Brisbane, Australia Things to Do and Attractions
Fortitude Valley, also known as simply The Valley, is a culturally rich and eclectic suburb just northeast of central Brisbane. The Valley is a melting pot of Brisbane's best shopping, food, music and art and boasts the recently upgraded Brunswick
Fortitude Valley, also known as simply The Valley, is a culturally rich and eclectic suburb just northeast of central Brisbane. The Valley is a melting pot of Brisbane's best shopping, food, music and art and boasts the recently upgraded Brunswick Mall and Brunswick Street Market. In addition to checking out a vibrant outdoor environment and a thriving restaurant and nightlife scene, visitors can explore nearby Chinatown, the microcosm of Asia with a wealth of shops and delicious Asian eateries. Brunswick Street Market is open Saturday from 8 AM to 4 PM.
As the oldest buildings in the city and one of only two buildings left from Australia's convict era, Old Windmill & Observatory provides visitors with a unique link to Brisbane's past. It was built of rendered stone and brick in 1828 by Captain
As the oldest buildings in the city and one of only two buildings left from Australia's convict era, Old Windmill & Observatory provides visitors with a unique link to Brisbane's past. It was built of rendered stone and brick in 1828 by Captain Patrick Logan, who is known by most as a brutal man in Australian history for his treatment of convicts. The building was soon converted into a large treadmill where the convicts, instead of the wind, ground the corn. The Windmill became known as the Observatory at the end of the 19th century after an observation platform and cabin were built, and the building lays claim to some early experiments with television. It is closed to the public but can easily be explored on the outside.
For avid shopaholics, there's no better place to be than Queen Street Mall, the premier spot to experience the very best of Queensland's unique style. Providing the best shopping in Queensland is an easy task for this fully pedestrianized shopping
For avid shopaholics, there's no better place to be than Queen Street Mall, the premier spot to experience the very best of Queensland's unique style. Providing the best shopping in Queensland is an easy task for this fully pedestrianized shopping haven. Over 26 million visitors a year flock to the city to visit the over 500 stores in this precinct. Comprising Queen Plaza, Wintergarden and the Myer Centre, as well as numerous shopping arcades, the area has undergone extensive redevelopment and also features outdoor restaurants with shady awnings that provide welcome relief for weary shoppers. The range of shopping is exceptional with leading Australian fashion labels such as Myer and David Jones rubbing shoulders with classic international designer labels such as Louis Vuitton. The Queen Street Mall is open Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 6 PM, Friday from 9 AM to 9 PM, Saturday from 9 AM to 5:30 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Ideally located with glorious views over the Brisbane River, the Riverside Centre hosts the Riverside Market every Sunday. Welcoming and vibrant, the market has been running for over 15 years, with many of the original marketers still braving the
Ideally located with glorious views over the Brisbane River, the Riverside Centre hosts the Riverside Market every Sunday. Welcoming and vibrant, the market has been running for over 15 years, with many of the original marketers still braving the early morning start to ply their goods every week. Guests will be swept up by the cavalcade of color and delicious aromas as they mingle with the locals and search out a bargain. Visitors can pick up a memento in one of a multitude of stalls selling ceramics, flowers and collectables, or sample the mouth-watering selections of gourmet dips, jams and cheeses. After combing through the goods, shoppers can kick back and savor the experience on the quay side while watching the boats sail past. The Riverside Market runs Sunday from 7 AM to 4 PM.
In South Bank, visitors are never more than a hop, skip or jump away from culture, entertainment, fine dining and relaxation. South Bank is home to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the Maritime Museum, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition
In South Bank, visitors are never more than a hop, skip or jump away from culture, entertainment, fine dining and relaxation. South Bank is home to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the Maritime Museum, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and the State Library. It is also the location of a cultural giant: the Queensland Cultural Centre, which encompasses the Queensland Museum, Sciencentre, Queensland Art Gallery and Queensland Gallery of Modern Art. Further attractions include historic Stanley Street Plaza, with its funky shops, cafes and restaurants, and South Bank Parklands, where visitors can swim in the unique inner city Streets Beach. South Bank is also home to the Suncorp Plaza, an open outdoor theater that regularly screens free international sporting events and movies.
Ever wanted to soar like a bird over a city? With Balloons Over Brisbane patrons can float above it all and catch jaw-dropping views of this magnificent city and beyond. On a clear day, views extend all the way to the Gold Coast and the Moreton Bay
Ever wanted to soar like a bird over a city? With Balloons Over Brisbane patrons can float above it all and catch jaw-dropping views of this magnificent city and beyond. On a clear day, views extend all the way to the Gold Coast and the Moreton Bay Islands to the south and the impressive Glasshouse Mountains to the north. Balloons Over Brisbane gives guests the opportunity to help inflate the balloon, if they wish, before their champagne breakfast and sunrise flight. The launch site varies based on prevailing wind conditions, but one thing is guaranteed: unforgettable views.
Flights are weather dependent, always at dawn and last approximately one hour. They cost between AU$255 and AU$310. Group discounts are available from Tuesday through Friday for six or more passengers with tickets costing AU$265 per person.
The Belgian Beer Cafe offers the self-described chance to spend "a lazy afternoon exploring centuries of Belgian brewing tradition." Certainly, with over 30 brews to choose from, patrons will want to take their time. Guests can sample an exquisite
The Belgian Beer Cafe offers the self-described chance to spend "a lazy afternoon exploring centuries of Belgian brewing tradition." Certainly, with over 30 brews to choose from, patrons will want to take their time. Guests can sample an exquisite range of beers, from Hoegaarden to the stronger "abbey" beers, brewed by monks in the early 18th century, in the magnificently restored 1920s art nouveau bar. Visitors also marvel at the huge range of glasses, each designed for a specific beer, and the skill with which the bar staff serve the drinks. An outdoor beer garden invites patrons to sit under the sun while enjoying their libations.
The cafe is available for private functions. The Belgian Beer Cafe is open Monday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to late.
One of the most famous watering holes in Australia and certainly the most famous in Queensland, the Breakfast Creek Hotel, or "Brekky Creek," with its majestic French Renaissance-style architecture, opened its doors in 1890. The historic hotel is
One of the most famous watering holes in Australia and certainly the most famous in Queensland, the Breakfast Creek Hotel, or "Brekky Creek," with its majestic French Renaissance-style architecture, opened its doors in 1890. The historic hotel is steeped in folklore, and staff are more than willing to spill the stories up their sleeves, such as regular ghost sightings of the Breakfast Creek Hotel's first proprietor William MacNaughton Galloway, who fell to his death from a second floor window. The building has seen a great many renovations. The most recent in 2003, at a cost of AU$4.5 million, restored the hotel to its former glory while leaving the character intact.
The public bar has terrazzo flooring, lofty ceilings and old barrels for tables. Other bars and spaces include the Spanish Garden, Staghorn Garden, Substation no. 41 and a private bar veranda. Many of the spaces are available for private functions. The Breakfast Creek Hotel is open daily from 10 AM to late.
Built in the 1920s, Brisbane City Hall is a significant historical Brisbane landmark that today encompasses an art gallery and the Museum of Brisbane. Stepping into the main foyer is like stepping back in time, and visitors will relish the elaborate,
Built in the 1920s, Brisbane City Hall is a significant historical Brisbane landmark that today encompasses an art gallery and the Museum of Brisbane. Stepping into the main foyer is like stepping back in time, and visitors will relish the elaborate, high-vaulted ceilings, floor mosaics and glorious marble staircases. The City Hall Art Gallery and Museum were officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1977, but the museum has since undergone an upgrade. Re-opened in 2003 with more of a focus on the social history of Brisbane, it has now hosted over 1.5 million visitors who flock to the museum to explore the early beginnings of this fascinating city.
Brisbane City Hall is available for private functions. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM and weekends from 10 AM to 5 PM. Entry is free.
An important hub of theater, movies, music, comedy, visual arts and festivals, as well as a prime dining and meetings venue, the Brisbane Powerhouse is Brisbane's impressive homage to the arts. The Powerhouse started life as a power station but fell
An important hub of theater, movies, music, comedy, visual arts and festivals, as well as a prime dining and meetings venue, the Brisbane Powerhouse is Brisbane's impressive homage to the arts. The Powerhouse started life as a power station but fell into disrepair around the 1970s. Re-designed and re-opened in 2000, it's now a distinct Brisbane icon, using an intriguing mix of European panache, crude textures and preserved graffiti walls to cradle its performance spaces. Located on the banks of Brisbane River beside New Farm Park, the Powerhouse underwent a further AU$3.5 million redevelopment in 2007 that saw an upgrade of the Turbine Platform concert stage, hospitality facilities and Powerhouse Theatre as well as the addition of a new Rooftop Terrace and cafe bar.
Powerhouse Arts has a number of venues available for private functions. The Powerhouse Box Office is open Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM, Saturday from noon to 4 PM and two hours prior to all performances. Ticket prices vary based on performance.
Take a step back in time for this special cruise on the Brisbane River with the Kookaburra River Queens' fleet of authentic paddlewheelers, based on the design of the Mississippi originals. Guests can jump aboard and enjoy all the highlights of
Take a step back in time for this special cruise on the Brisbane River with the Kookaburra River Queens' fleet of authentic paddlewheelers, based on the design of the Mississippi originals. Guests can jump aboard and enjoy all the highlights of riverside Brisbane over lunch, commentary and light entertainment, or make an evening of it with the dinner cruise, which includes a three-course buffet and live music and dancing. Having recently undergone an extensive renovation program, the Kookaburra River Queens now offer Brisbane's premium cruise experience.
The Kookaburra River Queens can be hired for private events of up to 350 guests. Tours range in price from AU$35 to AU$85.
From its enviable riverside position in the thriving hub of South Bank, the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art is the epitome of grace and quiet elegance. As the largest modern art gallery in Australia, the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art is able to
From its enviable riverside position in the thriving hub of South Bank, the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art is the epitome of grace and quiet elegance. As the largest modern art gallery in Australia, the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art is able to host particularly large exhibitions, such as the work of prolific artist Andy Warhol.
The gallery began its collection in 1895 and now has an extensive permanent collection of over 11,000 pieces including indigenous and contemporary Australian art, Queensland heritage art and contemporary Asian, Pacific and international art. Old favorites include many of the early works such as Blandford Fletcher's Evicted and Under the Jacaranda by R. Godfrey Rivers. The gallery's flagship project is the Asia-Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art series of exhibitions, which is now a huge event on the national and international arts calendar. Located within the gallery is the Australian Cinmathque, which presents a wide range of thematic film programs and exhibitions.
The gallery has 10 spaces available for a variety of private functions of 25 to 1,000 people. The Queensland Gallery of Modern Art is open Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is free, though additional charges may be required for special exhibitions and some Cinmathque programs.
Located in the cultural heart of Brisbane, the Performing Arts Complex at South Bank boasts four venues that regularly host the Queensland Ballet, Opera Queensland and Queensland Theatre Company, along with many other visiting performing arts groups.
Located in the cultural heart of Brisbane, the Performing Arts Complex at South Bank boasts four venues that regularly host the Queensland Ballet, Opera Queensland and Queensland Theatre Company, along with many other visiting performing arts groups. Attracting many international acts, the Lyric Theatre is the main venue for operas, ballets and musicals and has received critical acclaim for its design. The Concert Hall hosts orchestral performances and boasts a majestic 6,500-pipe Klais Grand Organ. The Cremorne Theatre is an adaptive space particularly suitable for smaller creative productions and experimental theater, while the Playhouse utilizes the very best theater technology to enhance powerful dramatic performances.
The 2,000-seat Lyric Theatre, 1,800-seat Concert Hall, 312-seat Cremorne Theatre and 850-seat Playhouse are available for private events. The box office, located on level 1 of the Performing Arts Centre, is open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 8:30 PM. Ticket prices vary based on performance.
Priding itself on hosting the very best stand up comedians, the Sit Down Comedy Club has gained an international reputation for comedy, attracting world-famous comedians such as Ross Noble, Eric Bana and the Umbilical Brothers. Drawing from a wide
Priding itself on hosting the very best stand up comedians, the Sit Down Comedy Club has gained an international reputation for comedy, attracting world-famous comedians such as Ross Noble, Eric Bana and the Umbilical Brothers. Drawing from a wide pool of local, national and international talent, the comedy club presents new shows every week that guarantee patrons a laugh. The comedy club is hosted by McGuire's Paddington Tavern, or the "Paddo" Tavern, a large drinking establishment serving great beers and bistro food.
The Sit Down Comedy Club can organize for comedians to perform at functions, including conferences. The Paddington Tavern has a variety of rooms for private functions and offers catering for groups of 10 to 130 guests. Comedy shows usually start at 7 PM. Shows generally cost between AU$20 and AU$30.
A true Brisbane icon, Story Bridge offers an unforgettable climbing experience. Boasting one of the deepest foundations in the world, Story Bridge is a cantilever bridge that links Fortitude Valley to Kangaroo Point, providing an essential
A true Brisbane icon, Story Bridge offers an unforgettable climbing experience. Boasting one of the deepest foundations in the world, Story Bridge is a cantilever bridge that links Fortitude Valley to Kangaroo Point, providing an essential transportation link in the city. The Story Bridge Adventure Climb is a two-and-a-half-hour climb offering breathtaking panoramic views of Brisbane as patrons climb up and over the bridge. Experienced Climb Leaders guide groups while giving fascinating commentary about the history and heritage of the bridge and city.
The adventure climb operates daily excluding Christmas and the Riverfestival and Riverfire weekend. Guided dawn, day, twilight and night tours are offered. Tours range in price from AU$110 to AU$130.
Combining a trendy cafe/restaurant upstairs and a live music bar downstairs, Tongue & Groove is a great place to visit after the sun has gone down and the dancing shoes are on. The bar has funky decor with bold shapes and colors and comfortable
Combining a trendy cafe/restaurant upstairs and a live music bar downstairs, Tongue & Groove is a great place to visit after the sun has gone down and the dancing shoes are on. The bar has funky decor with bold shapes and colors and comfortable couches, creating the friendly, welcoming vibe for which it's known. Patrons will find themselves in a central hub of Brisbane's musicians and artists, and, apart from a slight leaning towards jazz, a good mix of music from blues and reggae to funk and electronic echoes off the walls. The focus is on local talent, but Tongue & Groove also hosts interstate and international acts.
The bar is available for private functions. Tongue & Groove is open Monday and Tuesday from 5 PM to close and Wednesday through Sunday from 8 AM to close. Entry to the bar is usually free.
The XXXX Ale House has invested millions in its fun, interactive brewery tour and visitor center. Celebrating all things beer, the Ale House at XXXX delves into the history of the well-known Castlemaine Perkins brewery and its even more famous
The XXXX Ale House has invested millions in its fun, interactive brewery tour and visitor center. Celebrating all things beer, the Ale House at XXXX delves into the history of the well-known Castlemaine Perkins brewery and its even more famous product, XXXX beer. Using advanced technology, the tour invites patrons to join an animated version of Mr. XXXX, who showcases over 125 years of brewing history. Guests visit the inner workings of the brewery while being entertained with a myriad of colorful stories. The tour ends with a seat at the Ale House Bar, where patrons can sample some of the delicious brews.
Tours run Monday through Friday every hour between 10 AM and 4 PM and Wednesday until 6 PM. Saturday tours run at 10:30 AM, 11 AM and 12 PM. Tours cost AU$20.
Cru Bar and Cellar in Fortitude Valley is an absolute must for any wine aficionado. Housing an extensive cellar with a global range of new and vintage wines, the bar staffs full-time sommeliers help patrons choose the perfect food and wine
Cru Bar and Cellar in Fortitude Valley is an absolute must for any wine aficionado. Housing an extensive cellar with a global range of new and vintage wines, the bar staffs full-time sommeliers help patrons choose the perfect food and wine combination. Intimate lighting dances off the antique Baccarat crystal chandelier while patrons dine at tables, enjoy a range of nibbles at the onyx-topped bar, or, in classic Queensland style, dine al fresco. The cuisine is modern Australian and includes the appetizing Victorian lamb rump with a Dijon mustard seed crust on creamed potato with truffled honey figs and glaze.
Cru Bar and Cellar is available for private functions. It serves lunch and dinner Monday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 10 PM and breakfast Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 to 11:30 AM. Entrees range from AU$18.50 to AU$30.
For more than 10 years, E'cco Bistro has been heralded as one of the finest restaurants in the state and has won an astonishing number of accolades. The historic former tea warehouse has a daring and vivid look with pinot red walls, a polished
For more than 10 years, E'cco Bistro has been heralded as one of the finest restaurants in the state and has won an astonishing number of accolades. The historic former tea warehouse has a daring and vivid look with pinot red walls, a polished Masonite floor and wooden tables and chairs. Diners will love the cozy bistro atmosphere and the mouth-watering aromas that drift into the restaurant from the open kitchen. Using only the freshest ingredients, the bistro serves up dishes such as the Margaret River lamb rump, roast Jerusalem artichokes, cavolo nero and caramelized shallots.
E'cco Bistro serves lunch Tuesday through Friday from noon to 2:30 PM and dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 6 to 10 PM. Entrees start at AU$36.50.
Located in the funky suburb of Paddington, this distinctive French brasserie will transport diners straight to France. Run by a passionate French ex-pat Thierry Galichet, the brasserie is crammed full of French knick-knacks among a classic marble and
Located in the funky suburb of Paddington, this distinctive French brasserie will transport diners straight to France. Run by a passionate French ex-pat Thierry Galichet, the brasserie is crammed full of French knick-knacks among a classic marble and dark wood bar and gorgeous lamps casting a blanket of intimacy over the room. Montrachet has a splendid range of imported chardonnays and pinot noirs to accompany such stunning dishes as Carr d'Agneau, a baked rack of lamb served with ratatouille and potato gratin. Patrons must try to save a little room for dessert; the traditional favorite crème brle comes highly recommended.
Montrachet serves lunch Monday through Friday from noon to 3 PM and dinner Monday through Friday from 6 to 10:30 PM. Entrees range from AU$32 to AU$38.
Located on the Eagle Street Pier overlooking the Brisbane River, Pier Nine is Australia's most awarded seafood restaurant. With elegant aquatic-themed decor and huge glass windows affording wonderful views of the river, patrons can choose from at
Located on the Eagle Street Pier overlooking the Brisbane River, Pier Nine is Australia's most awarded seafood restaurant. With elegant aquatic-themed decor and huge glass windows affording wonderful views of the river, patrons can choose from at least four different varieties of fresh oysters, freshly shucked and served on premises. Other tasty offerings include the iconic Queensland wild caught barramundi, brown bellied mud crabs and Moreton Bay lobsters as well as a variety of meat dishes.
The restaurant offers rooms for private events as well as catering menus. Pier Nine is open daily from 11:30 AM to 10 PM. Entrees range from AU$35 to AU$50.
Founded in 1927, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is located in a beautiful natural setting about five kilometers from the central business district. One of the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuaries, it is also one of the only sanctuaries where
Founded in 1927, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is located in a beautiful natural setting about five kilometers from the central business district. One of the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuaries, it is also one of the only sanctuaries where visitors are allowed to hold and pet the koalas. Children adore these furry little creatures and delight in the opportunity to not only feed and meet them but to also mingle with some kangaroos, often when they have a baby kangaroo, or joey, in their pouch. Other wildlife at the sanctuary includes Tasmanian devils, wombats, echidnas, a number of reptiles, parrots, kookaburras, emus, cassowaries and free flying lorikeets. A small farm also hosts sheep dog shows.
The sanctuary is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. Entrance costs AU$17 for children and AU$22 for adults.
Linking the past, present and future, the Queensland Museum is sure to fascinate the kids. The first stop should be at the permanent Dinosaur Garden where visitors can walk among life-sized models of a Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops. Another
Linking the past, present and future, the Queensland Museum is sure to fascinate the kids. The first stop should be at the permanent Dinosaur Garden where visitors can walk among life-sized models of a Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops. Another popular attraction is the extremely rare German A7V Tank, called "Mephisto." Captured by Australian Troops during World War I, the tank is the only remaining German tank from that time period. From boomerangs to dung beetles and historical artifacts to hands-on science, the museum keeps guests entertained for hours.
The museum has venues available for private functions. Queensland Museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. It is closed Christmas and Good Friday. Admission is free, though some special exhibitions may require additional charges.
Sciencentre is at the cutting edge of hands-on science-based exhibitions with almost 100 interactive exhibits. The center is divided into three main galleries: guests can check out the Body Zone, where kids can jump on a bike and see how their
Sciencentre is at the cutting edge of hands-on science-based exhibitions with almost 100 interactive exhibits. The center is divided into three main galleries: guests can check out the Body Zone, where kids can jump on a bike and see how their joints work as they ride tandem with a skeleton; investigate the Earth Space Gallery, where the mysteries of night and day are explained as a giant pendulum puts the earth in a spin; then stop by Action Stations, where visitors can use their own energy to generate light, learn about gyroscopes and flywheels and even freeze their own shadow.
Sciencentre is available for private functions. It is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. It is closed Christmas and Good Friday. Admission is AU$10 for adults. Admission for children under 5 is free.
Opened in 1978, the planetarium was named after Sir Thomas Brisbane, governor of New South Wales in the early 1920s, who was an avid astronomer; in fact, he was one of the first to map the stars of the Southern Hemisphere. The planetarium features
Opened in 1978, the planetarium was named after Sir Thomas Brisbane, governor of New South Wales in the early 1920s, who was an avid astronomer; in fact, he was one of the first to map the stars of the Southern Hemisphere. The planetarium features the Cosmic Skydome planetarium theater, which will transport guests into space; the Display Zone, where they can see images from the Hubble Space Telescope; and various artifacts, displays, asteroid fragments and model spacecraft. A mini theater screens short films on astronomical topics and space missions including the movie The Search for Life: Are We Alone? The highlight of any trip, however, is star-gazing in the observatory itself with one of the planetarium's astronomers.
The planetarium is available for private events and can cater for between 35 and 120 guests. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is open Tuesday through Friday from 2:30 to 4:15 PM, Saturday from 11 AM to 8:15 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 4:15 PM. Entrance fees are AU$7.10 for children and AU$12.10 for adults.
Covering nearly 50 acres of land in the heart of the city and nuzzled peacefully in one of the Brisbane River's great loops, the City Botanical Gardens is an oasis of gardens and lawns that cover the slopes below Parliament House and the Old
Covering nearly 50 acres of land in the heart of the city and nuzzled peacefully in one of the Brisbane River's great loops, the City Botanical Gardens is an oasis of gardens and lawns that cover the slopes below Parliament House and the Old Government House. Moreton Bay figs, buyna pines, macadamia trees and jacaranda trees provide welcome green respite for picnickers, office workers, joggers, cyclists and in-line skaters. The sub-tropical climate ensures a permanent display of color and pungent fragrances that float on the breeze from the flame trees, orchids, oleanders and frangipanis. The pretty Mangrove Boardwalk, which skirts the riverbank on the eastern rim, remains lit until midnight; possum spotting is a popular activity after dark.
The gardens have a number of venues for private functions. The City Botanic Gardens are open 24 hours a day. Entrance to the gardens is free.
Mount Coot-tha has a number of great outdoor attractions including a lookout with a bird's eye view over the city; numerous bush walks, one of which includes an art display by some local aboriginal artists; and a 3,706-acre reserve of natural
Mount Coot-tha has a number of great outdoor attractions including a lookout with a bird's eye view over the city; numerous bush walks, one of which includes an art display by some local aboriginal artists; and a 3,706-acre reserve of natural bushland. Most spectacularly, Mount Coot-tha is home to Brisbane's second Botanic Gardens. Not to be confused with the City Botanic Gardens, the 140-acre Mount Coot-tha gardens are reputedly home to Australia's largest sub-tropical display of flora. Visitors love the Tropical Dome indoor display, the Exotic Rainforest and the forests of bunya, bougainvilleas and eucalypts. For a peaceful and tranquil retreat, guests can visit the Japanese Gardens, outfitted with typical Japanese decorations and unique water features.
Several lawn sites as well as the Auditorium are available for private events at the Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. The gardens are open daily, September to March, from 8 AM to 5:30 PM, and daily, April to August, from 8 AM to 5 PM. Entrance is free.
As astonishing as it seems to have a beach in the middle of a city, Brisbane's man-made Streets Beach is a complete hit with visitors and locals alike. The lagoon, which was completed in 1992, provides a welcome spot for over nine million visitors a
As astonishing as it seems to have a beach in the middle of a city, Brisbane's man-made Streets Beach is a complete hit with visitors and locals alike. The lagoon, which was completed in 1992, provides a welcome spot for over nine million visitors a year to cool off after a busy day. Containing enough water to fill five Olympic swimming pools, the pool was constructed from about 2,000 square meters of concrete surrounded by 4,000 cubic meters of sand, sourced locally from the Rous Channel in Moreton Bay. Palm trees, rocky creeks and exotic plants surround the beach, which is patrolled by lifeguards daily between 9 AM and 5 PM. The beach is open daily from 6 PM to close. Admission is free.
Just a few kilometers west of Brisbane is the 61,776-acre Brisbane Forest Park, an area of bush land providing a crucial environment to a large variety of plants and animals. The Walk-About Creek Wildlife Centre in the park offers visitors the chance
Just a few kilometers west of Brisbane is the 61,776-acre Brisbane Forest Park, an area of bush land providing a crucial environment to a large variety of plants and animals. The Walk-About Creek Wildlife Centre in the park offers visitors the chance to learn about the many different and diverse environments of Australian wildlife. Features include a large walk-through aviary, aquariums and wildlife enclosures with platypus, wallabies, wombats, snakes, turtles and spotted quoll. The forest park itself offers wonderful fauna and flora viewing opportunities. Guests can explore over 800 species of plant in open eucalypt woodlands, gum forests and lush subtropical rainforests, while keeping an eye out for the endangered giant barred frog in a cool mountain stream or for the bell miner bird, whose call often echoes through the forest.
The Walk-About Creek Wildlife Centre has facilities available for private functions and also offers catering for 20 to 180 people. It is open daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed Christmas, December 26, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day and January 2. Admission is AU$2.60 for children and AU$5.30 for adults.
