The Different Personalities of Brisbane’s Southbank

Brisbane’s Southbank is a cultural, social, educational precinct well worth the visit!

Set on the pretty banks of the Brisbane River, Brisbane’s South Bank boasts 17 hectares of sprawling parkland filled with top-notch restaurants and incredible river views. It’s a prime location for festivals and cultural events throughout the year, making it the ideal place to chill out and soak up the laidback atmosphere of the city.

The History of South Bank

Back in the 1840s, the South Bank region was the European settlement’s city centre, known as Brisbane’s CBD. However, in 1883, the CBD whereabouts had to relocate to the Brisbane River’s north banks due to severe flooding. Despite this small dip in popularity, South Bank slowly grew into a bustling river port region, becoming an industrial zone jam-packed with markets, food areas and theatres.

The Different Parts of Brisbane’s Southbank

• The Parklands

  The parklands area is best-known for its sprawling expanse of green lawns that are characterised by tall ficus trees and colourful plant life. Here, you can indulge in a range of activities that are fun for all the family. Take a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane, and see some of the best views of the city! Enjoy free swimming at the Streets Beach, Australia’s only inner-city man-made beach, boasting a sparkling lagoon surrounded by white, sandy beaches and sub-tropical plants. You can even hike along one of the many walking tracks, or simply kick back and relax in one of the picnic or barbecue areas.The parklands are also home to a selection of eateries, which you can find at River Quay, Stanley Street Plaza, and at the Central and Arbour View Cafes.

• Little Stanley and Grey Streets

  Elsewhere, Brisbane Southbank comes to life in a show of retail stores and dining options that overlook the pretty parklands scenery. Described as a mini-market contemporary dining strip, there are a huge amount of eating choices in this part of the region, including international restaurants and cosy cafes. Grey Street is also home to a cinema if you fancy catching a film while you’re in town.

• Cultural Precinct

  Brisbane’s Southbank is home to a number of major cultural institutions in Queensland, including the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Queensland Art Gallery, and the Gallery of Modern Art. You can also find the State Library of Queensland and Queensland Museum and Sciencentre in this part of the Southbank.This is also the area that plays host to several lively events and exhibitions throughout the year. As well as street parties and themed events, there are a number of shows that take place at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Cen tre every year.

Brisbane’s Southbank has something to offer every kind of traveller. Whether you’re looking to enjoy any of the free activities on offer, like swimming, walking, or picnicking, or whether you want to soak up the cultural atmosphere of the city, this part of Brisbane has you covered.

What’s more, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the Brisbane River while you explore, and be surrounded by the lush plant life that characterises the popular parklands area and beyond.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.