For many thousands of years prior to British settlement, the Brisbane area was inhabited by the Turrbal and Jagera Aboriginal people. They knew the area that is now the central business district as Mian-jin, meaning "place shaped as a spike". The Australian English phrase "hard yakka" – meaning "hard work" – comes from the Jagera people, and is certainly what the British settlers faced in Brisbane's humid subtropical climate.

The Moreton Bay area was explored by English navigator Matthew Flinders. On 17 July 1799, Flinders landed at what is now known as Woody Point which he named "Red Cliff Point", now Redcliffe after the red-coloured cliffs visible from the bay. In 1823, Governor of New South Wales Sir Thomas Brisbane instructed that a new northern penal settlement be developed, intended to house dangerous prisoners in a remote location and an exploration party led by John Oxley further explored Moreton Bay. The original penal settlement was established in Redcliffe but was later moved to a location further down the bay where freshwater supplies were more reliable. Oxley named this new settlement "Brisbane" in honour of the Governor.

A series of major immigration events took place in the following decades which brought with it strong industry and commercial development in the region. In 1838, non-convict free settlers moved to the area and pushed to close the jail and to release the land in the area. In 1859, a gold rush led to the establishment of the colony of Queensland with Brisbane as its capital even though Brisbane was not incorporated as a city until 1902. In 1925, the Queensland State Parliament created the City of Brisbane Act that set up a single government for the city of Brisbane, still the largest metropolitan authority in Australia and one of the largest in the world by area. Over twenty small municipalities and shires were amalgamated to form the City of Brisbane. 1930 was a significant year for Brisbane with the completion of Brisbane City Hall, then the city's tallest building and the Shrine of Remembrance in ANZAC Square which has since become Brisbane's main war memorial. These historic buildings along with the Story Bridge which opened in 1940 are key landmarks that help define the architectural character of the city.

During World War II, Brisbane became central to the Allied campaign when the AMP Building - now MacArthur Central was used as the South West Pacific headquarters for General Douglas MacArthur, chief of the Allied Pacific forces. In 1942, Brisbane was the site of a violent clash between visiting US military personnel, Australian servicemen and civilians which resulted in one death and several injuries. This incident became known colloquially as the Battle of Brisbane.

Postwar Brisbane had developed a "big country town" stigma, an image the city's politicians and marketers were very keen to remove but despite steady growth, Brisbane's development was punctuated by infrastructure problems. The State Government began a major program of change and urban renewal beginning with the central business district and inner suburbs. Trams in Brisbane were a popular mode of public transport until the network was closed in 1969 leaving Melbourne as the last Australian city to operate a tram network.

The 1974 Brisbane flood was a major disaster which temporarily crippled the city. During this era, Brisbane grew and modernised rapidly becoming a destination of interstate migration. Some of Brisbane's popular landmarks were lost sometimes demolished in controversial circumstances with much media coverage and public protest. Major public works included the Riverside Expressway, the Gateway Bridge and later the redevelopment of South Bank after the city hosted World Expo '88 starting with the Queensland Art Gallery and Performing Arts Centre.

In subsequent years there has been strong immigration into Brisbane and the surrounding region, both domestically and internationally with large influxes from Asia, the Europe, New Zealand and Polynesia. This was driven by cheaper house prices than in other Australian cities, a pleasant climate and good employment opportunities, especially within the mining and tourism sectors. Brisbane's population growth has exceeded the national average every year since 1990 at an average rate of around 2.2% per year.

Since 2000, Brisbane has gone from drought to flooding rains. In the mid-2000s, lower dam levels led to severe water restrictions for residents. The campaign to lower water usage was so successful that the city now boasts some of the lowest average water use per resident of any developed city in the world. These days you're not likely to find the tap dry or see any visible signs of the shortage. However out of respect for the locals, keep your showers relatively brief, try your best to conserve water and expect the locals to be horrified if you walk away from a running tap.

A number of extremely wet summers broke the drought and culminated in the January 2011 flood which devastated the city. In typical Queensland fashion, one of the largest volunteer workforces ever amassed: over 100,000 Brisbane locals and Queensland volunteers descended on the city to aid in the clean-up, earning the nickname the "Mud Army" and allowing the city to return to business just a week after the flood. The Mud Army were honoured with the naming of a new CityCat Ferry, the "Spirit of Brisbane" and then Prime Minister of Australia Julia Gillard described Brisbane residents as "the best of humankind", gifting a monument to the city to honour the volunteers.

When the wet season hits the northern Australian tropics, Brisbane experiences hot and clear summer days with stunning afternoon thunderstorms. Brisbane does not experience the distinct "four seasons" like the other Australian capital cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. When winter arrives towards the southern capital cities, temperatures are sent into the low tens (°C), while Brisbane's climate stays mostly dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures usually remaining above 20°C.

• Summer (December–February) humidity is high with daytime average temperatures around 30 °C (86 °F) and nighttime lows around 22 °C (72 °F). Occasional heat waves can raise the temperature in excess of 33 °C (91 °F) and keep overnight lows around or above 24.5 °C (76.1 °F) all night long, however these are not common. Given the humid climate, an air temperature of 33 °C (91 °F) can feel like 35.5 °C (95.9 °F) given the humidity. Just about any outdoor activity you do at the height of a regular summer day in Brisbane will leave you bathed in sweat. Loose-fitting clothing that protects you from the sun is appropriate attire for most casual activities, and air-conditioning will assure you a comfortable night's sleep or ride on public transport. Summer storms with hail and heavy rainfall are common in afternoons on hot, humid days. They usually pass quickly and often put on a good lightning show. Sunrise is as early as 4:45AM, and the latest sunsets are around 6:45PM.
• Autumn (March–May) sees a cool change in Brisbane with average daytime temperatures between 20 and 30°C. Most tourists not used to a humid climate will find this the best time to visit Brisbane, as the humidity lowers and the region shifts into a more comfortable, dry and sunny weather pattern, perfect for outdoor activities. Night-time temperatures usually drop to 10-20°C, with ambient heat from the day still radiating from the ground, keeping the early evening still warm and comfortable, though a light jacket may be required later at night.
• Winter (June–August) signals the region's dry season, with Brisbane experiencing cool, sunny, cloudless days. Temperatures typically go up to 25°C during the day with night-time temperatures rarely dropping below 5°C. The early-morning chill usually disappears by mid-morning and most of the daylight hours are relatively warm, however it is still recommended to have something warm to wear as this is not always the case. The eastern suburbs tend to be cooler as sea breezes blow in from the bay. Daylight hours run from 6:35AM to 5PM.
• Spring (September–November) sees the revitalisation of the city with warmer days and fresh sea breezes coming in from the bay. Weather is similar to Autumn months, with increasing humidity as summer draws closer.

More detailed information on Brisbane climate and weather is available online at the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.

Sunburn is a risk in this part of the world; see our Sunburn and sun protection article and #Sun safety below.

• -27.4692153.02591 Brisbane Visitor Information Centre and Booking Centre, Queen Street Mall, ☏ +61 7 3006-6290. M–Th 9AM–5:30PM, F 9AM–7PM, Sa 9AM–5PM, Su and public holidays 9:30AM–4:30PM; closed Good Friday and Christmas. (updated Apr 2019)

Brisbane can be accessed by plane via Brisbane Airport (BNE ^IATA), or via the less convenient but often cheaper Gold Coast Airport.

Main article: Brisbane Airport

Brisbane Airport has direct flights from all Australian capitals and many Queensland centres. Major domestic carriers include Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Qantas. The airport is serviced by many regional airlines and it is possible to fly daily to most Asian centres (and on to Europe), the United States and New Zealand, without flying via Sydney or Melbourne.

You can travel from the Gold Coast Airport to Brisbane by taking the bus to Robina and transferring to the train.

Brisbane has an international cruise terminal next to -27.4411153.069461 Portside Wharf.

Long distance rail services both arrive and depart from -27.4648153.01932 Roma Street Station in the inner city. Services to New South Wales operated by NSW TrainLink depart from Platform 2. Services to the rest of Queensland depart from Platform 10.

• NSW TrainLink operates a daily return rail service from Sydney, with onward connections to Melbourne and Canberra. Unfortunately, the journey from Sydney takes around 14 hours and due to scheduling issues, the train leaves at 2:41PM at Sydney Central Station and arrives between 4–5AM at Roma St Station.
• Queensland Rail operates services to most centres in Queensland.

Most long distance bus services operate from level 3 of the -27.4663153.01863 Brisbane Transit Centre near Roma Street Station in the inner city.

• Premier Motor Service offers services between Sydney and Brisbane and Brisbane and Cairns.
• Greyhound Australia link other interstate capitals to Brisbane via their extensive national network. In particular they operate regular services between Brisbane and Sydney, Brisbane and Toowoomba then onward to Roma and between Brisbane and Cairns. Pick-up is available from Brisbane Airport on some services.
• Murrays Coaches operate services between Brisbane and Toowoomba and onwards to the small town of Miles, west of Toowoomba. Pick up is available from Brisbane Airport on some services.
• Bus Queensland operate services under Government contract between Brisbane and many rural and remote areas. Key routes serviced by this company include services between Brisbane and Charleville via Toowoomba and between Brisbane and Mt Isa.

Visitors from southern states can reach Brisbane by either the New England and Cunningham or Pacific Highways.

• The Bruce Highway (A1) connects the northern coast of Queensland to Brisbane.
• The Pacific Motorway (M1) connects Brisbane to the Gold Coast continues south along the New South Wales coast.
• The Ipswich Motorway (M2) connects to Ipswich and surrounding Western Brisbane areas.
• The Warrego Highway (A2) links Brisbane to the west through the Lockyer Valley, Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.
• The Cunningham Highway (A15) links Brisbane to Southern Queensland and Central western New South Wales.

Taxis are numerous throughout Brisbane and can take you anywhere. All cabs can be hailed down no matter where you are, provided their roof light is on, though in some areas they might not be able to stop, so it might be best to book one in advance. All cabs accept cash, credit and debit cards. Despite cabs being fitted with GPS units, you'll find it wise to check with the driver about your destination before departing and make sure they are willing to go there.

In the outer-suburban areas, cabs will pull over if you hail them down from the side of the road and can be found in designated taxi ranks in shopping centres, or near bars and pubs. The same can be said for the inner-city, however taxi ranks are more common and it's usually best to catch a cab from there. At night though, especially on Friday and Saturday, taxis exclusively pick up passengers from these ranks and you'd be extremely lucky if you get one elsewhere. These ranks are usually monitored by security and have ushers at night. From midnight-5:30AM on Friday and Saturday nights, all taxis from the CBD and Fortitude Valley become "FlatFare", meaning that there is a fixed price for any given destination and you will have to pay before entering the taxi.

Taxis can be expensive in Brisbane; a trip between the airport and the city can be in excess of $50–60 and can easily run to over $100 if you go beyond the metropolitan Brisbane region.

Uber, Ola and DiDi are available.

There are plenty of national car rental companies available to pick up from the airport. As is common with many hire car companies, you will often pay a premium to pick up or return at the airport location. If you are looking to cover a long distance by car, ensure your rental policy includes unlimited mileage – most economy to standard sized car rental include this already. Most car rental companies hire to people 25 years of age and over, some all age car rental companies do hire to younger drivers over 18 years of age (there are surcharges involved for under-age drivers).

Many of the roads in the CBD are one-way, making driving in this area complicated for people not familiar with the layout. Drivers used to city driving should not find Brisbane too much of a challenge, and parking is readily available in parking stations in the city, albeit often at a steep cost, around $40 to casually park for a day. $15 parking is generally available with early-bird deals (arrive before 9:00, leave after 16:00.) The CBD has limited street parking and issues parking infringements for illegally parked vehicles. All inner-city street parking is metered and signed and costs about $4 per hour. Avoid parking fines by only parking in designated parking bays marked by white lines. A yellow painted line along the kerbside indicates no standing and no parking.

Most CBD roads become clearways at 16:00 (unless signed otherwise), and any cars parked on the side of the road will be fined, towed or both. You have to pay for the towing to get your car back, and then expect a fine to follow in the mail. Check for signs and line marking when parking, or just play it safe and find a parking station.

If you are looking to visit the areas surrounding the city, then generally a car will be as quick as any other way of getting around, with the possible exception of the height of peak hour. Brisbane is notorious for having roads that bottle-neck and what would normally be a 15-minute trip could easily turn into well over an hour during peak times.

There are several toll roads in and around Brisbane (clearly signed and marked for approaching motorists), including the Gateway Bridge which crosses the river near the airport, the Clem-7 tunnel and the Go-Between Bridge. Cash is not accepted, toll users must have a prepaid transponder or post-pay via a website. Check the Linkt website for details.

A street directory or GPS unit is an essential addition to your car. Locals are generally friendly and more than willing to help you out if you are lost, so don't be afraid to ask.

Under Queensland law, 50cc scooters can be ridden by just about anyone who holds a car driver's licence. This makes them a good way to get around the CBD, due to limited street parking, and often-expensive off-street parking. Scooter and motorbike parking is free and plentiful. The down side to renting a scooter is that they are speed-limited to 55 km/h. If on a multi-lane road, stay in the left lane. Scooters are not allowed on highways. North of Brisbane you will find many beautiful scenic drives for motorbike enthusiasts. The North side is surrounded by many windy roads and great mountain roads on which any motorbike rider can enjoy a full day out on the motorbike of just about any size. There are services available throughout Brisbane and the Gold Coast which deliver both scooters and motorbikes right to your door-step. Some will even provide all the necessary gear as well.

Getting around the city and South Bank is easy thanks to the many cycle paths along the river.

Cycling on footpaths is legal in the Brisbane City Council area (maximum speed 10 km/h), however pedestrians have right of way. Keep left and take special care when riding through South Bank Parklands as the shared (and quite wide) foot and cycle path is often clogged with large groups taking up the whole path, pedestrians stopping unexpectedly for photos and playing children running heedlessly in front of you. It is often too noisy here to use your bell, so use your common sense, and dismount and push your bike through crowded pedestrian areas.

Maps showing extensive dedicated bikeways and shared paths in the Brisbane City Council area are available on the BCC website^{[dead link]} and a journey planner is available here^{[dead link]}. These bikeways offer a pleasant way to explore and enjoy Brisbane.

Some areas of Brisbane are very hilly. If your street map shows a tangle of winding streets close together that is a sign of steep roads. A short trip can quickly become a lot of work; stick to the river when possible, it's where you get the best views and it is almost entirely flat.

If you leave the cycle paths, footpaths, and minor streets you should be prepared to contend with busy urban traffic. Feel free to ignore any Brisbane motorists that may have resentment toward cyclists and ignorance of the road rules applying to cyclists; cyclists are permitted to travel on just about all roads in Brisbane. Special "bicycle lanes" on Brisbane's roads are becoming increasingly common and are often denoted by a narrow green-coloured strip of road adjacent to the curb.

Brisbane is an excellent city for walking and you should have no problems getting around the CBD. Within minutes of walking in virtually any direction you will be able to find a bus, train or ferry station. Maps can be purchased from bookstores, any tourist information centre or viewed online. There are also a number of shared pathways that offer relaxed walking routes away from roads and traffic. Beyond the CBD and inner-suburbs however, sights can become very spread out, so you might want to consider other modes of getting around. Areas near the river are relatively flat and are perfect for walking. If you find yourself lost, it's advisable to head to the nearest main road as more than likely it will be serviced by buses or trains.

• -27.46893153.023521 Brisbane City Hall and King George Square, between Adelaide and Ann Streets. The City Hall is Brisbane's most significant historical landmark and was restored in 2010–2013. The area has free public Wi-Fi.  
  • -27.468881153.0241742 Brisbane City Hall Clock Tower, Museum of Brisbane. A 92-metre clock tower with Australia's largest analogue clock face. Opened in 1930, it offers a tour through Brisbane's oldest operating cage lifts. 
• -27.495407153.0119983 The University of Queensland, St Lucia, ☏ +61 7 3365 1111. One of Australia's oldest and most prestigious institutions, situated on a bend of the Brisbane River. Its majestic sandstone buildings are surrounded by ornamental lakes, jacaranda-lined boulevards and some of the finest architecture. Visitor attractions include the Great Court, the UQ Art Museum at the James and Mary Emelia Mayne Centre, the Eleanor Schonell Bridge, and wildlife in the UQ lakes. It can be reached by CityCat, or bus route 66 from the CBD along Busway.  
• -27.4753153.0214 Wheel of Brisbane, Russell St, South Bank. Daily 10AM-10PM. A Ferris wheel that allows you to observe the city from 60 m with views across the Brisbane River. The trip is a 15-minute ride in an enclosed, climate-controlled gondola. Adult $22, student $18, child 4 to 11 years $14.50.  
• -27.4686153.02895 Cathedral of St. Stephen, 249 Elizabeth St. Daily 8AM-6PM. Heritage-registered Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral and seat of the Archbishop of Brisbane with regular services and guided tours on weekday mornings. Nearby is St. Stephen's Chapel, which was built in the 19th century and lays significance as being the oldest surviving church building in Queensland.  
• -27.4765153.01846 Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Glenelg St (South Bank), ☏ +61 7 3308 3000. Named as the world's best convention centre, this purpose-built convention centre and event venue plays its host to an average of 1,300 yearly events and contains four exhibition halls.  
• -27.4691153.02217 State Law Building, 50 Ann Street. The office and headquarters of the Attorney-General of Queensland. The structure of the skyscraper, an iconic landmark since 1995, is dubbed the Batman Building, modelled after the Gotham City skyline in the Batman comic book series.  

• -27.47325153.024248 Commissariat Store Museum, 115 William St, ☏ +61 7 3221-4198, [email protected]. Tu-F 10AM-4PM. Occupying the oldest habitable building in Queensland, the museum highlights both the building and aspects of Brisbane and Queensland's convict, colonial and more recent history. Run by The Royal Historical Society of Queensland. Audio tour can be downloaded from website in advance. Adults $7, concession $5. (updated Jan 2016)
• -27.478086153.0292249 The Cube, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), 2 George St, Gardens Point, [email protected]. Daily 10AM-4PM. The Cube is one of the world's largest digital interactive learning and display spaces dedicated to providing an inspiring, explorative and participatory experience of QUT's Science and Engineering research. Here you will find one of the world's largest digital interactive and learning environments in the Science and Engineering Centre at the QUT Gardens Point campus. You can view research-inspired projects across science, engineering, maths and technology displayed on more than 40 multi-touch screens and 14 high-definition projectors. The Cube is inspiring and engaging the next generation of thinkers and doers with its extensive outreach to schools, including their hands-on and interactive workshops and public programs for high school students and QUT undergraduate and postgraduate students. Free. 
• -27.46845153.0273310 MacArthur Museum, Level 8, MacArthur Chambers, 201 Edward St, ☏ +61 7 3211-7052. Tu Th Su 10AM-3PM. This museum occupies what was during the Second World War the Office of General Douglas MacArthur. Travel back in time to the early 1940s in this niche Brisbane museum. Adults $8, seniors $5, child $4. (updated Jan 2016)
• -27.46769153.0251211 Museum of Brisbane, Level 3, Brisbane City Hall. Daily 10AM-5PM, F till 7PM. Hosts a permanent display on the history of Brisbane and rotating exhibits by local artists that touch on Brisbane's lifestyle and culture. Daily tours into the clocktower and observation deck, bookings essential. Free. (updated May 2019)
• -27.47251153.0186112 Queensland Art Gallery, Stanley Place, South Bank, ☏ +61 7 3840-7303, [email protected]. 10AM-5PM. Housed in two buildings in the cultural precinct. Free, except for some special exhibitions. (updated Jan 2016)

• -27.4705153.0171413 Gallery of Modern Art. Part of the Queensland Art Gallery and a short walk from the Main Gallery. Opened in 2006 the gallery regularly hosts exhibitions featuring internationally famous artists (such as Warhol and Picasso) as well as many local contemporary artists. (updated Jan 2016)

• -27.48148153.0262114 Queensland Maritime Museum, cnr Stanley and Sidon Streets, South Bank, ☏ +61 7 3844-5361, [email protected]. Daily 9:30AM–4:30PM. Has a range of exhibitions and vessels. Step aboard the HMAS Diamantina and experience life as a Navy sailor. Be sure to see Ella's Pink Lady, the yacht Queenslander Jessica Watson sailed solo unassisted during her record-breaking journey to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world. Adult $16, concession $14, child $7. (updated Jan 2016)
• -27.4728153.01815 Queensland Museum, cnr Grey and Melbourne Streets, South Bank, ☏ +61 7 3840-7555. 9:30AM-5PM. A large museum featuring several exhibitions that generally focus on natural history and Queensland history. Free, except for some special exhibitions. (updated May 2019)

• -27.4651153.02516 Museum of Lands, Mapping and Surveying, 317 Edward St. Spotlights a historical collection of resources in exhibits relating to surveying techniques and maps.  
• Sciencentre, Level 1 of the Museum. A hands-on, interactive science facility particularly popular with families and children. Adult $15.50, concession $13.50, child $12.50. (updated May 2019)

• -27.4757152.976917 Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, Mt Coot-tha Road, Toowong, ☏ +61 7 3403-2578. Hours vary – from 10AM weekdays and 11AM weekends. Open Tu-Su with free admission to astronomy and space displays and a mini theatre. Admission fees apply to the Cosmic Skydome which features a wide variety of astronomy and space programs. All shows feature a "live" segment recreating the current Brisbane night sky. On weekdays (closed M and public holidays), the doors open at 10AM with school shows at 10:30AM and noon. Members of the public are welcome to attend the earlier school shows when space permits (children must be school age). The 1:30PM and 3PM sessions (Tu-F) are public programs, although the 1:30PM program may be booked for dedicated school programs (check with the Planetarium's Booking Office). During Queensland school holidays there are extra public shows on weekdays. On weekends, the Planetarium opens at 11AM and shows are also presented on Saturday night with "Saturday Night Live" at 6PM being a very popular show. There is a shop with a wide variety of astronomical/science merchandise and souvenirs. There is free parking, an adjacent bus stop and a separate cafe/restaurant. Adult $16.10, child $9.80, concession $13.20.  
• -27.4973153.01218 UQ Anthropology Museum, 9 Chancellor Pl, ☏ +61 7 3365 3111. First opened in 1948, this museum houses a display of ethnographic objects, including modern Indigenous Australian and Pacific Island artwork.  

• -27.478152.97419 Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, Mt Coot-tha Rd, Toowong. 8AM-5:30PM (Sep-Mar); 8AM-5PM (Apr-Aug). Beautiful subtropical gardens with many walks. Free. (updated Jan 2016)
• -27.476153.0320 City Botanic Gardens (10-15 min walk from the city centre and Central or Roma Street railway stations). 24/7. Free 1-hr guided tours M-Sa 11AM and 1PM (no need to book). Walking and cycling tracks. Exhibits. Free tours are a mix of the history of the gardens and the city whereas the garden tours at Mt Coot-tha are more focused on the wide variety of plants. Free.  
• -27.477237152.97700221 Japanese Garden, Toowong, Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, Mount Coot-Tha Rd, Toowong. Designed by the Japanese architect Kenzo Ogata with the theme of mountain-pond-stream with a combination of both Japanese and Australian plants. (updated Nov 2021)
• -27.5345152.968822 Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket (via the Western Freeway), ☏ +61 7 3378-1366, [email protected]. 9AM-5PM. Reduced hours April 25. World's first and largest koala sanctuary, with over 130 koalas. Cuddle a koala, hand feed kangaroos and see other Aussie wildlife. Admission $32 adults, $21 children 3-13 yr, with discounts for families and students. Alternate transport options include: Catch the hourly 445 or 430 buses from the city or the Mirimar boat cruise from South Bank at 10:20AM. Adults $36, child $22, concession $24. Family rates available. Discounts if purchased online in advance.  
• -27.48512152.9591723 Mount Coot-tha, Sir Samuel Griffiths Drive. Brisbane's tallest mountain. A popular make-out spot with a great view and good but overpriced cafe and restaurant. Large TV and radio antennas line some of its broad peak. You can take a scenic drive through the heavily forested Mount Coot-tha Reserve to the peak to see the almost-360° views of Brisbane and the surrounding region. The mountain is 287 m (941 ft) above sea level and forms the eastern extent of the Taylor Range. It is the most northern part of Australia to record snow. It is a prominent landmark approximately 6 km (4 mi) to the west of the Brisbane central business district and is visible from much of the city. Before the Moreton Bay penal settlement, Mount Coot-tha was the home of the Turrbal Aboriginal people. Early Brisbane people called it One Tree Hill when bush at the top of the mountain was cleared except for one large eucalypt tree. The Aboriginal people of the area used to come to the mountain to collect ‘ku-ta’ (honey) that was produced by the native stingless bee. Mount Coot-tha (Place of Honey), a derivative of the indigenous term, replaced the title ‘One Tree Hill' in 1880 when the area was declared a Public Recreation Reserve. Car is the most effective way to enjoy Mount Cootha at your own pace. There is ample parking at the peak. One can also hike the marked trail from the mountain's foot. See one of the best views of Brisbane. It is best to arrive just before dusk or dawn so you can enjoy the transition from day to night. Drive to the peak for a picnic dinner and admire the views. There are several walking tracks through the forests that surround the summit; some are difficult. It is a great place from which to watch the Riverfire fireworks in Sep.  

• -27.4693153.051424 New Farm Park. This historic park is famous for the long line of jacaranda trees, shady picnic areas and its large rose gardens that contain hundreds of varieties of roses, and over 40,000 plants. 
• -27.4626153.018825 Roma Street Parklands. The world's largest subtropical garden in a city centre and home to 1,800 unique species of plants. Experience the theme gardens such as the topiary maze, rain forest walk, lake, celebration law and amphitheatre with many public artworks to admire. Free.  
  • Rainforest Walk. Ecological park of South Bank. Set along the banks of the Brisbane River, it's a cool spot to stroll along the boardwalk with plenty of shady subtropical trees. There are also small benches to soak in the tranquility. 

• -27.4547153.1867226 Manly Boat Harbour. This is the nearest access point to Moreton Bay Marine Park with its pristine waterways and fascinating islands. Next to the harbour is Manly Harbour Village, with a great range of dining and shopping options overlooking the marina. 
• -27.47899153.0222527 South Bank and Cultural Precinct. South Bank is a relatively recent development across the Brisbane River from the heart of the city on the site of World Expo '88, and features an artificial beach surrounded by extensive parklands. Also in South Bank are the shops, cafés, restaurants and cinemas of the Grey Street precinct. A great place to hang out on a hot day and swim for free. Adjacent to South Bank, the Cultural Precinct includes the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) and State Library of Queensland. Griffith University's South Bank Campus incorporating The Queensland Conservatorium and the Queensland College of Art are also located on Grey St. 

• -27.47705153.0214428 Suncorp Piazza. Within South Bank, it often hosts free live events and movies. 

• -27.412222153.1529 Fort Lytton National Park, Lytton Road, Lytton. Preserves a historic fort built in the late 19th century which operated until just after the Second World War which was an important site for Brisbane's defence, and a historic quarantine station used to quarantine visitors coming from ships who had some sort of disease. (updated Apr 2022)

• -27.4672153.033841 Kangaroo Point. The walls along the Brisbane River are a popular spot for rock climbing and give an excellent view of the CBD skyline just across the river. Activities carry on after dark, when the walls are well-lit. Abseiling and rock climbing classes on the cliffs with an instructor are available from Riverlife Adventures, as well as kayak, kick-bike, rollerblade and bicycle hire. There are also barbecue and picnic spots in the area. 
• -27.46351153.035782 Story Bridge Adventure Climb, toll-free: 1300 254 627, [email protected]. Scale the top of Brisbane's iconic bridge. You can enjoy 360° views of Brisbane, the mountain ranges and Moreton Bay Islands at dawn, afternoon or night. 
• Jan Powers Farmers Markets. Buy fresh fruit, vegetables and cuts of meat from one of the many farmers markets across Brisbane including the Powerhouse at New Farm, Manly, Mitchelton and the newest market at Reddacliff Place at the top of the Queen Street Mall. 
• Balloons over Brisbane, ☏ +61 7 3844 6671. You can gain an aerial perspective as you float over Brisbane in a hot air balloon. It's often possible to see as far off as the magnificent Glasshouse Mountains, to the Gold Coast and out to the islands of Moreton Bay. 
• Cruise the Brisbane River. There are various companies offering a range of river cruises and tours to take in the sights. These include cruises to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and the BrisVegas floating nightclub. 
• Explore Brisbane's Moreton Bay and Islands. The bay is 25 km (16 mi) from Brisbane's CBD and stretches from Bribie Island to the Southern Bay Islands. Enjoy sand tobogganing, 4-wheel driving, diving or snorkelling or go marine watching and spot turtles, dolphins, dugongs and whales. 
• -27.3956152.60783 Wivenhoe Dam. Spot koalas, swim, sail or kayak on Lake Wivenhoe. There are BBQ facilities, playgrounds and plenty of parking. 
• -27.05876153.200824 Woorim Beach. Drive across the bridge to Bribie Island from the mainland to see a beautiful Australian national park. Hire a boat for fishing, visit the secluded Woorim Beach on the island with views to Moreton Island or go on one of the several hikes. 
• Explore Greater Brisbane Country. Take a day trip to the surrounding regions around an hour from Brisbane and discover wineries, national parks, lakes and country living. The Scenic Rim including Ipswich, Beaudesert and Boonah is a vast region of mountains, rainforest and valleys embracing the World Heritage wilderness of the McPherson Range. The Lockyer Valley provides a perfect blend of town and country living, with experiences ranging from guided tours and bush camping to hot air ballooning and sky-diving. 
• The Scenic Rim. This describes the large arc of mountains, to a height of 1,375 m (4,511 ft), from the Mistake Ranges (south of Gatton) across the Main (Great Dividing) Range to the MacPherson Range that terminates at Currumbin on the Gold Coast. Apart from some well known locations on the Rim, such as Binna Burra and O'Reilleys guesthouses, Springbrook and Cunningham’s Gap, the largest proportion of these ranges are unspoilt and much of it near-wilderness. Many forest areas were previously logged, but the forest recovery has been excellent, and virtually all the logging tracks have disappeared except for those still used for foot access. At the previously mentioned sites, graded paths offer a taste, but for the more adventurous there are many hiking possibilities from day trips to sustained multi-day exercises. More information can be found on the web. Hikers should be properly prepared and conversant with navigation in difficult country and the rules of National Parks. 
• Riverlife Adventure Centre. Brisbane's riverside adventures. Kayaking, abseiling the Kangaroo Cliffs, a rollerblade session and bike rentals. They also organise evening activities such as kayak paddle and prawns. 
• -27.4725153.0245 Treasury Casino, 130 William St, ☏ +61 7 3306 8888. 24/7. Full featured casino with a wide variety of slots and table games, in a striking 19th-century building. (updated Jan 2019)

Brisbane's Fortitude Valley has the highest concentration of bars, pubs and clubs anywhere in Australia and in 2005, was given Australia's first and only "Special Entertainment Precinct" zoning, which protects and promotes the live music scene. In 2007, influential US entertainment Billboard magazine named Brisbane in the world's top 5 hotspots for live music. And in 2010 the city opened the Go-Between Bridge, named after the popular Brisbane indie rock band The Go-Betweens. There is no doubt that the locals love their music and a night out in Brisbane is not complete without experiencing some of the live music on offer. If you are looking for what's happening in Brisbane, most music and entertainment stores as well as some restaurants and cafés offer free entertainment magazines that list what's coming up within the next month or so. Brisbane and the surrounding South East Queensland region plays host to a myriad of music and arts festivals and are advertised in these magazines.

Though you might find most musicians playing in the numerous bars and clubs around the CBD, West End and the Valley, there are some venues which are geared specifically toward hosting bands or artists that are on official tours. Some events allows under-18s in, but not all, so it's best to check beforehand.

• -27.45212153.03156 The Tivoli, 52 Costin St, Fortitude Valley. Has a very relaxed, noir-styled interior with sizable floor space and a mezzanine. Highly rated venue among locals and only a 10-minute walk from The Valley train station. 
• -27.45774153.035957 The Zoo, 711 Ann St, Fortitude Valley. This live music venue is almost more Brisbane than the river. Indie rock, hipsters and that alternative vibe. Host to local and international acts. 
• -27.45232153.041918 The Triffid, 7-9 Stratton Street, Newstead. Owned by John Collins, former Powderfinger bassist and stalwart of the Australian music scene, the converted World War II aircraft hangar is enjoying a second life as one of Brisbane’s coolest-looking hangouts. Host to all kinds of international, national and local music acts including plenty of Brisbane bands. 

The Valley Fiesta^{[dead link]} is an annual three-day event. It was launched by Brisbane Marketing to promote Fortitude Valley as a hub for arts and youth culture. It features free live music, market stalls, food and drink from many local restaurants and cafés, and other entertainment.

• Football (multiple codes): -27.46492153.009499 Suncorp Stadium is host to Brisbane Broncos NRL and Queensland Reds Rugby Union teams in winter, and Brisbane Roar soccer club in summer; in 2023 it staged soccer matches in the Women's World Cup. Other events such as the NRL State of Origin are also a big draw-card.

• Cricket: -27.48584153.0380410 Brisbane Cricket Ground (aka "The Gabba") is south side of the city at Woolloongabba. It hosts all formats of cricket in summer, including "Test matches" - internationals. In winter it hosts Brisbane Lions AFL team.

• Golf: -27.45039153.0220111 Victoria Park Golf Course +61 7 3252 9891. Herston Road, Herston. Public course right in the centre of the city. Par 65. $22 for 18 holes during the week.

-27.50298152.9923912 St Lucia Links +61 7 3403 2556/7, 18 holes for $26. Good food at the 10 Acre Cafe with fantastic views overlooking the course.

Thanks to Brisbane's year-round wonderful climate, it's the perfect city to host outdoor events. The city often plays host to cultural and historic celebrations, music festivals and family entertainment, particularly in the Summer holiday months of December, January and February.

• Brisbane Festival. By far the largest and most popular event in Brisbane. Held annually at the end of September. This festival, which started as a celebration of the Brisbane River, now incorporates a number of smaller events at various places around South Bank Parklands, the Cultural Centre and the CBD as a celebration to Brisbane itself. Notably, the 'Riverfire' event which is held in South Bank every September draws the largest crowd. It offers free family entertainment all day and the city's biggest Fireworks display at night. 
• The Ekka (Royal Queensland Show). A staple event in Brisbane's history and culture, held every August dating back to 1876. It is hosted at the RNA Showgrounds in the inner-suburb of Bowen Hills and runs for a week, where the Wednesday is a public holiday (so expect large crowds on this day). Primarily marketed toward families, attractions at the Ekka include fairground rides, a Side Show Alley, animal parades, wood chopping competitions, agricultural displays, equestrian events and Showbags, usually containing food items (such as confectionery) and novelty items. If you are in Brissy at the time, it really is not to be missed! 
• Paniyiri Festival. A Greek cultural celebration held by Brisbane's large Greek population. A popular family entertainment event, offering authentic Greek foods and entertainment. In Musgrave Park. 
• Brisbane International Film Festival. Begins in November and is hosted in a variety of cinema venues around Brisbane. The festival features new films and retrospectives by domestic and international filmmakers along with seminars and awards. (updated Jun 2019)

Each year, Brisbane also hosts several parades through the central city. These can make great photo opportunities, and include:

• St Patrick's Day. Parade on Saturday closest to March 17 
• ANZAC Day. Parade starts 10AM on April 25. 
• May Day March. Large parade with participants from local trade unions. First Sunday in May. 
• Christmas Parade and Pantomime. Each evening from early December until Christmas, the central city's Queen Street pedestrian mall gets taken over by elves, sugerplum fairies, live camels and a giant teddy bear. It's a popular event for families, particularly on weekends. 

• -27.46481153.042229 Continental Cafe, 21 Barker St, ☏ +61 7 3254-0377. Good food, nice atmosphere across several rooms, surprisingly good children's menu. Open for dinner 364 days a year. Watch out for the offal specials on Tuesdays. Reliable high quality. 
• -27.45827153.0330910 Enjoy Inn, 167 Wickham St (corner of Duncan St in Chinatown), ☏ +61 7 3252-3838. One of the longest established restaurants in Brisbane, good Chinese food.