Five outdoor hotspots for making the most of your summer in Brisbane

Whether you’re just visiting, or have lived in Brisbane your entire life, you’ll see the city in a whole new light from the top of this 74-metre-high heritage-listed landmark. You’ll be connected to a climb-line for the duration of the exhilarating two-hour climb, so you can safely take in the best views of the city and river, along with the Glass House Mountains to the north, out to Moreton Bay, and the Scenic Rim to the south. Hats and sunglasses are provided.

Year round, the Gabba plays host to sell-out concerts, AFL, baseball, rugby league, rugby union and Olympic soccer games, drawing crowds of more than 40,000 fans who flock to the open-air stadium for a day of fun in the sun. During the summer months, diehard cricket fans take over the stadium for the Big Bash League, which sees the Brisbane Heat team take on teams from around the country in the Twenty20 Cricket League. For a luxe match experience, we recommend upgrading to a seat on the CUA Summer Deck.

Putt putt is the perfect way for little kids and big kids alike to get into the swing of summer fun in Brisbane. Whether it’s a family outing or hanging out with mates, Victoria Park Golf Course is the city’s favourite spot for a round of mini golf. The 18-hole course is set in lush, green parkland, weaving its way around water-traps and rock features and surrounded by trees and gardens. High on a hill just outside the city, it also comes with a stunning view of the city skyline and a lovely cooling breeze.

Fancy some flaky, hand-made empanadas with zingy chimichurri sauce from the South-American Grill? Or how about pork-belly okonomiyaki from Japanese Pizza Kotetsu made to order while you watch? There are more than 70 unique, tasty dining options on offer at this quirky shipping-container village located just out of the city on an historic maritime wharf on the banks of the Brisbane River. The best way to sample the maximum number of delicious dishes on offer is to round up a group of friends and share the spoils. Finish off with the Piña Colada soft-serve swirled in a fresh pineapple – the perfect sweet treat on a warm Brissie day.

South Bank is Brisbane’s favourite inner-city summer playground for friends and families alike. Take in some rays while lazing on the man-made beach surrounded by powdery white sand and swaying palms, or take a dip in the huge lagoon-style Boat Pool overlooking the river. There’s also a fun interactive water playground for the kids. There are plenty of barbecues – many with stunning views of the city. Or pack a picnic and find a shady spot in Rainforest Green or Liana Lounge, which are shrouded by lush, tall trees.