Visit South Bank Brisbane
South Bank is a vibrant cultural and recreational precinct adjacent the Brisbane River in central Brisbane. Paul still remembers the 1988 World Expo hosted on the site prior to transforming into the bustling cultural heart and social gathering place today.
The large public parkland integrates urban sophistication with natural beauty to offer a haven amidst the bustle of central Brisbane. Families, couples, and solo travelers, and also office workers and locals, find endless entertainment and peace here.
Paul and I met at South Bank for our first date and it is a special memory for us. From the corner of the performing arts center, dinner nearby, and a walk through the parklands, this gem is our first Brisbane adventure together as a couple.
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What’s On in South Bank
South Bank pulses with year-round festivals and events. Paul always checks the events calendar before we visit. The precinct hosts everything from food festivals to international cultural celebrations.
The Brisbane Festival transforms South Bank each September with a variety of performances, exhibits, and temporary performance venues. This is one of Paul’s favourite events in Brisbane with eclectic performances and music. The “Riverfire” fireworks spectacular caps off the celebrations. Christmas brings magical decorations and family-friendly activities throughout the parklands.
Weekend markets showcase local artisans and gourmet food vendors. Live music performances occur regularly at the River Stage. Cultural festivals celebrate Brisbane’s diverse communities throughout the year including Lunar New Year with Brisbane’s active Asian community.
School holidays feature special children’s programs and workshops. Summer brings outdoor cinema screenings under the stars in QPAC. The Twilight Markets create buzzing Friday evening atmospheres during peak seasons.
Things to See & Do in South Bank
Parklands
We walk through the parkland green spaces and find hidden pockets throughout. It’s like a hidden garden oasis amidst the city hustle. Free entry makes the parklands accessible to all visitors. Families spend entire days exploring without spending a fortune and there are many playgrounds and lawns.
The Arbour
It is soooo peaceful walking the path under these arches through the parklands. I love the color of the flowers and some sections feel like I’m walking through a tunnel of flowers and vines.
Streets Beach
Australia’s only inner-city man-made beach attracts families year-round. The crystal-clear lagoon stays perfectly clean and safe. Lifeguards patrol the beach during operating hours. I remembered traveling there with my flat mate on the ferry and then we both had a work out swimming laps in the deep section. I should have known better, but I forgot my sunscreen while swimming! I was so used to indoor pools!
Sandy shores and shallow areas suit toddlers perfectly. Older kids enjoy swimming in deeper sections. The beach provides tropical paradise feelings without leaving the city.
Read more on Brisbane beaches here!
The Wheel of Brisbane
This 60 meter ferris wheel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and suburbs. Think the “London Eye” but for Brisbane as air-conditioned gondolas provide comfort and safety. Day and night rides reveal different city perspectives and sunset is popular for couples. The wheel operates year-round except during severe weather. Book your tickets for the Wheel of Brisbane online for a discount.
The nearby Nepalese Pagoda is an unexpected peaceful setting. It has ornate carvings in the traditional style and constructed for Expo 88. It’s worth a look because it’s so unusual in this setting.
Griffith University
South Bank campus brings academic energy to the precinct with the arts college. Paul has seen orchestra sections rehearse on the lawns adjacent the campus. Public lectures and exhibitions occasionally welcome community participation.
Maritime Museum
You can’t avoid seeing the Navy frigate dry docked at the southern end of South Bank. There are several vessels visible from the pedestrian Goodwill Bridge as the Queensland Maritime Museum showcases the state’s naval heritage. Maritime history comes alive through engaging displays and knowledgeable guides. I have a particular affection for Maritime museums so I visited this on one of my first trips to Brisbane!
There is an edible garden nearby that showcases sustainable urban agriculture and sustainable food production. Educational signs explain organic growing techniques and seasonal produce that you can sample if you’re early. Again, it’s something a bit different in an urban area.
The walk across the nearby Goodwill Bridge is a pleasant walk into the City Botanical gardens. Paul walked that bridge many times when working downtown.
Grey Street & Little Stanley Street Precinct
This dining and shopping precinct buzzes with activity. Grey Street offers upscale restaurants and trendy cafes. Little Stanley Street features more casual dining options and bars.
Evening entertainment includes rooftop bars with city views. The precincts cater to diverse tastes and budgets. Paul had his first “chicken and waffles” at a southern American inspired eatery. He’s also enjoyed tapas, burgers, ice cream, and I like the mussels (when they’re available) at The Plough Inn. The chocolate boutique Max Brenner’s has fondue and hot chocolate drinks where it’s literally do-it-yourself melted chocolate in warm milk. Yum!
Convention Centre
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre hosts major events year-round so check the calendar. I surprised Paul with an interactive ANZAC exhibition and Paul frequented the Lifeline Bookfest charity event to stock up on secondhand books.
BRISBANE Sign
A must photo op is the the iconic BRISBANE sign. It was originally a temporary structure for an event but its popularity for selfies convinced the city to make it permanent. It is fun to get a photo day and night!
Cultural Centre
The cultural centre is adjacent the parklands and hosts many interesting exhibitions and performances. It also has a bus and train station so you don’t have to walk back to Southbank stations.
QPAC
Queensland Performing Arts Centre is Brisbane’s leading host of everything from ballet to contemporary music. Paul and I have attended many events here. I took Paul to see ballet for his first time, and we scored last minute tickets to see Wicked. This venue typically hosts the traveling theatre productions on their Australian tour. Check out Friday evenings for local live acts on the green with casual ‘backyard’ fare and drinks (this is where Paul and I met!)
GOMA
The Gallery of Modern Art features contemporary art with rotating exhibitions often with international artworks. It has free admission and interactive installations engage visitors of all ages. The gallery shop offers unique artistic gifts and the cafe has some nice options.
Museum & Science Center
The Queensland Museum explores natural history and cultural heritage. As a kid, Paul wanted to visit the museum just for the dinosaur exhibits with life-size models in a ‘garden’. Temporary exhibitions cover diverse topics throughout the year. School holiday programs provide family-friendly educational entertainment. The museum store stocks quality educational toys and books. I have a love of museum gift shops!
The science centre called ‘SparkLab’ is in the museum building and it’s easy to hit both on the same day, though there is plenty to occupy two days. Hands-on scientific exhibits and demonstrations encourage exploration and discovery. The glass bowl of static electricity is a frequent drawcard to see your hair stand up.
The museum is free entry but tickets must be purchased for SparkLab.
Eat & Drink in South Bank
South Bank’s dining scene rivals any international destination. Paul and I sample different outlets each time we visit. Options range from casual food outlets to fine dining establishments.
Counter service outlets cater to budget-conscious visitors and families with burgers, fish, chips etc and coffee shops, ice creameries and candy stores.
Charming Squire Brewhouse combines craft beer with hearty pub fare. The venue features outdoor seating perfect for group gatherings. Sommer loves the mussels at the Plough Inn. Live music adds entertainment to evening dining experiences.
The Yiros Shop has delicious Greek yiros, and burgers from Grill’d or Brooklyn Depot will satisfy your burger urge. Make sure you try Grill’d chips!
Ahmet’s Turkish Restaurant offers generous portions of Mediterranean favorites. The mezze platters provide excellent value for sharing as you sit astride carpets and cushions.
OTTO Ristorante has delicious Italian in an enviable location near the Goodwill Bridge. It has open seating with views across the river.
I have more to share about my favorite food in Brisbane.
Accommodation
South Bank offers premium accommodation options just metres within walking distance of restaurants, entertainment, events, and performances. Most hotels provide river or city views from their rooms, and several with rooftop bars.
Emporium Hotel South Bank (5-star) combines luxury with artistic flair. Rooftop bar offers stunning city panoramas. The hotel’s central location makes everything easily accessible.
Novotel Brisbane South Bank (4.5-star) caters to business and leisure travelers. Family rooms accommodate larger groups comfortably. The hotel pool provides relaxation after busy sightseeing days.
Rydges South Bank (4-star) offers excellent value near cultural attractions. Recently renovated rooms feature modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. The hotel restaurant serves quality Australian cuisine.
Apartment-style accommodations suit longer stays and families, and short term vacation rentals can also be found nearby. The first time I visited Brisbane to meet Paul, my friends and I stayed in a short term rental nearby and for a little staycation Paul and I got a hotel looking over all of south bank.
Check out this list of what to pack for your Australia vacation.
Transportation
South Bank has public train, bus, and ferry transport services making access super-easy for nearly anywhere in Brisbane, including the airport.
Brisbane’s ferry network stops at two South Bank terminals regularly. Definitely take a ferry trip downstream and then return to South Bank. We like to travel to New Farm via ferry to explore the park, markets, and Powerhouse and return at night traveling under the Story Bridge. Upstream services will connect you with diverse West End, Coronation Drive and St Lucia for university.
City buses serve South Bank from Mater, South Bank, and Cultural Center busway stations with regular late evening bus transportation options to suburban bus hubs.
There is little on-street parking and it’s limited to 2 hours. There are many paid parking spots in the convention center, parklands, and QPAC but expect to pay a premium for these. I recommend the public transport.
Southbank connects across Brisbane River with multiple bridges including several just for pedestrians and cyclists, and dedicated busway for expedited transit into the CBD. It is very pleasant to walk the bridges but you can grab a cycle-cab if you want to travel faster.
Train service from the airport can bring you right into South Bank and take you beyond to other suburbs further out.
It is very easy to use Southbank as a base for exploring the CBD and inner-city areas, but it’s challenging if you want to drive a car farther out due to the nest of roads and peak hour traffic.
Brisbane Region
Gold Coast theme parks lie just 90 minutes south via excellent highway connections. Dreamworld, Sea World, and Movie World offer full-day entertainment. Logistically the Gold Coast is easier and quicker to get to some amazing long stretches of beaches. It reminds me a little of Florida on the gulf side between Clearwater and St. Pete Beach.
Sunshine Coast beaches provide pristine coastline within two hours’ drive north of Brisbane. Noosa’s upscale resorts contrast with Caloundra’s family-friendly atmosphere. The hinterland offers charming mountain towns and national parks. Paul grew up going to the Gold Coast and he would often take me there, but I found I liked the feeling and vibe of the Sunshine coast. Stay long enough and see them both, as they are all worth a visit.
Moreton Island and North Stradbroke Island are accessible via ferry and provide 4WD adventures and pristine beaches. Sand tobogganing and snorkeling create memorable experiences. Day tours eliminate logistics while maximizing enjoyment time. Check out Brisbane’s beaches here.
Brisbane’s suburban attractions complement South Bank’s urban offerings. Australia Zoo, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and Mount Coot-tha Lookout provide diverse experiences. Public transport reaches most attractions efficiently.
FAQ
Is South Bank suitable for families with young children? Absolutely! Stroller-friendly paths, playgrounds, and family facilities make South Bank ideal for families. Lots of amazing food options to suite any type of eater. The museums and the pool are awesome places for families to check out and enjoy.
How much time should I allocate for South Bank? Plan at least two full days to experience major attractions comfortably without rushing.
Are South Bank attractions expensive? Many attractions offer free entry, including parklands and cultural venues. Paid attractions provide excellent value and check out event calendars for free events.
What’s the best time to visit South Bank? April to October offers pleasant weather. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. School holiday periods and summer months are hot and visitors find respite in the forested areas. September hosts the Brisbane Festival with pop-up venues and entertainment.
Is parking readily available? Public parking exists but fills quickly. Public transport often provides better alternatives and is frequent in these hubs.
Conclusion: South Bank is a Gem!
This remarkable precinct combines culture, recreation, dining, and entertainment – the whole package. Whether seeking family fun, romantic getaways, or cultural enrichment, South Bank delivers. The area continues to evolve so there’s regularly something new to experience and favorites to return to.
Plan your South Bank adventure today and discover why millions choose this Brisbane gem. Paul and I guarantee you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and immediate plans to return.
South Bank features in my ultimate 3 day Brisbane itinerary.
About the Author
My name is Sommer and I am a retired international tour guide and former Disney cast member, having traversed the globe from Europe to Africa, to North and South America, and finishing my career in Australia and New Zealand. My Australian husband and my American self are based in Minnesota, USA to raise our family and are sharing our travel wonders with the world.
Starting October 2025, I will be an independent travel agent and can book your flights, accommodation, tours and more to your gateway of wonder! Click here for more.
