Best Things to Do in Brisbane in 2026

Brisbane is no longer a stopover between Sydney and the Gold Coast — it’s a genuinely great city to spend time in, with world-class cultural institutions, a buzzing food scene, and some of the best outdoor spaces of any Australian capital. Here are the best things to do in Brisbane right now.

South Bank Parklands and the Cultural Precinct

South Bank is the obvious starting point, and for good reason. The 17-hectare parklands run along the river just opposite the CBD and pack in more than you’d expect: a free man-made beach (Streets Beach, open 5am–midnight), a 1.8km riverside boardwalk, and direct access to three major cultural institutions within a short walk.

The Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and the Queensland Art Gallery sit side by side and are free to enter for their permanent collections. GOMA is one of the best art galleries in Australia — far less crowded than the NGV in Melbourne, with serious rotating exhibitions that regularly attract major international shows. The Queensland Museum is nearby and also free.

Budget at least half a day here. Ticketed special exhibitions typically run $25–$35 per person, but you can spend hours in the permanent collections without spending a cent.

Howard Smith Wharves

Tucked underneath the Story Bridge on the north bank of the river, Howard Smith Wharves is Brisbane’s best eat-and-drink precinct. The restored 1930s wharf buildings house a mix of bars, restaurants and a boutique hotel, with the river directly below and the bridge towering overhead.

Grab an afternoon drink at the open-air riverside bars — Felons Brewing Co is reliably good — then stick around for dinner. Greca, the modern Greek restaurant on the strip, is worth booking ahead. On weekends the whole area fills up from midday, so arrive early or book ahead for dinner seatings.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

About 12km south-west of the city, Lone Pine is the world’s largest koala sanctuary and one of the most worthwhile wildlife experiences in Queensland. Adult entry is around $45, and you can hold a koala for roughly $20 extra. It’s also home to free-roaming kangaroos you can hand-feed, wombats, echidnas and a strong collection of Australian birds of prey.

It’s a comfortable half-day trip from the city. Catch the Mirimar cruise from North Quay (around $65 return including sanctuary entry) or drive directly. If you’re travelling with kids or have international visitors, this is a non-negotiable stop.

Mount Coot-tha Lookout

The lookout at Mount Coot-tha sits just 7km from the CBD and delivers the full Brisbane panorama — river bends, skyline, and on a clear day, the Moreton Bay islands on the horizon. Entry is free, and the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at the base of the mountain are worth a relaxed hour or two of wandering.

Sunrise and sunset both look spectacular from the viewing platform. The café at the summit is decent for a coffee and a break. Drive up or catch the 471 bus direct from the city centre.

West End and Fortitude Valley

Brisbane’s best eating and drinking is split between West End — relaxed, independent, strong brunch culture — and Fortitude Valley, which is more nightlife-oriented but also home to some excellent restaurants and Chinatown.

For breakfast, Pawpaw Café in West End is consistently one of the most popular spots in the city. For dinner, the strip along James Street in Fortitude Valley includes Donna Chang (modern Chinese, always booked out), Gauge (contemporary and creative), and a solid collection of international options. Neither neighbourhood feels particularly touristy, which is part of the appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brisbane worth visiting for more than a day or two?

Absolutely. Most visitors underestimate Brisbane. A long weekend — three to four days — gives you enough time to cover the city highlights and add a day trip, whether that’s Moreton Island, the Sunshine Coast hinterland, or Tamborine Mountain.

What’s free to do in Brisbane?

Quite a lot. The South Bank Parklands, Streets Beach, GOMA and Queensland Art Gallery permanent collections, the City Botanic Gardens, South Bank Lifestyle Markets (Friday evenings and weekends), and Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens are all free.

What’s the best time of year to visit Brisbane?

Winter — June through August — is the sweet spot. Expect clear skies, low humidity, and daytime temperatures in the low-to-mid 20s. Brisbane winters are mild enough to sit outside at night without a heavy jacket, which is a distinct advantage over the southern capitals.