Destinations

Brisbane

With its sunny sub-tropical climate and relaxed atmosphere, Brisbane is the gateway to the Great Sunshine Way, the Southern Queensland region and all its wonders. Built around the Brisbane River, this modern capital city of Queensland showcases architecture and lifestyles geared to the outdoors and enjoyment of sunshine. It is a place where feeling alive comes naturally. Fresh experiences, fresh adventures and a fresh approach to life - this is what Brisbane is all about.

Outdoor Lifestyle

Take a hint from the locals and spend your days outdoors by:

• Dining alfresco,
• browsing the weekend craft and gourmet markets,
• climbing 80 metres above the Brisbane River on the Story Bridge for a panorama view of the city,
• cycling along the banks of the Brisbane River, or
• enjoying a swim at South Bank, home to Australia’s only inner-city beach.

Dining & Nightlife

Brisbane has a fine reputation for dining out, having developed its own unique cuisine that matches the climate perfectly. Its chefs also have access to some of the country’s freshest and tastiest seafood, tropical fruits, vegetables, meats and organic produce.

Reflecting this is the fact that some of Australia's most awarded chefs can be found in kitchens downtown, having been attracted by the inquisitive attitude of its proprietors and patrons alike. And don't worry if your tastes or budget are a little more modest - there are restaurants catering for every kind of cuisine, budget, view, pace, style and flavour.

For those who love to party, sprinkled throughout the city downtown area, are cool, sophisticated bars, boasting the very latest in design and decor, as are energetic pubs, nightclubs and intimate live music venues.

Culture

Hosting everything from big name Broadway shows and international art exhibitions to community festivals and music fiestas, Brisbane boasts a vibrant calendar of art and cultural events.

Brisbane's Southbank Parklands

From the city centre, it's a five minute stroll across the bridge past the Treasury Casino to Southbank Parklands. The 16 hectares of riverside parklands and tropical gardens is a local favorite and a hive of activity with cafes, restaurants, weekend markets, cycle paths, walkways and even a beach and crystal clear swimming lagoon.

The Southbank precinct also includes the Queensland Art Gallery, Queensland Museum, Maritime Museum, State Library and the Performing Arts Centre.

Heritage Trail

Brisbane's grand colonial architecture is reflected in the mirror glass of today's modern towers. Discover the highlights on a City Sights Tour, on guided walks or at your own pace on the Heritage Trail.

The Heritage Trail begins at City Hall and includes such historic sites as the convict built Old Windmill, the beautifully restored Customs House on the riverbank, Old Government House, Parliament House, a magnificent collection of heritage buildings and some of the city's finest churches.

A curiosity for many visitors are our 'Queenslander' style homes. With their corrugated iron roof, weatherboard walls and sprawling verandas, they are often set high on stumps or poles. You'll find all sizes from quaint cottages to elegant homesteads.

Outside the city

Spectacular mountain ranges and ancient landforms surround the region. As does the sheltered blue waters of Moreton Bay with its beautiful islands, Brisbane's own aquatic playground and marine sanctuary where visitors can hand feed wild dolphins. Brisbane is the perfect starting point to discover the other regions of the Great Sunshine Way, with easy access to the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast and Southern Queensland Country.

You'll be amazed by how much is happening here, and pleasantly surprised by the open and friendly attitude of the locals.