Off-peak travel for seniors and Brisbane days out

With a bit of local help, we've pulled together a list of ideas for budget-friendly days out and about for seniors in Brisbane, including tips to take advantage of free off-peak travel for seniors.

Visit Brisbane City Hall

Located in the heart of the Brisbane CBD and just a short walk from King George Square and Queen Street bus stations, Brisbane City Hall offers an opportunity to learn about Brisbane's history, while also offering a range of activities. Take a tour of City Hall and its Clock Tower or visit the Museum of Brisbane. Members of the 50 Plus Centre can also take advantage of the club's extensive City Hall-based events program.

Explore the markets

There are plenty of bargains to be had across the city on weekends. With free off-peak travel available on buses each weekend, it's the perfect opportunity to explore the unique farmers' markets across Brisbane. Start your weekend at the West End Markets or in New Farm at the Jan Powers Powerhouse Markets.

If you want to head further afield, you might like to visit the Nundah Farmers Market or Cleveland Markets which are both held on Sundays. 

Following the River

Catch a CityCat to New Farm Park and walk or cycle into the Brisbane CBD. This is a great way to stay active and see the city from a different perspective. While you're in New Farm, stop in at the Brisbane Powerhouse which is Queensland's home of performing arts and offers an exciting range of shows and exhibitions.

If good food is what you're after, catch the CityCat or bus to Teneriffe to discover some foodie hidden gems. There's Salt Meats Cheese in Newstead which is great for an Italian meal. Be sure to check out the chef's lasagne which is made with their traditional bolognese sauce.

Alternatively, a walk along the Kangaroo Point Cliffs or Kangaroo Point Riverwalk, which features everything from sculptures to mangroves, is a great way to see the city from different angles. If you can, time your walk for sunrise or sunset for that picture-perfect view towards Brisbane's cityscape.

The heart of arts and entertainment

The art and culture on offer at South Bank makes for an enjoyable day out. Easily accessible by public transport, visit the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art, and/or the Queensland Museum. If you want to sit back and take in a show, head to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.

Eating and drinking

It's so easy to access Brisbane's thriving cafe/pub/restaurant scene with free off-peak travel. 

Escape the hustle and bustle of Brisbane City and grab the bus to Manly to explore the cafes, restaurants and waterfront parks. Cambridge Lane Espresso + Kitchen is a lovely laneway cafe providing the perfect place to grab coffee or lunch. 

Head to Sandgate or Shorncliffe on Brisbane's northside if you want to grab fresh, local fish and chips and eat them with a view. For a fun day out with the grandkids, pick up drinks and treats at Bangin Beans in Sandgate and head to Einbunpin Lagoon Park for outdoor play.

Travel to Brisbane's inner west to explore some of the city's finest coffee from one of the many cafes and coffee shops around St Lucia and Indooroopilly.

Enjoy the magic of Mt Coot-tha

Head to Mt Coot-tha and enjoy a show at Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium. Open Tuesday to Sunday, the Planetarium offers informative and entertaining shows for all ages.

While you're in the Mt Coot-tha precinct, wander the beautiful Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha. If you'd prefer to explore the botanic gardens with a volunteer-led guided walk, walks run from Monday to Saturday at 11am and 1pm. Make sure to stop in at the Tropical Display Dome which has wowed visitors for 45 years with its large geodesic structure and mix of plants, crops and fish.

Where to go for more information

For more information about what's on around Brisbane, visit our Brisbetter Explore page and download the free Brisbane app. 

Brisbane just keeps getting better and there's always something new to see and do.

Related links

• 12 things to do with kids in Brisbane for under $10
• See Brisbane through Bluey's eyes
• Adventure starts at home