A local’s guide to Brisbane and South East Queensland

on September 8, 2023 at 2:56pm

Welcome to Brisbane, Queensland’s capital city filled with sunshine, laid back charm and an abundance of natural attractions.

Not sure where to start when exploring the River City? Never fear, this Queensland local is here to lead the way.

Felons Brewery, Brisbane River and Story Bridge

Don’t discount the “must-see’s”

Let’s be honest, there’s a reason South Bank is so popular. Located on (you guessed it) the southern banks of the Brisbane River, South Bank is made up of 17 hectares of lush parklands, activities, and attractions. Soak in the city skyline views, taste the delicious food that’s on offer and make sure you bring your bathers so you can take a drip at Streets Beach – South Bank’s iconic man-made riverside beach. Plus if you visit on Friday, Saturday or Sunday you can also enjoy The Collective Markets.

If you’re looking for a chilled spot in the CBD to enjoy the best aspects of Brisbane’s hospitality scene head to Howard Smith Wharves. You’ll find the vibrant dinning precinct located in one of Brisbane’s most iconic locations, under the Story Bridge, on the river and surrounded by cliffs. Take your pick from Felons Brewing Co, Stanley Restaurant, Mr Percival, Fiume Rooftop Bar and more.

Tip: If you’re looking for a late-night meal, stop by Felons Barrel Hall for a delicious Southeast Asian feed. Inspired by the rowdy German beer halls, this venue is a mixture of flavour, sound and colour.

Colourful Brisbane letters in front of the skyline

Make the most of free activities

One of the things I love most about living in Brisbane is that there are so many activities that won’t cost you a single cent. Can you believe that a lot of them are provided by the local council? This list of 30 free things to do in Brisbane has something for everyone.

purple flowers and people dining along Racecourse Road

Grab a bite to eat

For breakfast look no further than The River Room café, a great spot to enjoy a lazy breakfast by the river. Located in Hamilton, you can enjoy a stroll along the river with your dog and then have breakfast together in the alfresco dining area.

Can’t decide what you want to eat? Racecourse Road is the street for you. Feel like some carbs? Try The Italian Plate. In the mood for authentic Japanese? Sunny Doll Restaurant or Taro’s Ramen are the answer. Chasing plant based options? Go to Dick’s or Pancha Café. Need a sugar hit? You can’t beat OMG! Decadent donuts or Milani House of Gelato.

Chasing delicious Asian cuisine? Head to Sunnybank, Sunnybank Hills, Inala and Mount Gravatt for a diverse range of Asian food including Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Indonesian, Malaysian and more. Make sure your first stop is Market Square in Sunnybank where you will be spoilt for choice. For an authentic Asian wet market experience and delicious Vietnamese check out Inala plaza any day of the week.

Lady and man in wheelchair looking at photos at Brisbane Powerhouse

Get your culture on

The Cultural Centre, AKA the beating heart of Brisbane’s artistic scene is located at the top of South Bank. Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), Queensland Museum, The State Library of Queensland, Opera Queensland, Queensland Symphony Orchestra and Queensland Maritime Museum all call this space home.

Brisbane Powerhouse is found a little further along the river in New Farm. Visit this stylish venue for Friday night comedy, shows on stage and regular exhibitions including the annual World Press Photo Exhibition.

Tip: make sure you pop into Brisbane Powerhouse during the day so you can try Mary Mae’s Bar and Kitchen while enjoying the river views.

A band playing onstage at The Tivoli to a packed crowd

Music is a big part of Brisbane’s nightlife and we are spoilt for choice when it comes to impressive venues. From the iconic Riverstage to central venues such as The Tivoli, Fortitude Music Hall, The Zoo and The Triffid your hardest decision will be picking where you want to catch your next gig.

Tip: If you have a Brisbane trip on the horizon check out upcoming Brisbane cultural events here.

Turn your island dream into reality

Visiting islands from Brisbane is as just a hop, skip and a ferry away. The hardest decision you’ll have to make is which island to visit first. Take your pick from the three largest islands near Brisbane;

Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) the third largest sand island in the world and a four-wheel drivers paradise. Pack your snorkel and explore the Tangalooma Wrecks, a fish spotting haven, accessible right off the beach.
Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) a relaxed getaway perfect for surfers and nature lovers. Make sure you explore the North Gorge walk where you’re almost guaranteed to see a roo or two.
Tip: Check out local Quandamooka artist, Delvene Cockatoo Collins’ studio in Dunwich to pick up some stunning artwork, homewares, jewellery, or clothing.
Bribie Island is perfect for anyone who’s not keen on a ferry since it’s connected to Brisbane via a bridge. Spend the day relaxing on the beach whether that be throwing in a line, enjoying a paddleboarding session or just enjoying a dip in the ocean.

Woman and man walking through a garden with flowers

Make Brisbane your base for adventures

In South East Queensland, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to short getaways. Everyone knows about the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, but you may be surprised about the quality and diversity of other regions like the Scenic Rim (home to the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests), Moreton Bay (visit between July and October for a whole lot of whale spotting) and Toowoomba (a garden lovers paradise with the annual Carnival of Flowers). It’s never more than 5 days until the next weekend getaway!