The sunny capital of Queensland is a destination that knows exactly how to blend urban vibes with the beautiful outdoors. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, we’ve got the ultimate Brisbane bucket list. Combine an iconic river, lush parks, and a bustling cultural scene, and you get Brisbane, ideal for your next city escape.
To make your trip even better, stay at one of our comfortable hotels: Oaks Brisbane on Charlotte Suites or Oaks Brisbane Casino Tower Suites, and use them as the perfect home base to enjoy all the things to do in Brisbane.
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Nature & River Views
Wildlife & Green Spaces
Any animal lover's Brisbane bucket list wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s oldest koala sanctuary. Get up close with Australia’s cutest wildlife. It’s a really fun thing to do in Brisbane for the whole family.
Back in the city, nature takes on a different form. Explore the City Botanic Gardens. Stroll along the river, explore its themed gardens, or enjoy a leisurely picnic under the shade of a sprawling fig tree. You’ll also find the Brisbane Riverstage here, where concerts and events happen throughout the year.
Looking to stay nearby? Oaks Brisbane on Margaret is a fantastic choice.
South Bank Beaches & Riverside Fun
Experience Streets Beach, South Bank’s iconic inner-city swimming spot. A unique man-made beach with a sparkling lagoon, sandy shores, and parklands, how does that sound for a refreshing escape? After a swim, you can visit the Wheel of Brisbane for its panoramic views or two other aquatic spaces, the Boat Pool and Aquativity, an interactive water park.
While you’re in the area, make time to walk through the beautiful riverside parklands and stop for a drink at River Quay. And the best part? Oaks Brisbane Casino Tower and Oaks Brisbane River City Suites are a short walk away, so they’ll be great choices if you just want to stay in the area while you enjoy plenty of things to do in Brisbane.
Another must-visit beach is a short drive from the city, Suttons Beach, perfect for a family-friendly escape, where you can host picnics, go swimming, or simply soak up that Queensland sun. Bet you didn’t know you can stay nearby at Oaks Redcliffe Mon Komo Suites.
If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground but still want to see the city from above, go for a laid-back stroll along the Brisbane Riverwalk. Following the Brisbane River from the CBD to New Farm, the 870-metre Riverwalk gives you a different perspective of the city and Story Bridge from over the water.
Rather than walking back the same way, hop aboard the free CityHopper ferry service when you reach New Farm and head to Kangaroo Point, South Bank, or back to the city.
Kangaroo Point & Story Bridge Views
Head to the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, where you can find incredible views of the Brisbane skyline. It’s a great spot to be at sunset or at night when the city lights come alive.
Check out Riverlife and enjoy outdoor adventure activities like kayaking or climbing. There’s a pedestrian bridge that connects Kangaroo Point to the CBD, making it easier to come back to the city. For convenient accommodation nearby, book Oaks Brisbane on Felix Suites.
Views are great, but views with a little adrenaline are even better. Get the adrenaline pumping on the sky-high Story Bridge Adventure Climb, an exciting must-do in Brisbane. Climb the famous Story Bridge and take in a 360-degree view across the city, Brisbane River, surrounding mountains, and Moreton Bay islands. If you’re keen to take your climb to the next level, try the hair-raising Cantilever Lean Out or Walk the Plank activities, and finish with a 30-metre abseil descent.
Eat, Sip & Repeat: Must-Do Brisbane for Food Lovers
Sample Local Restaurants on a Food Tour
Food lovers, this part of your Brisbane bucket list is going to be delicious.
Visit Fish Lane, where the food is phenomenal, so be prepared to experience some serious meal envy wherever you go. Try Chu the Phat for Asian-fusion dishes, and Julius Pizzeria for really good pizza and pasta. To try something else, go to Punjabi Palace for tasty Indian food, and Hello Please for Vietnamese.
Explore Eat Street, which boasts 180 colourful shipping containers loaded with delicious street food and non-stop live music. Hungry for more? Read our visitor's guide to some of the best places to eat and drink in Brisbane CBD. Don’t miss dining at the iconic Donna Chang.
If you’re into craft beer, you’ll love Brisbane’s brewery tours, especially a stop at Felons Brewing Co., right on the river. Grab a schooner, soak up the city’s buzzing beer scene, and take in those spectacular riverside views.
Start with Coffee, Stay for Brunch
After a big night out, nothing beats starting your morning slow at one of Brisbane's best coffee shops. Grab a perfectly brewed coffee at Coffee Anthology on Charlotte Street or Industry Beans in the CBD, because, let’s be honest, coffee comes first, then settle in for a proper brunch with friends.
Head to Botero or Strauss in the CBD, make your way to The New Black or Morning After in the West End, or treat yourself to a brekkie doughnut at Nodo. In Brisbane, brunch isn’t just a meal, it’s practically a recovery plan. And trust us, you’ll want to lean into it.
Wander, Shop & Explore Brisbane
Brisbane CBD: Shopping, Riverside & Culture
Shimmy your way through Brisbane CBD, the heart of all things to do, either for business or pleasure. Here in the centre of the city lies Queen Street Mall, a pedestrian-only precinct with more than 700 stores and boutiques where you can shop yourself silly at high street stores, independent shops, and luxury boutiques.
Let your inner shopaholic come out at Brisbane Arcade, one of the top things to do in Brisbane for fashionistas and history geeks. This iconic shopping destination is home to boutique stores, where you can find everything from designer fashion to handcrafted jewellery and unique gifts.
Feel like a local and go shopping at Brisbane City Markets, held weekly at Reddacliffe Place. You’ll find seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan bread and cheese, second-hand clothes, and antiques. It’s a must-do in Brisbane for anyone wanting an authentic experience. You can’t miss Oaks Brisbane River City Suites, if you’d like to stay nearby.
From here, venture towards the river in any direction seeking lunch, dinner, or sunset drinks with a view of the Brisbane Quarter or Howard Smith Wharves. The subtropical side of the city was made to be enjoyed outdoors, so enjoy a front-row riverside seat at Yoko.
If you have time to kill, head to the Museum of Brisbane for a spot of culture, roll the dice at Treasury Casino, or, if it’s after dark, slip down a laneway in search of hip cocktail bars such as Super Whatnot and Alba. A wander through Queen’s Wharf is definitely one for your must-do list too, with plenty of bars and restaurants to chill at. And if you don’t feel like worrying about getting back home later, you can just stay at the fantastic and conveniently located Avani Living Queen’s Wharf apartments.
Check out Fortitude Valley
Some of Brisbane’s best shopping, cafés, bars, and culture are tucked away from the main thoroughfares, hiding down bustling back-alleys and laneways in Fortitude Valley. Wander through Winn, Bakery, and California Lanes for some pop-up shops, local independent boutiques, and eclectic eateries.
For a taste of the nightlife, wine lovers will find their heaven at Snack Man, cocktail connoisseurs will adore Gerard’s Bar, while beer lovers will froth over Soapbox Beer or Bloodhound Bar. The Valley is always humming with awesome live local and international music acts, and some of our favourite venues include The Triffid, The Zoo, Fortitude Music Hall and Black Bear Lodge.
Culture, Nightlife & After-Dark Fun
Check out the exhibitions at QAGOMA
QAGOMA, or the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, is made up of two galleries adored by locals and travellers alike. Even if you’re not a huge art fan, visiting at least GOMA is a must-do on your next Brisbane trip. With ever-changing exhibitions featuring local and international artists, it’s easy to spend a few hours getting lost in the creative talent that fills these halls.
Live Music, Karaoke & Late Nights
Brisbane’s live music scene is electric. City Sounds is Australia’s largest free music programme where you can enjoy performances from talented local and touring artists in Queen Street Mall and other pop-up locations.
Still not ready to call it a night? Step up to the mic and show what you’ve got at one of Brisbane’s popular karaoke spots, like Music City or Strike Bowling. It’s a fun way to wrap up the day and enjoy the nightlife with your friends.
Discover Brisbane and Beyond
Choosing Oaks Hotels provides you with excellent long-stay options if you decide you’d like to extend your time in the city. Enjoy the comfort of fully furnished apartments and the convenience of prime locations, making it easy to tick off everything in your Brisbane bucket list.
This state is the gateway to exploring the wonders of Queensland and the rest of Australia. From the Great Barrier Reef to the Gold Coast, Brisbane offers endless things to do for travellers.
Ready to plan your next Brissy trip? Start ticking off your bucket list of Brisbane experiences while staying close to everything the city has to offer.
