Is Brisbane worth visiting?
Written by: Cameron Ward
Published: May 8, 2020
Reading time: 3 mins
The Sunshine state’s capital city is oozing with great experiences and vibrant people. Nestled against the Brisbane River, Brisbane is buzzing with arts, culture, and dining experiences.
In true Queensland style, the people are laid back, the weather is perfect, and you’ll find a surprise around every corner.
-
South Bank
Cross the Victoria Bridge and make your way to South Bank. Here you’ll find 17 hectares of parkland, eateries, immaculate views and a year-round stream of festivals and events. Not only are festivals routinely held in the area, but you’ll also find the Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Museum, Queensland Theatre Company and Performing Arts Centre, and State Library. South Bank is the perfect place to connect with Brisbane’s history, and arts scene.
Regular markets, park spaces and boutique cafes line the length of the river making South Bank a popular destination for both tourists and locals. See the city from a different angle and take a ride on the Brisbane Wheel, a 60m high Ferris wheel. Take a picnic with you and have a truly memorable meal with a view.
-
Gondwana Rainforests
South-west of the city you will find the Gondwana Rainforests. World Heritage listed, the rainforests are home to an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna. The forest protects many threatened species, and acts as a refuge for animals away from humans. These ancient forests are the same as those that covered supercontinent Gondwana 180 million years ago. Take a walk through the rainforest and discover stunning hidden waterfalls.
-
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Get up close and personal at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. The world’s oldest koala sanctuary homes more than 130 koalas and over 70 other species of Australian animal. Book in for a special koala encounter and have your photo taken cuddling one of Australia’s most iconic species. Sit down and relax in the koala forest or enjoy one of the free daily shows. See birds of prey soaring through the sky in the Free Flight Raptor Show and have an Australian outback experience at the Sheepdog Show. For something truly magical, become a keeper for the day and meet a variety of the sanctuary’s residents.
-
Brisbane CBD
After a busy day out and exploring return to the Brisbane CBD to wine and dine. Brisbane’s food seen is a flurry with new restaurants and innovative dining experiences. Visit the shipping container dining and entertainment hub, Eat Street, for an eccentric meal or head to Little Stanley and Grey streets to eat your way around the world. If you’re after something a bit more homely, head to one of the multitude of pubs lining the river for classic Aussie pub meals with unparalleled views. Finish your evening with a quiet drink at one of the many wine bars and local craft breweries around the city.
Queensland’s capital is a not-to-be-missed destination for any trip to the Sunshine state. Give yourself a few days to explore all that Brisbane has to offer and soak in that fantastic Queensland weather.
Related article: Is Brisbane expensive?
