Brisbane: Top 5 Things to do

Are you going on a trip to Brisbane? Here are 5 things that you should definitely not miss when travelling to Queensland’s capital.

Brisbane is one of the most beautiful cities that you can visit in Australia. It is known for its amazing weather, culture, and of course its tourism. 

There are so many things that you can do in the city, but it is easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. 

We have put together a list of the 5 things that you should do in the city if you are coming for a vacation.

Dare The Story Bridge Adventure Climb

People climbing the iconic Story Bridge in Brisbane, enjoying the adventure.
Story Bridge Adventure Climb| Photo Copyright: Brian Hastings

The Story Bridge, constructed during Australia’s Great Depression in the 1930s, is a much-loved Brisbane landmark. As one of only three bridge climbs in the world (after Sydney and Auckland), this experience also offers something totally unique – you can choose to abseil the descent! 

This climb can be done by people of all fitness levels and those 10 years of age or older. This two-hour experience takes you 80 meters above the Brisbane River for uninterrupted views of the city.

Brisbane’s Story Bridge Adventure Climb includes an expert guide, safety demonstration, and a complimentary group photo after your climb.

Choose between two different climbs:

– Walk the Plank: Conjure your inner pirate and tiptoe out on a plank 80 meters above sea level as traffic rushes past below.

– Cantilever Lean Out: If you sign up for this tour, guides hold your harness as you lean out as far as you can from the dizzying heights.

Address: 170 Main Street, Kangaroo Point, Queensland

Make friends with a Koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

A mother koala with her baby on her back climbing a tree.

Is cuddling a koala on your bucket list? If so, you can make your dream come true at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary! 

This sanctuary is home to more than 70 species of adorable Australian animals, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with your favorite creatures. Feed kangaroos by hand, enjoy the sound of kookaburras laughing, and watch as flocks of vibrant rainbow lorikeets descend during a feeding. You can also see wallabies, wombats, dingoes, snakes, and even crocodiles at this compact sanctuary nestled on the Brisbane River.

If you’re an animal lover, you’ll love the keeper talks and interactive demonstrations. Daily encounters and experiences include sheep dog and shearing shows, platypus feeding, bird of prey flight demonstrations, Tasmanian devil keeper talks, and barn animal encounters.

In addition to getting the ultimate cuddling a koala photograph, you can also take home a souvenir snap of you with a dingo or snake.

Address: 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket, Queensland

Sightseeing Tour On The River Cruise

A scenic view of a river cruise in Brisbane with numerous boats carrying tourists for sightseeing.

One of the best ways to go sightseeing in Brisbane is aboard a river cruise. The Brisbane River runs through the heart of the city, and many of the city’s top attractions line its banks, vying for your attention. This is an excellent way to gain a fresh perspective of Brisbane landmarks such as the Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, and even some of the wildlife, like the fruit bats that gather along the mangroves on the riverbank.

If you’re looking for a tour that’s both informative and enjoyable, River City Cruises is the perfect choice. Their 3.5-hour Cruise to Lunch Package is one of their most popular options, and for good reason. You’ll get to see some of Brisbane’s most iconic landmarks while learning about the city’s rich history from your knowledgeable tour guide. Plus, you’ll enjoy a delicious Devonshire tea while taking in the stunning river views.

Looking for something fun and unique to do in Brisbane? Check out Kookaburra River Queens for a special lunch, high tea, or dinner cruise aboard their multi-tiered timber paddle wheelers. Or, hop aboard a Miramar Cruise to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

If you prefer to captain your own boat, GoBoat Brisbane rents eco-friendly electric picnic boats for up to eight people. You don’t need a boat licence, and picnic tables are included. So get out there and explore Brisbane in a whole new way!

Other cruise operators are CityCat and City Ferries. Their catamarans offer 24 different terminals that you can hop on and off of at your leisure, with many of the routes providing informative narration about Brisbane’s rich history and amazing sights. The University of Queensland, North Shore, redeveloped industrial sites, riverside mansions, bridges, and parklands are just some of the landmarks you’ll see on your journey.

Insider Tip: CityHopper ferry offers free cruises, stopping at attractions like South Bank 3 and the Maritime Museum.

Take A Day Trip To Moreton Island

A stunning view of Moreton Island.

Moreton Island is the perfect day trip for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Brisbane. Easily accessible via a 75-minute ferry ride, Moreton Island is one of Queensland’s best-kept secrets. With more than 98 percent of the island designated as national park, Moreton Island is a nature lover’s paradise.

The azure waters and pure-white sandy beaches of this area are framed by lush vegetation. Diving and snorkeling the many shallow-water wrecks is a popular activity, as is feeding wild dolphins at the Tangalooma Island Resort. Quad biking, water sports, sandboarding, and 4WD adventures are also popular in this area. While you’re here, be sure to visit Cape Moreton Lighthouse for beautiful ocean views.

Discover Aboriginal Culture at Spirit of the Sands

boomerang, souvenir, aboriginal-6371685.jpg

The Spirit of the Sands Indigenous storytelling experience is a great way to learn about Queensland’s rich history. Located just a 30-minute drive from the CBD, this experience is a must-do for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the Earth’s oldest culture.

During the day, enjoy a traditional Welcome to the Country ceremony. This 1.5-hour interactive experience incorporates Dreamtime stories and cultural activities – listen to the thrumming of a didgeridoo; taste some Aussie bush tucker (food); and take part in traditional customs, like boomerang painting.

The evening dinner and theater experience at the Beenleigh Historical Village is truly unique and mesmerizing. You’ll be enthralled by the evocative performance of Aboriginal song and dance which portrays the culture clash between the Indigenous people and the British. Told through the eyes of Aboriginal families, this performance is all the more moving because the performers actually experienced some of these events. Along with the entertainment, you’ll enjoy a delicious three-course meal spotlighting Indigenous ingredients.

Address: 205 Main Street, Beenleigh, Queensland

To Sum Up

We hope you have enjoyed our list of the 5 things you should definitely not miss when visiting sunny Brisbane. 

There is so much to do and see on every corner of this beautiful city and these are just 5 of the things we, the team at Plunge Pools Brisbane, love to do and see.

If you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, don’t miss to check out our article with the Best 10 Budget Hotels in Brisbane.

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