Brisbane’s Riverside Attractions
As Sydney and Melbourne established themselves as cultural capitals, Brisbane came under criticism for not keeping pace. Now however, Brisbane’s riverside attractions are helping make up for lost time.
New Farm Park is an idyllic riverfront public park featuring rose gardens, playgrounds, barbeque facilities and walking tracks. Additionally, Brisbane Botanic Garden at Mount Coot-tha is an oasis of subtropical plants.
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1. South Bank
South Bank was originally constructed for Expo 88 but has since grown into an exciting cultural precinct. Home to lush rainforest walks, an artificial beach, restaurants and markets – among many other surprises – it provides the ideal urban oasis.
South Bank offers something for every taste – be it relaxing alfresco dining with friends and a glass of wine, unforgettable Brisbane adventures or an afternoon of shopping at The Collective Markets on Little Stanley and Grey Streets or fine riverside dining options like The Brisbane Wheel! There’s sure to be something here!
South Bank makes traveling easy, offering several transportation options: hop aboard a CityCat ferry for a scenic cruise or use the free shuttle bus that travels throughout its precinct. Boasting tropical pools, man-made beaches and restaurants – South Bank is undoubtedly one of Brisbane’s premier attractions!
2. Howard Smith Wharves
Howard Smith Wharves has made a name for itself among Brisbane residents as an idyllic riverside location regaining its place as a must-visit riverside attraction. Aside from reclaiming its spot among Brisbane locals’ hearts, Howard Smith Wharves provides the ideal spot to unwind with a meal under Story Bridge at one of Mews’ playful dining experiences and hyper-local sustainable produce, set among street art. Built during the 1930’s they served as port facilities until being relocated downstream in 1960s.
At night, HSW comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere and Brisbane’s best restaurants. Enjoy locally-crafted schooners at Felons Brewing Co or take advantage of the sunshine with a refreshing dip in our affinity pool before dining at any one of Greca, Yoko Stanley Ciao Papi restaurants – plus Crystalbrook Vincent Hotel for an ultra-chic getaway!
3. Queen Street Mall
Queen Street Mall is a shoppers’ haven, boasting major shopping centers (QueensPlaza and Wintergarden) as well as heritage-listed arcades teeming with local and international boutiques such as Veronika Maine, Cue, Dinosaur Designs Lululemon Seed R.M Williams Uniqlo among many others.
QueensPlaza offers five-storey David Jones department store and three levels of luxury designer stores, such as Aje, Zimmermann Gorman Sass & Bide and local jewellery boutiques.
Head toward the Edward St end of Queen Street Mall to Brisbane Arcade for rocking horse records and natural oils from Perfect Potion, before strolling across Edward Street into MacArthur Central for full-size supermarket and unique tourist shops.
4. Fortitude Valley
Affectionately known as The Valley, this inner-city suburb is an exciting hub of entertainment and dining. A vibrant mix of grungy authenticity and high-end elegance, The Valley has undergone an intensive urban renewal program and become one of Brisbane’s most beloved inner-city locations.
Breakfast in The Valley is big business, with enough cafes and coffee shops per strip to meet locals’ breakfast demands. On Brunswick and James streets alone you will find breakfast specialists such as Jamie’s Espresso Bar or Reverends Fine Coffee offering their services as breakfast specialists.
Music is another asset to the Valley, with venues of various sizes hosting bands from near and far. These engaging facets create a vibrant community and lifestyle which translates to increased demand for rental properties bolstering investor trust in this market. Furthermore, its strategic location further boosts its appeal for investors.
5. Brisbane CBD
Unleash your inner bibliophile by visiting one of the City’s bookshops. Archives Fine Books provides second-hand treasures, while Dymocks stocks popular titles on every topic and numerous independent boutiques can satisfy your lust for books.
After an exhausting day of shopping, recharge with one of Brisbane’s sophisticated dining venues. From Shanghai Garden’s modern take on traditional yum cha to Persone’s homely yet elegant Italian, there’s an array of fine eateries across the City that provide delicious dining options – and then some!
The City offers an abundance of extraordinary steak restaurants such as Black Hide Steakhouse, Walter’s and Moo Moo. Or treat your sweet tooth without sugar at Pancake Manor; open 24 hours a day, 364 days of the year! For music enthusiasts there’s Doo-Bop Bar offering both ticketed live jazz performances as well as free shows!
