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Things to Do in Brisbane

Things to Do in Brisbane

Brisbane Queensland, Australia Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Brisbane's subtropical climate and natural surroundings offer an ideal playground for outdoor adventures.

Hiking & Trekking

Mt Coot-tha

Various trails for different fitness levels, from easy summit walks to moderate bushwalking tracks.

D'Aguilar National Park

Within day-trip distance, this park has a range of bushwalking trails from easy to challenging, including rainforest walks.

Lamington National Park

Part of Gondwana Rainforests, a wide network of rainforest walks, from gentle strolls to difficult multi-hour treks leading to waterfalls.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Kayaking/SUP: Available for rent on the Brisbane River, especially around South Bank.
  • River Cruises: Sightseeing, dining, or themed cruises on the Brisbane River. Find cruises on GetYourGuide.
  • Swimming: Streets Beach at South Bank or public pools. Ocean swimming on Moreton or North Stradbroke Island.
  • Snorkeling/Diving: Mainly at Moreton Island (Tangalooma Wrecks) or North Stradbroke Island.

Adventure Sports

  • Story Bridge Adventure Climb: Panoramic city views.
  • Rock Climbing & Abseiling: At Kangaroo Point Cliffs for all abilities.
  • Personal Watercraft riding/Wakeboarding: Thrilling water experiences on Brisbane River.
  • Always check weather conditions.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Koala holding, kangaroo feeding.
  • Whale Watching (May-Nov): Tours from Brisbane for a species of baleen whale.
  • Birdwatching: Roma Street Parkland, City Botanic Gardens.
  • Daisy Hill Koala Centre: Free entry, koala conservation focus.

Cycling & Biking

  • Brisbane Riverwalk: Extensive shared pedestrian and cycling paths.
  • Roma Street Parkland: Gentle cycling paths for leisurely rides.
  • Mountain Biking: Trails in D'Aguilar National Park (Bunyaville).
  • Explore various reserves outside the city.

Booking Advisory

Book adventure activities in advance, specifically during peak season, to secure your spot.

Cultural Immersion

Brisbane possesses several opportunities to experience local... deeply culture, from creative workshops to traditional performances.

Creative Workshops & Classes

  • Art, Craft, Music, Dance: Various studio flats and community centers offer workshops.
  • Brisbane Powerhouse: From time to time hosts creative workshops.
  • Check local listings for specific classes aligning with your interests.
  • Provides a hands-on way to engage with the city's creative scene.

Cultural Performances & Events

Brisbane Powerhouse

Features contemporary performances and festivals, often showing innovative local and national talent.

Brisbane Festival September

A major creative festival with theatre, music, dance, and graphic arts, culminating in the spectacular Riverfire fireworks display.

Paniyiri Greek Festival May

A large multicultural festival celebrating Greek culture with food, music, and dance.

Film Festivals

Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival showcases films from the Asia Pacific region.

Community Tourism

While less prominent in the urban core, initiatives exist in regional Queensland for direct engagement with local communities.

Language Learning

Various language schools offer short classes or introductory sessions for learning English or other languages.

Relaxation & Wellness

Brisbane has ample opportunities for relaxation and wellness, assisting you in unwinding and rejuvenating.

Spas & Wellness Centers

  • Luxury hotels: Excellent day spas (e.g., Emporium Hotel or Treasury Hotel).
  • Independent day spas: Across the city, offering massages, facials, and other services.
  • Book treatments in advance, notably on weekends.
  • Many provide gift vouchers.

Yoga & Natural Therapy

Yoga & Meditation

Numerous yoga studios operate throughout Brisbane for all levels. Retreats generally occur outside the city in quieter, natural settings.

Hot Springs

No natural hot springs directly in Brisbane. Closest options in Scenic Rim region (e.g., Stinson Park) for a day trip.

Traditional Healing

Traditional healing practices are not a widely advertised tourist offering. Focus is generally on contemporary wellness services.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Streets Beach

This artificial inner-city beach and lagoon offers complimentary entry for swimming and relaxing on a sandy "beach".

Hotel Pools

Many hotels in Brisbane feature excellent swimming pools, certain ones with stunning city or river views.

Refreshing Escape

These options present a refreshing escape, especially when it's warmer.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Brisbane comes alive after dark with diverse nightlife and entertainment options.

Live Music Venues

  • Fortitude Valley: A hub for live music (The Tivoli, The Zoo, The Triffid, Black Bear Lodge).
  • Brisbane Powerhouse: Hosts various live music acts, from classical to modern.
  • The Sound Garden (Fortitude Valley): Popular spot for live bands and lively atmosphere.
  • Check venue websites for upcoming acts and book tickets in advance.

Theater & Performance

Queensland Performing Arts Centre QPAC

Features multiple venues for large-scale productions, including musicals, plays, opera, and ballet.

Brisbane Powerhouse

Offers a program of more intimate and contemporary theatre, comedy, and performance art.

Browse Listings

Check official websites for current showtimes and ticket availability.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Fortitude Valley is the main precinct for nightclubs and late-night dancing. A range of venues, from large clubs to smaller, intimate dance spots. Some CBD bars also feature dance floors.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Fortitude The valley is a concentrated area with many bars, pubs, and clubs, suitable for pub crawls. Howard Smith Wharves has trendy riverside bars. CBD holds excellent rooftop bars (Fiume, Iris, The Terrace).

Late-Night Entertainment

Treasury Brisbane casino operates 24/7, offering gaming, bars, and restaurants. Late-night restaurants and dessert bars, especially in Fortitude Valley and West End, present options for post-midnight dining or treats.

Practical Nightlife Tips

Transport
  • Plan your return transport in advance.
  • Use rideshare services or taxis from designated ranks.
  • NightLink buses operate on weekends for late-night travel.
Safety
  • Remain alert.
  • Travel with friends or in groups.
  • Keep valuables secure.

Explore Activities with GetYourGuide

Discover and book a variety of Brisbane activities and experiences, including tours, shows, and adventures, through GetYourGuide.

Shopping & Markets

Market Experiences

  • Jan Powers Farmers Markets: Fresh produce, artisan foods, crafts (various locations).
  • West End Markets: Bohemian market on Sundays with food, produce, vintage items.
  • Collective Markets South Bank: Artisan crafts, fashion, souvenirs on weekends.
  • Eat Street Northshore: mainly food, but also unique gift stalls.

Shopping & Souvenirs

  • Luxury & Boutique: Queen Street Mall (department stores, international brands), James Street (boutique fashion), Edward Street (luxury brands).
  • Souvenirs: Aboriginal art, opal jewelry, sheepskin products (Ugg boots), Macadamia nuts, regional honey, Lamington-themed gifts.
  • Ethical Shopping: Prioritize local, independent shops and markets.
  • Shipping: Check customs for your home country. Major retailers arrange international shipping.
Things to Do in Brisbane. Activities, Experiences, Adventures