Art lovers, don’t miss the Queensland Cultural Centre. This cultural hub brings together art, history, and science all in one place. You’ll find two art galleries, including GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art), which is the largest modern and contemporary art gallery in Australia. Also worth visiting is the Queensland Museum, where you’ll learn all about region, the Sciencentre, an interactive and entertaining museum perfect for families, and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Brisbane’s main venue for live performances. If you’re drawn to more alternative spaces, then Powerhouse is a must. Once a power station, this historic building has been transformed into Brisbane’s favourite cultural venue. Expect exhibitions, live music, and other performances— we’ll leave it up to you to find out the rest! Still craving more history? Head to the City Botanic Gardens, where you’ll find the Old Government House. This elegant building was the first public structure in the state of Queensland and served as the residence for 11 governors as well as the official state office. Today, you can find the House Museum here, offering a glimpse into colonial life in Australia centuries ago.
An area for everyone
Fortitude Valley is one of Brisbane’s coolest areas that you must check out. Half-underground, half-bohemian, half-raw, half-sophisticated, this area is a fascinating mix of contrasts with a unique atmosphere. If you have an afternoon or an evening to spare, this buzzing hub has plenty to offer—from cinemas and boutique stores to live music venues, culinary hotspots, and markets, such as the “Brunswick Street Market”, where independent creations stand alongside vintage treasures.
Mother Nature
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown, one of the best panoramic views of Brisbane awaits at the top of Mount Coot-tha. Needless to say, getting up there is a bit of a climb… But don’t worry—the ascent is accessible to everyone, you can take the bus, walk, or even cycle! Once at the top, your gaze will be all over the place: Moreton and Stradbroke Islands, the spires of the Glass House Mountains to the north, the mountain ranges behind the Gold Coast to the south… And if you’re in no rush to head back, why not check out the 52-hectare subtropical botanical gardens? Especially since entry is free!
Furry friends
If you don’t mind adding some extra time to your journey, you definitely shouldn’t miss the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. This is, in fact, the largest koala reserve in the world. If, like us, you can’t help but adore this incredibly peaceful animal, just imagine what it feels like to hold a real one in your arms! While they are definitely the stars of the park, you can also feed and approch other Australian icons such as kangaroos, wallabies, and rainbow lorikeets. It’s the perfect way to encounter the local wildlife!
Brisbane’s sand islands
Another one of Brisbane’s must-do trips is Moreton Island, the third-largest sand island in the world! Get ready for a mix of activities: swimming in lagoons, sunbathing on pristine beaches, hiking, exploring shipwrecks, snorkeling, sandboarding, and even whale watching. This paradise is just 1 hour and 15 minutes away by boat!
Nature lovers must visit Stradbroke Island, the perfect place to see marine wildlife. Its stunning coastal path offers breathtaking ocean views, leading to idyllic beaches. Depending on the season, you might be lucky enough to spot turtles, dolphins, or even whales!
A favourite getaway for locals, Bribie Island fills up with campers on weekends. Why? Its national park is home to kangaroos and other native wildlife, and it has excellent camping facilities—making it a perfect break from the city, just two hours from Brisbane!
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