38. Brisbane. Best things to do for a weekend in Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, Australia.
In this episode we are taking you all around our favourite area in Brisbane, the River city, for a fantastic weekend getaway.
We have been to Brisbane many times for many different reasons and events and we are positive that we have discovered the best place to stay and we share where it is and all the things that make it so good. Here’s a hint Location location location.
If you are interested in river walks, live music, international or local sporting events, musicals, great restaurants, rock climbing, comedy shows, stunning parklands or anything in between then this podcast is for you.
Keep listening to the end to hear what is being constructed in our favourite part of Brisbane and why we describe it as “the icing on the cake”.
So please enjoy episode 38 all about Brisbane.
SHOW NOTES AND PICTUREs below
Brisbane is the capital city of Queensland, Australia and is located on the banks of the Brisbane River. The city has a fascinating history that dates back to its establishment as a penal colony in 1824. It has since grown into a great city which we love to visit regularly for all sorts of sporting, music and other events.
The Brisbane River is a significant part of the city's history and culture. The river has shaped the city's development, and today it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. One of the most iconic landmarks in Brisbane is the Story Bridge, which spans the Brisbane River and provides stunning views of the city.
You can walk over the Story Bridge – it is about 700m long. There are walkways on both sides. If you want a bit more adventure and want to see the city from an amazing vantage point (although I haven’t done this and I’m not likely to lol) then you can attempt the Story Bridge Adventure Climb.
City Cats and City Hoppers
The City Cats and City Hoppers are such a convenient way to get around Brisbane and explore the city's attractions. The City Cats are a fleet of catamarans that travel up and down the Brisbane River, making it easy to access different parts of the city. The city cats are great for a scenic and enjoyable way to travel, and you can get to all the major stops easily like South Bank, Kangaroo Point, and the Botanic Gardens.
Walking from Kangaroo Point
We love walking along the River from Kangaroo Point to South Bank. Read more about that walk here.
One of the reasons we love it is because of the stunning views of the city. Riverlife Adventure Centre is an adventure sports facility along the way. It offers rock-climbing, abseiling, canoeing and other activities if you’re brave enough, or they have a great little coffee shop which offrers you a great spot for watching all the activities.
South Bank Precinct
The South Bank Precinct is one of Brisbane's most popular tourist destinations, offering a range of attractions, dining, and entertainment options. This vibrant area is home to the South Bank Parklands, which are a 17-hectare park that features lush gardens, walking paths, and a range of amenities.
One of the most popular places, especially for families, is the “beach” and swimming precinct. There is a sandy shore, with a large expanse of water which is so inviting. There is also a water playground with fountains and other water spouts that the kids just love.
South Bank is also home to a many dining options, ranging from casual cafes to fine-dining restaurants. You can just sit and watch the river and enjoy the views of the city.
Good Will Bridge to Botanic Gardens
Walking across the Good Will Bridge provides a unique experience of the Brisbane River. The bridge connects South Bank to the Botanic Gardens.
The Botanic Gardens are a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Brisbane if like me, you love a good garden! The gardens cover an area of 54 hectares and are home to a variety of plant species from around the world, including Australia's largest collection of subtropical plants, which makes it look really lush.
The gardens also offer a range of amenities, including walking paths, picnic areas, and a cafe, making it a great place to spend the day. We often just wander through slowly enjoying the shady paths.
Howard Smith Wharf
Howard Smith Wharf is a vibrant and pumping area on the banks of the Brisbane River right under the northern pillar of the Story Bridge. There are quite a few restaurants and cafes, including the well-known and popular Felon Brewery. We often walk here from Kangaroo Point and now you can catch a ferry or city cat as well. We love the views for coffee in the morning or a craft beer later in the day looking out under the bridge across to Kangaroo Point.
Kangaroo Point
Kangaroo Point is a popular destination located on the south bank of the Brisbane River. It has the oldest house in Brisbane.
We love to stay at Docks on Goodwin when we are in Brisbane because of its facilities, but also its fabulous location.
You can walk to just about anywhere you need to go, or take a quick city cat ride. Some of the restaurants we love to go to when we are in Kangaroo Point are, obviously, the Story Bridge Hotel, Mobo Japanese Restaurant, Frida Kahlo Mexican Restaurant (I have the T-shirt to prove it) and Medley Restaurant and Café.
We think Kangaroo Point is a great area to stay, not only for its restaurants, but also its proximity to other venues. From Kangaroo Point we have been to the “Gabba” to watch test cricket. It is only a 20 minute easy walk.
We have been to the Brisbane Jazz club to see a fabulous Motown group. The club is right in the heart of Kangaroo Point on the Brisbane River.
We have been to South Bank many times for dinner and exploring, but also to see musicals at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
Another place we have been is the river stage in the Botanic Gardens which is a quick city cat ride across the river. This was to see Jimmy Barnes.
The Sit Down Comedy Club was a short Uber ride to see a hilarious show.
One of Lyle’s favourite shows was a short Uber across the bridge to Fortitude Valley to see Teddy Swims at the Tivoli Theatre and have dinner at El Camino Mexican restaurant.
So, as you can see, Kangaroo Point is in the heart of Brisbane and is the perfect place to stay for a weekend getaway or a mid-week stay in the River City.