Fun-filled Things to do in Brisbane

May 16, 2025

Brisbane could very well be Australia's least appreciated city. It doesn't shout quite as loudly as Sydney, nor does it boast Melbourne's indie hip. Brisbane, though, is an entire atmosphere—and if you let it, it'll captivate your socks off. There are a lot of fun-filled things to do in Brisbane. Whether you're a local who knows your city inside and out or a visitor with a hungry heart, this is the cheeky guide to getting the best out of Brisbane.

1. Sunrise at Mount Coot-tha Lookout

First in the list of fun-filled things to do in Brisbane is watching Mouth Cook Get up early (yes, dreadfully early) and drive or walk to Mount Coot-tha Lookout. The stunning vista over Brisbane coming up, the skyline ablaze with golden light, and the preheat mist before it gets hot—the magic. Have a takeaway coffee from the café and just sit and drink it in. One of those "I live here?!" moments locals adore.

2. Ride the Brisbane River (CityCat Style)

Ditch the formal river boat cruises. Brisbane's idea of public transport paradise is the CityCat. Climb aboard, grab a window seat, and ride the Brisbane River. From St Lucia's leafy margins to New Farm's smooth operation, windy, scenic, and rather laid-back way of viewing the city. Bonus? It's cheap on the list of things to do in Brisbane.

3. Stroll Along South Bank

Next in the list of things to do in Brisbane is visiting the South Bank. South Bank is Brisbane's own cultural wonderland in miniature. You've got the Queensland Museum, QAGOMA (Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art), the State Library, and Streets Beach-all within walking distance. You can go from looking at Aboriginal art to sunbathing along a man-made beach with an ice cream in your hand in minutes. Sundays are all about the markets, music, and relaxed vibe here.

4. Picnic Like a Local

Brisbane knows how to picnic, and you’ll see it in places like New Farm Park, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, and Roma Street Parklands. Grab some snacks, a blanket, and a Bluetooth speaker. Don’t forget sunscreen—Brisbane sun doesn’t mess around. Sunset at Kangaroo Point, in particular, is iconic. Watching the sun dip behind the city’s skyline while climbers scale the cliffs? Pure Brisbane - a must on the list of things to do in Brisbane.

5. Take a Hike (Yes, Brisbane Has Trails!)

You don't need to drive out to the Gold Coast Hinterland to discover good walks. Mount Gravatt Outlook, Toohey Forest, or Brisbane Forest Park walking tracks are all off-the-beaten-path but provide a wonderful glimpse of wilderness without an hour's drive. For a more substantial commitment, the Mount Ngungun walk in the Glass House Mountains (a one-hour drive north) is a favorite and Instagram hit - a must on the list of things to do in Brisbane.

6. Brunch Your Way Around the Food Scene

There are many things to do in Brisbane. It is interesting to note that the food scene just got elevated to a whole new level in Brisbane. Begin brunch—the local favorites are Morning After in West End, Picnic in Camp Hill, and Nodo (donuts, yes, but bougie-ify them and gluten-free them). Evening, Fish Lane is a must-visit—there are laneway bars and quirky restaurants everywhere. Or go to Eat Street Northshore for food stall containers, music, fairy lights, and cake that will destroy your diet but in the perfect way.

7. Discover Brisbane by Night

Brisbane is never in the doldrums at night. Brisbane's nightlife hub is Fortitude Valley—whatever your style: rooftop bars, live underground shows, or pulsating nightclubs. Indulge in too-much-glamour excess at Cloudland, indie style at Black Bear Lodge, or sloppy-but-fun late nights at Ric's Backyard. For a casual night out, grab a riverside bar such as Felons Brewing Co. at Howard Smith Wharves, always abuzz, a must on the list of things to do in Brisbane.

8. Waterfalls and Swim Holes Chasing

When the heat gets on—and it will—get out of town and go chase some waterfalls. Cedar Creek (at Samford) and Enoggera Reservoir (at The Gap) are two of the best that don't mean driving for hours. Take a cooler, bring pool noodles, and don't forget bug spray. Nature + swimming + friends = ultimate Brisbane summer day.

9. Catch a Show or a Game

Suncorp Stadium was alive during the NRL season, particularly during State of Origin. Or, if sport's not your interest, try a live show at QPAC—something's always happening, whether it's musical theatre, ballet, or comedy. Live music fans adore The Tivoli and The Triffid as well.

10. Get Out on the Bay

Last but not least, in the list of things to do in Brisbane is visiting the bay. Yes, Brisbane does have a bay—and it's lovely. Take a day trip or weekend getaway to Moreton Island or North Stradbroke Island. Snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks, sandboard, or simply soak up the sun on beaches that wouldn't look out of place in a brochure. You can even swim with dolphins if you're so lucky. Bonus? It's all just a ferry ride away. Also, since you are in Brisbane, do visit Sydney for a memorable experience.

Final Thoughts

Brisbane isn’t trying to be loud or flashy—it just is. It’s the kind of city that gets under your skin slowly, in the best possible way. It’s laid-back but not lazy, vibrant without being chaotic, and always evolving. Whether you’re after nature, culture, food, or just some good old-fashioned fun, Brisbane’s got a bit of everything—and it’s more than happy to share. There are many things to do in Brisbane. So go ahead, discover the river city. Check out our website and plan your trip today.