South Bank was created for the 1988 World Expo and when the fair left town the venue remained as a free facility for the people of Brisbane to enjoy. The waterfront park is packed with a variety of attractions, making it a magnet for locals and visitors alike. Spend a day chilling out Australian-style and get a flavour of the indigenous way of life.
Make your way through the vibrant bougainvillea blossoms of the Grand Arbour to enter the parklands and head straight for a refreshing dip in the tropical waters of Streets Beach. Adults will enjoy watching the kids having fun in the waterpark while they relax in the shade of a palm tree. There are lockers for rent to stash your stuff in while you swim.
When it’s time to eat you’ll be spoilt for choice. The riverfront is lined with stylish restaurants where you can sample a cornucopia of world cuisines at your leisure, or grab a quick sandwich from one of the park’s kiosks. Do it yourself with a picnic spread, or opt for a liquid lunch in a typical Australian pub – try The Ship Inn, an old sailors’ haunt dating from 1864, for authentic atmosphere. While you’re there, pop into the Maritime Museum opposite to see a World War II naval frigate and other historic artifacts.
There’s always something going on at South Bank, ranging from sporting events, music festivals in the public stadium, or free entertainment from talented street artists. At weekends the park fills up with market stalls where you can browse to your heart’s content and maybe pick up a bargain from the huge variety of local crafts, clothing, jewellery and accessories.
One of the best ways to see Brisbane is from the top of the giant Ferris wheel, and no visit to South Bank is complete without taking a ride in one of its gondolas. At the foot of the wheel is a miniature rain forest enclosing the Nepal Peace Pagoda, one of only three outside Nepal, which features a beautiful tea house on the second level.
Reaching South Bank is easy by ferry or bus on-site parking is available but can be expensive.
South Bank Travel Guide
Brisbane





Visit South Bank
Popular places to visit

South Bank Parklands
After visiting South Bank Parklands, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Brisbane. Amble around this romantic area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Queensland Performing Arts Centre
Transport yourself to another world as you experience world-class musicals, operas, comedy shows and plays in this exceptional performance venue.

Gallery of Modern Art
Be inspired by the diverse range of exhibitions at Australia's highly esteemed modern art institution, a great day out for all the family.

Queensland Museum
Learn Queensland’s fascinating stories at this museum, which takes visitors on a whirlwind ride through the state’s past, present and future.

Queensland Art Gallery
Visit Queensland's most popular free art gallery, showcasing an extensive array of works from Europe, Asia and Australia.

Wheel of Brisbane
Get a magnificent view over Brisbane and spot the city’s landmarks from this giant Ferris wheel in the middle of the South Bank Parklands.
Top hotels in South Bank

Rydges South Bank
Reviewed on 13 Jul 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Brisbane South Bank
Reviewed on 13 Jul 2025

Emporium Hotel South Bank
Reviewed on 17 Jul 2025

Hotel Diana South Brisbane
Reviewed on 13 Jul 2025

Novotel Brisbane South Bank Hotel
Reviewed on 23 Jun 2025

Mantra South Bank Brisbane
Reviewed on 11 Jul 2025
Other neighbourhoods around South Bank

South Brisbane
South Brisbane is a destination visitors seek out for its ample dining options, fascinating museums and beautiful river views. You might also want to check out attractions like Queensland Performing Arts Centre or Queensland Conservatorium while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Woolloongabba
Woolloongabba is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to The Gabba and Buranda Village while you're in town.

West End
You'll enjoy the bars and parks in West End. You might want to make time for a stop at Brisbane Brewing Co. or The Catchment Brewing Co..

Brisbane Central Business District
Are you interested in beautiful gardens, stunning river views and popular shops? A visit to Brisbane Central Business District might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Anzac Square and Brisbane Customs House.

Kangaroo Point
The ample dining options and beautiful river views are top of the list for many visitors to Kangaroo Point. A stop by Holman Street Ferry Terminal or Dockside Ferry Terminal might round out your trip.

Milton
Unique features of Milton include the river views and restaurants. Make a stop by XXXX Brewery or Suncorp Stadium while you're exploring the area.
- Places of interest
- Choose Your South Bank Hotel Style
- Hotels in top Brisbane neighborhoods
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- More trip options
- South Bank Parklands
- Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Queensland Performing Arts Centre
- Gallery of Modern Art
- Queensland Children's Hospital
- Queensland Museum
- Wheel of Brisbane
- Queensland Museum and Sciencentre
- Griffith University South Bank
- South Bank Ferry Terminal
- Queensland Maritime Museum
- South Brisbane Memorial Park
- Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Choose Your South Bank Hotel Style
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