Brisbane's Must-Do experiences
Unforgettable memories are made through experiences and Brisbane is home to an abundance of adventures waiting to be discovered. From bridge climbing to island hopping, Brisbane has no shortage of unique experiences, and they just keep getting better. These are the top new Brisbane experiences to add to your list.
For the water lovers
River to Bay
Brisbane is renowned for its close proximity to some of Australia’s most iconic islands and beaches, all just a short boat ride from The City. River to Bay offers premium day-trip experiences, taking you on an unforgettable adventure across the waters of Moreton Bay and its surrounding islands. With a wide range of tour options, you can immerse yourself in nature with guided walks through lush native landscapes, snorkel historic shipwrecks filled with colourful marine life, or learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. For a delectable journey, join a cruise to explore the local culinary scene, featuring a trail of quality produce, local wine, and craft beers. Each experience departs from and returns to the heart of Brisbane, offering the perfect mix of city and nature in an epic journey.
GoBoat
If leisure is more your speed, GoBoat is the ideal experience for you. Enjoy the freedom of being your own captain onboard Brisbane’s fleet of charming picnic boats. No boating license is required for a day out on these environmentally friendly, electric boats. Whether it’s a romantic date for two, or up to eight of your closest friends, you’ll have the perfect space to relax and enjoy the serene waters of the Brisbane River. Bring your own picnic, drinks, and your captain hats for a leisurely day out on the water.
YOT Club
Get ready to elevate your next celebration aboard the iconic YOT Club, Brisbane’s ultimate venue for turning the river into a playground of unforgettable parties and events. Step aboard this luxurious superyacht and immerse yourself in a world of style and music as you raise your glass to the sights of Brisbane. Whether you’re looking for a legendary party, organising a private event, or it’s a special occasion, the YOT Club’s vibrant atmosphere, world-class entertainment and service while cruising past Brisbane’s shimmering skyline, each moment on board will be an experience like no other.
Jet Ski Tours Brisbane
Get the adrenaline pumping onboard Jet Ski Tours Brisbane. Ride along the Brisbane River at speed while taking in the iconic sights like the Brisbane City Skyline, the Story Bridge, Gateway Bridge and Botanical Gardens. Feel the wind in your hair with this unforgettable experience on the water.
OASIS Cruising
Cruise the Brisbane River while exploring three storeys of decked-out luxury on the OASIS entertainment vessel. The OASIS is a mecca for glamour and fun for private charters and nights out. Enjoy cocktails and take in the view as the sunset ripples across the Brisbane River and live DJs create a vibrant atmosphere that’ll take you dancing long into the night.
Adventure in the city
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Savour unforgettable memories as you snap a selfie with your new furry best friend. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is home to some of Australia’s most loved and iconic animals. Situated in the leafy river-side suburb of Fig Tree Pocket there is so much to see and do - while, of course, you’ll be meeting koalas, you can also see wildlife from kangaroos to cassowaries and southern hairy-nosed wombats to the playful platypus.
Riverlife
Inner-city adventures await, so look no further than Riverlife. Take a segway for a spin alongside the Brisbane River, rock climb the Kangaroo Point Cliffs or glide down the river in a night-time kayak with these inner-city adventure experts.
For a unique experience that mixes adventure and aperitifs, check out the Riverlife Twilight Kayak and Grazing session by the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Take a date, paddle out and watch the city skyscrapers sparkle. Afterwards, enjoy a grazing board and enjoy a drink overlooking the river.
Story Bridge Adventure Climb
For two glorious hours you can take in the epic surrounds of Brisbane in one of only three bridge climbs in the world with Story Bridge Adventure Climb. Accelerate your experience with a ‘Walk the Plank’ adventure or the unique 'lean out’ bridge experience to make the day an unforgettable one. Join the twilight climb to watch the sun set across the city and see the glistening city lights shimmering like a sea of stars.
Vertigo
Vertigo is Australia’s first vertical restaurant, an exclusive gastronomic dining experience four stories above the ground overhanging the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse. Vertigo thrill-seekers will don safety harnesses and climb out to their seats to experience sky-high city views and a 17-metre drop beneath their feet. Adventurers are then served a delicious meal crafted by talented Bar Alto chefs using local ingredients and matched with Queensland wine. After enjoying a delicious meal, you can then choose the option to leave via the stairs, or by taking the dropline for one last adrenaline rush.
Regional experiences
Brisbane Whale Watching
From June through to November, hundreds of majestic humpback whales swing by Brisbane on their journey to the tropical water up north. Brisbane Whale Watching invites you to experience one of the world’s best humpback whale-watching spots, Moreton Bay. With over 25 years of experience, you can trust the experts to guide you from the heart of Brisbane straight to the magnificent creatures.
Captained by Kerry Lopez, the only woman captain owning and skippering a whale watching venture in the South Pacific Rim, provides a focus on the need to nurture and protect our precious wildlife. This is an experience you won’t forget - just make sure you bring the cameras!
Spicers Scenic Rim Trail
Discover the beauty of the Scenic Rim with Spicers Scenic Rim Trail; two to six day walks led by experienced guides, taking you through the best of the region. Explore by day and return to the comfort of Spicers Canopy Luxury Tents by night.
Tangalooma Island Resort
Tangalooma Island Resort is the ultimate island escape, combining relaxation with thrilling adventure experiences in a tropical island paradise just a short ferry ride from Brisbane. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed day trip, Tangalooma Island Resort has it all. Embark on an unforgettable dolphin or whale watching cruise, snorkel the famous Tangalooma shipwrecks and discover the vibrant marine life below. For land-based adventures, join an ATV quad bike tour to discover the island’s rugged natural beauty, or join a 4WD desert safari tour where you get to discover the thrill of sand tobogganing. With a wide range of activities on offer, breathtaking views and pristine beaches, Moreton Island/ Mulgumpin is the perfect destination to create lasting memories.
Elite Helicopters
Experience sky-high excitement over Brisbane and surrounds with Elite Helicopters. Take to the sky with one of Queensland’s premier helicopter operators and savour a bird’s eye view of all that Brisbane has to offer. Embark on a scenic flight or take part in an exclusive tour including lunch flights, winery tours and island picnics.
Our top pick is the 30-minute scenic flight over Moreton Island/Mulgumpin - the best way to see the entirety of the Tangalooma Wrecks.
Floating Images Hot Air Ballooning
Ipswich is expansive and full of unique wonders, and Floating Images Hot Air Ballooning can fly you to new heights as you soar above the sights. Take in unparalleled views of the magnificent mountain ranges and rolling hills as you take in the most perfect sunrise shot.
Sanctuary by Sirromet
Just a short drive from Brisbane, indulge your senses and reconnect with nature during a tranquil escape at Sanctuary by Sirromet. Treat yourself to a luxurious tented suite or pavilion, nestled amongst native wildlife and tranquil bushland on the grounds of gorgeous Sirromet Winery. Indulge your senses and dine on fresh, local produce and made on-site wine at one of the two restaurants that will take your tastebuds on a culinary journey. Follow this with a tasting of Sirromet’s Granite Belt wine during a Sirromet Winery Tour and Tasting.
Kooroomba Vineyard & Lavender Farm
Fancy a boutique wine overlooking stunning lavender fields? Nestled in the Scenic Rim, just an hour and a half drive from Brisbane City, Kooroomba Vineyard & Lavender Farm is the perfect lunch stopover boasting a cellar door, restaurant, lavender gift shop and stunning mountain views. Take in the magical purple haze, dreamy lavender scent and don’t leave without sampling the delicious lavender infused scones, gelato, or better yet, lavender cocktails!
For immersing in culture
Djawun (Home Country) Tours
Take part in an interactive cultural learning experience, with Djawun Tours. Join artist and traditional Custodian of Jinibara Country, Jason Murphy, to discover the First Nations people's traditional methods of hunting and gathering food in the landscape, before sharing an indulgent meal made with native ingredients while overlooking the vineyards of Ocean View Estates. An unforgettable experience awaits.
Yura Tours
Join Quandamooka woman, Elisha Kessick, as she guides a small-group tour through significant cultural sites of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah For families, Yura Tours Whale Watching – Land-Based Cultural Walking Tour is a must-experience First Nations activity. Elisha escorts visitors around the famed Gorge Walk at Mulumba (Point Lookout), to learn about Minjerribah creation stories, Aboriginal uses for the island’s flora, and watch the magnificent Yallingbilla (whales) performances as they swim by between June and November. You’re also likely to see dolphins, kangaroos, and turtles along the coast.