Things to Do in Brisbane
Brisbane, the third-most populous city on the eastern coast of Australia, offers many attractions and activities to do in Brisbane. Thrillophilia provides tailored itineraries for Brisbane, offering accommodation, transfers, meals, expert guides, and round-the-clock on-ground assistance. Our tours are designed to provide comfort and a seamless experience of historical and modern architecture.
Thrillophilia’s Brisbane tours offer hundreds of thrilling activities like outdoor expeditions, cultural encounters, and a laid-back urban atmosphere. Begin your day at South Bank Streets Beach, famous for its lush parklands and vibrant dining establishments. Take a stroll down the charming riverwalk along the gorgeous Brisbane River, or hop onto a CityCat Ferry for an exceptional view of this city’s skyline. Those who love experiences and are interested in art must visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and the Queensland Art Gallery. The food scene in this vibrant metropolis can’t be ignored as it is filled with lively markets where people sell their wares by the picturesque river views.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the best things to do in Brisbane with Thrillophilia’s unique local tours and expert guides. Our tours offer countless exhilarating pursuits, catering to diverse interests in culture, adventure, or relaxation.
Activities to Do in Brisbane
1. Experience a visit to the Koala Wildlife Sanctuary: The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, established in 1927, is dedicated to the preservation of wildlife and is renowned as one of the premier locations for seeing indigenous Australian animals. The sanctuary is one of the oldest and largest of its kind in the country, housing around 130 resident koalas, as well as kangaroos, wombats, emus, dingoes, Tasmanian devils, and platypi. This is considered one of the finest sites in Brisbane to visit.
2. Experience a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane: The Brisbane Wheel is a prominent and recognisable landmark that stands in contrast with the city skyline. Situated near the renowned South Bank, the wheel offers an exceptional opportunity to savour breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of Brisbane from an elevation of 60 metres. It operates throughout the day, providing an opportunity to observe the prominent landmarks of the city. During the evening, one may witness the sunset and the illumination of the city.
3. Explore Kangaroo Point, Cliffs Park: Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, located just opposite Brisbane's central business district, provides panoramic vistas of the city's skyline. Visiting the park is among the most popular things to do in Brisbane offering thrilling activities like rock climbing. The premises feature meticulously tended gardens, state-of-the-art BBQ amenities, and designated pathways for cycling. During the nighttime, the cliffs are illuminated, which makes it an excellent location for leisurely walks in the evening. This location is ideal for families, individuals who enjoy physical activity, and anybody seeking to unwind in an outdoor setting.
4. Discover the Botanic Gardens: The Brisbane City Botanic Gardens is renowned as one of the finest urban playgrounds with 23 species of bamboo and unique trees like mahogany, dragon trees, and forest red gum. Parents may unwind beneath the trees with a view of the boats anchored in the Brisbane River. Children can enjoy playing in the sand with slides or swings, a music area, and a sensory sculpture garden. Despite its urban setting, the gardens are shielded from the noise of the city by the presence of towering trees, creating a serene atmosphere.
5. Observe the sunrise from the summit of Mt Coot-tha: Observing the sunrise from Mt Coot-tha is one of the most captivating activities to do in Brisbane, Australia. The vantage point provides a breathtaking panorama of the urban landscape and its environs. At dawn, the sky undergoes a colourful transformation as the sun rises, resulting in a serene and visually pleasing panorama. Mt Coot-tha offers pedestrian paths, a café, and outdoor dining areas, making it an ideal location to start your day.
6. Experience world-class art at QAGOMA: The QPAC in South Parklands offers a magnificent concert hall and lyric theatre. It is the premier venue to experience extraordinary musicals such as Aladdin, Mamma Mia, and other thrilling new plays. Watching a live theatre performance offers a magnificent experience where storytelling and emotions come to life. Situated in the South Parklands in close proximity to the river, this venue is highly recommended for its exceptional sound quality, comfortable seating, and competent staff who ensure that every performance is unforgettable.
As stated in the Guinness Book of World Records, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the first of its kind and also the largest koala sanctuary in the world. The place is famous for being the home for 130 koalas and it has an experience of 85 years. The place is located in the southern part at distance of 12km from the city centre. Apart from koalas one can see kangaroos, wombats, possums, birds and other Aussie critters. One can enjoy the beautiful animals here and also click some quick snaps hugging the koalas by shedding some extra bucks. There are exclusive buses as well as Mirimar cruises which can be availed to reach the sanctuary based beside Brisbane River. There are several shows organised n the sanctuary which can be enjoyed.
Location: 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket, Brisbane
Timings; 9am to 5pm
Based across the river, close to the South Bank, lies the extensive Culture Centre Complex which s described as the epitome of cultural significance in Brisbane. The complex includes the sprawling structures of Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (or QAGOMA), Queensland Museum, the State Library, Queensland Theatre Company and not to forget Queensland Performing Art Centre. The concert halls and the galleries remains well filled with regular footfalls, especially with events organised in these centres. Exhibitions, debates, talks, musical performances, film screenings, theatre, drama all are scheduled in this location making t one of the sought after destination for the natives as well as the visitors. There are so many things to explore in this location that spending some good hours in this location is always entertaining.
Location: Stanley Place, South Bank, Brisbane, Queensland
Mount Coot- Tha Botanic gardens is based at a height of 287metres from the sea level, at a distance of mere 15 minutes drive from the city centre. The location is based close to in the popular tourist destinations Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium. One can also view the exotic Moreton Bay Islands from here. To reach the destination one can fetch a bus from Adelaide St which bang opposite King George and the bus drops off before Botanical garden. The place is a beautiful 52 hectare garden offering a picturesque venue to enjoy and photo shoot. Entry in the garden is free and there are free guided tours every day except Sunday from 11am to 1pm. There are licensed cafe and restaurant present in the premises which can be visited for refreshments. The capacity of the restaurant is nearly 150 people so one can enjoy dining with lovely Australian cuisine amidst natural surroundings
Location: Mt Coot Tha Rd, Brisbane
Though all people can experience this adventure but it is advisable for people with heart problems and height phobia to avoid the stunt. The climb is guided by exclusive commentary by an experienced climber so that the journey becomes smooth and more entertaining.
The longest river based in the south west part of Queensland is the beautiful Brisbane River. One of the preferred places to visit in Brisbane is experiencing the Brisbane Riverwalk, a water highway amidst the scenic beauty of the city. One can enjoy a gala view of the city as well as the sounds of rippling waters which makes the stroll more fascinating. The track is much popular for the pedestrians and the cyclists jutting down the way.
The walkway is about 870m long above the river and what more the distinguished pathways are for both cyclists and pedestrians. About 3.5m path is dedicated for cycling and about 2.5 m for walking. There are few rest shelters on the way which makes the walk more attractive lessening the tiredness of the walk. The stretch is from New Farm area and ends at Howard St Wharves.
Roma Street Parkland is a large public park located in the heart of Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, Australia. It is situated on a 16-hectare site and features a range of amenities and attractions, including walking and cycling paths, gardens, water features, and playgrounds. The parkland is home to a variety of plant and animal species, and it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Located just an hour's drive north of Brisbane, the Glass House Mountains are a collection of thirteen stunning peaks that rise dramatically from the surrounding landscape. These ancient volcanic peaks are named for their appearance, which resembles the glasshouses used for growing tropical plants in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Located in the heart of Brisbane, these beautiful gardens offer a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the main Brisbane attractions of the City Botanic Gardens is the diverse range of plants and flowers on display. The gardens are home to over 8,500 plants, including native Australian and exotic plants from around the world, making it one of the best Places to Visit in Brisbane.
Located in the heart of the city, the bridge spans the Brisbane River and provides stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding areas. But the Story Bridge is more than just a beautiful spot to take in the views. It is also an important piece of Brisbane's history and culture. The bridge was completed in 1940 and was the first steel bridge built in Queensland. It was named after the city's founder, John Dunmore Lang, and has become a city symbol.
The Wheel of Brisbane is one of the popular Brisbane tourist attractions located in the heart of South Bank, a vibrant precinct in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. The wheel stands at 60 metres and offers panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. It features fully-enclosed, air-conditioned glass capsules that provide a comfortable and unobstructed view of the city.
The Museum of Brisbane is a cultural institution located in the heart of the city, dedicated to celebrating and preserving Brisbane's rich history and culture. Housed in the beautiful and architecturally significant City Hall building, the museum offers a range of exhibits, educational programs, and events that showcase the city's past and present.
The Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in Brisbane is one of the must-visit Places to Visit in Brisbane for anyone interested in contemporary art, culture, and innovation. This world-class gallery is located in South Bank and is home to a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art from Australia and worldwide. But GOMA is not just about art. It is also a place of cultural exchange, with a strong focus on engaging with the local community and promoting cultural diversity.
The Nepalese Peace Pagoda in Brisbane is one of the must-visit Places to Visit in Brisbane for anyone interested in Buddhism, peace, or simply looking for a peaceful and relaxing place to visit. Located in the suburb of Orleigh Park, this beautiful pagoda is a replica of the Shanti Stupa in Lumbini, Nepal, the birthplace of Buddha. It's a great place to learn about Buddhism, experience peace and tranquillity, and celebrate cultural diversity.
South Bank is a vibrant precinct home to many attractions, including parks, museums, galleries, and restaurants. The precinct is located on the south bank of the Brisbane River and is easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation. Some famous attractions in South Bank include the Wheel of Brisbane, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Queensland Art Gallery, and the South Bank Parklands.
Located in South Bank, Streets Beach in Brisbane man-made beach is one of the perfect Places to Visit in Brisbane to relax, swim, or soak up the sun. But Streets Beach is not just about the beach and the activities. It is also culturally significant, with a rich history and a strong connection to the local community. The park is home to several important landmarks, including the South Bank Cultural Forecourt and the Nepal Peace Pagoda. It hosts a range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
The Queen Street Mall is Brisbane, Queensland, Australia's premier shopping and dining Places to Visit in Brisbane. Located in the city's heart, the mall is home to over 700 retailers and a wide range of dining options. The mall has everything from high-end fashion and designer labels to more affordable options. In addition to the shopping options, the Queen Street Mall is also home to several dining options, including quick bites and fast food, sit-down restaurants, and cafes.
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What are the things to do in Brisbane?
1. Skydiving: Owing to the city’s ideal weather conditions, Skydiving is one of the exciting things to do in Brisbane. Gear up to jump from a height of 14000 feet and experience 70 seconds of free fall prior to the opening of your parachute. Get a bird’s eye view of the unobstructed ocean from the sky and enjoy the spectacular views. One must opt for the Skydiving Package with (Videos+ Photos) to capture the thrilling moments and keep them for lifetime.
Location: 39 Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe QLD 4020, Australia
Price: Rs 11,199/ Adult
Timings: 8 AM- 7:30 PM
2. Visit To Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Home to cute Koalas, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the oldest and the largest Koala Sanctuary in the world. Visiting this place is one of the best things in Brisbane. Every visitor is permitted to pick up the Koalas in the lap and cuddle them. Other wildlife which are found at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary are Tasmanian Devils, Kangaroos, Echidnas, Wombats and a Platypus. Visitors are also allowed to feed the Kangaroos which roam around freely.
Location: 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket QLD 4069, Australia
Price: Adult - $42.00
Child - $25.00
Children ( Below 3 Years): Free
Senior - $25.00
Timings: 9 AM- 5 PM
3. Indulge In A River Cruise: Indulging in a river cruise is one of the fantastic things to do in Brisbane. Explore Brisbane in a unique way and get to see the top sights like South Bank Parklands, Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point Cliffs and New Farm Park in a span of 3.5 hours. Morning Tea and Lunch will be served onboard. English Tour Guides will also be present during the Cruise Ride for providing an interesting narration.
Location: Brisbane Wheel (400 metres Upstream)
Price: $ 55.34/ Person
Timings: Departure (10:30 AM)
4. Go For a Half-Day Brewery Tour: Brisbane is popular for Craft Beer and thus, going for a half-day Brewery Tour is one of the iconic things to do in Brisbane.Take sips of freshly-brewed beers at different iconic breweries and appreciate its aroma, flavour and appearance. Our top-pick would be the Mango Beer. You will also be allowed to interact with the professional brewmasters to learn about the intricate beer-making procedure. Overall, the half-day Brewery Tour lasts for 3-4 hours.
Location: Depending upon the Brewery Tour Package, location is subjected to change.
Price: $ 118.28 Onwards
Timings: 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
5. Visiting the Queensland Art Gallery: Undoubtedly, visiting the Queensland Art Gallery is one of the best things in Brisbane. Currently, the Art Museum is operated and maintained by the Government of Queensland. It was inaugurated in 1895 and is a prominent landmark in the city. The Art Museum is dedicated to Indigenous Australian Art which is 1000 years old. One of the major collections of Queensland Art Gallery is the La Belle Hollandaise (1905) by Pablo Picasso.
Location: Stanley Pl, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia
Price: Free Entrance
Timings: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM
6. Spend Time at South Bank: Spending some leisurely time at the South Bank is one of the relaxing things to do in Brisbane. It is a major hub for social, cultural, educational and recreational activities. Little Stanley Street and Grey Street are lined with vibrant restaurants and cafes. Our top-picks would be Bamboo Basket (Chinese), Barbossa( Caribbean)and El Camino Cantina (Tex-Mex) . Besides, high-spirited events keep taking place at South Bank throughout the year. Another unmissable activity at South Bank is swimming in the pools.
Location: South Bank, Brisbane, Queensland 4101 Australia
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5 PM
7. Shop at Queen Street Mall: In the heart of Brisbane, Queen Street Mall is a bustling shopping promenade. It consists of 5 shopping centres, namely, Wintergarden ,The Myer Centre, Broadway on the Mall ,Queens Plaza and Brisbane Arcade. If you have a penchant for luxury brands, Queens Plaza is the place. It houses high-end labels like Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. , Dior, Fendi and Chanel. On the other hand, local Brands are mainly available at Wintergarden.
Location: Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
Timings: Open 24 Hours
8. Day Excursion to Brisbane Botanic Gardens: A major attraction in the city, Day Excursion to Brisbane Botanic Gardens is one of the educational things to do in Brisbane. It is home to a variety of shrubs and plants from all around the world. The Botanic Garden is segmented into different parts where each department is dedicated to species displaying vast diversity. Among all, Japanese Garden is a must-visit section. At Brisbane Botanic Gardens, visitors can also learn about Kitchen Gardening.
Location: Mt. Coot-tha Rd Toowong, Brisbane, Queensland 4066 Australia
Price: Free Entrance
Timings: Monday- Saturday: 11 AM- 1 PM
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What are the things to do in Brisbane for couples?
1. Kayaking: Go for Kayaking at twilight with your partner on the Brisbane River and feel the exhilaration. As the sun sets in the backdrop, glide through the water and enjoy the mesmerizing view.
2. Visit Moreton Island: Dotted with pristine beaches and turquoise water, visiting Moreton Island is one of the romantic things to do in Brisbane with your beau. To reach here, all you have to do is to take a 75 minutes Ferry Ride. Activities like Snorkelling, Dolphin Feeding and Whale-Watching are also available here.
3. Climb Up The Story Bridge: Being an iconic structure, climbing the Story Bridge with your partner, hand in hand is one of the best things in Brisbane. Hike up to the summit and marvel at Brisbane's marvellous skyline.
4. Have Lunch at South Bank: Have lunch at Barbossa Bar, one of the popular restaurants at South Bank and taste the lip-smacking Caribbean dishes. Jerk Chicken Wings and Flourless Chocolate Cake are must-haves from the menu.
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What are the free things to do in Brisbane?
1. Visiting the Queensland Art Gallery: Exploring the 1000 years old Indigenous Australian Art at Queensland Art Gallery is one of the free things to do in Brisbane. La Belle Hollandaise (1905) by Pablo Picasso is the main highlight among all exhibits.
2. Day Excursion to Brisbane Botanic Gardens: Plan a Day Excursion to Brisbane Botanic Gardens and get to learn about the diverse variety of shrubs and plants from all around the world.
3. Spend Time At South Bank: Spend a leisurely time at South Bank and hop down the streets brimming with eateries, cultural events and bustling shops.
4. Visit Mt. Coot-tha Lookout: Visit Mt. Coot-tha Lookout and get a panoramic glimpse of Brisbane's urban landscape. Owing to its unmatchable aura and heritage, the locale has also been categorized under the Queensland Heritage Register.
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What are the best things to do in Brisbane at Night?
1. Kayaking: Add an oomph to your evening in Brisbane and indulge in Kayaking on the Brisbane River. Enjoy your 90-minute journey under the night sky and create memories for lifetime.
2. Hit a Jazz Bar: Hit the Brisbane Jazz Club, located at Kangaroo Point and revel in a relaxed vibe with ear-worming music. Besides, it also offers a picturesque view of Brisbane.
3. Watch Movies Under The Star-lit Sky: Watch movies under Brisbane's starlit sky on the bed at Brisbane's first outdoor cinema. Classic movies like Charlie's Angels, Joker, Knives Out and Dirty Dancing are played on screen.
4. Climb The Story Bridge: After sunset, hike up the Story Bridge and get a sneak peek of the illuminated city you have never seen before.
What are the things to do in Brisbane with kids?
1. Visit the Brisbane Botanic Gardens: Tag along with your kids to Brisbane Botanic Gardens and educate them about different species of shrubs and plants having varying history.
2. Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Spending a day at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is one of the best things in Brisbane to do with kids. Little ones will love cuddling with the Koalas and feeding the Kangaroos.
3. Swim at Streets Beach: Overlooking the Brisbane River, amidst the concrete jungle, Streets Beach is Australia's only man-made beach. Let your kids make a splash in the waters and have fun.
How can I reach Brisbane?
Brisbane is conveniently connected to other parts of the world. To reach Brisbane, one has to reserve flights that land at Brisbane Airport (BNE). Airlines that ply to this city are Korean Air, Virgin Australia, China Airlines, Qantas and Air New Zealand.
What is the best time to travel to Brisbane?
The best time to travel to Brisbane is between March-May i.e. the Autumn Season. During this period, the temperature ranges between 14° -28° and is ideal to explore the outdoors.
What is Brisbane famous for?
Brisbane is famous for its peppy nightlife, Queensland Art Gallery, Koala Sanctuary and the bustling South Bank. Owing to its location, the city is also known for its salubrious climate and lures many travellers from other parts of the world.
What is famous to buy in Brisbane?
On your trip to Brisbane, one must purchase Crafter Beer, Artworks, Local Honey, Seasonal Chocolates, Ugg Boots and Australian Tea.
Is Brisbane safe at night?
Yes, Brisbane is completely safe at night. The crime rate in Brisbane is comparatively low than in other Australian cities. Nonetheless, one must avoid venturing into uncharted places without proper guidance.
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