The 50 best things to do in Australia

What is it? Designed by renowned British artist Bruce Munro, and named Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku or ‘looking at lots of beautiful lights’ in local Pitjantjatjara language, this dazzling light spectacle is currently the largest of its kind to date – promising a truly incredible viewing of the nation’s most important rock. 

Why go? The beauty of visiting Uluru while this installation is on is that you get a ripper view of the famous landmark illuminated by more than 50,000 multi-coloured LED lights.

Time Out tip: Visit it at dusk to see it at its most spectacular.

What is it? Justifiably one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations (and Australia's favourite road trip).

Why go? Take a day trip, stay the weekend or just pack up and move there – there's plenty going on down the Great Ocean Road. The winding stretch from Torquay to Warrnambool takes four hours to drive non-stop, but you’ll want to take it slow to admire the jaw-dropping vistas, including the Two Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and the London Arch. 

Time Out tip: A pit stop at Apollo Bay Fishermen's Co-op for some grilled lobster with garlic butter and thick-cut chips is a must.

What is it? Jump on a friendly camel and be guided along the shore to watch the sunset at one of Australia's best beaches.

Why go? Cable Beach is consistently rated as one of the world’s very best beaches, and you can marvel at its magic in the most quintessential way with this safari tour. You’ll ride into sunset on your very own camel, watching the sky reflect onto serene waters in all shades of yellow and orange. 

Time Out tip: Join Broome's original camel lady, Alison Bird, who runs the tours via her local business, Broome Camel Safaris.

What is it? The world’s largest privately owned lavender farm in Tasmania.

Why go? You’ll be singing 'Purple Rain' from the lavender fields of Bridestowe Estate, as you take in countless rows of lilac, violet and indigo blossoms. Located a 50-minute drive from Launceston, Bridestowe blooms with the brightest purple flowers from December to early February. Wander through the manicured fields, take in the sweet smells and snap the perfect pic.

Time Out tip: Don’t leave without trying a scoop of Bridestowe’s famous lavender-infused ice cream.

What is it? Rottnest Island's cutest inhabitants, who love to investigate and mingle with new visitors.

Why go? These adorable marsupials are native to Rottnest Island, an A-class nature reserve located off the coast of Perth. Rotto boasts 63 white-as-snow beaches perfect for snorkelling, diving, surfing off the back breaks and posting to Instagram with #nofilter, but these days it’s all about the quokkas. 

Time Out tip: Remember to always approach with caution when leaning in for a selfie, and don’t touch or feed them (it’s against the law).

What is it? A sunrise kayak tour with glorious photo opportunities that’ll make your hungover friends incredibly jealous. 

Why go? Along with their passionate team of kayaking guides, life and business partners Laura and Ben Stone run daily dawn tours that make the most of Sydney Harbour before most people turn over on their pillow and hit snooze. The harbour water is velvety smooth, and the kayaks are very stable, so you don’t need to work hard to paddle around Luna Park and into position as the sunlight hits the Sydney Opera House. Flat whites never tasted more satisfying than when you're bobbing under the bridge, paddle under arm and wrangling a camera for that perfect Instagram shot. 

Time Out tip: If you're too hungry to go hunting for your perfect post-yak brekkie, North Sydney's Victoria Cross Metro station is home to a sprawling food precinct with lots of excellent options. 

What is it? The crown jewel of Hobart’s arts culture. 

Why go? With revolving exhibitions, a trip to Hobart’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) will never be exactly the same experience for every visitor. This colossal and futuristic alien space, which has been described as a “subversive adult Disneyland”, is stuffed with the weirdest, most dazzling and generally shocking exhibitions. 

Time Out tip: The hottest festival ticket to MONA is arguably Dark Mofo, a winter art party that takes over this Tasmanian city during June, bringing with it a wacky combo of art, music and community spirit.

What is it? Giving MONA a run for its money in the imposing landmark stakes (and coming out on top) is kunanyi / Mount Wellington, the 1271-metre peak that looms over the city of Hobart. 

Why go? With that unusual dolerite “organ pipes” formation and famous transmission tower on the top, kunanyi is a sight to behold from the ground and offers even better views from its peak. Pick a clear day for peak visibility and either tackle one of the several summit hikes or catch a bus from town to ascend to the top in comfort. Either way, you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable panoramic vista of Hobart, the River Derwent and a good chunk of Southern Tasmania.

Time Out tip: The Pipeline Track is a highlight because it’s easy enough to be family-friendly and long enough for you to choose how far you go.

What is it? A magical geothermal hot spring that stays a warm 34 degrees Celsius year-round.

Why go? It’s hard to believe a place as blue and beautiful as this exists in the small town of Mataranka, just south of Katherine. Unwind in the natural waters of this sandy-bottomed thermal pool, as you listen to the gentle gush of nearby waterfalls and look out for local wildlife playing in the palm forest. 

Time Out tip: Along with the main thermal pools, there are the generally less-crowded Bitter Springs thermal pools, which are equally as peaceful and picturesque.

What is it? Lune Croissanterie's croissants earned the venue the top spot on Time Out Australia's best bakeries list, and they were dubbed "the world's best" by a writer for the New York Times. Not a bad gig for brother-sister team Kate and Cameron Reid.

Why go? As with many celebrated eateries, such high accolades often mean crowds. The lines snake out of the door nearly every day, in fact. But does Lune really cut the mustard? In short, yes. Created in a climate-controlled lab, Lune croissants are almost mathematically perfect: crisp and golden with visible layers of delicate pastry. This isn’t really so unusual when you consider the fact that Kate Reid used to be a racing car engineer.

Time Out tip: Be warned – the lines snake out of the door of this Fitzroy shopfront nearly every day, but these crisp, golden and mathematically perfect beauties are so worth it. Arrive early to beat the queues.

What is it? A luxe lodge built inside the animal enclosures at Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium.

Why go? If your Instagram feed has been looking a little lacklustre lately, we have a surefire cure: taking a bubble bath in a five-star hotel just heartbeats from a pair of Malayan sun bears. Yes, at Canberra’s zoo-side luxury resort, guests can book in for an overnight stay in rooms overlooking lion, tiger, cheetah or bear enclosures. The best part? A stay at the Lodge will help support the zoo’s conservation efforts.

Time Out tip: Day-trippers can also meet native Australian wildlife, white rhinos, spotted hyenas and many more exotic animals, while the aquarium is home to colourful reef fish, sharks and amphibians.

What is it? Slurp up oysters straight from the source on an Experience Coffin Bay Oyster Farm Tour, featuring a scenic cruise and a hands-on wading experience.

Why go? We could think of worse places to get our hands dirty than in the crystal-clear waters of Coffin Bay. Your tour will kick off with a beautiful 16-kilometre cruise through the nutrient-rich waters of Coffin Bay to a remote oyster farm. Here, you’ll slip on a pair of waders and glide through the waters alongside the oyster beds. The seasoned farmers will share their secrets as to why Coffin Bay oysters are considered some of the world’s best, and you’ll even learn to shuck like a pro. The best part? Slipping back 12 freshly shucked oysters straight from the source, with local beverages available to add on.

Time Out tip: Take a 30-minute drive to Almonta Beach in Coffin Bay National Park to swim in some of the most crystal-clear waters you’ve ever seen.

What is it? Formed in the rock face on a beach in the Royal National Park, just outside of Sydney, the Figure Eight Pools have become something of a social media sensation (as far as rockpools go), and not without good reason.

Why go? You may have seen them on Instagram or TikTok – two perfect circles of crystal blue water, connected in the centre, sitting inside a rock ledge. They’re beautiful, and getting to them sounds like an intrepid adventure into a slice of untouched, subtropical paradise – the Royal National Park. It takes six kilometres to reach the Figure Eight Pools, but it’s well worth it for that post-hike dip. Just be sure to plan your trek during low tide and monitor the wave risk forecast.

Time Out tip: Whale watching season runs from May to November, and the Royal National Park is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures on their migration.

What is it? A thrilling boat tour where you can see live saltwater crocodiles.

Why go? Get up close with Australia’s deadliest animal on an exhilarating jumping crocodile cruise. Located en route from Darwin to Kakadu National Park (where Crocodile Dundee was filmed), this hour-long tour will have you trembling in your boots as you witness powerful saltwater crocodiles leap spectacularly in the air. It’s a year-round fear factor affair.

Time Out tip: Heads up – you can’t do it during the wet season because there are too many crocs and too much water for a boat to safely go out.

What is it? Characterised by its luscious rolling countryside dotted with charming stone churches, the Barossa Valley is home to many of Australia’s most renowned and historic wineries.

Why go? You could spend weeks, if not months, going between the 150 wineries and 90-plus cellar doors in South Australia’s beautiful Barossa Valley. Regarded as the wine capital of Australia, the region is perfectly suited for producing big, beefy red wines, which you can sip all day long. Start at the cellar door of Australia’s most famous wine producer, Penfolds, before touring along for tastings at the secluded Seppeltfield, the award-winning Hentley Farm or the boutique Rockford Wines.

Time Out tip: Here are more of the best things to do in the Barossa region, for when you've had a glass (or two) too many.

What is it? Be the very first in Australia to see the sunrise at Byron Bay’s most famous Lighthouse.

Why go? Once you reach the summit of Australia’s most easterly point, you can take in sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the wider Byron region.

Time Out tip: Pack your swimmers for a post-sunrise dip at Watego’s Beach and keep your eyes peeled in case you’re visiting during whale or dolphin season.

What is it? Just two hours west of Sydney's CBD, the Blue Mountains – a vast, largely untouched wilderness, spanning some 11,400 square kilometres – is crisscrossed with many of Australia’s top walking trails.

Why go? Take in the most astounding views of the valley, including the Three Sisters, at Scenic World. You can ascend the valley in a glass-walled cable car suspended 270m in the air, and descend in the Scenic Railway, which chugs down a hair-raising 52-degree decline. Of course, the forested canyons, towering rocks and majestic waterfalls can also be explored on foot.

Time Out tip: If driving to the Blue Mountains from Sydney, be sure to make a detour at The Hydro Majestic. It’s one of Australia’s most historic hotels, and with sweeping views of the Megalong Valley, it would be a crime not to pop in for the famed high tea and feed your love itty-biddy sandwiches.

What is it? A World Heritage-listed national park located within breathtaking alpine woodland in north-west Tasmania.

Why go? The national park comes to life in all seasons with a world-class maze of walking tracks showcasing its ancient rainforests, snow-kissed mountain tops, crystal clear lakes and playful wildlife. Experienced bushwalkers can conquer the Cradle Summit, which is a rewarding eight-hour return hike. However, you can also take a pleasant stroll around the picture-perfect Dove Lake, followed by a dip in the lake during the warmer months.

Time Out tip: Cradle Mountain is one of the best locations for wombat-spotting in Tasmania. Follow the Overland Track path from the Dove Lake car park and you’ll likely see heaps, especially if you time it for dusk, as that’s when they come out to munch on grass.

What is it? The largest coral reef on Earth and also one of The Seven Wonders of the World.

Why go? Whether you’re a hardcore scuba diver, novice snorkeller or want to see the Great Barrier Reef without getting your hair wet, there are plenty of ways to see the world’s largest coral reef. It comprises more than 3,000 reefs and 1,050 islands, and you’ll have the opportunity to swim alongside squids, turtles and a myriad of psychedelic fish, making it one of the most magical and peaceful experiences you will ever have.

Time Out tip: For the ultimate experience, stay the night in Australia’s first underwater hotel with breathtaking views of the Great Barrier Reef.

What is it? Australia’s longest-running hot air balloon is a must-see in Canberra during March.

Why go? If you can handle dragging yourself out of bed well before dawn then a hot air balloon flight really is worth it. Drifting over the city in the dawn light, you’ll get to admire the city’s most famous architectural landmarks from a totally new angle, including Parliament House and Lake Burley Griffin. You can watch the magic from the ground up too at Canberra’s annual Balloon Spectacular. Hosted over nine days in March, this festival fills the city’s skies with more than 40 hot air balloons from around the world.

Time Out tip: If you’d prefer skipping the crowds, you can also watch the completely free sky show from popular spots, including Regatta Point, Black Mountain Peninsula, the National Arboretum and Mount Ainslie.

What is it? Tasmania's most visited tourism attraction, which brings together more than 300 stallholders in Hobart every Saturday between 8.30am and 3pm.

Why go?  Fuel your exploration through the loud and proud market stalls with freshly shucked oysters, barbecued scallop sticks, pocket curries or a fried weisswurst (white sausage). Pick up tasty treasures for the road too, including local liquor-filled chocolates, artisan cheese, Tasmanian truffles and award-winning gin.

Time Out tip: Get there early to avoid the bulk of the crowds (which seem to peak at around 10am) and you’ll be able to wander, as opposed to shuffle, around the stalls.

What is it? A chance to scale the world-famous 'Coathanger' at golden hour.

Why go? During the day, you can see Sydney Harbour in all its majesty, but by night, it takes on a whole new magnitude. You'll climb up the inside arc so that you are surrounded by hand-riveted steel and feel a little like you’re inside the ribs of a metal skeleton. Adult tickets are upwards of $200, but it’s totally worth the money.

Time Out tip: This is also an incredible experience at dawn, as the day's first rays light up the horizon.

What is it? Nicknamed the "coffee capital of the world", Melbourne has no shortage of excellent coffee shops.

Why go? Although you’re rarely more than a hundred metres from a good brew, there still are some standout roasters. One such caffeine queen is Bonnie, a CBD coffee joint whose house specialty is cold drip coffee. We also back Collingwood’s Acoffee – more like a coffee museum than a café – and the ethical brews from Padre Coffee, located in Brunswick East or in the heart of South Melbourne Market.

Time Out tip: Nine Aussie cafés were named in the world's top 100 coffee shops for 2025 – and you can find the closest one near you here. 

What is it? Spanning 123 kilometres in length, the World Heritage-listed K’gari isn’t just the largest sand island on Earth, but sparkles with the fourth most crystal-clear waters in Oceania.

Why go? The adventures are endless here, both on and off the water. You can climb ancient sand dunes, swim in crystalline lakes, trek through tropical rainforests, and spot humpback whales, plus the world’s purest colony of dingoes. 

Time Out tip: While on island time, check out K'gari's first-of-its-kind Australian light show that launched in September 2024.

What is it? Walk among the giants on this thrilling Tree Top Walk, soaring 40 metres above the ancient forest floor

Why go? Stop and connect with nature while suspended high above the ground on this fairytale tree top walk. You’ll gradually ascend into the lush canopy of Western Australia’s ancient forest, surrounded by tingle trees, which are found nowhere else in the world.

Time Out tip: If heights get your heart racing, then you can opt to stroll through centuries-old native eucalyptus on the ground-level Ancient Empire Walk.

What is it? A chance to swim with the world's largest fish in the drop-dead gorgeous Ningaloo Reef.

Why go? Ningaloo is one of the longest fringing reefs on the planet, meaning in many places the coral comes right up to the beach. Whale sharks are what you should come to see – but don’t worry, they’re harmless filter feeders who just so happen to grow up to 18 metres in length.

Time Out tip: Be on the alert for Exmouth’s other visitors like humpback whales (July to November), giant manta rays, dugongs and spinner dolphins who drop by all year round.

What is it? Melbourne's largest outdoor floating bar and restaurant, Arbory Afloat, located on the Yarra River.

Why go? In the summertime, when the weather is fine, we all drink at Arbory Afloat. Stretching for 69 metres along the riverbank, it's officially Melbourne’s largest outdoor watering hole. With a dedicated Spritz section, more than 30 different Negronis and a selection of frozen cocktails made using Pidapipo gelato, there's truly something for everyone. Oh, and you know the Limoncello will be flowing.

Time Out tip: In the off-season, you can head to Arbory Bar and Eatery, which stretches for 120 metres along the river bank and is officially Melbourne’s longest bar.

What is it? Take a hike up Australia’s highest mountain, taking in unparalleled views of the Snowy Mountains along the way. 

Why go? The Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk is dotted with wildflowers in summer and icicles in winter, with the best time to visit after the snow melts from December to March. Whether you choose to hike or ride, there are two routes to pick from, including the 13km return journey from Thredbo or the 18.6km return route from Charlotte’s Pass.

Time Out tip: If walking isn’t for you, there are some epic mountain biking tracks in the area – with bikes available to rent in nearby towns, including Thredbo and Jindabyne. Not up for biking either? Thredbo's Kosciuszko Express Chairlift climbs for almost two whole kilometres, offering you excellent views of the mountains and the Snowy River below (and easy access to Australia's highest restaurant, Eagles Nest).

What is it? A neighbourhood shrine to seafood that's become an international dining destination for fish fanatics.

Why go? If you want to experience Sydney’s famed seafood, head to Saint Peter. At this fancy fish diner in Paddington, award-winning chef Josh Niland will personally introduce you to the treasures of the high seas. The menu changes from day to day, depending on what prized items Niland’s suppliers have wrested from the fishing nets that morning. Perhaps it’s flame cockles, or maybe a Spencer Gulf rock crab – whatever it is, you’ll have a ripper time.

Time Out tip: Making a weekend of it? You can book a night at one of 14 boutique hotel rooms on-site.

What is it? When it comes to beaches in Perth, we are definitely spoiled for choice. But for the most photogenic seaside destinations in WA, Cottesloe Beach is easily among the top hot spots. 

Why go? With its shady Norfolk pines, pristine sand and abundance of watering holes, there’s just something about Cott that makes it the ideal spot for any occasion. Swimming, snorkelling, surfing or sipping the evening away, this picturesque beach is a WA icon.

Time Out tip: On Sundays, head to the Ocean Beach Hotel for sundowner sessions with live DJs from 3 to 6pm.

What is it? Native Australian wildlife reigns supreme on Kangaroo Island, the country’s third largest island, which is easily accessible by ferry from South Australia’s Cape Jervis. 

Why go? Animals well and truly outnumber the island’s modest human population, with tammar wallabies, koalas, echidnas, brush-tailed possums, bottlenose dolphins, goannas, sea lions, about 250 species of birds, and kangaroos (naturally) calling Kangaroo Island home. 

Time Out tip: While there, be sure to check out the Remarkable Rocks, too. This natural landmark is, well, quite remarkable.

What is it? A lush oasis with waterfalls and hiking trails, located only an hour's drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Why go? Galleries and cafés line the cute main street in Mount Tamborine, and Queensland’s oldest national park – Tamborine National Park – offers impressive views of the distant Pacific Ocean. Stop by Cedar Creek Falls for a swim in the park's only natural swimming hole and soar high above the canopies on the leisurely 1.5-kilometre Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk.

Time Out tip: Stay the night in the Scenic Rim, which was included in Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Regions of the World list for 2022.

What is it? About a two-hour drive from Melbourne is wildlife wonderland Phillip Island. Some 3.5 million people visit the island every year. 

Why go? There are plenty of activities for families, couples and solo visitors, including a chocolate factory, wildlife parks full of native animals and of course, the nightly penguin parade. 

Don’t miss: The fairy penguin parade, when hundreds of the little guys come in from a hard day's fishing and waddle up the beach to their homes in the rocks.

What is it? Bills is widely considered to be the OG venue for brekkie in Sydney, with chef and founder Bill Granger considered the king of brunch culture in Australia.

Why go? Warm, kind and incredibly talented, Bill Granger changed the way Aussies eat brekkie (and he made the rest of the world take note). Granger’s avo on toast, scrambled eggs, ricotta hotcakes and corn fritters are so good they've reached icon status. Come and get your hands on them in Darlinghurst, Surry Hills and Bondi, and remember why we first fell in love with Granger and his sunny food many moons ago.

Time Out tip: If you can manage your timing just so, try and snag a seat at one of the outdoor tables. Not only will you get some grade-A people watching, but you can also enjoy being the envy of everyone still waiting in line.

What is it? If you’re partial to a 360-degree lookout, this short and steep trail connecting up Mount Ainslie is a must. 

Why go? You’ll want to time your summit with sunrise or sunset to beat the heat and enjoy the best views overlooking the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, the mountains of Namadgi National Park and beyond.

Time Out tip: If you’ve already hit your step count for the day, then you can also drive to the top of the summit with a picnic in tow. 

What is it? Surfing a wave at Bondi should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you’re rusty with a surfboard, book in for a class at Let’s Go Surfing.

Why go? The school prides itself on the popular two-hour beginners’ course, which goes through the essentials of water safety (including Bondi’s dangerous rips), paddling and how to catch a wave. Each lesson starts on the sand, so you can ask embarrassing questions without fear. 

Time Out tip: After your lesson, head to one of North Bondi's excellent cafés like Porch and Parlour or Harry's Bondi. 

What is it? The National Gallery of Victoria, the grand modernist building that sits pretty on St Kilda Road, is also Australia's oldest and most popular art museum.

Why go? The NGV brings major international art exhibitions to Melbourne, showcasing classic works of art alongside hot contemporary talents. In the past, we've seen Van Gogh, MC Escher, Dior, Dali, Warhol and works from New York City's MoMA gallery. 

Don't miss: Given the near-constant rotation of fabulous special exhibitions at the NGV, you’d be forgiven for neglecting the equally impressive (and free!) permanent collection. Next time you visit, make sure you spend a good few minutes with Dosso Dossi’s portrait of Lucrezia Borgia, Duchess of Ferrara (1519-1530). It’s one of the only known portraits of the illegitimate daughter of Pope Alexander VI, which makes it, as NGV curator Laurie Benson explains, “a unique record of one of the most famous women in history”.

What is it? Only 15 minutes from the CBD, the Mt Coot-tha Reserve is the largest natural area in Brisbane, coming in at a whopping 1,600 hectares of lush rainforest gullies, eucalypt forests, creeks and waterfalls. 

Why go? The summit offers panoramic views of the city, so close you could almost reach out and touch the skyscrapers, and is easily accessible by car or walking trail. Take your camera and head up early to see the sunrise from Brisbane’s highest point, before enjoying breakfast at the café.

Time Out tip: Make a day of it! The reserve is also home to extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, waterfalls, picnic areas, Botanic Gardens and even a planetarium.

What is it? Commemorate the sacrifice of our service personnel at one of the top free tourist attractions in the whole world, the Australian War Memorial.

Why go? History buffs will love the attention to detail displayed at this Canberra museum. It’s the distinctly human angle that makes the Memorial appealing. More than just monuments, the memorial offers a genuine insight into what wartime life was like for Australian women and men, with multimedia displays, documentary footage and a moving Last Post closing ceremony at 4.30pm daily.

Time Out tip: You can pay your respects at the Anzac Day Dawn Service, which draws crowds of more than 30,000.

What is it? Sydney locals use it every day on their commute to work, but the Manly Ferry voyage is an impossibly beautiful treat.

Why go? While the motors chug soothingly, enjoy the scenery of Sydney Harbour as it glides by, taking you past the bridge, Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo and harbourside beaches such as Shark Beach and Camp Cove out to one of the city’s most popular beachside suburbs, great for bars, restaurants, shopping and snorkelling.

Time Out tip: We suggest you hop off and explore part or all of the Manly to Spit walk for spectacular views of the north and south headlands.

What is it? This five-kilometre urban reserve, located just a 15-minute walk from the city centre along the North Esk River, is full of incredible walking trails and the world's longest single-span chairlift.

Why go? Hit the trail on either the beginner-friendly Cataract Walk or the more advanced (and steep) Zig Zag Track. If you're not much of a hiker, you can drive up to the First Basin car park where you can hop on the world's longest single-span chairlift. It spans 457 metres and offers spectacular views of the Gorge from 308 metres above. 

Time Out tip: Pack your swimmers and go for a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy a meal in the Gorge restaurant or settle on the lawns for a sunset picnic.

What is it? At 270 metres above street level, SkyPoint Climb is one of Australia's highest external building walks and begins on level 77 of Surfers Paradise’s Q1 building. 

Why go? Trust us, it’s worth facing your fears and swapping the beach for the clouds on a twilight climb. Upon reaching level 77 and stepping out onto the SkyPoint Observation Deck, you'll get to admire stunning 360-degree views of the Gold Coast region, including its golden beaches, city skyline and lush green hinterland. 

Time Out tip: Golden hour is prime time in our eyes.

What is it? The women’s league of the AFL hit the big time a few years back, and what better way is there to support the athletes than heading along to a game? 

Why go? Follow the pros and get yourself a pie, a hot jam doughnut and a beer, then yell like a bastard, heckle the umpires and have a bloody great time watching the AFLW’s brightest stars. The season starts in August and ends in December, with games played in all of Australia's major cities.

Time Out tip: If you can't watch it live, head to your local pub and catch the action on the big screen.

What is it? Get lost in the galleries at the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) as you explore more than 20,000 spectacular artworks, with a significant collection of First Nations and Asian and Pacific art.

Why go? With an extensive collection of free exhibitions, big-name touring shows, a cinema, a dedicated interactive kids area and numerous special events, there is guaranteed to be something happening whenever you visit. 

Time Out tip: Since 1993, QAGOMA has also hosted the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, which draws around three million visitors. It's worth checking out if you're in Brisbane from November to April. 

What is it? This World Heritage-listed wonder is the oldest continually surviving rainforest in the world, with more tree species in one hectare than in the entirety of the United Kingdom.

Why go? Join one of the tours to see movie-cool waterfalls, clear blue lakes, sunlight shimmering through the trees, tropical vegetation and exotic wildlife. Hidden within the forest, you’ll also find peaceful cafés and restaurants, including the famous Daintree Ice Cream Company.

Time Out tip: Just nearby, Mossman Gorge is another must-visit, boasting 12 square kilometres of crystal-clear rock pools and riverside tracks. It offers plenty of opportunities to learn about the local Kuku Yalanji land and culture, with self-guided walks and guided Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks departing from the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre.