29 Things to do at South Bank Parklands(& Map) for First-Timers!
When most people search for things to do in South Bank Brisbane, they’re usually looking for more than just a quick list of attractions. They want to know: What makes South Bank worth visiting? How much time should I spend there? And what are the must-dos I shouldn’t miss?
The challenge is that South Bank has so much packed into one riverside precinct, from free swimming lagoons and gardens to museums, cultural centres, and foodie Hot spots. It can be hard for first-timers to figure out what’s really worth their time and planning quickly becomes overwhelming.
Having lived in Brisbane for over 25 years and visited South Bank more times than I can count, I’ve seen how the area has grown. This guide will break down the best things to do in South Bank, along with insider tips to help you plan your visit without the stress.
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Things to do at South Bank Parklands & Map
South Bank Parklands in Brisbane is absolutely worth visiting. It’s an inner-city oasis with lush gardens, riverside promenades, and the famous Streets Beach, Australia’s only man-made inner-city beach.
You’ll also find plenty of cafés, bars, and restaurants, along with cultural attractions like the Queensland Museum, GOMA, and the Performing Arts Centre right next door. While it can get crowded on weekends and you’ll need sun protection on hot days, the mix of relaxation, scenery, and culture makes South Bank one of Brisbane’s must-visit destinations
This is all located in South Brisbane (Just across the river from the city) and a Mecca of things to do, but please click here for my specially pinned map to help you locate everything I have listed below.
➡Entertainment & Food
1. Wheel of Brisbane
The Wheel of Brisbane is available during the day, but the city night lights are amazing in the evening from this view. You’ll enter one of the 42 enclosed pods (8 people per pod) and get up to 60 metres above the ground with 360-degree views of central Brisbane.
Take in the views while listening to an audio of Brisbane’s highlights and landmarks. Or, how about a wine and cheese romantic evening with that special someone or try out the Sky high Dining with the family.
2. Segway Tours Brisbane
The guided Segway Tours are rather obscure to ride, but so much fun. However, you aren’t left to fend on your own, there is training beforehand and basically a “Follow the leader” scenario.
In the end, this will get you from A to B quicker than walking and let you see the South Bank/ South Brisbane sights in a short period of time (without having to walk).
3. Get around on public Scooters
Scooters are fun, entertaining and a great way to get you around Brisbane. There are also a couple of options between brands and may getting a bike. You can get started by downloading the App to your Android or apple phone.
Set up your account, scan the QR code on the scooter, check for safety and finally, your ready to go. You can also sign up as a member or casual user and prices will depend on time used and it gets cheaper the more you use it.
4. Take the kids on a trackless train
The Xpress fun train normally runs during school holidays and takes you on a ride from the Wheel of Brisbane down the Clem Jones Promenade.
A favourite with the kids and costs start at $5 AUD (weather permitting).
5. Terrace Roof Top Car
The Rooftop Terrace Bar at the Emporium Hotel is one of Brisbane’s most stylish spots for an evening out (or lookout point during the day). Perched high above Grey Street, it offers sweeping views across the Brisbane River and the city skyline, making it a perfect place to watch the sun go down or take in the glittering lights of Brisbane at night.
While it’s a relaxed atmosphere during the day, come evening there is a smart casual dress code in place, so it’s worth putting a little effort into your outfit. The drinks list features premium cocktails, wines, and champagnes, with cocktails typically priced around $22–$26 and wine by the glass starting from $14.
6. Take a ride on the City Cat.
Looking for a fun and unique way to see the sights of Brisbane? Why not take a ride on the City Cat! This ferry service runs along the river, providing passengers with stunning views of the cityscape and a way to get back and forth from the city.
You can choose to ride the ferry to the city or get off at one of the allocated stops along the rest of the network. Either way, it’s a great way to see Brisbane from this perspective.
7. Chill out at the Cinema
The Open Air Cinema’s is seasonal and normally held in the summertime around Christmas. The event is free but you might have to register for a spot on the grass. Pack a picnic with the kids, or alternately the wine and cheese for a romantic evening.
Either way, bring along a towel or blanket to sit along and enjoy the nights viewing under the starry night of Brisbane.
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8. Local Arts & Crafts Markets
The three day collective South Bank Markets are normally held over a long weekend from Friday to Sunday and go into the evenings. Anyone with a locally made or sourced product can apply for a stall here and there is so much variety to choose from.
Wander through the streets day or night to see what the locals of Brisbane have to offer from food, trending fashion, arts and crafts, collectables, jewellery and home décor. Alternatively, you can make a night of it, go out for drinks and enjoy the live music provided.
9. Try the Culinary Dining Scene
Whatever kind of food you want, you will be able to find it here in the diverse culinary scene. Restaurants ranging from 5 star gourmet, pub lunch with beer, cafes with River Views or quick fast food.
This includes the standards takeaways like Subway, Guzman y Gomez and McDonalds, but also counter meals at The Plough Inn can be good, and I’m always favouring the Motto Motto Japanese Sushi.
All these places to eat can be found everywhere within a couple of blocks of the parklands, overlooking the river or little stalls amongst the markets. But you can check out the range of restaurants and cafes here to give you an idea.
Do you need help planning your trip to Queensland? Book a one-on-one consultation call with me, to get your questions answered & personalised help!
10. Riverside Picnic.
Pack your favourite food and drinks, grab a blanket, and enjoy the lovely views from any of the grassed areas, provided along the Brisbane River. This is also a great activity to do with family or friends.
Plus, there’s nothing quite like breathing in the fresh air and listening to the gentle ripple of water to lull you into a sense of relaxation.
➡FREE Activities in South Bank
11. Swim in Streets Beach
Streets Beach would have to be one of the biggest Icons, and also one of the most popular swimming spots in Brisbane. This man-made beach provides a beautiful blue lagoon with palm trees and sandy beaches. All this, as well as overlooking the Clem Jones promenade and Brisbane City.
Even better that’s it’s a FREE Brisbane activity and open to the public during daylight hours, as well as being Lifeguard patrolled.
Note: For travellers who are looking for a place to stay, the options are truly endless around here. Whether you’re looking for a place to rest your head for the night, or a week long adventurous holiday in Brisbane.
12. Pose for a pic with the Brisbane Sign
Are you looking for that Classic Instagram Pic? Look no further than the waterfront located “Brisbane” Sign with the city views in the background. You will often see may people trying to climb all over the sign, with family members finding a spot on each letter.
More importantly, the sign was installed in 2014 for the G20 Summit and only supposed to be around for one month. Surprisingly, the original wasn’t weather proof and lasted only four months when it was replaced with better materials.
13. The Nepalese Peace Pagoda
The Nepalese Peace Pagoda was Nepal’s contribution to the World Expo 1988, which was held at Brisbane’s South Bank. More importantly, it just so happens to be the only international exhibit that actually remains on the site.
It’s a three story high structure and a beautiful treasure in the heart of the city. Made of 80 tonnes of Nepalese timber and took 2 years to build. Brisbane is very lucky to have this addition, being one of only three Nepalese Pagodas outside of Nepal.
14. Swimming at the Boat Pool
If you prefer swimming in a pool to the beach, then the Boat Pool is a better option (but right beside Streets Beach). It’s also FREE, and you don’t have to worry about getting in and out on the sand.
Bring a book and read by the pool edge under one of the trees. Otherwise, just float around, or chat with the other swimmers. There’s a lifeguard on duty, which also helps when watching over children.
15. Kids run free at Aquativity!
Aquativity is the perfect place to let kids run free and have a great time. The kids splash zone and shallow pools are the perfect place for them to cool off and run amuck. Plus, the Lifeguards are always on hand to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable time.
16. Stroll along the Rainforest Walk
Stroll around and admire the man-made lush rainforest, and located right next to the Nepalese Pagoda. There is a huge array of tropical and sub-tropical plants and don’t forget to be on the lookout for wildlife. There is also a water feature running, as well as seating and boardwalks to help you get around.
17. Confucius Statue
The Confucius statue was donated to Brisbane by the government in the Shandong Provence of China. It’s was to mark the 150th birthday of Queensland.
18. Take the Heritage Walk
Step back in time and reminisce on the history that surrounds this area in Brisbane. This trail begins at the South Bank dry dock, wanders along the river, through the streets and ends at the South Brisbane Train Station.
There are just over 20 listed points on the trail which you can download the Heritage Walk PDF here. Easy enough to get done in one day, but split into two days if your limited in walking.
19. Fitness and Wellness Activities
South Bank offers fitness and wellness activities for those who enjoy a mindful practice. This includes, yoga classes, Pilates, Aqua Aerobics, Body Balance and Zumba, which are held in the serene settings of the Parklands.
These sessions, often led by experienced instructors, provide an opportunity to breathe in the fresh air while stretching and meditating in nature’s embrace. Check the Feel Good Program for a schedule of classes and locations.
20. Walk across the Goodwill Bridge
The Goodwill footbridge connects Brisbane city (near the Botanic Gardens) to South Bank (near the Maritime Museum).
It was built in 2001 and named after the Goodwill Games, held in the same year. You can marvel at the architecture and either walk, cycle, or skate the 500 metres across. ( Note this is not open to any motorized traffic).
It’s about 6.5 metres wide and a river clearance of roughly 12 metres. Either way, join the other 40,000 people each week who use this as an access point to get to and from the city.
21. Walk over the Kurilpa Bridge
The Kurilpa Bridge has an alternate design to the Goodwill Bridge and is another way to get back and forth from the city. The Bridge was opened in 2009 and known to be the world’s largest hybrid tensegrity bridge.
This produces a synergy between balanced tension and compression components to create a light structure which is incredibly strong. At any rate, it’s a short walk again at only 470 metres long with two large viewing or relaxing platforms, along with a full length canopy.
22. Admire the Grand Arbour Walk
A curling steel column covered in brilliant pink bougainvillea plants. This is what marks the walkway from Vulture street to the Museum. It was officially opened in 2000, roughly one kilometre long and constructed of 443 steel tendrils.
Special events in the evenings have them covered in lights, lanterns and items associated to the event. Therefore, it could be a very different scene when you arrive in Brisbane!
23. The River Quay Amphitheatre
The amphitheatre is a large grassed area you can sit and enjoy the starry night while overlooking the Brisbane city lights. Alternatively, it’s a great spot to take the kids for a picnic dinner, have that romantic night with your better half or simply chill in the sunshine with a good book.
Note: It’s also where the Open Air Cinemas are held at Christmas
24. Epicurious Garden
The Epicurious Garden is a gem for anyone interested in gardening, sustainability, or simply looking for a serene place to relax. This community-driven initiative is not just a display of nature’s bounty, but also an educational resource.
Volunteers work tirelessly to maintain the garden, ensuring it remains a lush and welcoming space for visitors year-round. You can stroll through rows of aromatic herbs, vibrant vegetables, and seasonal fruits, absorbing the beauty and tranquility the garden offers.
➡Arts & Culture Scene
25. Queensland Museum
Learn about the story’s of Queensland through this ever changing museum display. School groups can visit for educational experiences, kids can enjoy the early childhood activities and above all, enjoy the innovative programs.
This is the house of millions of objects, specimens and artefacts that help learn about the local history. Be part of the learning experience and check out their website for travelling displays.
26. Art Gallery & GOMA
Immerse yourself in culture by stopping by the Art Gallery or alternatively, GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art). The Gallery’s holds exhibitions (Old and New), Cinema experiences and tours which are mostly free. However, certain special events will have an entry fee, which can be purchased online or at the door.
Normal opening hours are between 10am and 5pm with it being closed on Good Friday, Christmas day and Boxing day. But, don’t forget to check out the events calendar to see what’s on when your visiting.
27. Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)
This is Queensland Largest Arts centre and opened in 1985 across from Brisbane City. It contains the Lyric Theatre, Concert hall, Playhouse and Cremorne Theatre which hosts any number of Stage shows and live performances throughout the year.
You can email register for upcoming shows, or search for upcoming shows to book in advance online. Shows can range from family-friendly to adults only, so you will be sure to find one that suits you.
28. Maritime Museum
Discover historic vessels of all shapes and sizes at the Brisbane Maritime Museum which opened in 1979. Just like other Museums that have permanent and temporary displays, it’s best to check out their website for current viewings.
Gaze at the model ships, check out the nautical equipment and engines, walk through the Dry dock and vessels in the water. In Conclusion, the tickets prices start at just $8 AUD and booking are essential for an allocated time slot between 9am and 4pm.
29. State Library
The State Library of Queensland and founded in 1886 and the first of the vibrant cultural scene in this area of Brisbane. They hold a vast array of Queensland culture and heritage which they provide free to the general public (including Wi-Fi if you need it).
It’s best to check out what’s on at the time of your visit, but generally things to looks out for are summer reading clubs, listening experiences, new books or artworks, kids corner and language resources.
Alternatively, you have computer access points, book shop, café and onsite reference material.
Where to Stay?
For travellers who are looking for a place to stay, the options are truly endless around here. Whether you’re looking for someplace to rest your head after an adventurous day or want to relax in luxury.
➡ Find South Brisbane Accommodations HERE with Booking.com
Many backpackers enjoy finding decent digs with unbeatable convenience and affordable prices. Or, if you’re willing to shell out a bit more money, there are numerous five-star accommodations with sweeping Brisbane river views.
With that in mind, it could be that you want to visit South Bank but want to stay elsewhere in Brisbane. In that case, there are plenty of other brilliant areas around Brisbane you can stay in to rest your weary head.
Activities nearby in the City!
South Bank isn’t the only place you can look for things to do and I do know of some nearby. This includes:
- Kayaking on the Brisbane River
- Climb the Story Bridge (Or Walk over it)
- Shopping in the Queens Street Mall
- Walk along the Kangaroo Point Cliffs
- City Hall Clock Tower Tour
- Skydeck Lookout Platform on top of the Casino
- Howard Smith Wharves for drinks
How to get to around?
You’ll find it’s easy to get around using Public Transport, with options like Trains, Buses, Ferry (City Cat), bikes & Scooters. While travelling in and out of the city can add up over time, there are FREE choices, including the Red Ferry or “Kitty Cat” or the City centre free Bus loops.
➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE
Apart from that, you have your standard Taxi companies, Ubers, and private shuttle services, or you can hire your own car. Hiring a car can increase your mobility and freedom, allowing you access great attractions outside of South Bank.
Wrap up!
Thanks for reading this blog post today on the best things to do at South Bank in Brisbane and I hope you found what you were looking for. If you’re still researching, please check out my other Brisbane Blogs for inspiration.
