An Insider's Guide to South Bank

South Bank is Brisbane’s golden child, showcasing an abundance of offerings enjoyable all year round thanks to the cities unique alfresco climate.

 
From mouth-watering eats to late night sips, scenic walking tracks and family friendly activities. Spend your day lazing about in South Bank’s urban jungle, sauntering through an art exhibition or sun bathing in an outdoor café. Whatever you choose to do, there is certainly something for everyone. 

Here is a list of activities and indulgences, worth making the trip for. 

But first, coffee

If you require fuelling on coffee beans to start your day (or at any time of the day!), you can reply on Denim and Co. to provide you with that sweet caffeine hit. You can’t miss their sleek white with aqua accents café on Little Stanley Street.

Educate 

South Bank’s Cultural Centre is home to a wealth of knowledge - Queensland Museum and Science Centre, State Library of Queensland and the Maritime Museum. Perfect for a family day out, or if you’re simply in the mood to learn a thing or two!

Eat 

Imagine every culinary cuisine possible presented to you in one delicious line up - well, that completes Little Stanley Street. From Mexican to Japanese, Greek and Italian, we can guarantee you’ll be spoiled for choice. And for those looking for something a little more luxe, head to River Quay to indulge in one of South Bank’s premium eats - Popolo Italian Kitchen and Bar, Aquitaine, River Quay Fish or The Jetty South Bank.

Art

The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) showcase renowned artwork from around the world and play host to highly reviewed exhibitions. Best of all - experiencing these galleries is free!

Watch

Spend a few hours getting lost in song and dance at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). Globally acclaimed musicals and performances are presented daily and can be purchased at the door or online. 

Sweat

If jogging in the sunshine with killer views sounds like your cup of tea, then look no further then South Bank’s promenade, stretching along the Brisbane River, from the north to the south end of South Bank Parklands and up to Kangaroo Point. However, if it’s more of a leisurely stroll that you’re searching for, The Arbour has you covered. This kilometre-long canopy will have you clocking up laps as you stroll through the iconic steel structure, covered by a bed of neon pink and purple bougainvillea flowers. 

Shop

Stanley Street Plaza comes to life over three days every weekend with The Collective Markets. Set in the artisan’s heart of Brisbane, these markets showcase original art, photography, clothing, unique gifts, as well as foodie stalls and live music. Or, if you love the idea of being the first to don a cutting edge design from one of Brisbane’s up and coming designers, head to the the Young Designers Market. Held on the first Sunday of every month, these markets feature creations across a range of fashion, jewellery, home designs, prints and more. 

Date 

Roll out your picnic rug and relax amongst the green urban parklands of South Bank with Sunday Social on the Green. South Bank offers the perfect date destination at River Quay Green on Sundays, enclosed by a handful of South Banks finest restaurants as well as live music from some of Brisbane’s best musicians. Nab a take-away hamper for you and your date and enjoy a beer or two in South Bank’s licensed area (10am and 8pm daily).

Sundowner

Whether you’re looking to sooth a long working day, celebrate an occasion or step out on a balmy evening, a sundowner beverage is always the perfect place to start. Stokehouse Q has you covered, with a selection of quality thirst quenchers and sunset city views to match.

For more details about what's on at South Bank, plus the latest news in restaurant openings, events and competitions, sign up to the South Bank Insider's Guide e-newsletter or visit our What's On section.