Brisbane, Australia – A Subtropical Open-Air City on the Brisbane River
Australian’s subtropical open-air city on the Brisbane River, this subtropical open-air city strikes a perfect balance between modern urban lifestyle and nearby coastal escapes and national parks. Additionally, this region encompasses historic country towns, idyllic islands and lush hinterlands.
Brisbane offers many surprises to discover, from koala encounters to floating walkways. Go on an exciting climb up Story Bridge or enjoy riverfront drinks and dining at Howard Smith Wharves – you won’t be disappointed!
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What to See and Do
Visit Brisbane City Botanic Gardens for an unforgettably relaxing experience and stroll along its meandering trails, admiring all sorts of flora such as Weeping Fig Avenue and two ornamental ponds. After your stroll, sit down for lunch or refreshments in one of their many restaurants or cafes – perfect!
Brisbane attractions include QAGOMA (Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art). Situated near Kurilpa Bridge, this museum contains both historic and contemporary pieces that represent Queensland.
If you’re feeling active, hire a shared e-scooter and explore Brisbane’s riverfront walkways on an electric scooter. Here, you’ll be able to spot landmarks like Brisbane Sculpture Park and Nepalese Peace Pagoda from World Expo 1988 as well as find yourself an open concert. Roma Street Parklands offer lush greenery – as well as over 600 Eastern Water Dragons who live here; making for the ideal picnic location!
Eat
Brisbane’s year-round warm climate translates to outdoor dining, creating an energetic culinary scene and al fresco dining options galore. From riverside fine dining venues to hidden laneway gems, award-winning chefs are pushing boundaries and using Queensland produce in innovative ways.
Take your tastebuds on an adventurous journey at Layla in Valley. Their menu boasts an eclectic blend of Asian, Sri Lankan and Middle Eastern flavours for you to explore – think flatbread covered in toum, poached Mooloolaba prawn curry and Turkish beef dumplings with spiced burnt butter!
Melbourne may have to step aside, for there’s a new kid on the block: Supernormal’s Brisbane expansion has foodies buzzing – their bright, breezy space overlooking Howard Smith Wharves and Story Bridge is offering fresh local takes on Asian cuisine with signature dishes like line caught mahi-mahi with pipis or their decadent yuzu cheesecake as treats!
Stay
Brisbane offers a diverse range of inner-city accommodations for every traveller, from five-star luxury in an exciting modern entertainment district to charming boutique stays with village charm. Pick a riverside neighbourhood that fits with your lifestyle and itinerary; whether that means long stays for work or play, family fun, or romantic escapes just two.
South Bank and Fortitude Valley are great spots in Brisbane to stay for easy access to restaurants, shopping, nightlife and accommodation with stunning river views – such as luxurious hotels or apartments with riverfront locations. South Bank Parklands provides scenic walks and water sports activities while cafes await nearby residents in these urban oasis settings.
Those seeking an unforgettable creative stay can stay at The Calile with its sleek concrete-and-tropical lushness design, or Roamer which brings designer hostel and community vibes into the heart of Roma Street Parklands near New Farm and Highgate Hill and West End areas where there are boutique shops, cool cafes, and wonderful street art installations. For families and couples traveling together there’s plenty of kid-friendly accommodation near these attractions as well.
Explore
The city’s riverside leisure precinct provides an ideal spot for strolling. South Bank Parklands are packed with pubs, restaurants, rainforest walks and water play areas; as well as several companies that provide exciting cruises from Cultural Centre Public Pontoon wharf with commentary, stops for meals or drinks and stops along their routes.
Shopping can become even more enjoyable at Queen Street Mall and Albert Street Mall, with open-air walkways that never feel crowded and iconic Australian department stores. At QAGOMA, two museums come together to become Australia’s leading modern art gallery.
The University of Queensland boasts world-class degrees in science, law and health; students often combine study with part-time work in Brisbane’s bustling business sector. Children will enjoy Bluey’s World for entertainment based on its popular TV show; adults can indulge their desire for luxury at chic shopping and dining precincts like James Street.
