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Things to Do in Brisbane: A Local's Guide

Brisbane has shaken off its reputation as a stopover city and built a genuine visitor offer. South Bank, the river, surrounding hinterland and a string of free cultural institutions give residents and visitors plenty to work with. This guide covers the highlights across the city, from free green space to iconic experiences. Entry prices and hours change, so check ahead.

  1. 1

    South Bank Parklands

    South Bank

    A 17-hectare riverside precinct with a man-made lagoon beach, parkland, restaurants and free events — the city's most visited public space.

  2. 2

    Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)

    South Bank

    Australia's largest modern and contemporary art gallery, with free general admission and consistently strong touring exhibitions.

  3. 3

    Story Bridge Adventure Climb

    Kangaroo Point

    Guided climbs to the summit of the 1940 heritage bridge, offering panoramic city views at sunrise, day, twilight and night.

  4. 4

    Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

    Fig Tree Pocket

    The world's first and largest koala sanctuary, where you can hold a koala, hand-feed kangaroos and see native wildlife up close.

  5. 5

    Queensland Museum

    South Bank

    A wide-ranging natural history and science museum at South Bank with free general admission and popular travelling exhibitions.

  6. 6

    Mt Coot-tha Lookout

    Mount Coot-tha

    Brisbane's best free city view, looking across the skyline to Moreton Bay from a lookout fifteen minutes from the CBD.

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