One of the best things about exploring a place is the thrill of the find, when you come across something brilliant that you're pretty sure not many people know about (bonus if you find a hidden gem in your own city). We know it's hard to part with that sort of intel, but luckily there are generous Brisbane locals and travellers out there who are willing to share the love for Brisbane's hidden gems.
St. Lucia, Brisbane
In Australia, you wouldn't expect to find a world-class collection of original artifacts from ancient Greece and Rome. What the museum lacks in size (mostly housed within a single large room), it makes up in the quality and presentation of the displays. If the Antiquities Museum doesn't satisfy your interest, you can also visit the university's Anthropology Museum (in the same building), Art Museum or Physics Museum.
South Brisbane, Brisbane
This place does the best gelati and milkshakes in gourmet flavours: apple pie, panna cotta and fig, salted caramel and coffee - whatever you choose, you'll like. Their products are so good, there's often a line out the door. The lights are dim, the music's loud - this is a trendy place to eat dessert. They also have huge takeaway containers and amazing ice cream cakes.
Brisbane Central Business District, Brisbane
The Cube, within QUT's new science and technology precinct, is an area open to the general public, containing huge interactive displays. The displays respond to hand motions of the user. Depending on the displays operating at the particular time, the user can shoot fireworks with different elements, fire rockets into space, excavate dinosaur bones or toss objects from the surface of the moon or other planets.
Brisbane Central Business District, Brisbane
If you've ventured down Caxton St, there's no doubt you've already spotted Lefty's and had a whisky apple while dancing to some southern tunes. But have you seen the Mermaid Lounge? Head on upstairs at Lefty's and through the bathroom (yes, bathroom), and find yourself in a totally different space. Indie rock and nautically themed decor awaits.
Paddington, Brisbane
This is a local cinema gem! It's also a licensed cinema, where you can order a couple drinks and hot food all to be brought to your seat during the movie. The cinemas are smaller in size and intimate but so cozy and comfortable. It's gold class treatment without the gold class prices.
North Stradbroke Island, Brisbane
'Straddie' is a short ferry ride from Brisbane and has beautiful beaches and heaps of marine life for divers as well as good food and accommodation. It also has a rich aboriginal history.
Moorooka, Brisbane
This is a little slice of Africa in the suburb of Moorooka. It's worth the half an hour bus ride to dine at the Ethiopian, Eritrean and Sudanese restaurants. There's a Middle Eastern market, too, if you want to pick up some groceries.
Kangaroo Point, Brisbane
Take a wander along the river on a Sunday afternoon past the cliffs of Kangaroo Point. About half way along you will come across an outdoor dance floor where you will find local community groups doing ballroom dancing, hula hooping, juggling or other activities together. Watch out for cyclists flying by but look up and you will also see local abseiling groups in action on the cliff face.
Paddington, Brisbane
As your average 18 year old, I'm not really into antiques. However whenever I'm in the area I love to browse the shelves of the many strange items that make me wonder how they ended up there.
Mount Gravatt, Brisbane
The Cafe atop Mt. Gravatt has million dollar views. If you like Mt. Coot-tha, this is its match. The view from the verandah chairs stretches across the CBD as far as the Glass House Mountains and the mouth of the Brisbane River. The food and coffee are good as well. Not only a hidden gem, but your money goes to a very deserving charity, The Lovewell Project. If the Cafe is closed, just come for the view, the children's playground, or the…
Brisbane Central Business District, Brisbane
It seems odd to call this place a hidden gem when it's directly in the city centre (Queen St Mall), but it is away from all the bustle - a quiet haven in the middle of pedestrian peak hour. You can sit (and eat and drink) by the pool while overlooking the mall, or looking up at the sky. Gets a bit of luxury into your life. It's peaceful, and lets you forget about your troubles - even when you're on your lunch break from work!
Woolloongabba, Brisbane
If you've been to India then you'll know that chaat are delightful snacks served at food stands. Now, if you go up a staircase in the Mirchh Masala Impex grocery store you'll discovery a secret food court that serves a whole host of veggie bite-size snacks.
$39
Paradise Country is fast becoming the Gold Coast’s favourite new destination for a fun family day out. It’s all about creating lasting memories as you
$49
All aboard a traditional paddle wheeler to cruise down the Brisbane River to see many of the city's waterfront beauties. Relax on the deck of the boat as you
$73
Venture into Tamborine National Park as evening falls and the rainforest comes to life. With the Southern Cross high in the night sky, trek to a secluded
$88
Lush and life-filled, the Gondwana Rainforests make up the most extensive subtropical rainforest region in the world. Set out on foot for an up-close look at
$49
Experience a mix of high-speed thrills, stunning scenery, and sightseeing on this 55-minute jet boat ride on Gold Coast's Broadwater. Your adventure begins as
$50
Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on this serene cruise on the Gold Coast waterways. Get the most of the sights of the city on a spacious boat equipped with an
$32
Australia Zoo is the most interactive conservation destination on the planet, offering visitors the chance to get up-close and personal with amazing animals
$149
Spend a day in the paradise of Moreton Island, where you can enjoy one of the most spectacular spots off the Australian coast. Relax on the golden beaches,
$78
In the Brisbane suburb of Fig Tree Pocket, a tiny paradise for Aussie animals exists. Cruise down the Brisbane River to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where
$159
Make your next Gold Coast holiday full of fun and family adventures with a Village Roadshow Super Pass. Get 7 days unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie
$25
Marvel at spectacular views of the Gold Coast from SkyPoint Observation Deck, Australia's only beachside observation deck. Travel from the ground to level 77
$36
Spend a day at Brisbane's Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary; the world's first and largest koala sanctuary. Meet 130 koalas and 100 species of other Australian native
$18
Enjoy a delightful day out on this serene 1.5-hour cruise on the Gold Coast waterways. Depart from the wharf in the morning for views of the city from the
$110
Immerse yourself in the sub-tropical rainforest surroundings of the Green Mountains and experience the natural beauty of the Lamington National Park, a UNESCO
$120
Feel a rush of exhilaration as you go soaring across canyons and over treetops on this adrenaline-pumping zipline adventure. The Canyon Flyer course of
$79
If you're looking for a fresh way to explore the Gold Coast, get on a free-wheeling Segway to try out a whole new kind of off-roading. The beautiful country
Brisbane is beautiful year-round-Queensland is good like that! January through March are the peak summer months, with balmy heat waves and families on holiday. To enjoy autumn's minimal crowds and warm weather (15º - 25º), come during April and May. Winters are mild (10 º - 23º), and spring warms up a bit. Though any time is a good time to dine overlooking the river.
Brisbane's public transport options include ferries, buses, and trains. When you arrive, get your paws on a Go Card. One card gives you access to all three, so seeing the city is easy and affordable. If you're planning your visit around attractions in the CBD, consider the City Loop, a free bus service that stops at the most popular sights, such as the Botanic Gardens and Eagle Street Pier.
We suggest you have these items ready to go:
Prefer to get around with your own wheels? We get that! Skip waiting for the shuttle and hit the open road instead. Roll down the windows, turn up the volume on your favourite tunes and enjoy the ride.
Located in Brisbane Airport, this luxury hotel is 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from DFO Brisbane and within 3 mi (5 km) of Doomben Racecourse and Eagle Farm Racecourse. Eat Street Markets is 2.9 mi (4.6 km) away.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this eco-friendly hotel is within a 5-minute walk of Brisbane City Hall and King George Square. Treasury Casino and Queen Street Mall are also within 10 minutes. Brisbane Roma Street Station is 6 minutes by foot and Brisbane Central Station is 8 minutes.
Located in Spring Hill, this luxury aparthotel is within a 10-minute walk of Brisbane Private Hospital and St. Andrew's War Memorial Hospital. Queen Street Mall and Roma Street Parkland are also within 15 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is 5 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 13 minutes.
Located in South Brisbane, this luxury hotel is steps from Queensland Conservatorium and Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. South Bank Lifestyle Market and Southbank Parklands are also within 5 minutes. South Brisbane Station is 8 minutes by foot and South Bank Station is 10 minutes.
Located in Spring Hill, this romantic hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Roma Street Parkland and Queen Street Mall. Chinatown Mall and Suncorp Stadium are also within 1 mi (2 km). Brisbane Central Station is 9 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 10 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this luxury aparthotel is within a 5-minute walk of ANZAC Square War Memorial and King George Square. Queen Street Mall and Brisbane Botanic Gardens are also within 15 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is only a 2-minute walk and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 10 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this eco-friendly hotel is within a 5-minute walk of Brisbane City Hall and Queen Street Mall. Gallery of Modern Art and Wheel of Brisbane are also within 1 mi (2 km). Brisbane Central Station is 5 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 5 minutes.
This family-friendly Brisbane hotel is located near the airport, within a 10-minute walk of Cathedral Square, Brisbane Customs House, and ANZAC Square War Memorial. Eagle Street Pier and Queen Street Mall are also within 15 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is only a 4-minute walk and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 12 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Brisbane Private Hospital and Queen Street Mall. Roma Street Parkland and Eagle Street Pier are also within 15 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is only a 4-minute walk and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 10 minutes.
Located in Taigum, this motel is within 3 mi (5 km) of St Joseph's Nudgee College, Boondall Wetlands Reserve, and Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Westfield Chermside and The Prince Charles Hospital are also within 6 mi (10 km). Brisbane Carseldine Station is 17 minutes by foot and Brisbane Zillmere Station is 18 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this luxury apartment building is within a 5-minute walk of Queen Street Mall, Brisbane Botanic Gardens, and Museum of Brisbane. King George Square and St. Stephens Cathedral are also within 10 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is 10 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 13 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this luxury aparthotel is within a 5-minute walk of St. Stephens Cathedral, MacArthur Museum Brisbane, and Queen Street Mall. Brisbane Riverside Markets and Eagle Street Pier are also within 10 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is 8 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 13 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this luxury hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Howard Smith Wharves and Queen Street Mall. Brisbane Botanic Gardens and South Bank Parklands are also within 1 mi (2 km). Brisbane Central Station is 8 minutes by foot and Brisbane Fortitude Valley Station is 10 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this luxury hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Queen Street Mall, Treasury Casino, and Brisbane Botanic Gardens. South Bank Parklands and Roma Street Parkland are also within 1 mi (2 km). Brisbane Central Station is 6 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 13 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this luxury hotel is within a 5-minute walk of North Quay, Queen Street Mall, and Brisbane Botanic Gardens. Treasury Casino and Eagle Street Pier are also within 10 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is 9 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 12 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Treasury Casino, Queen Street Mall, and Brisbane Botanic Gardens. Brisbane City Hall and Eagle Street Pier are also within 10 minutes. South Brisbane Station is 12 minutes by foot and Brisbane Central Station is 12 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this luxury hotel is within a 5-minute walk of Brisbane Botanic Gardens and Brisbane Parliament House. Queensland University of Technology and Eagle Street Pier are also within 10 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is 13 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 18 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Brisbane Private Hospital, Queen Street Mall, and Roma Street Parkland. Suncorp Stadium and Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre are also within 2 mi (3 km). Brisbane Central Station is 5 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 8 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Howard Smith Wharves and Eagle Street Pier. Queen Street Mall and Brisbane Botanic Gardens are also within 1 mi (2 km). Brisbane Fortitude Valley Station is 9 minutes by foot and Brisbane Central Station is 9 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this luxury aparthotel is within a 5-minute walk of Brisbane Botanic Gardens and Queen Street Mall. Eagle Street Pier and Treasury Casino are also within 10 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is 10 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 14 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this luxury apartment building is steps from Brisbane Riverside Markets and Eagle Street Pier. St. Stephens Cathedral and Brisbane Botanic Gardens are also within 10 minutes. Brisbane Central Station is 10 minutes by foot and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 18 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this hotel is within a 15-minute walk of North Quay, XXXX Brewery, and Treasury Casino. Suncorp Stadium and Roma Street Parkland are also within 15 minutes. Brisbane Roma Street Station is 7 minutes by foot and South Brisbane Station is 13 minutes.
This family-friendly Brisbane hotel is located in the business district, within a 15-minute walk of Queen Street Mall, Eagle Street Pier, and Roma Street Parkland. Brisbane Botanic Gardens and South Bank Parklands are also within 1 mi (2 km). Brisbane Central Station is only a 4-minute walk and Brisbane Roma Street Station is 10 minutes.
Located in Brisbane Central Business District, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of North Quay, Queen Street Mall, and Roma Street Parkland. Treasury Casino and Suncorp Stadium are also within 15 minutes. Brisbane Roma Street Station is only a 4-minute walk and Brisbane Central Station is 11 minutes.
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