10 eclectic ways to explore Brisbane

Beyond Brisbane’s obvious draws – its year-round pleasant weather and riverside views – there’s a lot going on here. Over the last few years, it has steadily outgrown its characterisation as a “large country town masquerading as a city”. 

Much has been done to enhance Brisbane’s assets: wharves have been transformed into bustling dining districts, and laneways brought alive with art and music – and that was all before the city was chosen to host the 2032 Olympics. For all its riverfront serenity, Brisbane has the palpable energy of a city coming into its own. Catch the wave while you can with our guide to the top 10 attractions in Brisbane. 

1. Explore stylish threads and eats at James Street 

This tree-lined boulevard is where you’ll find Brisbane’s trendiest bars and boutiques, with a glamorous hotel to boot. Major Australian labels such as such as Aje and Dion Lee are housed here alongside indie shops and artsy cafes. Tuck into modern Middle Eastern dishes at Gerard’s Bistro or wood-fire cooking at Agnes. Meanwhile, LOS offers Thai-inspired cocktails, and over 110 types of tequila. The jewel of James Street is The Calile Hotel ; designed by Brisbane-based architects Richards & Spence, the hotel’s smooth white arches are instantly recognisable. Don’t forget to peruse delightful fashion and home goods at the lobby shop, Museum of Small Things .

2. Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary 

A short drive into Brisbane’s leafy suburbs will bring you to the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary allows you to get up close to more than 130 koalas, as well as other Australian wildlife like kangaroos, wombats, Tasmanian devils, platypuses and dingoes. The sanctuary has been dedicated to the conservation of koalas since its establishment in 1927 and is also home to the Koala Science Institute, which includes a research laboratory, wildlife hospital, and educational exhibitions. 

3. Soak up culture at Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) 

Located at Kurilpa Point in South Brisbane, the QAGOMA are two of Australia’s most highly regarded arts and culture destinations. The neighbouring galleries house a comprehensive historical and cultural collection of over 20,000 works of art by Australian, Indigenous Australian and international artists. They also offer a stellar line-up of workshops, performances, talks and events for visitors of all ages. While you’re there, step outside to explore the Gallery Sculpture Walk and enjoy light bites by the river at the GOMA Bistro . 

4. Get an adrenaline boost at Riverlife Adventure Centre 

If you want to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy getting your heart rate up, head to Riverlife Adventure Centre in Kangaroo Point, a suburb brimming with natural beauty. Here, look skywards as you experience the thrill of abseiling or rock climbing the stunning Kangaroo Point Cliffs.

Prefer to stay more grounded? Hop on a kayak instead to experience Brisbane from the river. Whether you go during the daytime or at sunset, you will be rewarded with incredible views of the city. Cathay members can also choose to explore the city on bikes or rollerblades – another exhiliarating way to move your way through town – available for hire . 

5. Explore Brisbane’s laneways

In 2006, Brisbane City Council kickstarted a project to revitalise the city’s laneways, turning them into the cultural centres they are today. Among “The Lanes ” of Fortitude Valley, you can find imaginative pop-ups at Winn Lane and alfresco eateries on California Lane.

In the CBD, Burnett Lane invites you to munch on croissants from Lune , load up on caffeine at Brew and sip on delicious cocktails at Brisbane favourite, Death & Taxes . Across the river in South Brisbane, street art and hidden bars come together on Fish Lane ; wood-fired pizza at the intimate Julius Pizzeria is a must, followed by a stiff drink at Bar Brutus .

6. Discover multicultural West End 

What makes this beloved southern suburb so special? For one thing, West End has a tight-knit, multicultural community that has given rise to enduringly popular restaurants like Vietnamese joint Kim Thanh Hot Bread , Greek spot Lefka’s Taverna and Turkish eatery Caravanserai . Well-known café Morning After on Boundary Street – the beating heart of West End – should be on your breakfast itinerary even if you’re only in Brisbane for a day; be sure to stop at charming bookstore Avid Reader on the way, too. Finally, snap up local goods and produce at the West End Markets, held every Saturday at Davies Park.

7. Enjoy waterfront views from Howard Smith wharves 

Right under the Story Bridge – the iconic steel cantilever bridge that spans the Brisbane River – lies Howard Smith Wharves, a premier dining and entertainment destination with fantastic waterfront scenery. Enjoy views and vibes at Mr Percival’s , a restaurant and bar with a lively tropical theme, or sip on local beer and soak up the atmosphere at the epic open-air Felons Brewing Co or its neighbouring Barrel Hall ; the latter has a regular roster of gigs and events. 

8. Head up to Mount Coot-tha Reserve 

Head southwest from Brisbane’s CBD to Mount Coot-Tha Lookout, the highest point in Brisbane, to get the ultimate panoramic view of the city. On clear days, you can see beyond the coastline of Western Australia to Moreton Bay and Stradbroke Island. Explore the hilly reserve via one of its many hiking trails, or head down to its foothills to the Botanic Gardens , a 56-hectare oasis with Japanese Gardens, waterfalls, a Bonsai House with 80 types of Bonsai, and a glass dome housing tropical plants. 

9. Navigate the city by CityCat 

Brisbane is known as the River City, and one of the best ways to explore it is on the “brown snake” itself, using one of the most underrated forms of public transport the city has to offer. From the South Bank Parklands, hop on a CityCat heading to New Farm. If the weather permits, opt for a seat on the outer deck, where you can enjoy the cool Brisbane breeze as you wind down the river. When you reach your terminus, sit down for a picnic at New Farm Park or catch a show at the Brisbane Powerhouse . 

10. Go whale watching in winter

Wondering what there is to do in Brisbane in winter? Head out in search of some gentle giants. Winter is prime whale watching season, and there’s no better place to spot these marine mammals than the clear waters of Moreton Bay. Head to Redcliffe (under an hour’s drive from the CBD) to join Brisbane Whale Watching on a day tour to try your luck to spot the majestic Southern Humpback whale. It’s sure to be a memorable experience. 

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