Your parents or maybe your friends are coming to visit you in Australia, and you want to show them just how great this country is. Figuring out where to take them can be tricky though, so if you’re running low on ideas here are some tips to consider.
Brisbane is awesome, it really is. We might not have a world famous opera house, but there are lots of other things to see and do. And we too have a bridge climb (that’s right Sydney, you’re not the only one). Anyway, in my two and a half years in this country, I’ve had plenty of friends and family coming to visit. That’s why I thought I’d share some of my favourite things to see and do.
Cuddle a koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
This one is always a hit with overseas visitors. Take them to Australia’s largest Koala Sanctuary, where they can feed the kangaroos and get their photo taken while they’re holding a koala. You can see other animals as well, such as emus, dingoes, Tasmanian devils and platypuses. The easiest way to get to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is by bus, and it’s about 40 minutes from the CBD.
Fun fact: Queensland is one of the few Australian states in which you’re legally allowed to cuddle a Koala.
Catch the ferry to New Farm Park
One of the best ways to get around Brisbane is by the CityCat ferry. The CityCat runs all day, every day, and its 18 stops along the river makes it a very convenient way to travel. Soak up the views of Eagle Street Pier and the Story Bridge before you get off at New Farm to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the park or maybe a nice little picnic on the grass.
Cheer on a local team at a sporting event
If your visitors are into sports take them to see a game of some sort. Aussies love their sports, and Brisbane has so much to offer, depending on what time of the year it is. Australian Rules football (AFL), rugby, cricket, netball and soccer are just some of the options available. My personal favourite is AFL, and watching a game at the Gabba is a great way to spend an afternoon. Just don’t get your hopes up if you decide to barrack for the Brisbane Lions football team. They don’t really win much these days.
Explore the city by bike
Another great way to get around Brisbane is by bike, and the best part is that you can rent a CityCycle from 140 different stations around the city. They’re easy to spot around the city – they’re bright yellow. Brisbane is actually very cycle-friendly, so why not take your visitors for a bike ride to explore the city?
Fun fact: if you change bikes every 30 minutes, you won’t have to pay!
By inspired at the Gallery of Modern Art
Park your bicycle at a nearby station and pay a visit to Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) for some cultural nourishment. Even if art galleries aren’t normally your thing, I can guarantee this place will keep you entertained for a couple of hours. There’s even a massive slide that goes from the top floor all the way to the bottom – super fun for your inner child. The best part though? Entry is completely free.
Walk around South Bank
This one is pretty obvious, which is probably why this part of the city can be ridiculously crowded on weekends (if you’re really big on personal space, avoid spending your Saturday or Sunday arvos here). It’s busy for good reason though, and there’s plenty to do. Take your visitors for a walk along the river, go for a swim at the man-made Streets Beach, or grab a bite to eat from one of the many restaurants in the area.
I hope you found these tips helpful and if you have any other places you’d recommend then please share them in the comment box below.
– Kristina
