Take a walk through the South Bank, Brisbane

One of my favourite things to do in Brisbane (apart from visiting my sister obvs) is to spend the day down at the South Bank Parklands.

Located on the southern banks of the Brisbane River you can find this urban paradise. This vibrant area actually used to be the site of the Brisbane’s ‘88 World Expo. The new site opened in 1992 and has been a popular destination in Brisbane for tourists and locals alike. It’s often referred to as the cultural heart of the city and is the perfect play area within the city for all ages.

If you want to wander along the river, swim, watch a show, take in some art, sunbathe on the golden sand, sit in the park, walk amongst the Bougainvilleas, shop in the markets or just sit in a bar/restaurant and people watch the world away, then this is the place for you. It’s a completely pedestrian area and somehow just magically transforms you away from being in a busy capital city to an oasis.

There is plenty to see and do and something for everyone and all ages. If you want to eat and drink then there’s so many bars and restaurants to choose from with all sorts of cuisines. Being in Queensland and that its usually ‘beautiful one, perfect the next’ they all have outdoor areas to sit and enjoy your lunch in the sun.

If you fancy a bit of shopping you can find the South Bank Markets every weekend and also the night markets on a Friday night. We’ve been there for the weekend markets and found so many amazing items. I’ve always wanted to visit the night markets but we’ve not quite got there yet for those. Defo on the list for next time. There is also a whole host of other events so do check out their website for ideas and dates.

If sitting around and shopping isn’t your thing then you can talk a stroll along the river’s edge overlooking the city or you can do the South Bank Walkway and walk under the 1 km of bougainvillaea. It’s gorgeous colour just illuminates and really is the prettiest of sights. There are lush green parks with tropical plants and to wander around.

You can even get up high in the sky with the Wheel of Brisbane. I think it might be sponsored by 7.Mainly due to the 7 logo right in the centre. I’ve not been on this but I can imagine it would give some amazing views of the South Bank Parklands, the Brisbane River the City skyline.

Being considered the cultural heart of Brisbane It ozzes culture. With The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, The Queensland Performing Art Centre, The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, The Queensland Maritime Museum and the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre all in the area there is plenty of places to get your cultural fix.

But as with many people, the absolute cherry on the top of this stunning parkland is the swimming facilities! There are three different areas including the Streets Beach, Water Play Park and the Boat Pool. All are free to use, patrolled by lifeguards and open all year round. Whilst they do get pretty busy especially in the summer months you can always find a spot on the sand (yes they even have real sand!) or in the crystal blue water to unwind. I’ve heard that the sand is brought in from the nearby Moreton Bay and that there is enough water to fill FIVE Olympic size pools.

It really is a great place for everyone living and visiting Brisbane and if we haven’t sold you on visiting already then takes a walk through the South Bank below….

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