14 Reasons Everyone Should Visit Brisbane At Least Once

The trees in Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary are home to 130 koalas, and some are willing to hop off the branches on onto your shoulder for a photo for a small fee.

For an aquatic animal encounter, catch the barge to Moreton Island to hand feed the wild dolphins.

While you’re there, make sure to take a toboggan ride down Moreton Island’s sand dunes – they’re the third largest in the world!

In just one afternoon at South Bank Parklands, you could swim in man-made beach, wander through the rainforest, catch a movie, enjoy a meal, browse market stalls, and more – all without leaving the inner city.

Head right the edge of South Bank to discover The Queensland Maritime Museum, where you can take a tour of the historic warship HMAS Diamantina.

At the other end of the parklands you’ll discover a cluster of culture, as the State Library of Queensland, the Conservatorium of Music, the Queensland Art Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre are all within a stone’s throw of each other.

For more of the best in local culture, head to the grungy Brisbane Powerhouse to enjoy free stand-up comedy on Friday nights and free music on Sunday afternoons.

If you need to escape the hustle and bustle, beachfront camping is just a short ferry ride away at beautiful North Stradbroke Island.

There are quirky cafes and restaurants in every suburb, such as The Cheese Pleaser, an inner city spot that specialises in artisanal toasted cheese sandwiches.

But to be spoilt for choice, head to Eat Street Markets in Hamilton, where over 180 of the city’s best cooks and chefs sell their wares from stylishly-upcycled shipping containers.

Enjoy a tinny or two of the state’s most famous lager on a XXXX Brewery tour, and then compare it with the liquid gold being poured at the countless craft breweries around town, such as Newstead Brewing Co, Green Beacon Brewing, Aether, Bacchus Brewing Co, Brews Brothers and so many, many more.

If your itinerary doesn’t allow for a trip to the North Queensland, you can still enjoy a steamy rainforest experience at the Tropical Dome at Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens.

Before heading back to the city, take the windy road up to the top of Mt Coot-tha for stunning panoramic views.

The views from the city are fabulous too, and best enjoyed from one of the many iconic rooftop bars. Enjoy elegance at Sazerac or Elixir, then head to Limes, Up on Constance or Dandy’s for some fun.