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If you’re looking for things to do in Southbank Brisbane, you’ll find everything from swimming at Streets Beach to exploring riverside parklands, galleries and top dining spots. The best South Bank attractions include the Queensland Museum, weekend markets and live music by the Brisbane river. Whether you’re planning what to do in Southbank Brisbane for a day or a weekend, you’ll find food, culture and laid-back local life all in one easy, walkable precinct.
South Bank Brisbane at a Glance
Not sure where to start? Here's a quick snapshot of the top South Bank attractions before we dive into the details.
Why Do People Go to South Bank?
South Bank is a hub for everyone, which is why everyone loves it. It’s a place where people from all walks of life can stroll along the river, catch a street performance, or just relax under the sun with an ice cream in hand.
Families love its open spaces and the sandy Streets Beach, while food lovers rave about the riverside dining scene. It’s a place where you can start with a leisurely breakfast, wander through a weekend market, and end with a stunning sunset walk along the river. Whether you're in the mood for adventure, relaxation, or just a little people-watching, South Bank is one of Brisbane’s best spots morning, noon, or night.
What Makes South Bank, Brisbane So Great?
Unlike most of Brisbane, South Bank is a cultural hub rather than a residential one. People from far and wide make their way to South Bank to work and play every day of the week.
Here, you can explore galleries, grab a coffee at a riverside café, or dive into a cool lagoon — all in one afternoon. South Bank isn’t just a destination; it’s a place to soak in the spirit of Brisbane, one sun-kissed moment at a time.
Is Southbank Brisbane good for families?
Yes - Southbank Brisbane is built for fun family days out. The precinct is flat, pram-friendly and completely walkable, so getting around feels easy.
Playgrounds and wide green lawns give kids space to move, while shady picnic spots are perfect to pause and reset. The vibe is open, relaxed and safe.
For indoor time, the Queensland Museum Kurilpa offers hands-on exhibitions that keep curious minds busy. And with casual dining options nearby, like Poppies Cafe, you can enjoy a stress-free family base in the heart of Brisbane.
Things to Do in South Bank
So what are you waiting for? Whether you want to sunbathe, party, explore, or simply go for a riverside run – it’s never a boring day in Brissie when there’s so many things to do in South Bank.
Streets Beach: Bringing the Beach to the City
A tropical oasis in the heart of Brisbane, Streets Beach at South Bank gives you the best of the beach in the middle of the city.
As Australia’s only inner-city man-made beach, it’s a unique spot where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply relax under the palm trees without leaving the city. The beach is free and family-friendly, making it a favourite for locals and tourists alike, whether you’re cooling off in summer or enjoying the beautiful scenery year-round.
What are the best free things to do in Southbank?
There are plenty of free things to do in Southbank Brisbane. Start with a riverside walk from the Goodwill Bridge to River Quay. It’s one of the simplest ways to soak up skyline views and local life.
Explore the public art scattered through the precinct, then step inside the Nepalese Peace Pagoda.
For culture, wander the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) with free general entry, or time your visit for free live music on the lawns. South Bank proves you don’t need a ticket to experience the best of it.
Dining Precinct: Eat Your Heart Out
Brush off the sand and head to South Bank’s impressive dining scene. For casual eats, South Beach Social serves up classic Australian fare with unbeatable views of the river.
Craving the Caribbean? Barbossa Bar has you covered with vibrant dishes and over 200 cocktails on the menu. If Italian is calling your name, Popolo offers wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta in a cosy, riverside setting. For seafood lovers, River Quay Fish dishes up fresh catches with a side of Brisbane skyline views.
No matter your taste, South Bank's restaurants make every meal a memorable experience. Explore the smorgasbord of cuisine options at Eat South Bank.
Live Music: Soundtrack Your Sunsets
For a perfect dose of weekend vibes, South Bank’s “Live Music at South Beach” and “Sunday Social on the Green” are a weekly ritual.
“Live Music at South Beach” brings a lively atmosphere with live tunes at the iconic South Beach, creating the ultimate Friday and Saturday nights. To round out the weekend, “Sunday Social on the Green” offers a more relaxed Sunday afternoon ambience with free live music, picnics, and Brisbane skyline views at River Quay Green.
Grab your friends, fam, or special someone and score a spot on the South Bank lawn to unwind each week with the best local musical talent.
Weekly Markets: Collective Creativity
Looking for a special something to mark your memories at South Bank? The Collective Markets at South Bank are a treasure trove for anyone who loves unique finds and local charm. Open on Fridays from 5-9pm, Saturday 10am-9pm, and Sunday 9am-4pm, these bustling markets showcase everything from handmade jewellery and art to vintage clothing and gourmet treats. With live music adding to the vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to explore Brisbane’s creative side, support local artisans, and find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and stuff you’ll only find in South Bank Brisbane..
Queensland Museum Kurilpa: South Bank’s Hub for History
If it’s time for a bit of indoor time, then head over to Queensland Museum Kurilpa in Brisbane.
With exhibitions highlighting everything from Queensland’s ancient past to First Nations cultures, it’s a fascinating stop for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Australia’s rich stories. Interactive displays, educational programs, and rotating exhibitions make it engaging for all ages.
An immersive experience that showcases the region’s natural history, science, and cultural heritage, Queensland Museum Kurilpa is the perfect blend of education and entertainment… capped off with a perfect blend of coffee by the river.
Rainy-day things to do in Southbank
When the weather turns, South Bank doesn’t miss a beat. Head indoors to the Queensland Museum Kurilpa for immersive science and cultural exhibitions.
Next door, GOMA offers expansive contemporary galleries with free general entry. It’s an easy way to spend a few hours.
You can also catch a matinee show at QPAC, or stay cosy with a drink at one of Southbank’s riverside cafes and restaurants.
South Bank Parklands: 24/7 Fun and Friendship
Stretching across the length of South Bank, is the lusciously green Parklands. Dotted with picture perfect picnic spots, BBQs, and hidden gems like Epicurious Garden and Nepalese Pagoda, the South Bank Parklands is full of things to do and discover for free all year round.
While there’s so much stuff to do and see in the Parklands, the favourite pastime of locals is to pack a picnic and spend the day lounging by the river. Or if you want to up your picnic game, The Jetty at South Bank can put together a romantic picnic too.
As an added bonus, the Parklands are fully equipped with Wi-Fi that’s free to use all day, everyday… did someone say remote working paradise?
Southbank at night
South Bank after dark is one of Brisbane’s best date-night spots for couples. The river lights glow, the skyline sparkles and the precinct settles into an easy evening rhythm.
Start with a sunset stroll before heading sky-high to Lina Rooftop for European-inspired dining, poolside glamour and sweeping 180-degree city views, or turn things up at Poca Madre for bold Mexican food and killer margaritas.
Finish with a show at QPAC or a nighttime ride on the Wheel of Brisbane ferris wheel. If you’re searching for things to do in Southbank Brisbane at night, this is where the city shines.
Explore Brisbane like a Local with Rambla
Whether you’re staying for a day, week, or month, make Rambla your base to explore the best of Brisbane. Start discovering the best things to do in Brisbane today; like these froth-worthy breweries, or best plant-friendly feeds.
