The 32 best things to do in Brisbane

What is it? An immersive Brisbane exclusive exhibition by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson, designed around light and colour. It’s on now at the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) until July 12.

Why go? Olafur Eliasson has made waves in the art world for his ephemeral and thought-provoking immersive installations, including transporting melting Arctic ice from glaciers to major European cities and creating an immense 'sun' inside London's Tate Modern. In Olafur Eliasson: Presence, you can step into light-filled voids and interact with large-scale sculptures that play with light and colour. Expect a shimmering rainbow that you can touch, a recreated riverbed and a continuously evolving Lego city.

Time Out tip: Every Friday night, GOMA stays open until 8.30pm, so you can explore the exhibition with DJs and live pop-up performances.

What is it? Brisbane’s biggest comedy showdown, featuring more than 130 artists across five hilarious weeks (April 24 to May 24).

Why go? Yes indeed, it’s that time of year again, when funny folk, both homegrown and imported, descend on the Queensland capital with more LOLs than you can shake a very big microphone stand at. Taking place at the Brisbane Powerhouse, The Tivoli, The Princess Theatre and The Fortitude Music Hall, the 2026 Brisbane Comedy Festival features megastar comics like Rove McManus, Pete Helliar, Tommy Little and Reuben Kaye, as well as plucky up-and-comers and international faves.

Time Out tip: If picking from this gaggle of giggles is just too much choice, you can get your stand-up fix from a veritable sushi train of comedy talent at the Opening Gala, Aboriginal Comedy All Stars show or Best of the Edinburgh Fest showcase.

What is it? A soul-stirring, semi-autobiographical musical by 17-time Grammy Award-winning artist Sting. The Last Ship is on now at QPAC’s new Glasshouse Theatre until May 3.

Why go? Inspired by Sting’s own childhood and starring the music legend himself, this moving concert-show tells the tale of a community facing the disappearance of their shipyard. Expect a blend of storytelling and song, with 48 performers, musicians and choristers bringing Sting classics like ‘Island of Souls’, ‘All This Time’ and ‘When We Dance’ to life. 

Time Out tip: Check out more of the best musicals touring Brisbane here.

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 and is easily accessible by car or walking trail. Take your camera and head up early to see the sun rise from Brisbane’s highest point, before enjoying breakfast at the café. If mornings don’t agree with you, the sunset and evening views are equally impressive. 

Time Out tip: Make a day of it! The reserve is also home to extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, waterfalls, picnic areas, botanical gardens, a planetarium and a brand-new restaurant. 

What is it? A world-first attraction dedicated to the beloved blue heeler, housed within North Shore Pavilion – an extraordinary 4,000-square-metre building in Brisbane’s latest arts and entertainment hub.

Why go? This fully immersive experience invites both the young and young-at-heart to live and play just like Bluey. You’ll need to keep an eye out for those cheeky bin chickens as you arrive at the Heeler family’s iconic Queenslander home, which features real-life sets, recognisable scenes, interactive games and life-size characters from the Emmy Award-winning show.

Time Out tip: Just like Bluey does in the show, fans can hop aboard Brisbane’s CityCat ferry and disembark at Northshore Hamilton, just a two-minute walk to Bluey’s house.

What is it? Face your fears for the panoramic views at the top of Brisbane’s well-known Story Bridge, built in 1940. Punters get an information session on the history of the bridge before starting a climb that can be timed for dawn or dusk. 

Why go? For the chance to scale one of the few climbable bridges in the world, this urban adventure is not for the faint of heart. At the top, you’ll be 80 metres above sea level, with 360-degree views of the Glass House Mountains, Moreton Bay and the Brisbane skyline. In early 2025, the Story Bridge made history by offering the world's first fully accessible bridge climb that's wheelchair-friendly. 

Time Out tip: Sign up for the Bridge to Brisbane, a yearly fun run taking place every September. There are five and ten-kilometre races, and sprinting across the bridge with the masses is an exhilarating feeling.

What is it? Brisbane doesn't have a beach per se, so they built this thing. It's a palm-fringed inner-city swimming beach (the only one in Australia) along a lagoon with a picnic area, bang in the middle of South Bank Parklands.

Why go? You might grimace at the idea of swimming at a fake beach (that’s a normal reaction), but then you get there and find yourself marvelling at the view over the city and the fact that the whole place is free. Plus, they’ve always got lifeguards on duty, so it’s a safe place for kids to burn off energy while you cool down.

Time Out tip: Shady trees and cabanas provide spaces to park your towel, and ice cream is readily available from nearby shops and carts. 

What is it? Originally built in the 1930s, the historic wharves have been revitalised into one of Brisbane’s newest entertainment destinations.

Why go? With stunning views of the Story Bridge, the Howard Smith Wharves are a nerve centre for dining out in the riverside city. The heritage-listed buildings are home to some of Brisbane’s hottest tables, including Greca, Yoko Dining, Stanley and Ciao Papi. The wharves are also the perfect spot for a relaxing riverside Spritz at Mr Percival’s or a locally brewed schooner at Felons Brewing Co.   

Time Out tip: Walk or take the lift up to the nearby Wilson Outlook Reserve for Brisbane’s best sunset views over the Story Bridge.

What is it? The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is one of Australia's most exciting and respected creative precincts. The complex spans two buildings – the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art – and is idyllically located by the water in South Bank.

Why go? Get lost in the galleries at QAGOMA as you explore more than 20,000 spectacular artworks, with a significant collection of First Nations and Asian and Pacific art. 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. Since 1993, QAGOMA has also hosted the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, which draws around three million visitors. 

Time Out tip: While you’re there, check out the other cultural institutions in this innovative arts district, including the State Library, Queensland Museum and Queensland Performing Arts Centre. 

What is it? In Australia's newest multisensory dining experience, 7 Paintings, seven of the world’s most famous masterpieces will be projected across the table and mirrored on your plate. It's being hosted at Brisbane Sofitel Central's Bistro Suzette from late February to June.

Why go? 7 Paintings is far from your average dinner date. State-of-the-art projection mapping will transform each table into a living canvas for the world’s most iconic masterpieces, meaning you can admire them and eat them at the same time. Each course is inspired by the works of famous artists, including Michelangelo, Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso and more. Throughout the experience, guests can expect to paint, solve riddles and fully immerse themselves in the story and emotion behind each artwork.

Time Out tip: Alongside the classic menu, there’s a fully plant-based option and even a children’s menu, so everyone can join in. 

What is it? Take a trip back in time with a visit to the City Hall, which was the tallest building in town until the late 1960s. You can explore the museum on level three or take the free, 15-minute Clock Tower tour.

Why go? The Museum of Brisbane is an impressive attraction from the get-go. The venue is housed in Brisbane City Hall – the elegant, imposing neoclassical building overlooking the expansive King George Square. Take the lift up to the museum, which is dedicated to showcasing the art, stories, culture, history and talent of the Sunshine State's storied capital.

Time Out tip: Book a free tour up to the very top of the Clock Tower, offering 360-degree views of the city skyline. You'll go for a ride in one of Brisbane's oldest working cage lifts, look behind Australia’s largest analogue clock faces and might even catch a glimpse of the bells.

What is it? These bustling community markets are held every Saturday from 6am to 2pm in Davies Park, offering farm-fresh produce and small goods from more than 150 passionate vendors. West End itself is one of the most diverse and exciting inner city suburbs in Brisbane.

Why go? With seasonal produce, spectacular street food, boutique arts and crafts, fresh flowers, live entertainment and stacks of atmosphere, the real question is why wouldn’t you go? The market prides itself on being a ‘celebration of the eclectic diversity, independence and lifestyle’ that the West End is known for. When you’ve finished wandering around the stalls, head into town for more food and coffee or take a stroll along the river to Orleigh Park. 

Time Out tip: Brisbane is home to a host of markets, so make sure you check out other favourites like the Brisbane City Markets, Jan Powers Farmers Markets and Northey Street Organic Markets.

What is it? An 18-metre-high cliff face where you can take in Brisbane’s best views of the city and river.

Why go? The inner-city suburb is a popular spot for watching the sunset with a CBD skyline backdrop, accompanied by Brisbane’s hilly outskirts in the distance. It’s the perfect combination of natural beauty and shiny cosmopolitan clutter. Park benches amongst the shrubbery and grassy patches make for divine spots to plonk your toosh and enjoy one of the best sunsets in Australia’s eastern cities.

Time Out tip: Kangaroo Point has the second-best skyline view in the whole of Australia. Don't miss it!

What is it? While Soak Bathhouse isn’t exactly your traditional day spa, it offers the same tranquil space to relax and rejuvenate.

Why go? Bathhouses are making a splash as the hottest wellness trend in 2024, and Soak is leading the charge. During your 90-minute wellness journey, you can alternate between Soak’s indoor and outdoor communal mineral baths (34 degrees), hot spas (38 degrees), cold plunge (12 degrees), steam room and traditional dry cedar sauna. Once you’ve reached your inner state of zen, soak up Brissy’s beautiful rays on the sundecks and lounges, with a glass of vitamin C-infused coconut water in hand.

Time Out tip: Need more R&R? You can check out our guide to the most luxurious day spas in Brisbane here. 

What is it? Your ultimate guide to Brisbane’s coolest cafés and highest calibre coffee roasters.

Why go? Because brunch is never a bad idea. From hidden laneway gems and suburban corner stores to a quirky Vietnamese spot and a completely gluten-free doughnut shop, we’ve rounded up the best places to go for daytime dining. All that’s left to do is eat your way through this delicious list. Want to know Time Out's faves? Our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley loves Felix For Goodness for a relaxed CBD lunch, Naïm for a funky weekend brunch or Lune for a quick pastry. 

Time Out tip: More of a PM person? You can check out our guide to Brisbane's best restaurants here.

What is it? The Brisbane River snakes through the heart of the city, and several tour operators will help you get out on the water and show you the ropes, like Riverlife Adventure Centre.

Why go? Paddle Brisbane's scenic waterways and see the city from a new perspective as you take in sights from the water, including the Story Bridge, mangroves and the Myora shipwreck. Riverlife Adventures offers guided tours and kayak hire, so it doesn’t matter how experienced you are.

Time Out tip: If you're not keen on kayaking, jump on a CityCat or CityHopper. The larger CityCat ferries cruise up and down the river from the University of Queensland to Northshore Hamilton. The smaller CityHoppers are a free inner city service that will ferry you across the river to major attractions.

What is it? The world's first and largest koala sanctuary has way more than just koalas. You can get up close with 75 species of other Australian native animals and watch daily shows and presentations. 

Why go? Because koalas are adorable! Lone Pine has a lot of these little grey guys – more than 100 – ready and waiting to be photographed. For something a little more spine-tingling, come face-to-face with saltwater crocodiles in the Sanctuary's new 360-degree viewing dome. On the other end of the Australian wildlife spectrum, you can also hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, snap a picture with a raptor, check out a platypus keeper talk or join an after-dark tour. 

Time Out tip: Take the scenic route to the Sanctuary by booking a return trip on the Mirimar River Cruise. 

What is it? Brisbane is home to huge areas of bushland, with the council conserving over 9,500 hectares for the protection of biodiversity. Take your pick from nature reserves, wetlands, forests, parks, creeks and lakes.

Why go? For an antidote to city living, get back to nature. The Bayside Parklands are particularly stunning, with the Moreton Bay Marine Park listed as a Wetland of International Importance. Enjoy the greenery however you wish, whether it's swimming or canoeing at Enoggera Reservoir, mountain biking at Daisy Hill State Forest, bird watching at the Boondall Wetlands, exploring the Karawatha Forest Discovery Centre or hiking to the Cedar Creek Falls for a dip in the ice-cold waters.   

Time Out tip: Nyanda Cultural Tours offer Indigenous cultural tours around the Nudgee Waterholes, taking in the Bora Ring and bush food garden.

What is it? Australia’s first vertical dining experience, offering an exclusive wine and dine experience 17 metres above the ground. Overhanging Brisbane Powerhouse, guests can take in the views while enjoying a relaxed charcuterie board and drinks, available Friday to Saturday from 5pm to 9pm.

Why go? It’s hard to top this equally thrilling yet terrifying dining experience at Brisbane’s highest restaurant. Those who can stomach it can enjoy a beautifully curated shared charcuterie board, featuring cheese, cold cuts, crackers and fresh fruit. A glass of seasonal wine, Champagne or beer will calm your nerves before you abseil off the edge of the building.

Time Out tip: Head to the Powerhouse early to explore its free and fascinating line-up of contemporary art exhibitions. 

What is it? Located in leafy New Farm Park, Brisbane Powerhouse is the home of contemporary culture, performance and art in Brisbane. A pre-war industrial building by the river, its architecture is pretty striking as well.

Why go? Brisbane Powerhouse hosts events from the Brisbane Comedy Festival to the Melt: Festival of Queer Arts and Culture. The space clocks in more than 1,250 performances every year. Catch a CityCat to New Farm, enjoy a stroll through the park and then check out what’s on offer at the Powerhouse for a perfect night out in Brisbane.

Time Out tip: Enjoy a pre-show drink at one of the two on-site bars, Bar Alto and Mary Mae's, both with riverside views. The Powerhouse is also home to weekly farmers' markets, held every Saturday.

What is it? What do you get when you combine 180 shipping containers, millions of fairy lights and food from all over the world? Eat Street Northshore.   

Why go? With more than 70 traders, five themed bars and a roster of live music, Eat Street Northshore is like a year-long carnival. It's open every Friday to Sunday, and you can expect to find everything from churros and pancakes to Malaysian curries and Filipino street food. Plus, it’s pet-friendly!

Time Out tip: Live music is also on the menu – check out the website for upcoming gigs and events.

What is it? Brisbane is home to some of Australia's most beautiful islands, with many located in driving distance from the city. From big hitters like Stradbroke and Moreton, to chilled-out destinations like Bribie and Coochiemudlo, you'll find your piece of island paradise.

Why go? Less than an hour's ferry ride away, Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) is easily one of the best coastal day trips from Brisbane. You can hop on the passenger ferry or take a car over on the barge for the ultimate weekend getaway. Whale-watching season (June-November) is the ideal time to go, but the island is stunning year-round. And it’s the closest place to Brisbane where you can see kangaroos on the beach! 

Time Out tip: Yura Tours run cultural tours led by traditional owners, the Quandamooka people. The Yallingbilla (Whale) Tour takes in wonderful views from the famous Gorge Walk at Mulumba (Point Lookout), while the Bajara 'Footprints' Tour will take you across beautiful beaches and lakes in a 4WD. 

What is it? Brisbane’s newest observation deck, perched 100 metres above the river on the 23rd floor of The Star Brisbane.

Why go? Having opened in late 2024 as part of the fancy Queen’s Wharf precinct, Sky Deck quite literally takes things to new heights in Brisbane’s lively CBD. Standing tall at 100 metres above the city streets, it offers unbeatable 360-degree panoramas of the skyline and Brisbane River. The 250‑metre rooftop “runway” features three restaurants and bars, including our favourite spot for golden hour cocktails, Cicada Blu.

Time Out tip: Sky Deck is open from 6.30am to 10.30pm (or midnight on Fridays and Saturdays), but it may close during bad weather.

What is it? From the bright lights of Broadway and the West End to our very own stages, Brisbane is set to host some of the world’s biggest and best musicals in the next 12 months. 

Why go? Theatre lovers can catch the Southern Hemisphere debut of Sting's The Last Ship in April and May 2026, the spooky Beetlejuice from June 2026, the horribly hilarious Book of Mormon from July 2026, family favourite Anastasia from September 2026, and the high-energy Six the Musical from February 2027.

Time Out tip: You can check out all the biggest and best musicals touring Australia here. 

What is it? Australia’s longest-running antique collective, hidden inside one of Brisbane’s last remaining atmospheric theatres.

Why go? You could easily get lost exploring more than 60 independent vintage dealers at Empire Revival (formerly Paddington Antique Centre). This mysterious labyrinth of old-world treasures has been a weekend ritual for collectors and tourists for 40 years. It’s housed in the spectacular, 96-year-old heritage-listed Plaza Theatre on Latrobe Terrace, which is worth the trip alone. Carve out a few hours to rummage through rare Art Deco jewellery, vintage fashion, bespoke textiles and antique furniture – you never know what treasures or stories you’ll stumble upon.

Time Out tip: After exploring this treasure trove, head across the road to Naïm for a delicious Middle Eastern brunch

What is it? This easy, breezy route from South Bank to Kangaroo Point is made up of parklands, riverside walkways, restaurants and bars. There’s even an urban beach if you feel like a dip! Kangaroo Point features riverside cliffs with spectacular views and plenty of barbecue and picnic areas.

Why go? Touring South Bank on two wheels is one of the best ways to experience the sights. Jump on your bike or hire a scooter and cruise along the riverside bike tracks, stopping to refuel and admire the views along the way. With a packed schedule of events, including markets, festivals and free outdoor music, there’s bound to be something going on.

Time out tip: Ride all the way to the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, where you can either watch the rock climbers scaling the heights or join them.

What is it? Navigate the neighbourhood of Brisbane's largest Asian population on a three-hour Food Discovery Tour of Sunnybank. You'll taste some of the best Asian food in Brisbane while diving into the culture, history and cuisine of some of the world's oldest cultures. 

Why go? Sunnybank is a melting pot of culture known for its fabulous food options – from Chinese favourites like hot pot and yum cha to Korean barbecue, Japanese, Malaysian, Taiwanese, Singaporean and Vietnamese restaurants. Your passionate tour guide and professional chef, Tony Ching, will show you the top spots to eat and shop, with lots of dumplings, noodles and soups to be demolished along the way.

Time Out tip: Check out Sunnybank Oriental Restaurant for authentic Hong Kong-style breakfasts, Pappa Roti for buttery coffee buns and teh tarik (pulled milk tea), and Danbo for vegan-friendly ramen.

What is it? Fortitude Valley is home to Brisbane’s well-loved live music scene, where bands like Powderfinger, Regurgitator and The Grates cut their teeth.

Why go? Head to The Valley for the best beats and boogies Brisbane has to offer. With venues like The Tivoli, The Triffid, Fortitude Music Hall, Ric’s Bar, Greaser and Black Bear Lodge, you're spoilt for choice with nightly gigs from local and international stars. Opened way back in 1992, The Zoo remains the spiritual home for live music in Brisbane, and is one of the oldest independently owned live music venues in Australia. 

Time Out tip: Grabbing a slice of pizza from New York Slice is a rite of passage after a night out in the Valley.

What is it? Brisbane’s inner city is home to several parklands, including the City Botanic Gardens, Roma Street Parklands and New Farm Park.

Why go? Brisbane’s subtropical weather means that it is perfect for picnics year-round. Pack your own or check out some of the local companies that offer bespoke picnic experiences.

Time Out tip: The twinkling fairy lights adorning the fig trees at the City Botanic Gardens are a much-loved photo opportunity come nighttime.

What is it? Named for its location in the inner suburb of Woolloongabba, The Gabba is the definitive home of sport in Brisbane.

Why go? With sport on offer all year round, you can choose from cricket, AFL, rugby league, rugby union, soccer and baseball. The Gabba is the home ground for the Brisbane Lions, Brisbane Heat and the Queensland Bulls, so there’s plenty of opportunity to catch a home game. 

Time Out tip: The Olympics are set to take place in Brisbane in 2032, so keep an eye out for the Gabba’s major upgrade before it takes centre stage. 

What is it? Netherworld is an all-encompassing good time – drinking hole, diner and home to a collection of vintage arcade games. 

Why go? Venture beyond this hell mouth for guaranteed fun. Inside, you’ll find 25 arcade games, 15 pinball machines, consoles and more than 100 board games. Machines are only $1 to play, while consoles and board games are free, and there are deals during happy hour and special events. Add in a selection of locally brewed beers (saltbush and guava sour, anyone?), a fusion Asian-American diner and live music, and you’ve got an epic night out.  

Time Out tip: Come for the drinks and the games, stay for the food. All the grub at the Hellmouth Diner is vegan, unless you choose to add dairy or carnivorous options as extras. Don’t leave without trying Demon Drummies – fried cauliflower never tasted so good.