Brisbane or Brissy as affectionately called by Aussies is the third-largest city in Australia. The capital of the sunshine state is also one of the country’s oldest cities. It’s subtropical climate and relaxed but sophisticated culture has been garnering tourists for a long time now. If you are looking for an urban subtropical adventure in Australia then Brisbane would be the ideal place to explore.
Keep reading for the top 10 things to do in sunny Brisbane.
1. Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
Brisbane is the “Tropical Capital” of Australia, so there is abundant wildlife in this bustling city. This is the perfect spot to go to if you want to relax and take in nature. However, picnic at your own risk as lizards will get attracted to the scent of food and fight amongst each other for a morsel, but they will not attack humans.
Other than lizards you can witness the ibis, bush turkey, and ducks amongst other wildlife.
It is open 24 hours a day including weekends and requires no entrance fee.
2. Roma Street Parkland
The biggest sub-tropical city park in the southern hemisphere, this park is so big that several visits may not cover it! It is 16 hectares of lush flora and fauna smack in the middle of the city center – it is the lungs of Brisbane.
The Roma Street Parkland also hosts many free events throughout the year, a quick visit to their Facebook page will show you the schedule.
The park is open 24 hours a day including weekends and has free entrance.
3. The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art
More of an art buff? Then check out the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). This is perfect for a hot summer afternoon and if you want to experience the Modern Art scene in Queensland. They have a few Yayoi Kusama and Aboriginal activism art on display.
Entrance is mostly free but certain art exhibitions may incur a fee, so be sure to check their website first for events. They open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm.
4. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium on Mount Coot-Ha
This planetarium has something for everyone! This is the biggest planetarium in the state of Queensland and hosts many shows and events. They are open every day except on Mondays, general admission is free however if you want to see the Cosmic Skydome shows you have to pay a fee of AUD 16.40 per person.
5. Hiking on Mount Coot-Ha
Once home to the ancient Yugarapul Aboriginal people, this mountain is now a major tourist and hiking destination in Brisbane offering stunning views of the city from the summit. Mount Coot-Ha also is known as “Honey Mountain” is 287m in height, apart from its hiking trails it also houses a botanic garden and geometric dome greenhouse!
Want to work up a sweat and get those endorphins kicking in? Then opt for the 10km running tour that will take you through its best paths and even take you to the Mount Coot-Ha summit! The entrance is free, the running tour costs AUD 80 per person.
6. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Who doesn’t love Koalas? This is a popular attraction in Brisbane and it should be a must-do on your travel list. The Koalas in this sanctuary are rescue animals and you can get up close to them but be cautious as they are still wild animals.
This is a fun activity for families and a great way to educate your kids about Australian wildlife. They are open all 7 days of the week from 9:00am to 5:00pm and a ticket costs AUD 42, you can get a 10% discount if you pre-book the tickets online!
7. Nightlife around Fortitude Valley
More of a party-goer? Then you need to check out some of the night clubs and bars around Fortitude Valley. There is a variety of clubs and bars of varying price points and for all ages.
8. Wine and Dine at Howard Smith Wharves
Want a taste of the sophisticated and elegant Brisbane then head over to Howard Smith Wharves for a dinner under Story Bridge – the city’s most famous landmark. There are a variety of restaurants and bars at the venue at varying budgets with something for everyone.
9. Haunted Brisbane Ghost Tour
A fan of ghost stories? This is the perfect alternate tour of Brisbane if you are looking to get some chills. Brisbane has an extensive history of mobs and formerly housed a colony of inmates, so it’s sure to have some spine-tingling stories.
10. Byron Bay
Why limit your stay only to the Brisbane city limits, why not visit the outskirts as well?
Byron Bay is the Australian Paradise people dream of, just a 2 hours drive away from Brisbane. This is the perfect day trip location – it’s all about the chill vibes, live music, and the waves!
Byron Bay is famously home to some Australian celebs, so you just might spot one of them!
While there try out snorkeling to witness beautiful Australian aquatic life.
11. Road trip from Brisbane to the Gold Coast
Australia’s beaches are an experience of its own, so don’t forget to head to the Gold Coast when in Brisbane! A mix of city life and chilled out beach life, the Gold Coast has much to offer from surfing to bustling nightlife.
Brisbane is a vast city with endless opportunities and adventures! The best way to truly explore the city is in a private vehicle. That is why going for car rental in Brisbane instead of public transport will be your best option, and Crazy Clarks Car Rentals has got you covered!
