Best things to do in Brisbane City

Last comprehensively reviewed and updated: 8 November 2026

Are you planning a trip to Brisbane?  This article covers the best things to do in Brisbane City, including tourist attractions, activities and places to visit.

The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Turrbal people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Brisbane (Meeanjin) is located. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country.  Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

There are plenty of things in Brisbane to do!  Known, of course, for being the capital of the sunshine state, it’s a vibrant city that offers a range of experiences from cultural experiences to stunning parklands, bustling nightlife and much more!

Among the top things to do Brisbane offers is checking out the cityscape while cruising down the river, taking a swim in Streets Beach at the Southbank Parklands or enjoying a glass of wine from a rooftop bar with views to die for!

Whether you’re a foodie, a sun-seeker or someone with a thirst for the great outdoors, Brisbane has something for everyone. Whether you’re travelling with kids, a loved one, or on your own, it’s the ideal place to spend a few days, plus with many must do Brisbane attractions completely free, it’s an affordable city to visit too.

This guide will help you decide which things to see and do in Brisbane.  It covers a broad range of Brisbane activities, including all the popular Brisbane attractions, the best places to visit in Brisbane, as well as all the essential information such as locations, opening hours and ticket prices.

In addition, this Brisbane to do guide includes tips on the best day tours and where to stay.

So let’s get into it and check out the top things to do in Brisbane!

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to our disclaimer here for more information.

BRISBANE TO DO GUIDE MAP

Before we get started on all the great stuff to do in Brisbane to help you plan your itinerary, check out the map below.  This map shows the location of all the Brisbane tourist attractions covered in this guide.

I recommend you make a short list of all the attractions you want to see and then use this map to plan your day to day itinerary, so you’re not travelling back and forth all over town.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN BRISBANE CITY

Below we cover the most popular places to go in Brisbane and Brisbane City attractions.

1. Visit Southbank Parklands

The Southbank Parklands is one of those places that offers something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for free things to do in Brisbane with kids or things to do in Brisbane at night with friends, it’s got it all.

Whether you’re 5 or 50, you’ll find something to enjoy in the South Bank area. However, if you’re looking for fun things to do in Brisbane for families – you’ll want to take the kids to Streets Beach, the man-made beach area that includes a lagoon style swimming pool, rock pools and interactive water play areas; it’s without a doubt one of the most fun places to go in Brisbane. 

There are plenty of other outdoor activities in Brisbane’s Southbank, including the Rainforest walk, a boardwalk through the lush green forest that makes you feel like you could be in Tropical North Queensland or the Arbor, a 1km pathway lined with bright pink and purple flowers, perfect for getting those Brisbane Instagram photos.

Speaking of iconic Brisbane views, you’ll find two more of Brisbane’s top attractions in South Bank, the Wheel of Brisbane and the Brisbane sign. The Wheel of Brisbane is Brisbane’s answer to the London Eye. While only 60 metres tall, it offers riders views across both sides of the river and in all directions, a great way to get your bearings in Brisbane and check out some of the Brisbane sights and attractions from above.

The Brisbane sign is near the wheel, just a bit further up the river. The brightly coloured letters spelling out Brisbane make for a great photo, especially because, unlike the Hollywood sign, kids (or adults) can climb into and on top of the letters. 

Location: Clem Jones Promenade South Brisbane

Opening Hours: 5 am to Midnight daily

Cost: Free

2. Cruise the Brisbane River

One of the top 10 things to do in Brisbane is to take a cruise down the river.  There are multiple ways to do this too.  You can charter a boat by yourself, sit back and relax on a tourist cruise or even take a quick ride to get from A to B onboard a city cat.

If you’d like to captain your own boat, GoBoat hires easy-to-operate electric picnic boats from Breakfast Creek. No boat licence or previous experience is required, and each shaded boat carries up to eight people around a central picnic table. We’ve taken a GoBoat out before, and it’s really fun.

If you’re unsure about handling a motor, then a Brisbane River Kayak tour might be a great option. 

Whether by kayak, GoBoat or CityCat, cruising towards New Farm is a great way to see Brisbane from the water. CityCats operate across 22 terminals between UQ St Lucia and Northshore Hamilton, with a flat 50-cent Translink fare per journey.

Cruising the Brisbane River doesn’t have to involve hard work; however, there are plenty of more cruisy (excuse the pun) options too. For example, one of the most fun things to do in Brisbane at night is to hop on a sunset cruise down the river, complete with an onboard bar or even a brewery opping cocktail cruise.

3. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must if you’re interested in some great family activities Brisbane offers – or you’re an international tourist wanting to get up close with some cute and cuddly Aussie animals.

While it’s called a koala sanctuary, Lone Pine has much more to offer than just koalas (although there are over 100 of those). One of the biggest drawcards of the sanctuary is the kangaroos which you can hand feed in the back paddock. Getting that close to Australia’s most famous animals is one of the most memorable things to do in Brisbane with family.

In addition, you can watch the range of presentations and demonstrations on show throughout the day, such as lorikeet feedings, sheepdog shows, bird shows and more.  These presentations are a great way to learn more about native Australian wildlife.

Lone Pine is now offering immersive night-time experiences with Nocturnal tours that allow visitors to discover the world of Australia’s fascinating nocturnal species. A one-kilometre stroll called The Wild Walk, meanders through a eucalypt plantation, which features seven exhibit spaces filled with ten species.

Lone Pine is 13 km from the Brisbane CBD on the banks of the Brisbane River, so the best and most scenic way to get there is by boat.  You can book a Brisbane River Cruise with Lone Pine Sanctuary admission, combining two of our favourite Brisbane city activities. 

Plan to spend a few hours to half a day here.

Location: 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket

Opening Hours: Daily 9 am to 5 pm

Cost: $63 per adult | $45 per child (3–13) | $50 per student or senior | $193 per family (2 adults and up to 3 children) | Children under 3 free

4. Climb the Story Bridge

The Brisbane bridge climb is one of only three bridge climbs in the world and from the top, you can see all the way out to Moreton Bay in the east and the Scenic Rim to the west. During the climb, you will learn some interesting facts about the bridge as well as Brisbane city.   

There is no required fitness level to do the bridge climb; however you must be ok with climbing steep stairs and, of course heights. The bridge is 72 metres tall at its highest point, so you’ll be a long way up!

The entire experience goes for around 2 hours and there is a range of different climb options, including a day climb, night climb, twilight climb, lean out off the bridge, walk a plank out over the bridge, abseil off the bridge – and more. So if you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, this is one of the best adventure activities Brisbane can offer you.

Now I have personally done this and it was awesome! I highly recommend it.

Location: 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane City

Opening Hours: Climbs operate daily, with departure times varying by the climb selected

Cost: Prices vary by climb, with standard day climbs currently from around $150 per person. Climbers must be at least 6 years old, over 1.1 metres tall and under 130 kg. Click here to check current prices and book online.

5. Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)

While Brisbane is quite an outdoorsy city, thanks to the sunny Queensland weather, there are plenty of indoor activities around Brisbane for when it gets too hot outside or you need some things to do in Brisbane on a rainy day. Of all the indoor options, the Queensland Art gallery and gallery of Modern Art is one of the best. 

The art displays cover the full spectrum, from traditional European-style canvas paintings to weird and wacky modern art exhibits. Definitely don’t expect to understand everything you see!

The gallery has made a real effort to showcase a mix of different artistic styles that represent the history and diversity of Queensland, with a large collection of Aboriginal artworks on display. So if you want to learn about some of the history and culture of Australia’s indigenous peoples, this is a great place to go.

The gallery also hosts some excellent temporary exhibitions – so if you’re looking for interesting things to do in Brisbane, check out what’s on while you’re in town.  

Location: Stanley Place, Cultural Precinct, South Brisbane

Opening Hours: Daily 10 am to 5 pm

Cost: Free – although some exhibitions do require an admission fee.

6. Drink at a rooftop bar

Rooftop bars are huge in Brisbane right now, with lots of new openings, from Mediterranean-themed pool-side spaces with loungers to hipster rooftop breweries with industrial fittings. If you’re visiting in summer, these are definitely the cool places to go in Brisbane, where you can sip a cocktail with panoramic views of the city. 

Some of Brisbane’s most highly rated rooftop bars are Lina in the CBD, Valley Hops Brewing in the infamous Fortitude Valley, and Fiume at the Howard Smith Wharves. Each rooftop bar has a unique atmosphere, so there is certainly a bar for everyone!

7. Eat Street Northshore

For the foodies, Eat Street needs to be on your list of Brisbane places to go. As it’s a little further out of the CBD, this is more of a local haunt compared to some of the Brisbane tourist places on this list, but that means it has more of a relaxed vibe and you know you’re getting the real Brisbane experience when you go there.

Eat Street is made up of shipping containers stacked together to form an industrial-styled space. There is also a main stage where live music acts will perform most nights. 

The food stalls at Eat Street offer dishes from all around the world, from crepes to dumplings and much more, at quite affordable prices, making it a great dinner spot for budget travellers. 

Location: 221 Macarthur Ave, Hamilton

Opening Hours: 4-10 pm Friday-Saturday, 4-9 pm Sunday

Cost: $6 entry per adult | Free for children under 13

8. Farmers Markets

There are some great markets to explore around the city centre and Southbank. Markets should definitely be on your list if you’re visiting town on the weekend or if you’re just after cheap activities in Brisbane. 

Here is a quick overview of the more popular markets around the CBD:

Riverside Garden Markets

Located in the City Botanic Gardens and the lower block of Albert Street, these Brisbane City markets are on Sundays from 8 am to 3 pm. You will find arts, and crafts, clothes, food, beverages, street performers and more. The different cuisines on offer really showcase Brisbane’s diversity.

Southbank Collective Markets

Located on Little Stanley Street in South Bank, the Collective Markets trade Friday 5–9 pm, Saturday 10 am–9 pm and Sunday 9 am–4 pm. Browse handmade jewellery, art, fashion, homewares and collectables, with food stalls and plenty of nearby restaurants.

Brisbane City Markets

Brisbane City Markets trade at Reddacliff Place from 8 am–6 pm on Wednesdays and at Cathedral Square from 8 am–2 pm on Thursdays. Stalls include fresh produce, baked goods, juices, meat, seafood, pantry items, gifts and ready-to-eat meals.

West End Markets

The West End Markets trade every Saturday at Davies Park from 6 am–2 pm from March to November and 6 am–1 pm from December to February. Expect fresh produce, artisan goods, street food, fashion and live music; check the market’s social channels for any weather or event changes.

9. Howard Smith Wharves

When it’s a sunny summer afternoon, all the locals know that Howard Smith Wharves is one of the best places to go in Brisbane. Tucked under the Story Bridge, the wharves have been transformed from a semi-industrial area into a dining hub with tons of outdoor space for relaxing with friends. 

A large part of the wharves has been dedicated to Felons Brewing Co. beer garden and barrel hall, which offers beer tastings, trivia, live music and food. But if beer isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other restaurants to choose from.

Mr Percival’s provides a lively riverside bar experience, while for those craving seafood, ARC Dining & Wine Bar offers fresh, locally sourced dishes. Polpetta serves up Italian fare with a modern twist, and Yoko Dining brings a taste of Japan with its izakaya-style menu.

The scenic riverside views, combined with the eclectic mix of dining options, make Howard Smith Wharves a must-visit culinary destination in Brisbane.

Pro Tip: Be sure to book well in advance if you want to dine at one of the restaurants here over a weekend – it’s extremely popular and can book out weeks in advance.

Read our full guide on Howard Smith Wharves here.

Location: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane City

Opening Hours: Varies by restaurant

Cost: Free

10. Riverwalk

If you need some physical activities to do in Brisbane after indulging in the tasty goodies at the Farmers Markets or drinking too many cocktails at the rooftops bars, then grab your bicycles, scooters or just a good pair of walking shoes and head out along the 870 metres long Brisbane Riverwalk. 

The Riverwalk juts out along the Brisbane River from the Howard Smith Wharves in the CBD to New Farm at Riverview Court. Along the way, you can explore the city from a new angle and see some of Brisbane’s most gorgeous Queensland homes.

It’s recommended you go the entire length to New Farm and onto New Farm Park.  New Farm Park is another one of the great things to do in Brisbane for free, with a large gorgeous park for walks, runs or picnics and a great playground for the kids.  From New Farm Park, you can take a CityCat back to the CBD or make the trip in reverse.

Location: The Riverwalk starts at Howard Smith Wharves and ends at Riverview Court, New Farm. 

Opening Hours: Open at all times

Cost: Free

11. XXXX Brewery Tour

When it comes to Brisbane places to visit for beer fans, XXXX Brewery is high on the list. The Milton brewery has been producing beer for more than 145 years, and its history includes sending brews to Australian soldiers serving overseas during World War II.

XXXX offers brewery tours at their Milton alehouse, which you can reach by City Cat (Park Road terminal) or train (Milton station). 

Tours take around 1.5 hours and include three beer tastings from the XXXX range, including a non-alcoholic beer for the non-drinkers. 

Location: Corner of Black and Paten Streets, Milton

Opening Hours: Tours operate Wednesday to Sunday, with session times shown on the live booking calendar. Bookings are essential and participants must be 18 or over.

Cost: Tours currently start from $41 per adult plus the online booking fee and include a guided 90-minute tour followed by a tasting session. Click here to check current availability and book online.

12. Queensland Museum Kurilpa

Another one of the top Brisbane tourist places to visit – particularly if you’re after Brisbane things to do with family – is the Queensland Museum. Over three massive levels, various interactive displays feature dinosaurs, marine life, Australian animals, and a range of weird and unusual collections.  

The Museum has life-size dinosaurs on display, as well as giant whales, spiders, stick insects, cockroaches and butterflies. This is the place to go if you want to see those infamous giant Australian spiders safely.

The museum also has different exhibitions that change throughout the year, as well as an onsite cafe with river views.  

The Queensland Museum is in the Cultural Precinct, north of the Southbank Parklands. It is a short walk from the Brisbane CBD or by public transport, including buses, trains, and ferries. 

The closest train station is South Brisbane. CityCat and ferry services are another scenic option, with Translink’s flat 50-cent fare applying per journey; check the current route and terminal status before travelling.

Location: Corner of Grey and Melbourne Street, South Brisbane

Opening Hours: Daily 9.30 am to 5 pm

Cost: Free – although some special exhibits may cost extra

13. City Botanic Gardens

The Brisbane City Botanic Gardens is a lovely place to escape the hustle and bustle of the CBD and a great place to go if you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Brisbane. Here, you will find large areas of manicured lawns, riverside pathways shaded by large weeping figs, ponds with ducks, and an excellent all-ability playground.

The Gardens are best visited early in the morning when you can see the locals out for their morning walks and enjoy the space before the hottest part of the day, as there is little shade. 

Time your visit for a Sunday morning to experience the weekly Riverside markets; the food stalls are not to be missed.

Location: 147 Alice Street, Brisbane City

Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours

Cost: Free

14. Shopping at Queen Street Mall

For those who love to shop, one of the best things to do in Brisbane CBD is to explore Queen Street Mall. The pedestrian precinct and its surrounding centres and heritage-listed arcades are home to more than 500 stores, alongside cinemas, entertainment, restaurants, pubs and cafes.

Popular shopping centres on and around Queen Street Mall include QueensPlaza, Wintergarden, Uptown and MacArthur Central. Brisbane Arcade and Tattersall’s Arcade are also worth exploring, and several of the larger centres have food courts for a quick, budget-friendly meal.

On any given day, you will often find various buskers or other entertainment to watch in the mall – usually in the outdoor area where there are benches so you can catch a break and rest for a moment.

During the Christmas period, Queen Street Mall is decorated for the season and hosts a changing program of festive entertainment. Check the current Brisbane City Christmas program before visiting, as events vary from year to year.

Location: Queen Street, Brisbane

Opening Hours: Varies between stores and restaurants

Cost: Depends on how much you buy!

15. Museum of Brisbane 

At the Museum of Brisbane, you can learn about the history of Brisbane through interactive displays, photos and film. The exhibits are always changing, so no visit will be the same. The Brisbane Museum is smaller than the Queensland Museum, but it’s a great way to learn about the story of this fascinating city.

It’s also one of the best Brisbane attractions for families because the Brisbane Museum offers many activities designed just for kids, like storytelling, kite making, crafts, cooking, and more.  Plus, there are interactive displays and baby-friendly tours, which ensure even the littlest of visitors are entertained.

The Museum is in the historic City Hall, which is absolutely a must-see. The building is so beautiful that one couple was taking their wedding photos there when we visited.

Location: Level 3, City Hall, 64 Adelaide Street, Brisbane – entry is through the King George Square Foyer.

Opening Hours: Daily 10 am to 5 pm 

Cost: Free entry (some exhibitions may charge an entry fee)

16. Mt Coot-tha Lookout and the Brisbane Botanic Gardens

Just outside the CBD, you’ll find Mt Coot-tha—one of Brisbane’s essential viewpoints and natural areas. The summit lookout offers panoramic views across the city towards Moreton Bay, while the wider precinct has bushwalks, picnic areas and the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha.

For brilliant views of Brisbane city, it is highly recommended to go to the observation deck, where you can see out to Moreton Bay on a clear day.  You can either drive to the top or take the walking track to the top.  

There is also a café and restaurant here, so perfect if you’re looking for lunch or just a snack.  And for those that walk to the top – grab an ice cream – you deserve it!

The foot of Mt Coot-tha is a very popular spot for families to have a BBQ or picnic.  There are many lovely spots along the creek at JC Slaughter Falls or among the manicured gardens at the Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens.

The Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha cover 52 hectares and include a Japanese Garden, lagoon and Tropical Display Dome, along with extensive subtropical and Australian plant collections.

Throughout the gardens, there is a Children’s Hide and Seek Trail and for adults, free guided tours are also available most days. The Gardens Café is open daily.

Location: Mt Coot-tha precinct — the lookout is on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive; the botanic gardens and Planetarium are on Mt Coot-tha Road

Opening Hours: Lookout open 24 hours | Botanic gardens 8 am–6 pm September to March and 8 am–5 pm April to August

Cost: Free

17. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium

The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is located within the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, making a Cosmic Skydome show an easy addition to a visit to the gardens.

A range of shows are held in the Planetarium’s Cosmic Skydome, usually several per day on weekends, with a few designed especially for young children.  Shows generally need to be pre-booked online.

As well as the shows, the planetarium also has a range of interactive displays, including an observatory and sundial, as well as a gallery and a mini theatre.

Location: Mt Coot-tha precinct — the lookout is on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive; the botanic gardens and Planetarium are on Mt Coot-tha Road

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10 am–4 pm | Monday 10 am–4 pm during Queensland school holidays only

Cost: Entry to the Planetarium’s public areas is free. General-audience Cosmic Skydome shows cost $17.50 per adult, $13.50 concession and $11 per child aged 3–14; shorter children’s shows are $11 per person.

18. Roma Street Parklands

The Roma Street Parklands are located in the heart of Brisbane and is one of the best places to visit if you’re after the free family activities Brisbane offers.

The parklands are huge, with lakes, playgrounds, flower beds, bridges, waterfalls and walkways for exploring, making it one of the most beautiful places to see in Brisbane.  The Roma St Parklands are one of the world’s largest subtropical gardens in a city centre and there is plenty to do here.  

You can join one of the free Guided Walks, where guides will take you through the gardens and provide interesting details along the way. Some of the themed guided tours include – Bush tucker and Rainforest, 20 years of Roma Street Parklands and Spectacle Garden in Colin Campbell Place. Otherwise, head to the information booth and grab a map for your own self guided tour around the parklands.

There is a huge range of native wildlife in the park, including birds, bees, fish and water dragons, especially around the lake, where you can explore the walkways, watch the ducks or try and spot the lungfish.

There is a café within the parklands, or bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens. Check the current parkland program for free guided walks, seasonal displays and special events during your visit.

Location: 1 Parkland Blvd, Brisbane

Opening Hours: Parkland open 24 hours; the Spectacle Garden and Rainforest Walk are open daily from dawn until dusk

Cost: Free

19. Queensland Maritime Museum

Located at the far southern end of South Bank is the Queensland Maritime Museum.  This old museum is one of Australia’s largest maritime museums and features various historic vessels and other items on display, including ships you can actually climb into and explore.

The range of huge historic boats includes the 1945 warship Diamantina, the 1925 steam tug boat, as well as Jessica Watson’s Ella’s Pink Lady.  Jessica was the youngest person to sail solo and unassisted around the world in 2009/10. When you visit this museum, you’ll get a real feel for what life was like on the naval ship during WW2.  

They also have rotating exhibits celebrating Australia’s maritime history and modern maritime life using various art mediums. So for family things to do in Brisbane for all ages, the Queensland Maritime Museum has something for everyone.

The museum is located between the South Bank Parklands and the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. You can walk across the river from the CBD via the Goodwill Bridge making it a great place to stop if you’re exploring Brisbane by foot along the river.

Location: 412 Stanley Street, South Brisbane

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am–4.15 pm

Cost: $18 per adult | $15 pensioner, senior or student | $8 per child under 15 | $42–$50 per family (2 adults and up to 3 children)

20. Riverlife Adventure Centre

Riverlife Adventure Centre in Brisbane offers a variety of outdoor activities for those seeking adventure against the city’s beautiful backdrop. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or would like to hire equipment for your own adventure, Riverlife allows you to explore Brisbane in unique and thrilling ways​​.

Options include kayaking tours, where you can paddle along the Brisbane River, while for those after a bit more adrenaline, rock climbing and abseiling tours are available where you can take on the challenge of the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. 

Riverlife also offers twilight experiences, such as the Twilight Kayak Adventure and the Twilight Abseil Adventure, providing an exciting way to experience the city under the cover of dusk with breathtaking views of the skyline​​​​.

No previous experience is required for any of the activities as Riverlife provides all necessary instruction and safety briefings. They cater to all ages and skill levels, with a minimum age of 8 years for most activities.

Location: Naval Stores Kangaroo Point Cliffs Drive, Kangaroo Point

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 9 am–5 pm | Friday and Saturday 9 am–7 pm | Sunday 9 am–5 pm

Cost: Day kayaking and abseiling tours currently start from $85 per person, twilight experiences from $109 and equipment hire from $45–$55. Click here to check current activities, prices and availability.

21. Vertigo Brisbane

Vertigo at Brisbane Powerhouse is Australia’s first vertical dining experience, set four storeys above the ground on the building’s industrial façade. Guests enjoy city views, drinks and a shared charcuterie board before finishing with a 17-metre dropline descent.

Participants wear safety harnesses throughout the experience. Bookings are essential, and optional additions such as the Walk the Plank experience may be available on selected sessions.

The complete experience takes approximately one hour. Check the booking conditions carefully for age, weight, mobility and clothing requirements before reserving.

Click here for our full review of Vertigo Brisbane.

Location: 119 Lamington St, New Farm

Opening Hours: Friday and Saturday, 5 pm–9 pm, with additional sessions for selected special events

Cost: Standard Vertigo experiences currently start from $199 per person; optional additions cost extra

22. Soak Bathhouse

Soak Bathhouse is a sanctuary for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Its prime location within the vibrant West Village Precinct of West End, known for its eclectic mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, adds to its allure, making it a perfect spot for a day out with friends or a serene escape with a partner.

Soak Bathhouse has five open-air magnesium hot spas, a large warm mineral pool, cedar saunas, steam rooms and cold plunge pools. Guests can move between the facilities at their own pace during a timed session.

In addition to water-based therapies, Soak Bathhouse offers massages, LED facials, and private infrared sauna sessions. The inclusion of a preference form for massages allows guests to tailor their experience and plush towels, high-quality toiletries, and a meticulously maintained environment ensures a comfortable and luxurious visit.

Soak Bathhouse has flexible pricing options, including the option to add a sip package featuring drinks and a healthy snack. With extended operating hours catering to early birds and night owls, Soak Bathhouse is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and indulge in self-care.

Click here for our full review of Soak Bathhouse.  

Location: The Eaves at West Village, Suite 2 Level 2/111 Boundary St, West End

Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 6.30 am to 10 pm | Friday to Sundays 6.30 am to 12 am

Cost: Early-morning 60-minute sessions start from $39.95; standard 90-minute sessions start from $59.95. Prices vary between weekdays and weekends.

23. The Star Casino

The Star Brisbane opened in August 2024 as part of the Queen’s Wharf precinct on the Brisbane River. Beyond its casino, the precinct includes The Star Grand hotel, restaurants, bars, an Event Centre, public art and the 250-metre Sky Deck with panoramic river and city views.

Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just looking for a fun night, the Star Casino caters to all with its expansive gaming floors featuring the latest slot machines, classic table games, and private high-roller rooms for those seeking a more exclusive experience.

Beyond the gaming, the casino is a culinary destination, featuring various restaurants and bars showcasing local and international cuisine, from fine dining experiences with stunning river views to casual eateries perfect for a quick bite.

The casino transforms into a lively hub as night falls, with live music, performances, and events.

Click here for our detailed guide for more information about The Star Brisbane.

Location: 33 William Street, Brisbane 

Opening Hours: The Casino is open 24 hours, while restaurants and bars have their own opening hours.

Cost: Entry to the public precinct is free; dining, entertainment and gaming costs vary. Casino areas are restricted to guests aged 18 and over with valid identification.

BEST TOURS OF BRISBANE

If you’re short on time or don’t have your own transport, a group tour is often the best way to see the highlights of Brisbane and the surrounding area.

Below we’ve listed some of the best tours of Brisbane.

Brisbane City Highlights

This tour is your ticket to see all the best attractions in Brisbane in the least time. It’s a whirlwind but a very fun day out. 

You’ll catch the best views in the city from Mt Coot-tha, get up close to cuddly koalas at Lone Pine Sanctuary, soak up the atmosphere of South Bank and get your Brisbane sign photos, all in the space of 6 hours. 

This really is great value for what you cover. The local guides will take care of you with free bottled water and a properly air-conditioned van to help you withstand the Brisbane heat (if you’re visiting in Summer).

Click here for information and to book your tour.

Brisbane Self Guided Walking Tour

This self-guided audio tour will give the best of both worlds if you’re more of an independent traveller. You can go at your own pace but benefit from expert commentary to help you understand what you’re seeing.

This Brisbane city tour is especially good for history fans as it takes you through the stories of some of Brisbane’s oldest buildings like the City Hall and Parliament House, as you wander the halls.

Click here for information and to book your tour.

BRISBANE DAY TRIPS

While the Brisbane CBD is fabulous for a few days, there is much more to see in the neighbouring areas. So while it’s recommended you stay at least a few days in each of these regions, if you only have a day, then a day trip is possible.

Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s top destinations and you’ll be surprised how easy it is to get to from Brisbane, just a short drive, train ride or transfer away.

If you’re after picture-perfect white sand beaches, then a day trip to the Gold Coast is a must!  Head to one of the many pristine beaches for swimming, surfing and sunbathing. 

The Gold Coast has a lot more than just beaches however, it’s also a top shopping destination and has a thriving food scene, with many cafes specialising in fresh, healthy dishes made with local produce.

For families, the Gold Coast is all about the theme parks and you have so many to choose from. Younger kids will love splashing around at SeaWorld or meeting favourite characters at Movie World, while older kids will be thrilled by the rides at DreamWorld.

Click here for our full guide on things to do on the Gold Coast.

Mt Tamborine

Mount Tamborine is one of the best places to visit near Brisbane for nature lovers. You can spend a full day exploring the natural beauty of the including seeing rare butterflies, crystal clear waterfalls, lush rainforest and more. 

To make the most of your day trip, book a Mount Tamborine tour; Queensland Day Tours and Bums on Seats both offer great itineraries.

Mount Tamborine is also a highly underrated wine region with some of Queensland’s best boutique wineries located in the area. You can discover these on a wine tour from Brisbane, which includes a gourmet lunch.

Click here for our full guide on things to do on Tamborine Mountain.

Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is just north of Brisbane and, in addition to gorgeous sunny beaches, has lots to offer visitors of all tastes. 

Kids will love the Australia Zoo with its world famous wildlife warriors show that features birds swooping overhead, a crocodile feeding display and tons more. As well as all the incredible animal species to learn about, there are various play parks dotted throughout the zoo, including a great water splash park for the kids to cool off whilst parents take a rest on the grass nearby. 

If you don’t feel like driving, you could book return transfers from Brisbane through a tour operator.

For adults, the Sunshine Coast hinterland and Noosa are popular to explore, with a mix of quaint mountain villages, artsy markets and the world’s biggest ginger factory – you can’t say the Sunshine Coast isn’t unique! 

Queensland day tours can take you to all of these on a small group tour.

Click here for our full guide on things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

Moreton Island

A visit to Moreton Island is on most Queensland travellers’ lists, particularly those who love the great outdoors and fortunately, it’s very accessible from Brisbane. The island offers attractions like the Tangalooma Shipwrecks, whale watching, swimming with dolphins and, incredibly, sandboarding in the desert.  

You’ll need a 4WD to make the most of your time on the island, so if you don’t have one or aren’t able to hire one, then a day tour is a great way to go. A Tangalooma Day Cruise with ATV Quad Bike Tour is great for adventure seekers or a Moreton Island Snorkeling & Dolphin Feeding Tour for those who prefer to spend most of their time on the water.

North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island, also known as Straddie or its traditional aboriginal name, Minjerribah is a fantastic place to enjoy natural beauty, swim in clear waters, explore inland lakes, spot wildlife or chill back at one of the Stradbroke Island restaurants and cafes. For attractions near Brisbane, it doesn’t get much better than this!

North Stradbroke Island is the world’s second largest sand island, being 38 kilometres long and 11 kilometres wide and is only 30 kilometres southeast of Brisbane. You can self-drive for a day trip and catch the ferry or book onto a day tour to have the logistics taken care of.

BEST HOTELS IN BRISBANE

Looking for somewhere to stay in Brisbane?  We recommend making your booking through Booking.com as they offer a wide range of hotels and most with free cancellation, which is ideal for last minute changes.

However, if you want our recommendation for a hotel, we’ve listed our top pick for a luxury hotel, family hotel, mid range and budget hotel below.

Best Luxury Hotel: Emporium Hotel – Southbank

Read our full guide on Brisbane luxury hotels here.

The Emporium Hotel is easily the nicest accommodation in the happening Southbank area. It’s right across the road from a range of restaurants and less than 10 minute walk from the Southbank Parklands and the QAGOMA. 

Everything about Emporium feels luxurious, from the rooftop infinity pool to the marble bathrooms, sauna, steam room and day spa. Its 143 suites include king, twin, family and accessible configurations; selected River City suites have an open-air balconette overlooking South Bank and the Brisbane River.

Click here for more information or to book

Best Family Hotel: Mantra – Southbank

Mantra South Bank offers hotel rooms, studios and self-contained one- and two-bedroom apartments. Families wanting extra space or cooking facilities should choose an apartment category rather than assuming these are included in every room. Guests also have access to a heated lap pool, spa and gym.

The Brisbane Mantra is also in Southbank, close to many of the best Brisbane attractions for families, like Streets Beach and the Rainforest Walk, so you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport when exploring.

Click here for more information or to book

Best Mid Range Hotel: Park Regis North Quay

The Park Regis North Quay is in the quieter North Bank area, ideal for anyone wanting to be out of the hustle and busy nightlife areas. However, it’s still fairly central and close to the Roma Street transport hub for buses, trains and ferries to all your Brisbane attractions and activities. It’s also close to the Suncorp Stadium, so a good pick if you’re visiting Brisbane for an event.

Park Regis offers hotel rooms, studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments, with selected categories overlooking the Brisbane River and city skyline. The different layouts suit solo travellers, couples and families, but check the exact bedding and kitchen facilities before booking.

Click here for more information or to book

Best Budget Hotel: Brisbane City YHA

Many people think that YHAs are just for backpackers. However, while they do have really affordable hostel beds, they also have private rooms that suit budget travellers of all ages and varieties. 

Despite its budget focus, Brisbane City YHA has useful facilities including a rooftop pool and bar, guest kitchen, café, co-working area, wellness space and free Wi-Fi. It offers dorm beds and private rooms, although guests with accessibility requirements should contact the property because lift access differs between its two buildings.

Click here for more information or to book

ENJOY BRISBANE!

Hopefully, this guide has given you lots of inspiration on things to do in Brisbane.

If you’re planning a trip to Brisbane, I highly recommend you check out our guide to Brisbane, which provides links to everything you need to know to plan your trip.

I’d also recommend you join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community, where you can ask all your questions and find even more great trip suggestions.

If you’re heading to Brisbane, you might also be interested in the following nearby destinations:

• Gold Coast
• Sunshine Coast

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