World Science Festival Brisbane
World Science Festival Brisbane (WSFB) is coming from 20 – 29 March 2026 and brings with it the promise to excite with whimsical and awe-inspiring scientific installations, conversations, and events.
Get ready to react, because the WSFB is about to catalyse curiosity across the city this March. But this isn't your high school chemistry class, so put away your beakers, and throw away the microscope. This is science that sparks ideas, explodes with creativity, and genuinely makes you wonder how the universe works. Whether you’re on a dramatic quest to understand our cosmic origins, fascinated by the biology beneath your skin, or curious about the magic of Aerospace, WSFB is here to blow your minds wide open. From knowledge hungry families to budding solo scientists, WSFB has something cooked up in the lab for everyone.
To ensure you and your fellow science lovers can make the most of your weekend, we’ve done the hard work putting together a scientifically proven way to spend the perfect weekend exploring Brisbane, so you’ve got more brain space for knowledge.
Day One
Before you dive into the day's scientific revelations, or start to ponder the universes biggest questions, you'll want to fuel up properly, because curious minds need quality coffee and substantial food to power through hours of discovery. Thankfully, Brisbane's breakfast scene delivers exactly what you need to start your festival days right. Start your weekend by heading to one of countless incredible breakfast and spots. Local favourites include the likes of Morning After, Tom’s Kitchen, and GoodGood, all within walking distance from all the action.
Before settling into your accommodation, take the opportunity get a little dose of culture and science all at once at Queensland Museum Kurilpa found in the Cultural Centre of South Bank. For family friendly adventures, the SparkLab is the perfect spot for all things interactive science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
It’s time to drop off your bags and check into your accommodation. Stay close to the action and choose accommodation in South Bank. Stay at a lush five-star hotel with the Emporium Hotel South Bank with panoramic views of Brisbane from the rooftop pool. Family friendly stays are also in abundance in South Bank, you can find CLIXX apartments dispersed throughout the suburb, from Hope Street Apartments and Atlas Apartments, or Rydges South Bank all your needs are met with ease.
For those wanting to stay closer to The City Voco Brisbane, the Intercontinental Brisbane and Amora Hotel Brisbane are perfectly located by The City’s fun activities, riverside dining and just a short walk to South Brisbane.
As the sun begins to set behind the horizon, make your way to Fish Lane for an early dinner. From woodfired pizza at Julius to elegant Australian cuisine at Marlowe and casual Lebanese bites from Tarbouche Mezza Bar, there is so many places to choose from on this artsy laneway.
Once you have had your fill at dinner, it’s time to enjoy your first session at the WSFB in Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). Learn how music is connected to math with Australian Youth Orchestra: Beautiful Equations or take part in an immersive journey surrounding the theory of the Big Bang with a talk by Brian Greene: Listening to the Big Bang.
Day Two
Day two of Brisbane World Science Festival means your brains already primed for discovery, yesterday's questions have multiplied overnight, and today's lineup promises even more mind-bending revelations. While you contemplate the big questions, savour a lazy morning with a stroll along the Riverwalk towards the leafy and picturesque New Farm and Teneriffe. Take in the scenic views of the Brisbane River before you sit down to brunch at one of the many cafes in the area like the longstanding institution, New Farm Deli, or the bright and airy, Joedy’s.
Relax under the shade of trees and snack on delicious bites as you soak in the serene surroundings. Then wander through the gardens and learn about the local fauna or head towards Queen Street Mall and walk the open-air shopping mall packed with Australian labels, luxury brands and fashion powerhouses.
For lunch, treat yourself to a rooftop dining experience at the likes of SOKO Rooftop, Iris Rooftop, or one of Brisbane’s many other sky-high venues . Sit with a drink in hand with the warm sun and blue skies overhead as you dine with the best view in the city.
It's time to learn about the wanders of the cosmos and the significance of even the smallest creatures on earth as Dr Karl: Live! makes you laugh, question and discover some of the bigger questions of life.
As the day turns into night, venture to the iconic Howard Smith Wharves for dinner. Enjoy a laidback meal with a backdrop of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge at venues like Felons Brewing Co., known for its modern pub-style food and craft beers, or Stanley, which serves delicious Cantonese bites.
Day Three
Whether you’re an early bird or prefer to sleep in, there is plenty to do on a Brisbane morning. When you're ready to seize the day, head to the City Botanic Gardens and ponder through the Riverside Markets found under the trees. From local artisan gifts to fresh fruit and veg and breakfast vendors, you can stock up on all the goods before sitting by the Brisbane River and enjoying your goodies.
With a full stomach, take advantage of the beautiful weather and meet some of Australia’s most unique wildlife at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the largest and oldest sanctuary of its kind. Meet koalas, kangaroos, wombats and more at this expansive sanctuary only a short drive from The City.
Head back to QPAC to watch your next WSFB show. From Leigh Sales AM and Annabel Crabb: An Afternoon of Science to Moss Piglet and National Geographic Live: Cosmic Adventures with Tracy Drain - there is much to learn and enjoy.
Finish your night off with a bang at the vibrant Eat Street Northshore for a dinner experience like no other. Explore the bustling market built in shipping containers, sampling a diverse range of international cuisines in a lively and eclectic atmosphere.
Extend Your Stay
The festival might have wrapped up, but Brisbane's got plenty of reasons to stick around a few extra days. After spending time exploring the frontiers of science, why not explore the frontiers of Brisbane’s natural wonders, cultural offerings, and experiences you won't find anywhere else?
Embark on a magical journey to explore Queensland Art Gallery|Gallery of Modern Art’s Olafur Eliasson: Presence exhibit. This is a Brisbane exclusive, showcasing a multi-sensory artistic journey of landscape, light and human experience of Iceland. Perfect for art lovers, families and those looking for some quiet time.
For a dose of adventure, try kayaking the Brisbane River with Riverlife or cruise the river on a GoBoat. If you're up for some adrenaline-pumping action, make the journey to the City of Logan and race with the family on go-karts at Kingston Park Raceway.
If your brain needs a break from intense intellectual stimulation, Brisbane's islands offer the perfect counterbalance. Catch the ferry out to Moreton Island/Mulgumpin where you can swap complex theories for simple pleasures like swimming in crystal-clear water. Day cruises with See Moreton or Tangalooma Island Resort pack in beach time and marine life encounters or extend it to an overnight stay where you can completely relax. North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah delivers similar island tranquillity with First Nations cultural experiences through Yura Tours.
The Scenic Rim offers a different kind of discovery with World Heritage rainforests, mountain lookouts, and waterfalls that'll remind you nature's been conducting experiments for millions of years. Hike through Lamington National Park, explore the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, or discover glow-worm caves where bioluminescence creates natural magic.
From indulgent rooftop dining and leisurely strolls along the river to delving into the fascinating world of science at the WSFB - this Brisbane getaway promises to be a memorable and enriching experience.
