Brisbane has an almost perfect weather. The summertime is warm and humid but still comfortable, and wintertime is dry but moderately warm. But more than the best weather, Brisbane has loads to offer when it comes to entertaining its visitors. Take a holiday with West End minibus hire and you will have a fun trip that you will never forget
Brisbane Botanic Gardens in Mount Coot-tha
One of the first things you should see in Brisbane is its panoramic view from the Brisbane Botanic Gardens in Mount Coot-tha. Located seven kilometres away from the city centre, the 12 acres of horticulture will amaze the visitors. There are diverse themed gardens including the serene Japanese gardens and the impressive Australian rainforest trees. There are also sections where you can take a whiff of fragrant plants, and marvel at the bamboo and cactus collections. The little ones will appreciate the Hide ‘n’ Seek Children’s Trail, where they can both enjoy and learn from the guided walk. The most especial spot is the viewpoint in Mount Coot-tha where you can see the breathtaking panorama of the Botanic Gardens and the high-rise buildings of the CBD sprouting in the background. Don’t worry about getting hungry on tour as there is a restaurant that has scrumptious dishes to go with the amazing views.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
If cuddling a koala is what you are looking forward to in your Brisbane holiday, then head over to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary where you can have the ultimate experience of holding a koala and hugging it for a photograph. Other than the cuddly creature, you may also experience other animal encounter activities like holding a baby crocodile or petting a snake! Yes, it is not for the faint-hearted but you have to admit it is quite an exciting experience to tell family and friends back home.
Museum of Brisbane
Unlike most museums that are huge, the Brisbane is small enough to fit at the top level of the City Hall. Although it is small, it is still considered as a premier heritage building where state-of-the-art exhibitions are featured. There is also a magnificent clock tower where you can enjoy a great view of the cityscape below.
Story Bridge Adventure Climb
A uniquely exhilarating climb but not in the mountains, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb will surely make a lasting memory. Considered as one of Brisbane’s beloved landmarks, the steel bridge offers more than just a rich history. The quest to climb the bridge at 80 metres above the Brisbane River will reward you with uninterrupted and impressive views of the city. Although built in the 1930’s, the bridge remains tough and visitors are assured that it is safe to climb. Only those who are ten years and older are allowed joining the climb.
CityCat River Cruises
If you would like to experience Brisbane in a serene yet scenic way, then travel around via CityCat. The Brisbane River cruises are available all days of the week. The different cruises offer a variety of informative narration, depending on which sights you would like to see. Choose from the many hop-on, hop-off stations that will take you to unique routes so you can view magnificent places of interest such as the University of Queensland, North Shore, riverside mansions, parklands, and many more. It is undoubtedly the best way to get a fresh perspective of the popular landmarks like the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, rich wildlife, and the popular Story Bridge among other attractions.
South Bank
On a warm day, you may want to visit the South Bank. It was once the location for the World Expo in 1988 and is now home to diverse restaurants, plazas, promenades, and parks. Cool off by swimming in the man-made lagoon or take part of the free fitness classes. There are also biking and hiking trails and a visit to the Epicurious Garden should not be missed. For a bird’s-eye view of the river and the city, ride the giant Ferris wheel which is one of the best attractions in South Bank. The Wheel of Brisbane was opened to commemorate the 150th state anniversary of Queensland in 2008.The kids may also sign up for free tours and special events.
Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art
Art lovers should never pass on the opportunity to visit the Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). Situated alongside the waterfront in the South Bank Cultural Precinct, the two contrasting buildings will keep everyone at awe of its massive art collection. The building itself is an award-winning piece with a glass-encased building design. There are over 1,700 works of art coming from around the world. Although most of them are focused about Australia, there are also a lot of pieces that are about the Pacific and Asia. The International and Asian Collection and the Indigenous Australian Collection are permanent exhibitions at the QAG, including the dramatic sculptures on its grounds. At the GOMA, on the other hand, is where you can find special exhibits of all kinds of arts but everyone looks forward to the contemporary art installations. Within the complex is the Australian Cinémathèque, which shows stimulating films and the Children’s Art Centre where kids are entertained with interactive exhibits.
Cultural Precinct
Another heritage site in Brisbane is the Cultural Precinct in the South Bank. The impressive architecture is not the only reason why tourists flock this destination. It is considered to be family-friendly because of the multitude of things to do and see around its perimeters. First are the South Bank Parklands where you can take a leisurely picnic on the lush lawns and enjoy the view of the river. Booklovers will love the exceptional collections at the State Library of Queensland. The interactive exhibits at the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre will keep the kids busy. It is also where you can find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre where world-class shows, events, and concerts are performed.