Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane is a dynamic and relaxed city characterized by its vibrant atmosphere, diverse events, exceptional culinary options, and lively nightlife. While many tourists may opt to bypass Brisbane in favor of the glitzy Gold Coast, this city offers a wealth of experiences on its own, whether you are enjoying a live band in Fortitude Valley, kayaking on the Brisbane River, or witnessing the talented fire-twirlers at the monthly West End Fire Festival. Visitors will discover that Brisbane is a unique destination brimming with character, welcoming locals, and a plethora of activities.

It’s no surprise that both Lonely Planet and GQ Magazine have referred to Brisbane as “Australia’s hippest city”!

Let us delve into the top attractions in Brisbane:

1. Visit the West End

The West End serves as a centerpiece of alternative culture and is an excellent location to explore a variety of global cuisines or enjoy a lively night out.

After experiencing the West End, one will certainly understand how Brisbane acquired its “hippest city” designation.

The Lychee Lounge is particularly noteworthy; its exotic craft cocktails are both delicious and distinctive.

Good Time Bar is also popular for its quirky record-store ambiance and the eclectic crowd it attracts.

The West End is celebrated for its vibrant music scene, healthy culinary choices, beautiful street art, and vintage boutique shopping.

The Davies Park Market offers an enjoyable outing with an array of pre-loved clothing, beautiful flowers, and organic produce.

Additionally, Orleigh Park is a favored location for leisurely strolls, providing stunning river views.

2. Catch the West End Fire Festival

In addition to its picturesque river views, Orleigh Park is renowned for its iconic fire festival, which has been held on the night of each full moon since 2006. The mesmerizing fire twirling and spinning is undeniably a spectacle to behold and an unforgettable experience.

While the festival draws a crowd, it maintains a comfortable atmosphere, allowing attendees to enjoy the company of interesting individuals.

The festival is scheduled from 7 PM to 10 PM at Orleigh Park, hosted by the Firetricks community, a group of dedicated circus artists and fire-twirlers; however, newcomers are encouraged to join in and try their skills at fire-twirling as well!

3. Check out the city centre

Brisbane offers something for everyone, showcasing its rich heritage architecture, remarkable shopping, and diverse dining options.

Exploring the city center for several hours will provide a comprehensive understanding of Brisbane’s essence.

Start your journey at King George Square, the city’s premier public space, where events, festivals, and markets frequently take place.

Located adjacent to Brisbane City Hall, a stunning structure inaugurated in 1930, you can join a guided tour lasting 45 minutes, available four times daily. Visitors can even ascend the clock tower! Next, consider visiting the Museum of Brisbane, the beautiful Treasury Building (built in 1889, now functioning as a casino), Customs House (noted for its architecture and superb dining), and the ANZAC War Memorial. Enjoy the atmosphere or indulge in shopping at Queen Street Mall, or wander through the City Botanic Gardens or along Eagle Street Pier for a relaxing experience.

4. Visit the Cultural Precinct

Brisbane stands as the cultural epicenter of Queensland, and within the Cultural Precinct, one can discover some of the finest offerings of the city. Expect to dedicate a substantial portion of your day here.

The precinct is conveniently accessed from the CBD by crossing either the Kurilpa or Victoria Bridge.

The Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) features an impressive collection of contemporary Australian and Asian art, along with world-class exhibitions, including a Marvel Comics showcase during the time of writing. Previously, it hosted a display of works by renowned Chinese contemporary artist and activist Ai Weiwei.

Additionally, the GOMA Restaurant is a delightful discovery; dining here is a must! The grounds surrounding the gallery are equally picturesque, including a bodhi tree tracing its lineage back to the tree beneath which it is traditionally believed that the Buddha attained enlightenment.

Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the gallery store, offering an excellent selection of art books.

Adjacent to GOMA is the State Library of Queensland; its impressive bookstore is a treasure for literature lovers, and its exhibitions and collections are highly engaging.

The Queensland Museum and Sciencentre provide an insightful exploration of Brisbane’s history and Queensland’s heritage, including Indigenous narratives. The Sciencentre features a series of interactive science exhibits suitable for both children and adults. The museum also organizes evening events for patrons aged 18 and over, along with numerous other engaging activities, so it is advisable to check their website for current updates before visiting.

5. Stroll through the South Bank Parklands

The vibrant and picturesque South Bank Parklands are an iconic symbol of Brisbane and are essential for any visitor to witness, attracting an impressive 11 million tourists each year.

This vibrant area functions almost as a second city center, featuring numerous delightful restaurants, a welcoming atmosphere, and an abundance of activities to engage in.

The parklands exhibit a variety of natural beauty, including a dedicated rainforest-walk, a riverfront promenade, and perhaps the most famous attraction within the parklands: the South Bank Grand Arbour, adorned with stunning bougainvilleas that bloom year-round.

As central Brisbane lacks beaches due to its riverside location, Streets Beach—a man-made beach—serves as a popular retreat for both locals and visitors seeking relaxation alongside sunbathing.

Visitors can also engage with local creatives and purchase beautiful artisanal goods at the South Bank Collective Market, a widely attended arts, crafts, and clothing fair.

Additionally, the Nepal Peace Pagoda, designed by a German architect on behalf of the Kingdom of Nepal, was constructed with the assistance of Nepalese families and Australian workers under Nepalese oversight, commemorating the 1988 Brisbane World Expo.

This serene and tranquil pagoda serves as a beloved meditation locale, closely resembling Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.

While in the vicinity, be sure to explore nearby Little Stanley Street, just outside of the South Bank Grand Arbour, recognized as one of Brisbane’s top dining streets.

6. Experience what the Brisbane River has to offer

While professional cruises along the Brisbane River are an excellent option, using the ferry service presents a pleasant and economical way to view the city.

Given that the river divides the city into two sections and is linked by various bridges (which can experience significant traffic during peak times), utilizing the ferries is often more expedient for both locals and visitors while offering a tranquil and scenic mode of travel.

There are a total of 25 ferry terminals along the Brisbane River, including the complimentary CityHopper service, which operates at six terminals (every thirty minutes, seven days a week from 6 AM to midnight). The other terminals allow for further exploration at reasonable fares, making it worthwhile to embark from the beginning and complete the journey.

Footage of ferry journeys can be found on the Brisbane City Council website.

For the adventurous, kayak tours of the Brisbane River are also available. However, note that the water quality can be dangerously low; should you capsize, it is recommended to shower and change clothes promptly after.

Shark sightings can occasionally occur; while injuries are infrequent, precaution is advised.

7. Experience a blast from the nautical past at the Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum features an extraordinarily captivating collection of exhibits and is truly a remarkable attraction. Even those typically disinterested in maritime history will find enjoyment in learning about the significant role of sea travel in Australia’s past, from the transportation of the first European settlers to its convict history and the impact of maritime warfare during World War II. A complimentary audio tour is available to enhance your experience, allowing exploration of various historic vessels on-site, including the warship Diamantina (the world’s last River Class WWII frigate and one of the only two remaining ships in the world to have hosted a surrender ceremony).

The dry dock, opened in 1881, served as a significant site where 5,005 ships were repaired throughout its operational years.

Detailed information regarding the dock provides valuable insights into Queensland’s life in the 1880s, highlighting the stark contrast with contemporary life.

8. Visit Fortitude Valley

Fortitude Valley, colloquially referred to as “the Valley,” is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Brisbane, renowned for its nightlife, alternative culture, and exceptional shopping experiences.

Here, you can discover beautiful heritage buildings, such as the McWhirters building.

The Valley also hosts numerous festivals, establishing itself as a pivotal hub for live music at any hour! Furthermore, it is home to Brisbane’s Chinatown, which offers outstanding culinary delights and shopping opportunities infused with international flair.

It is essential to exercise caution, as Fortitude Valley may pose safety concerns at night, particularly on weekends. Solo travelers are advised to explore this area during daylight hours for enhanced safety.

If you choose to experience the nightlife, remain vigilant and avoid wandering through dimly lit laneways, particularly around Brunswick Street Station.

9. Catch an opera underground

The Brisbane Underground Opera Company provides world-class opera performances in unique venues, as they seek to “steer audiences away from sterile theatres and into stunning locations.” Their performances have taken place in various unconventional settings such as abandoned mines, tunnels, caves, castles, and reservoirs. Consult their website for their upcoming performances during your visit to Brisbane; this experience offers a distinctly different perspective of the city.

10. Take a Brisbane Greeter tour

The Brisbane Greeter service is a complimentary initiative that connects interested individuals (tourists, recent immigrants, etc.) with passionate locals eager to share their insights about the city and meet new people.

This program serves as a wonderful opportunity to forge a new friendship while gaining an authentic understanding of Brisbane. Participants can express specific sites of interest, and specialized itineraries are available, such as the Brisbane Aboriginal street art tour.

11. Travel through Brisbane on a historic steam train

Steam Train Sundays are held monthly, providing an opportunity to ride a magnificent historic steam train through Brisbane.

The steam train departs from and returns to Roma Street station, offering a charming experience suitable for the entire family, particularly for train enthusiasts.

12. Take a pretty stroll through the Roma Street Parkland

This lush 16-hectare oasis of greenery and flora, located just outside the city center, is meticulously maintained and provides ample picturesque backdrops for photography.

Visitors may also encounter several lizards strolling about, who have grown accustomed to the presence of people and pose no threat.

This setting is ideal for exercise, allowing individuals to appreciate the beauty of nature or to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of shopping and exploring.

13. Climb Story Bridge

The Story Bridge, inaugurated in 1940, is a heritage-listed structure that spans the Brisbane River, linking Kangaroo Point to Fortitude Valley.

This iconic bridge holds the distinction of being the longest cantilever bridge in Australia.

During the Brisbane Festival, fireworks illuminate the bridge, creating a spectacular visual display.

The bridge is also beautifully illuminated at night, making an evening stroll in the surrounding area enjoyable; what sets it apart is that it is actually climbable! Participants ascend the bridge in a group with safety harnesses, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the river.

This experience is both scenic and incredibly enjoyable.

14. Drink a rainbow latte or a carrot beer

Brisbane’s eclectic nature offers a variety of foods and beverages that visitors may not encounter at home! The carrot beer Wabbit Saison, brewed just outside of Brisbane, is available in select bars across the city.

Additionally, rainbow lattes can be found at Piggyback Café in Jindalee, a Brisbane suburb, where barista Emily Coumbis crafts captivating colorful coffee art, which has garnered her considerable attention on social media. She has amassed a substantial following on Instagram and hosts the intriguing Rainbow Coffee Channel on YouTube, where she guides aspiring rainbow coffee baristas in creating her vibrant designs in cafes or at home.

15. Delight your taste buds at the Eat Street Markets

The Eat Street Markets are a vibrant multicultural gathering spot offering a delightful array of foods, enabling your taste buds to embark on a global culinary journey.

Open from 4 PM to 10 PM every Friday and Saturday, attendees can expect to discover a vast selection of exotic and international culinary treats, often at affordable prices.

Options abound, from Jamaican jerk chicken to Japanese pizzas, Peruvian curries, and beyond.

Furthermore, the markets also feature a variety of live music, making for an enjoyable evening outing!