With almost 300 days of sunshine each year, Brisbane is an alfresco city home to world-class cultural precincts and some of the country's best dining experiences. Wander through open-air markets, lose yourself in the live music scene, trek through stunning national parks and nature walks or escape to some of the world's largest sand islands less than an hour from the city. There are so many ways to explore the bountiful surroundings of this cosmopolitan hub that is Queensland's capital city. Here's our top list of things to do in Brisbane.
Riverside adventure: exploring Brisbane with Brisbane Riverlife
Head to the thriving riverside cultural precinct of South Bank where you can find some of the world's finest art galleries and theaters, including Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). South Bank is the city's premier lifestyle destination and home to acres of outdoor gardens, river walkways, riverside restaurants and its very own beach with views overlooking the CBD.
Adventure awaits: experience Brisbane's outdoors with Riverlife Adventure Centre
The Brisbane River wraps its way around the city and is the perfect playground for Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle. Stop by Riverlife Adventure Centre to experience the river city from all angles. Kayak along the river, abseil down the Kangaroo Point Cliffs or sign up for a twilight kayak tour for spectacular views as the sun sets over the city.
Reach new heights: unforgettable views from the Story Bridge Adventure Climb in Brisbane
Strap on a harness and scale the Story Bridge with Story Bridge Adventure Climb. From the top, you'll have a bird's-eye view over the river out to Moreton Bay, down to the Gold Coast and beyond to the Scenic Rim.
Get up close with koalas at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and get to know Australia's famous furry icon. Make a day of it and cruise down the river with Mirimar Cruises to discover Brisbane's history before arriving at Lone Pine to learn everything you need to know about Australia's native animals.
Shop, dine and relax: exploring James Street, Fortitude Valley
James Street in Fortitude Valley is an elegant, tree-lined shopping street with a multitude of laneways, world-class dining, sprawling beer gardens and rooftop pool bars. Fuel up at one of the quaint curbside cafes and take your time exploring this vibrant city-center district.
Street art and dining delights: tour Fish Lane
Wander down Fish Lane in Brisbane's south, where you can find ever-changing murals and sculptures adorning every surface along the laneway. Don't leave without grabbing a bite to eat at one of the restaurants along the way.
Story Bridge spectacular: top dining options at Howard Smith Wharves
Enjoy alfresco dining at its finest against a backdrop of the Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves. Whether you'd rather have a low-key family meal on the lawn of Felons Brewing Co or sip on a cocktail at Mr Percival's, you're guaranteed great eats and even better vibes at this iconic city favorite.
Discover the nightlife: top after-hours spots to visit in Brisbane
Discover up-and-coming artists at an underground bar or dance to crowd favorites at an open-air stage as you enjoy Brisbane's thriving live music scene.
Watch the sun set over the city with a cocktail in hand and take in the views from one of the many rooftop bars dotted over the city. The Terrace Rooftop Bar at Emporium Hotel or Iris Rooftop boast some of the best views combined with a delicious food and beverage menu.
Escape the city: discover the natural beauty of Scenic Rim from O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lamington National Park from O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, nestled in the iconic Scenic Rim. With rainforest hikes, waterfalls, guided bird walks, animal shows and the Lost World Day Spa, you'll never want to leave this nature-lovers' paradise.
Moreton Island: a must-visit destination for adventure seekers
Dive below the surface and explore the Tangalooma wrecks off Moreton Island. A world-class snorkeling and scuba destination, you'll find wobbegongs, trevally, kingfish yellowtail and abundant tropical fish in these calm Moreton Bay waters.
Get back to nature on Moreton Island and rest your head at Tangalooma Island Resort. Hand-feed wild dolphins, toboggan down giant sand dunes and kayak around the famous Tangalooma wrecks while keeping your eyes peeled for dugongs.
Rise above the city: experience Brisbane from a bird's-eye view with a hot air balloon ride
Take to the skies with Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights for sweeping, peaceful views as you fly over Ipswich, Somerset and the Scenic Rim.
Get up close and personal with whales
If you find yourself in Brisbane between June–November, catch all the action of the annual humpback whale migration with a Brisbane Whale Watching Tour on Moreton Bay. Regularly seen jumping out of the water mere meters from the shoreline, you'll never forget your first sighting of these magnificent creatures.
Click here to learn about which Queensland Indigenous cultural attractions you can visit on your vacation.
