Activities to do in Brisbane
Brisbane, the third-most populous city on the eastern coast of Australia, offers many attractions and activities to do in Brisbane. Thrillophilia provides tailored itineraries for Brisbane, offering accommodation, transfers, meals, expert guides, and round-the-clock on-ground assistance. Our tours are designed to provide comfort and a seamless experience of historical and modern architecture.
Thrillophilia’s Brisbane tours offer hundreds of thrilling activities like outdoor expeditions, cultural encounters, and a laid-back urban atmosphere. Begin your day at South Bank Streets Beach, famous for its lush parklands and vibrant dining establishments. Take a stroll down the charming riverwalk along the gorgeous Brisbane River, or hop onto a CityCat Ferry for an exceptional view of this city’s skyline. Those who love experiences and are interested in art must visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and the Queensland Art Gallery. The food scene in this vibrant metropolis can’t be ignored as it is filled with lively markets where people sell their wares by the picturesque river views.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the best things to do in Brisbane with Thrillophilia’s unique local tours and expert guides. Our tours offer countless exhilarating pursuits, catering to diverse interests in culture, adventure, or relaxation.
Activities to Do in Brisbane
1. Experience a visit to the Koala Wildlife Sanctuary: The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, established in 1927, is dedicated to the preservation of wildlife and is renowned as one of the premier locations for seeing indigenous Australian animals. The sanctuary is one of the oldest and largest of its kind in the country, housing around 130 resident koalas, as well as kangaroos, wombats, emus, dingoes, Tasmanian devils, and platypi. This is considered one of the finest sites in Brisbane to visit.
2. Experience a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane: The Brisbane Wheel is a prominent and recognisable landmark that stands in contrast with the city skyline. Situated near the renowned South Bank, the wheel offers an exceptional opportunity to savour breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of Brisbane from an elevation of 60 metres. It operates throughout the day, providing an opportunity to observe the prominent landmarks of the city. During the evening, one may witness the sunset and the illumination of the city.
3. Explore Kangaroo Point, Cliffs Park: Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, located just opposite Brisbane's central business district, provides panoramic vistas of the city's skyline. Visiting the park is among the most popular things to do in Brisbane offering thrilling activities like rock climbing. The premises feature meticulously tended gardens, state-of-the-art BBQ amenities, and designated pathways for cycling. During the nighttime, the cliffs are illuminated, which makes it an excellent location for leisurely walks in the evening. This location is ideal for families, individuals who enjoy physical activity, and anybody seeking to unwind in an outdoor setting.
4. Discover the Botanic Gardens: The Brisbane City Botanic Gardens is renowned as one of the finest urban playgrounds with 23 species of bamboo and unique trees like mahogany, dragon trees, and forest red gum. Parents may unwind beneath the trees with a view of the boats anchored in the Brisbane River. Children can enjoy playing in the sand with slides or swings, a music area, and a sensory sculpture garden. Despite its urban setting, the gardens are shielded from the noise of the city by the presence of towering trees, creating a serene atmosphere.
5. Observe the sunrise from the summit of Mt Coot-tha: Observing the sunrise from Mt Coot-tha is one of the most captivating activities to do in Brisbane, Australia. The vantage point provides a breathtaking panorama of the urban landscape and its environs. At dawn, the sky undergoes a colourful transformation as the sun rises, resulting in a serene and visually pleasing panorama. Mt Coot-tha offers pedestrian paths, a café, and outdoor dining areas, making it an ideal location to start your day.
6. Experience world-class art at QAGOMA: The QPAC in South Parklands offers a magnificent concert hall and lyric theatre. It is the premier venue to experience extraordinary musicals such as Aladdin, Mamma Mia, and other thrilling new plays. Watching a live theatre performance offers a magnificent experience where storytelling and emotions come to life. Situated in the South Parklands in close proximity to the river, this venue is highly recommended for its exceptional sound quality, comfortable seating, and competent staff who ensure that every performance is unforgettable.
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What are the things to do in Brisbane?
1. Skydiving: Owing to the city’s ideal weather conditions, Skydiving is one of the exciting things to do in Brisbane. Gear up to jump from a height of 14000 feet and experience 70 seconds of free fall prior to the opening of your parachute. Get a bird’s eye view of the unobstructed ocean from the sky and enjoy the spectacular views. One must opt for the Skydiving Package with (Videos+ Photos) to capture the thrilling moments and keep them for lifetime.
Location: 39 Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe QLD 4020, Australia
Price: Rs 11,199/ Adult
Timings: 8 AM- 7:30 PM
2. Visit To Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Home to cute Koalas, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the oldest and the largest Koala Sanctuary in the world. Visiting this place is one of the best things in Brisbane. Every visitor is permitted to pick up the Koalas in the lap and cuddle them. Other wildlife which are found at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary are Tasmanian Devils, Kangaroos, Echidnas, Wombats and a Platypus. Visitors are also allowed to feed the Kangaroos which roam around freely.
Location: 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket QLD 4069, Australia
Price: Adult - $42.00
Child - $25.00
Children ( Below 3 Years): Free
Senior - $25.00
Timings: 9 AM- 5 PM
3. Indulge In A River Cruise: Indulging in a river cruise is one of the fantastic things to do in Brisbane. Explore Brisbane in a unique way and get to see the top sights like South Bank Parklands, Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point Cliffs and New Farm Park in a span of 3.5 hours. Morning Tea and Lunch will be served onboard. English Tour Guides will also be present during the Cruise Ride for providing an interesting narration.
Location: Brisbane Wheel (400 metres Upstream)
Price: $ 55.34/ Person
Timings: Departure (10:30 AM)
4. Go For a Half-Day Brewery Tour: Brisbane is popular for Craft Beer and thus, going for a half-day Brewery Tour is one of the iconic things to do in Brisbane.Take sips of freshly-brewed beers at different iconic breweries and appreciate its aroma, flavour and appearance. Our top-pick would be the Mango Beer. You will also be allowed to interact with the professional brewmasters to learn about the intricate beer-making procedure. Overall, the half-day Brewery Tour lasts for 3-4 hours.
Location: Depending upon the Brewery Tour Package, location is subjected to change.
Price: $ 118.28 Onwards
Timings: 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
5. Visiting the Queensland Art Gallery: Undoubtedly, visiting the Queensland Art Gallery is one of the best things in Brisbane. Currently, the Art Museum is operated and maintained by the Government of Queensland. It was inaugurated in 1895 and is a prominent landmark in the city. The Art Museum is dedicated to Indigenous Australian Art which is 1000 years old. One of the major collections of Queensland Art Gallery is the La Belle Hollandaise (1905) by Pablo Picasso.
Location: Stanley Pl, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia
Price: Free Entrance
Timings: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM
6. Spend Time at South Bank: Spending some leisurely time at the South Bank is one of the relaxing things to do in Brisbane. It is a major hub for social, cultural, educational and recreational activities. Little Stanley Street and Grey Street are lined with vibrant restaurants and cafes. Our top-picks would be Bamboo Basket (Chinese), Barbossa( Caribbean)and El Camino Cantina (Tex-Mex) . Besides, high-spirited events keep taking place at South Bank throughout the year. Another unmissable activity at South Bank is swimming in the pools.
Location: South Bank, Brisbane, Queensland 4101 Australia
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5 PM
7. Shop at Queen Street Mall: In the heart of Brisbane, Queen Street Mall is a bustling shopping promenade. It consists of 5 shopping centres, namely, Wintergarden ,The Myer Centre, Broadway on the Mall ,Queens Plaza and Brisbane Arcade. If you have a penchant for luxury brands, Queens Plaza is the place. It houses high-end labels like Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. , Dior, Fendi and Chanel. On the other hand, local Brands are mainly available at Wintergarden.
Location: Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
Timings: Open 24 Hours
8. Day Excursion to Brisbane Botanic Gardens: A major attraction in the city, Day Excursion to Brisbane Botanic Gardens is one of the educational things to do in Brisbane. It is home to a variety of shrubs and plants from all around the world. The Botanic Garden is segmented into different parts where each department is dedicated to species displaying vast diversity. Among all, Japanese Garden is a must-visit section. At Brisbane Botanic Gardens, visitors can also learn about Kitchen Gardening.
Location: Mt. Coot-tha Rd Toowong, Brisbane, Queensland 4066 Australia
Price: Free Entrance
Timings: Monday- Saturday: 11 AM- 1 PM
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What are the things to do in Brisbane for couples?
1. Kayaking: Go for Kayaking at twilight with your partner on the Brisbane River and feel the exhilaration. As the sun sets in the backdrop, glide through the water and enjoy the mesmerizing view.
2. Visit Moreton Island: Dotted with pristine beaches and turquoise water, visiting Moreton Island is one of the romantic things to do in Brisbane with your beau. To reach here, all you have to do is to take a 75 minutes Ferry Ride. Activities like Snorkelling, Dolphin Feeding and Whale-Watching are also available here.
3. Climb Up The Story Bridge: Being an iconic structure, climbing the Story Bridge with your partner, hand in hand is one of the best things in Brisbane. Hike up to the summit and marvel at Brisbane's marvellous skyline.
4. Have Lunch at South Bank: Have lunch at Barbossa Bar, one of the popular restaurants at South Bank and taste the lip-smacking Caribbean dishes. Jerk Chicken Wings and Flourless Chocolate Cake are must-haves from the menu.
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What are the free things to do in Brisbane?
1. Visiting the Queensland Art Gallery: Exploring the 1000 years old Indigenous Australian Art at Queensland Art Gallery is one of the free things to do in Brisbane. La Belle Hollandaise (1905) by Pablo Picasso is the main highlight among all exhibits.
2. Day Excursion to Brisbane Botanic Gardens: Plan a Day Excursion to Brisbane Botanic Gardens and get to learn about the diverse variety of shrubs and plants from all around the world.
3. Spend Time At South Bank: Spend a leisurely time at South Bank and hop down the streets brimming with eateries, cultural events and bustling shops.
4. Visit Mt. Coot-tha Lookout: Visit Mt. Coot-tha Lookout and get a panoramic glimpse of Brisbane's urban landscape. Owing to its unmatchable aura and heritage, the locale has also been categorized under the Queensland Heritage Register.
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What are the best things to do in Brisbane at Night?
1. Kayaking: Add an oomph to your evening in Brisbane and indulge in Kayaking on the Brisbane River. Enjoy your 90-minute journey under the night sky and create memories for lifetime.
2. Hit a Jazz Bar: Hit the Brisbane Jazz Club, located at Kangaroo Point and revel in a relaxed vibe with ear-worming music. Besides, it also offers a picturesque view of Brisbane.
3. Watch Movies Under The Star-lit Sky: Watch movies under Brisbane's starlit sky on the bed at Brisbane's first outdoor cinema. Classic movies like Charlie's Angels, Joker, Knives Out and Dirty Dancing are played on screen.
4. Climb The Story Bridge: After sunset, hike up the Story Bridge and get a sneak peek of the illuminated city you have never seen before.
What are the things to do in Brisbane with kids?
1. Visit the Brisbane Botanic Gardens: Tag along with your kids to Brisbane Botanic Gardens and educate them about different species of shrubs and plants having varying history.
2. Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Spending a day at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is one of the best things in Brisbane to do with kids. Little ones will love cuddling with the Koalas and feeding the Kangaroos.
3. Swim at Streets Beach: Overlooking the Brisbane River, amidst the concrete jungle, Streets Beach is Australia's only man-made beach. Let your kids make a splash in the waters and have fun.
How can I reach Brisbane?
Brisbane is conveniently connected to other parts of the world. To reach Brisbane, one has to reserve flights that land at Brisbane Airport (BNE). Airlines that ply to this city are Korean Air, Virgin Australia, China Airlines, Qantas and Air New Zealand.
What is the best time to travel to Brisbane?
The best time to travel to Brisbane is between March-May i.e. the Autumn Season. During this period, the temperature ranges between 14° -28° and is ideal to explore the outdoors.
What is Brisbane famous for?
Brisbane is famous for its peppy nightlife, Queensland Art Gallery, Koala Sanctuary and the bustling South Bank. Owing to its location, the city is also known for its salubrious climate and lures many travellers from other parts of the world.
What is famous to buy in Brisbane?
On your trip to Brisbane, one must purchase Crafter Beer, Artworks, Local Honey, Seasonal Chocolates, Ugg Boots and Australian Tea.
Is Brisbane safe at night?
Yes, Brisbane is completely safe at night. The crime rate in Brisbane is comparatively low than in other Australian cities. Nonetheless, one must avoid venturing into uncharted places without proper guidance.
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