You’ve finally arrived on Queensland’s shores and you’re ready to explore. Prepare to be wowed because there is beauty and adventure around every bend of Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
From our pristine beaches and lush rainforests to our vibrant city and nightlife, you will never be short of something to do.
Ready to have the time of your life? Check out our list of major attractions in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast to get you started.
Things to do in Brisbane
South Bank
There’s no better place to chill after a big day at university than South Bank. With 17 hectares of beautiful parklands along the Brisbane River, live entertainment, markets, free exercise classes, a world-class dining precinct and a beach, there is something for everyone. Check out South Bank’s What’s On Guide for upcoming events.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Now that you’re living in Australia, it’s time to meet the locals. At Lone Pine you can cuddle a koala, get up close and personal with kangaroos in the walk-through enclosure, or join the wild lorikeet feeding frenzy. Be sure to check out the sheep dog show and reptile display for a true taste of Australia.
Mt Coot-tha
Drink in the beauty of Brisbane City and beyond to the bay from atop Mt Coot-tha Lookout. Grab a bite to eat at the Kuta Café or explore the area on a walking track. The view from Mt Coot-tha is picture perfect at night with twinkling lights as far as the eye can see.
Eat Street Markets
Eat Street Markets promise a massive selection of mouth-watering food and a cool vibe. With more than 70 vendors offering food from around the world, the only problem you’ll have is deciding what to eat.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Brisbane’s iconic Kangaroo Point Cliffs provide the perfect backdrop for a picnic overlooking the Brisbane River and cityscape. If you’re up for adventure, you can rock climb or abseil on the cliffs. If you’re super keen, you can climb the nearby Story Bridge.
Things to do on the Gold Coast
Hit the beach
Feel the golden sand between your toes, the ocean breeze on your face and the saltwater on your skin. The Gold Coast’s beaches are among the best in the world and the perfect place to beat the heat when the temperature is rising. Learn to surf like the locals or try stand-up paddle boarding. Be sure to check out the Gold Coast’s creeks and rock pools for prime picnic spots.
Tamborine Mountain
Tamborine Mountain, in the Gold Coast hinterland, offers breathtaking scenery, walking tracks, waterfalls, local art, restaurants and a brewery. Get your adrenalin pumping on Australia’s largest guided zip line tour and treetop challenge, or experience the wonder of glow worms in purpose-built glow worm caves.
Theme parks
Add one of the Gold Coast’s premier theme parks to your to-do list for a fun-filled day out. Choose from Dreamworld, Sea World, Movie World or Wet’n’Wild for a day of non-stop rides, slides, live shows and interactive Australian animal experiences.
SkyPoint Observation Deck and Climb
Venture 230 metres above Surfers Paradise for panoramic views of the Gold Coast. Located within the iconic Q1 building, the SkyPoint Observation Deck promises an experience you’ll write home about. The SkyPoint Climb, Australia’s highest external building climb, is a must for adrenalin junkies.
Keen to explore the best that Brisbane and the Gold Coast has to offer, but don’t want to do it alone? Each trimester, the Griffith Mates host networking events and day trips for new international students. It’s the perfect way to connect with new friends, have fun and kick-off your Australian adventure.
What would you add to our list of fun things to do when you arrive in Queensland? What are you excited about exploring? Let us know in the comments below!
– Renee (Guest Blogger)
Hi! I’m Renee – a Brisbane-based marketing and communications specialist, professional writer and social media geek. When I’m not working in the Marketing & Communications team with Griffith International, I spend my time blogging, writing and exploring the best that Brisbane has to offer.
