9 Amazing Brisbane Experiences That Will Inspire You

Brisbane, the vibrant capital of Queensland, is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered.

From its stunning natural beauty to its thriving cultural scene, this city has something for everyone.

Table of Contents

1. Climb the Story Bridge for a bird’s-eye view

Get ready to conquer your fears and witness breathtaking panoramas of Brisbane. The Story Bridge Adventure Climb is not just an adrenaline rush; it’s a journey through the city’s history and architecture. As you ascend the iconic structure, your guide will regale you with fascinating tales about Brisbane’s past and present.

At the summit, prepare to be awestruck by the 360-degree views of the city skyline, the winding Brisbane River, and the distant mountains. This experience will leave you feeling on top of the world, both literally and figuratively. Don’t forget to strike a pose for that perfect Instagram shot!

South Bank Parklands Address: Clem Jones Promenade, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 1206. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 1206 reviews.
Story Bridge Pedestrian- & bicycle-friendly bridge offering picturesque views of the city skyline & river. Address: State Route 15, New Farm QLD 4169, Australia. Phone: 1935. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 1935 reviews.
City Botanic Gardens Landmark botanical garden offering an array of plant life, ponds, picnic areas & a concert venue. Address: 147 Alice St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Phone: 11973. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 11973 reviews.
Victoria Bridge Abutment Address: 2 Melbourne St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 52. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 52 reviews.
River walk, Brisbane Address: 45D Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 21 reviews.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park (River Terrace Park) Riverside park offering rock climbing, BBQ areas, public art & views of Brisbane’s skyline. Address: 29 River Terrace, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169, Australia. Phone: 6480. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 6480 reviews.
Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha 56-hectare, subtropical botanic gardens featuring native & exotic plants, plus workshops & events. Address: 152 Mount Coot-Tha Rd, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia. Phone: 6621. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 6621 reviews.
Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout Scenic mountaintop viewpoint with expansive city views, plus a cafe & restaurant. Address: 1012 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia. Phone: 12769. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 12769 reviews.
Captain Burke Park (John Burke Park) Address: 117 Holman St, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169, Australia. Phone: 1529. Rating: 4.6. Reviews: 1529 reviews.
Howard Smith Wharves Busy, modern waterside development with restaurants, breweries & a sleek, contemporary hotel. Address: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Phone: 1847. Rating: 4.6. Reviews: 1847 reviews.

2. Explore the vibrant South Bank Parklands

Immerse yourself in the beating heart of Brisbane’s cultural and recreational scene. South Bank Parklands is a lush oasis in the middle of the city, offering a perfect blend of nature, art, and leisure. Start your day with a relaxing stroll along the riverfront promenade, taking in the fresh air and stunning city views.

Dive into the world of art at the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), where thought-provoking exhibitions await. After feeding your mind, treat your taste buds at the eclectic mix of restaurants and cafes. End your visit with a dip in the famous Streets Beach, Australia’s only inner-city, man-made beach. It’s a slice of paradise right in the heart of Brisbane!

Rainforest Green Address: The Arbour, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 35. Rating: 4.9. Reviews: 35 reviews.
South Bank Parklands Address: Clem Jones Promenade, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 1206. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 1206 reviews.
Rainforest Walk Address: Clem Jones Promenade, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 57. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 57 reviews.
Southbank Parklands Boardwalk Address: City Cat Terminal South Bank, 100A Edmondstone St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 4 reviews.
Streets Beach Small, palm-fringed inner-city swimming beach along a lagoon with a picnic area & snack stall. Address: Stanley St Plaza, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 585. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 585 reviews.
South Bank Visitor Information Centre Sprawling public park of lawns, gardens & playgrounds, plus a river-swimming beach & a Ferris wheel. Address: Stanley St Plaza, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 17436. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 17436 reviews.
Epicurious Garden Volunteer-run vegetable & herb garden, with samples & produce sold from a seasonal harvest cart. Address: Formal Gardens, Clem Jones Promenade near South Bank 3 Ferry Terminal, Australia. Phone: 315. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 315 reviews.
Victoria Bridge Abutment Address: 2 Melbourne St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 52. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 52 reviews.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park (River Terrace Park) Riverside park offering rock climbing, BBQ areas, public art & views of Brisbane’s skyline. Address: 29 River Terrace, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169, Australia. Phone: 6480. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 6480 reviews.
Brisbane Sign A popular photo site, these large-scale letters spelling “Brisbane” feature against a city backdrop. Address: South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Rating: 4.6. Reviews: 1011 reviews.

3. Cuddle a koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Get up close and personal with Australia’s most adorable marsupials at the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to hold and cuddle these cute, furry creatures. It’s an experience that will melt your heart and create lasting memories.

But koalas aren’t the only stars here. You can hand-feed kangaroos, watch playful platypuses, and marvel at the beauty of native birds. The sanctuary’s commitment to conservation will inspire you to think more deeply about wildlife protection and our role in preserving these incredible species for future generations.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary The world’s largest koala sanctuary, with a zoo housing Australian native animal species. Address: 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket QLD 4069, Australia. Phone: 10412. Rating: 4.6. Reviews: 10412 reviews.

4. Take a scenic river cruise

See Brisbane from a different perspective as you glide along the serpentine Brisbane River. Hop aboard a CityCat ferry or join a guided river cruise to discover the city’s landmarks and hidden corners. As you sail past elegant Queenslander homes, modern skyscrapers, and lush parklands, you’ll gain a new appreciation for Brisbane’s diverse landscape.

Listen to captivating stories about the river’s history and its importance to the city’s development. Whether you choose a daytime adventure or a romantic evening cruise, this experience will give you a fresh outlook on Brisbane’s beauty and charm.

City Botanic Gardens Landmark botanical garden offering an array of plant life, ponds, picnic areas & a concert venue. Address: 147 Alice St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Phone: 11973. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 11973 reviews.
River walk, Brisbane Address: 45D Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 21 reviews.
Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout Scenic mountaintop viewpoint with expansive city views, plus a cafe & restaurant. Address: 1012 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia. Phone: 12769. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 12769 reviews.
Roma Street Parkland Expansive, acclaimed park featuring contemporary display gardens, waterways & an amphitheater. Address: 1 Parkland Blvd, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Phone: 9462. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 9462 reviews.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park (River Terrace Park) Riverside park offering rock climbing, BBQ areas, public art & views of Brisbane’s skyline. Address: 29 River Terrace, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169, Australia. Phone: 6480. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 6480 reviews.
Victoria Bridge Abutment Address: 2 Melbourne St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 52. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 52 reviews.
Story Bridge Pedestrian- & bicycle-friendly bridge offering picturesque views of the city skyline & river. Address: State Route 15, New Farm QLD 4169, Australia. Phone: 1935. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 1935 reviews.
Streets Beach Small, palm-fringed inner-city swimming beach along a lagoon with a picnic area & snack stall. Address: Stanley St Plaza, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 585. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 585 reviews.
Brisbane Sign A popular photo site, these large-scale letters spelling “Brisbane” feature against a city backdrop. Address: South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Rating: 4.6. Reviews: 1011 reviews.
Across The River Address: Hibiscus Sundial, 147 Alice St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Rating: 4.6. Reviews: 7 reviews.

5. Indulge in a foodie adventure at Eat Street Northshore

Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavors at Brisbane’s most vibrant food market. Eat Street Northshore is a culinary wonderland housed in colorful shipping containers, offering an array of international cuisines and local delicacies. From sizzling street food to gourmet desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Wander through the fairy-lit laneways, sampling dishes from around the world. Enjoy live music performances as you dine, and soak in the bustling atmosphere. This gastronomic journey will not only tantalize your taste buds but also inspire your inner foodie to explore new flavors and culinary traditions.

Eat Street Northshore Lively venue at a former container wharf featuring stalls with international street eats & beer. Address: 221D MacArthur Ave, Hamilton QLD 4007, Australia. Phone: 13446. Rating: 4.6. Reviews: 13446 reviews.

6. Catch a sunrise at Mount Coot-tha

Rise and shine for an unforgettable morning at Brisbane’s highest peak. Mount Coot-tha offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and beyond. As you watch the sun peek over the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant hues, you’ll feel a sense of peace and possibility wash over you.

After the sunrise, explore the surrounding Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha. Wander through the lush rainforest, smell the fragrant flowers, and discover the secrets of the Japanese Garden. This early morning adventure will energize you for the day ahead and remind you of the natural beauty that surrounds us.

Japanese Garden Address: Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, Mount Coot-Tha Rd, Toowong QLD 4066, Australia. Rating: 4.9. Reviews: 142 reviews.
Mount Coot-tha Park Address: Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 10 reviews.
Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens Lookout Address: Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, Mount Coot-Tha Rd, Toowong QLD 4066, Australia. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 345 reviews.
Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout Scenic mountaintop viewpoint with expansive city views, plus a cafe & restaurant. Address: 1012 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia. Phone: 12769. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 12769 reviews.
Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha 56-hectare, subtropical botanic gardens featuring native & exotic plants, plus workshops & events. Address: 152 Mount Coot-Tha Rd, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia. Phone: 6621. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 6621 reviews.
National Australia Remembers Freedom Wall Address: Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 15 reviews.
Gap Creek Reserve Address: Gap Creek Rd, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia. Phone: 541. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 541 reviews.
Mount Coot-tha Reserve Address: 445 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Bardon QLD 4065, Australia. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 22 reviews.
Simpson Falls Picnic Area Address: 328 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066, Australia. Phone: 221. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 221 reviews.
Picnic Area Address: 37 Sir Samuel Griffith Dr, Toowong QLD 4066, Australia. Phone: 156. Rating: 4.6. Reviews: 156 reviews.

7. Unleash your creativity at the Brisbane Powerhouse

Step into a world of artistic expression at the Brisbane Powerhouse. This former power station has been transformed into a vibrant arts center, hosting an eclectic mix of performances, exhibitions, and workshops. From avant-garde theater to cutting-edge visual arts, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

Attend a thought-provoking play, laugh your heart out at a comedy show, or get hands-on in an art workshop. The Powerhouse’s industrial chic atmosphere and diverse program will spark your creativity and inspire you to explore your own artistic passions.

Story Bridge Adventure Climb Panoramic group walks in safety harnesses across the top of Brisbane’s iconic cantilever bridge. Address: 170 Main St, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169, Australia. Phone: 1117. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 1117 reviews.
New Farm Park Sprawling public park featuring grassy expanses, recreational facilities & an arts centre. Address: 1042 Brunswick St, New Farm QLD 4005, Australia. Phone: 4145. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 4145 reviews.
Powerhouse Park Address: 137 Sydney St, New Farm QLD 4005, Australia. Phone: 456. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 456 reviews.
Wilson Outlook Reserve Clifftop park with commanding views of Story Bridge offering picnic tables, shade trees & grass. Address: 231 Bowen Tce, New Farm QLD 4006, Australia. Phone: 1305. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 1305 reviews.
Brisbane Powerhouse Cool, repurposed tram power station featuring plays, concerts & other shows, plus a speaker series. Address: Yagara Country, 119 Lamington St, New Farm QLD 4005, Australia. Phone: 4839. Rating: 4.6. Reviews: 4839 reviews.
QUT The Cube Address: 2 George St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Phone: 63. Rating: 4.5. Reviews: 63 reviews.
Jan Powers Farmers Markets Powerhouse Bustling, Saturday farmers’ market providing local fruits & veggies, artisanal goods & food vendors. Address: The Brisbane Powerhouse, 119 Lamington St, New Farm QLD 4005, Australia. Rating: 4.5. Reviews: 536 reviews.
Wharf Park Address: 39 Waterloo St, Newstead QLD 4006, Australia. Phone: 84. Rating: 4.5. Reviews: 84 reviews.
Eagle Street Pier Contemporary riverfront dining complex on a 19th-century wharf with more than 15 bars & restaurants. Address: 45 Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Phone: 2435. Rating: 4.5. Reviews: 2435 reviews.
Burnett Lane Street Art & Events Address: Burnett Ln, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Rating: 4. Reviews: 4 reviews.

8. Embark on a day trip to Moreton Island

Escape the city and discover a paradise just a short ferry ride away. Moreton Island is a natural wonderland of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and towering sand dunes. Snorkel among the colorful fish and mysterious shipwrecks of Tangalooma, or try your hand at sandboarding down the massive dunes.

For a truly magical experience, join a night-time kayak tour to witness the bioluminescent waters glowing beneath your paddle. This island getaway will reconnect you with nature and remind you of the incredible beauty that exists just beyond the city limits.

Big Sandhills Address: Moreton Island QLD 4025, Australia. Rating: 5. Reviews: 21 reviews.
Mt Tempest Address: Moreton Island QLD 4025, Australia. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 16 reviews.
Honeymoon bay Address: Moreton Island QLD 4025, Australia. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 65 reviews.
Moreton Island National Park Coastal recreation area offering scenic trails, sandy beaches, clear waters & sweeping views. Address: 97A Goondool Street, Moreton Island QLD 4025, Australia. Phone: 580. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 580 reviews.
Cape Moreton Lighthouse Address: Cape Moreton Lighthouse, Moreton Island QLD 4009, Australia. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 165 reviews.
Cape Moreton Conservation Park Address: Moreton Island QLD 4025, Australia. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 119 reviews.
North Stradbroke Island Quiet Australian island known for its secluded beaches, vast wildlife, water sports & swimming. Address: Queensland 4183, Australia. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 432 reviews.
See Moreton Address: 17 Rivergate Pl, Murarrie QLD 4172, Australia. Phone: 371. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 371 reviews.
Moreton Island Desert Address: Moreton Island QLD 4025, Australia. Rating: 4.8. Reviews: 171 reviews.
Tangalooma Wrecks Address: Port of Brisbane – Tangalooma Wreck, Tangalooma QLD 4025, Australia. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 634 reviews.

9. Immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture at Yuggera Aboriginal Tours

Gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Australia’s rich Indigenous heritage with Yuggera Aboriginal Tours. Led by knowledgeable Aboriginal guides, these tours offer authentic insights into the world’s oldest living culture. Learn about traditional bush foods, hear Dreamtime stories, and try your hand at playing the didgeridoo.

As you walk through significant sites and participate in cultural activities, you’ll develop a new perspective on the land and its original inhabitants. This eye-opening experience will inspire you to learn more about Aboriginal culture and its importance in shaping Australia’s identity.

Nyanda Cultural Tours Address: 52 Childs Rd, Nudgee QLD 4014, Australia. Phone: 22. Rating: 5. Reviews: 22 reviews.
Birrunga Gallery Address: Suite 326 L1/241 Adelaide St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia. Phone: 129. Rating: 4.7. Reviews: 129 reviews.
Australian Aboriginal Culture Address: 58 Hope St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia. Phone: 2. Rating: 4.5. Reviews: 2 reviews.

Brisbane is a city that captivates and inspires at every turn. From heart-pounding adventures to soul-soothing natural escapes, these experiences offer just a glimpse of what this amazing city has to offer.

Each adventure not only entertains but also has the power to spark new passions, broaden horizons, and create lasting memories. So, pack your sense of wonder and get ready to explore the very best of Brisbane. Who knows? You might just discover a new side of yourself along the way.