stroll through South Bank
Whether you're new to Brisbane or a local, a night on the river isn't complete without South Bank. This iconic area offers some of the best bars and restaurants, along with many options for eating and entertainment. Enjoy a meal at an eatery, swim at Streets Beach, catch a show at QPAC, or ride the Wheel of Brisbane for great city views.
Spend Friday or Saturday night late-night shopping at the Collective Markets on Little Stanley Street, open until 9pm. A short walk to Grey Street leads you to Fish Lane, a lively area with buzzing bars, stylish restaurants, and vibrant street art.
A night out on Oxford Street
Getting the CityCat to Bulimba is a sure-fire way to pack the most into a short walk! Peruse plenty of choices for drinks, dinner and dessert, including popular Gelatissimo Bulimba. Why not make it an Oxford Street progressive dinner and stop at a few places as you explore this iconic Brisbane street?
Paddle the river at night in a kayak
What better way to see the river than spending a night on it. Get adventurous and experience Brisbane from a different angle with a twilight kayak tour.
Businesses like Riverlife Adventure Centre offer several evening tours. Some tours include a glass of wine and a grazing board at the end of the paddle. Trained instructors lead the tours, and you don't need any previous experience. You'll be gliding under bridges and past iconic riverside locations like a pro in no time.
Catch a show at Riverstage
Take advantage of Brisbane's weather and catch a show at Riverstage – the perfect place to experience outdoor, live gigs. Check out the event calendar for a variety of activities, from music concerts to family-friendly and community events.
Find more to do in Brisbane
With numerous activities in Brisbane, nights are always lively. For more ideas on what to see and do, download the Brisbane app.