Southbank

Southbank is a vibrant cultural and entertainment precinct stretching along the Brisbane River, directly across from the city's central business district. Once the site of World Expo 88, it has been transformed into a lush, people-friendly parkland with a lagoon, riverside promenades, and an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and galleries. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or an evening out, all within easy reach of the city centre.

Highlights & What to See

• Streets Beach & Lagoon: Australia's only inner-city man-made beach, with a crystal-clear lagoon and white sand – perfect for a dip without leaving the city.
• Queensland Cultural Centre: Home to the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), the Queensland Museum, and the State Library – world-class institutions housed in striking architecture.
• South Bank Parklands: 17 hectares of subtropical gardens, walking paths, and picnic spots, including the iconic Wheel of Brisbane and the Arbour – a steel-and-timber walkway draped in bougainvillea.
• Little Stanley Street & Grey Street Dining: A lively strip of alfresco cafes, award-winning restaurants, and buzzing bars, from cheap eats to fine dining.
• River Quay & Riverside Walks: A scenic boardwalk along the Brisbane River, with ferry stops, public art, and stunning views of the Story Bridge and city skyline.
• Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre: A major events venue hosting conferences, concerts, and exhibitions.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can easily spend a full day in Southbank. Start with a morning at the cultural centre, then cool off at Streets Beach for lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the parklands or take a river cruise from the nearby ferry terminal. In the evening, dine along Little Stanley Street and catch a show at the Brisbane Convention Centre or the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). If you're short on time, two to three hours is enough for a quick wander and a coffee by the lagoon.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Brisbane City Centre (CBD): Just across the Victoria Bridge, with shopping, the Queen Street Mall, and the Treasury Casino.
• West End: A bohemian neighbourhood south of Southbank, known for its multicultural eateries, vintage shops, and street art.
• Kangaroo Point: A short walk or ferry ride away, offering cliff-top parks, river views, and the Kangaroo Point Cliffs for abseiling or a riverside stroll.
• Fortitude Valley: Brisbane's nightlife hub, with live music venues, bars, and Chinatown – easily reached by train or ferry.
• New Farm & the Brisbane Powerhouse: A riverside suburb with a historic power station turned arts centre, plus the New Farm Park and the Brisbane Riverwalk.

Please check official sources for current details.