Photo: Chris Olszewski / CC BY-SA 4.0
Stretching along the Brisbane River, the Brisbane Riverwalk is a beloved pathway that offers a front-row seat to the city's vibrant waterfront. This elevated boardwalk weaves past towering river gums, sleek modern apartments, and historic wharves, with the Story Bridge looming overhead. It's a prime spot for a morning jog, a leisurely cycle, or simply a stroll with a coffee in hand, soaking up the subtropical energy that defines Brisbane.
Highlights & What to See
- Story Bridge views – The walk provides unparalleled vantage points of this iconic steel-clad bridge, especially magical at sunset when it lights up.
- Riverlife Adventure Centre – Try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding directly from the riverwalk, or book a Story Bridge climb for panoramic city views.
- Eagle Street Pier & Howard Smith Wharves – These precincts buzz with alfresco bars and restaurants; grab a seat at a riverside table for people-watching and local seafood.
- New Farm Park – A short detour leads to this leafy park with a historic rotunda, weekend farmers markets, and a popular dog beach.
- City Botanic Gardens – The riverwalk connects to these heritage gardens, perfect for a shady break among bunya pines and tropical palms.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours walking a section of the riverwalk, say from the City Botanic Gardens to New Farm Park (about 3 km one way). Cyclists can cover the full 20 km network in a few hours. For a relaxed afternoon, combine a walk with a meal at Howard Smith Wharves and a drink as the sun sets behind the city skyline. Early mornings are blissfully quiet; weekends bring a lively buzz with families and fitness enthusiasts.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- South Bank – Just across the river, this cultural hub offers the man-made Streets Beach, the Queensland Museum, and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA).
- Story Bridge – Walk or cycle under its steel spans, or book a climb for a bird's-eye view of the river bend.
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – A short drive or ferry ride south of the city; cuddle a koala and feed kangaroos in a riverside setting.
- Queen Street Mall – Brisbane's main shopping strip, lined with department stores, boutiques, and laneway cafes, is a 10-minute walk from the riverwalk.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- South Bank — Chris Olszewski / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Story Bridge — MagpieShooter / CC BY-SA 3.0