With almost 300 days of sunshine each year, Brisbane is an alfresco city home to world-class cultural precincts and some of the country's best dining experiences. Wander through open air markets, lose yourself in the live music scene, explore stunning national parks and nature walks or escape to some of the world's largest sand islands less than an hour from the city. There are so many ways to discover the bountiful surrounds of this cosmopolitan hub that is Queensland's capital city. Here's our top list of things to do in Brisbane.
Riverside adventure: exploring Brisbane with Brisbane Riverlife
Head to the thriving riverside cultural precinct of South Bank where you can find some of the world's finest art galleries and theatres, including Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). South Bank is home to acres of outdoor gardens, river walkways, riverside restaurants and its very own beach with views overlooking the downtown CBD. It's the city's premier lifestyle destination.
Adventure awaits: experience Brisbane's outdoors with Riverlife Adventure Centre
The Brisbane River wraps its way around the city and is the perfect playground for Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle. Stop by Riverlife Adventure Centre to experience the river city from all angles. Kayak along the river, abseil down the Kangaroo Point Cliffs or sign up for a twilight kayak tour for spectacular views as the sun sets over the city.
Reach new heights: unforgettable views from the Story Bridge Adventure Climb in Brisbane
Strap on a harness and scale the Story Bridge with Story Bridge Adventure Climb. From the top, you'll have a bird's eye view over the river out to Moreton Bay, down to the Gold Coast and out to the Scenic Rim.
Get up close with koalas at Lone Pine Sanctuary
Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and get to know Australia's famous furry icon. Make a day of it and cruise down the river with Mirimar Cruises to learn about Brisbane's history before arriving at Lone Pine to find out everything you need to know about Australia's native animals.
Shop, dine and relax: exploring James Street, Fortitude Valley
James Street in Fortitude Valley is an elegant, tree-lined shopping street with a multitude of laneways, world-class dining, sprawling beer gardens and rooftop pool bars. Fuel up at one of the quaint kerbside cafés and take your time exploring this vibrant downtown district.
Street art and dining delights: tour Fish Lane
Wander down Fish Lane in Brisbane's south where you can find ever-changing murals and sculptures that adorn every surface along the laneway. Don't leave without grabbing a bite to eat at one of the restaurants along the way.
Story Bridge spectacular: top dining options at Howard Smith Wharves
Enjoy alfresco dining at its finest against a backdrop of the Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves. Whether you're after a low-key family meal on the lawn of Felons Brewing Co or sipping a cocktail at Mr Percival's, you can be guaranteed great eats and even better vibes at this iconic city favourite.
Discover the nightlife: top after-hours spots to visit in Brisbane
Discover up-and-coming artists at an underground bar or dance to crowd favourites at an open-air stage as you enjoy Brisbane's thriving live music scene.
Watch the sun set over the city with a cocktail in hand and take in the views from one of the many rooftop bars dotted around the city. The Terrace Rooftop Bar at Emporium Hotel or Iris Rooftop boast some of best views combined with a delicious food and drinks menu.
Escape the city: discover the natural beauty of Scenic Rim from O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat
Explore World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park from O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat nestled in the iconic Scenic Rim. With rainforest hikes, waterfalls, guided bird walks, animal shows and the Lost World Day Spa, you will never want to leave this paradise for nature lovers.
Moreton Island: a must-visit destination for adventure seekers
Dive beneath the surface and explore the Tangalooma wrecks off Moreton Island. A world-class snorkelling and scuba destination, you'll find wobbegongs, trevally, kingfish yellowtail and so many tropical fish in these calm Moreton Bay waters.
Get back to nature on Moreton Island and rest your head at Tangalooma Island Resort. Hand-feed wild dolphins, toboggan down giant sand dunes and kayak around the famous Tangalooma wrecks while keeping your eyes peeled for dugongs.
Rise above the city: experience Brisbane from a bird's eye view with a hot air balloon ride
Take to the skies with Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights for sweeping, peaceful views as you fly over Ipswich, Somerset and the Scenic Rim.
Get up close and personal with whales
If you find yourself in Brisbane between June and November, catch all the action of the annual humpback whale migration with a Whale Watching Tour on Moreton Bay. Regularly seen leaping out of the waves mere metres from the shoreline, 'these magnificent creatures are an unforgettable sight.
If you'd like to head further out of the city and discover the stunning seas off Queensland, check out 10 unforgettable Great Barrier Reef experiences.
