Australia distinct charm
Brisbane has grown over recent years, yet still manages to provide one of the best balances of urbanisation versus nature that helps make it one of the more pleasant cities to visit.While it may not yet have the international fame that its southern brothers Sydney and Melbourne, this is quickly changing.
But what are the best things to do in Brisbane?
1. Brisbane Whale Watching
Discover Brisbane during the whale watching season takes place between June and November each year. It offers a great opportunity to get out and see the gentle giants of the ocean, as the calm waters of the adjacent Moreton Bay offer a place for the Humpbacks.
2. Moreton Island
Moreton Island is the perfect day trip. As the world’s third largest sand island, it’s a taste of tropical paradise. Rich vegetation, azure water gently and pure-white sandy beaches. With very little development and 98 percent of the island designated as National Park, Moreton Island is one of Queensland’s best kept secrets.
3. Climb the Brisbane Story Bridge
One of Brisbane’s most obvious and distinctive landmarks, the Brisbane Story Bridge goes a long way to adding its own sense of character to the city. As one of only three bridge climbs in the world, this one offers something totally unique, the choice to abseil the descent.
This is great if you want to combine adventure and outstanding panorama, take the plunge and climb it. It is one of the best way to discover Brisbane’s best views.
4. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
There’s nothing quite like cuddling a koala. As the largest sanctuary in the world for Australia’s iconic marsupials, a visit to Lone Pine makes for a memorable experience. Other Australian animals such as kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, dingoes, snakes, and even crocodiles live in this compact sanctuary .
5. Museum of Brisbane
Housed in one of Brisbane’s premier heritage buildings, the City Hall, it brings the history of Brisbane to life through a series of state-of-the-art exhibitions. Adding to the experience are the views of the city and the City Hall’s magnificent clock tower and dome.
6. Spend some time at South Bank Parklands
The South Bank area has the most pleasant overall atmosphere to be found in Brisbane. It outlooks over the Brisbane River, the Cultural Centre above, its large Wheel of Brisbane and plenty of grassed and shaded areas. There are few better places to experience what Brisbane is all about.
7. Cultural Centre
Located on the banks of the river, in the heart of central Brisbane, it is full of cultural experiences. Incorporating Queensland Art Gallery, State Library of Queensland, Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Performing Arts Centre, and Queensland Theatre Company, the area is a hub of activity during the day and night.
8. Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens
Discover Brisbane’s panoramic views from the Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. It is a favorite attraction with locals and visitors. Located seven kilometers from the city, the various themed gardens take visitors on a journey through 52 hectares of horticulture. Housing the largest collection of Australian rainforest trees in the world, the gardens are also dedicated to fragrant plants, bamboo, cactus, wetland plants, indigenous plants, ferns, and bonsai.
9. Queen Street Mall
This vibrant shopping is home to more than 700 retailers. Every Wednesday, the area at the bridge end of the mall transforms into a bustling Farmers Market selling local produce, flowers, and artisan products.
10. The Workshops Rail Museum
Located in Ipswich around 40 minutes drive outside Brisbane City, the Workshops Rail Museum is one of the best way to discover Australia’s transportation history. The exhibit highlights the history and contribution that rail has made to the development of Queensland and Australia. The facility puts a lot of effort into making things as interactive as possible, in order to not only entertain but also educate without getting bored or distracted.
