If you’re holidaying in Brisbane you definitely won’t be stuck for things to do. As the capital of Queensland, and one of the largest cities in Australia, there is something to please everyone, from cool coffee shops in the hustle and bustle of the city to serene outdoor spaces. With this in mind, we’ve put together the top 5 things to do whilst you’re in Brisbane that will really make your holiday one to remember.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Located 12km south of the city centre is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Nestled in a peaceful parkland by a river, this is the perfect place to get up close and personal with one of Australia’s cutest and most iconic animals. Home to over 130 koalas as well as other animals like kangaroos, possums, wombats and birds, and with animal presentations scheduled throughout the day, there is plenty to see whether you’re travelling with family or friends.
Brisbane Story Bridge Twilight Climb
What better way to see a city than from a great height. With a climbing trip all the way to the top of the Story Bridge at twilight you can watch the sunset over the city and see it light up at night.
Starting at Kangaroo Point you’ll ascend onto the bridge with a trained climb leader who will be with you all the way via radio communication. Once at the top you’ll be privy to a 360 degree view of the Brisbane skyline. Particular highlights are the view across Moreton Bay, where you can see some of the world’s largest sand islands, the Glasshouse Mountains and Mt Coot-tha, as well as the Brisbane River.
Moreton Bay
Moreton Bay is home to some 365 islands that stretch 125km along the coast from Caloundra to the Golden Coast. The clear waters of the bay are spectacular and created by its separation from the Pacific Ocean by four of the largest sand islands in the world. This is what makes it a marine paradise and the perfect place to head to on a hot summers day to cool off. You can explore the four islands – Bribie Island, Moreton Island, North Stradbroke Island and South Stradbroke Island – as well as the bay with nature walks, sailing, snorkelling, sand tobogganing and much more.
City Botanic Gardens
The City Botanic Gardens are a wonderful haven of greenery in the city and one of the city’s favourite places to escape the buzz of city life. Situated by the Queensland University of Technology, the combination of lawns, with macadamia trees, Moreton Bay fig trees and bunya pines works perfectly as it works its way down towards the river. Simply stroll the gardens and visit the Jemmy Morril and the Brolgas statue, or take one of the two daily tours to find out the history and concepts behind the garden.
South Bank Parklands
For a real slice of Brisbane culture you should head to the South Bank Parklands. It’s a vibrant area in the city that’s full of street buskers, performers, sculptures, eateries, bars and an outdoor swimming pool. It’s the perfect place to soak in the atmosphere and while away the hours.
Head to Streets Beach for a swim in the artificial lagoon outdoor pool or get a panoramic view of the city with a trip on the Wheel of Brisbane.
For a more kitsch vibe, head to Stanley St Plaza where you can immerse yourself in the Collective Markets South Bank and watch the world go by in the cafés and restaurants. In summer you can even catch an outdoor movie for free at the Courier-Mail Piazza.
Wherever you’re travelling to and from, you can get a great vehicle to take you there. Compare campervan hire in Melbourne with DriveNow, and get the best price for your Brisbane holiday.
