Things to do in Brisbane
Brisbane is home to some spectacular historical buildings and landmarks, dating back to the period of the first white settlers. The city is home to plenty of parks, and the nature and wilderness surrounding the city also make for some great natural sights, plenty of which feature animals.
Mt Coot-tha Lookout
Mt Coot-tha Lookout is an excellent location for scenic views of Brisbane City and its surroundings including Moreton Bay and the Glass House Mountains. Visitors and locals alike enjoy dining at the Kuta Café and the Summit Restaurant at the lookout, offering unrivalled views. The lookout is part of Mt Coot-tha Forest, which is a section of the huge Brisbane Forest Park, covering almost 29,000 hectares. Only 10 minutes drive from the city, this vista is worth the drive and parking here is free. Phone: +61 7 3368 2117; website: www.brisbanelookout.com/.
South Bank Parklands
The parklands are located on the South side of the beautiful Brisbane River, with the William Jolly Bridge spanning across the river, connecting South Bank to Brisbane City. The Brisbane parklands offer an exciting variety of activities for both young and old. Attractions include a famous manmade beach, trendy Bris Vegas cafés, a natural riverside rainforest walk and lots of shady picnic spots, barbecue areas and playgrounds for kids' enjoyment. Brisbane's South Bank also holds popular art and craft markets every weekend.
City Hall
Formerly the tallest building in Brisbane, City Hall is now dwarfed by the surrounding office blocks. Even so, a ride in the old elevator to the top of the sandstone clock tower offers a different perspective on the city centre. A cheerful elevator operator will tell you a brief history of the building during your short ride to the third floor, where you'll step out onto the glass observation floor in the bell tower. If you're here on the quarter-hour, you'll get a close-up experience of the chimes. Avoid being here at noon, when the clock chimes 12 times; it's deafening. Phone: +61 7 3403 8888.
Customs House
Customs House was built in the late 19th century and is an impressive landmark building on Queen Street. The beautifully restored building is operated by the University of Queensland as a cultural, educational and heritage facility. Featuring outstanding architecture, a museum, art gallery and a restaurant, the venue offers striking views of the nearby Brisbane River. Customs House is a popular venue for many of Brisbane's lively concerts and festivals. Phone: +61 7 3365 8909.
