Sunny Brissy captures Australia’s laid back, outdoor spirit, and there’s no better way to soak it all up than from one of the several lookouts in Brisbane. Perched high up on cliffs, hills and rooftops, these spots are the perfect way to enjoy incredible views of the city skyline and river, especially as the sun begins to go down. Bet you didn’t know about these top 10 viewpoints.
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Outdoor Activities
Thanks to its humid, subtropical climate, Brisbane enjoys warm, sunny weather almost all year round and, honestly, that’s part of its charm. This makes it the perfect place for both locals and visitors to have a wander outside, above all when it comes about checking out Brisbane’s best views from the city’s top lookouts.
Discover the best lookouts in Brisbane
Mount Coot-tha Summit
Mount Coot-tha Summit with its sweeping views across the city, is Brisbane’s most iconic viewpoint. With paved paths suitable for most abilities, it’s free to visit and easily accessible by car, with free parking available. The best time to go is at sunset or after dark, to take in the city lights, and with cafés and bars at the summit, it's easy to make an evening of it. Just remember to bring some water, comfy shoes, and an extra layer for when it gets chilly in the evening. Better safe than sorry, right?
Wilson’s Outlook
One of the more intimate lookouts in Brisbane can be found at Wilson’s Outlook Reserve. Tucked away above Howard Smith Wharves, this gem boasts stunning views of the Story Bridge, Brisbane River and Kangaroo Point. Visit in spring (October-November) to enjoy the magical purple blooms of the jacaranda trees and get the best photos! You’ll make everyone on Instagram jealous.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs
The views from the heritage-listed Kangaroo Point Cliffs are some of the most spectacular in Brisbane. Facing straight across the river, capturing the twinkling city lights of Brisbane city skyline, it’s the ideal spot for a sunset picnic or a romantic but casual first date.
Mount Gravatt Lookout
Tranquil Mount Gravatt Lookout is one of Brisbane’s most popular viewpoints, renowned for its stunning views, stretching from the centre of the city all the way to Moreton Bay. A quieter alternative to Mount Coot-tha, Gravatt, it’s perfect for a low-key visit. With plenty of nearby eateries, there’s also a playground, parking, easy walking tracks and picnic areas, making it a great option for families or anyone keen for a chilled day out.
City Hall Clock Tower
In the heart of the CBD, the Clock Tower inside Brisbane City Hall is a great way to take in the city from on high, with one of the best lookouts in Brisbane. Free, guided tours run daily, giving you a chance to take a ride in a historic cage life and see behind the giant clock faces, perfect for history buffs. Nearby Oaks Brisbane Casino Tower Suites in the heart of the CBD not only provides excellent city accommodation, it also has incredible lookout views of Brisbane itself. Just a minute’s walk from the Queen’s Wharf Precinct, these 1, 2 and 3 bedroom serviced apartments boast beautiful views of the city and river. And if you want to really switch off, there’s also a heated pool, gym and spa, making it super easy to relax with the city basically on your doorstep.
Highgate Hill Park
Highgate Hill Park, set just behind the suburb or South Brisbane, is an ideal spot for a laid-back picnic away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds. The incredible city views make it worth heading here, although parking is limited, so it’s best to walk or take public transport.
Bartley’s Hill Lookout
Bartley’s Hill Lookout, also known as Hamilton Hill, is set in a tranquil, residential area with fabulous, sweeping vistas across the river and city skyline. A lovely, relaxed spot for a sunrise walk or for enjoying an evening read on one of the lookout’s benches.
Whites Hill Reserve
Whites Hill Reserve is ideal for a chilled, family-friendly outing. This spacious park is surrounded by bushland and features BBQ facilities plus wide, grassy areas that are perfect for picnics or kicking a ball around. There’s also an area where you can let your dog off the leash, so you can bring your furry friends along too.
Sky Deck
Sky Deck in the Queen’s Wharf precinct, soaring 100 metres above The Star Brisbane boasts fabulous sweeping views over the city and river, and is simply magical when the city is bathed in golden light at sunset. With Oaks Brisbane Casino Tower Suites, Oaks Brisbane on Charlotte Suites and Avani Living Queen’s Wharf Residences nearby, this is a must for enjoying city vibes by night while watching the sunset. These 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in the heart of the CBD are the perfect pad for exploring the city and beyond, boasting stunning city views, a gym, sauna, private balconies, a 25-metre pool and much more.
Glass House Mountains
Last but not least, the Glass House Mountains make the perfect day trip if you’re in Brisbane for a few days and want to enjoy a little escape. Just over an hour’s drive from our Brisbane CBD accommodation, the dramatic landscape here is easily accessible by car, with plenty of scenic vistas and walking trails to explore.
To wrap it up!
Beautiful all year round, visiting one of the city’s many lookouts in Brisbane is one of the very best ways to take it all in and truly soak up the city. With so many options, from iconic city venues to cliff top retreats, family-friendly spots to romantic vistas, you’re spoilt for choice. And with Oaks Hotels, you’re perfectly placed in prime locations, with all of the comfort and amenities you need to kick back and relax before heading out to enjoy the very best of Brisbane.
