The Story Bridge and Brisbane city skyline from above the river

Discover Brisbane

Make the most of your stay in the River City!

Welcome to Brisbane, the sunny capital of Queensland and proud host of the Professionals 2026 International Conference & Awards.

Whether you're visiting from interstate, joining us from New Zealand or simply looking to rediscover your own backyard, there's plenty to see and do while you're here.

From world-class dining and rooftop bars to stunning river walks, cultural attractions and unforgettable day trips, Brisbane has something for everyone.

If you're arriving early, have a few spare hours between events or plan to extend your stay, we've rounded up some of our favourite ways to experience the city.

Explore Brisbane's Must-See Attractions

1

South Bank Parklands

Best for: Sightseeing, dining, relaxation and families

Just across the river from Brisbane's CBD, South Bank is one of the city's most popular destinations.

Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, relax in the beautiful parklands, enjoy the cafés and restaurants or take a dip at Streets Beach, Brisbane's famous inner-city beach.

Don't Miss:

The iconic Brisbane sign for a photo opportunity
Streets Beach and the surrounding parklands
The spectacular bougainvillea-covered Arbour
Riverside dining along River Quay
The Wheel of Brisbane for panoramic city views

Cost: Free to explore; selected attractions and activities are ticketed.

Find Out More: visitsouthbank.com.au

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2

Howard Smith Wharves

Best for: Riverside dining, cocktails and spectacular views

Nestled beneath the iconic Story Bridge, Howard Smith Wharves is one of Brisbane's most popular dining and entertainment precincts.

Home to restaurants, bars, cafés and the popular Felons Brewing Co., it's the perfect place to enjoy the Brisbane lifestyle.

You'll also be visiting this precinct for our official Professionals 50th Birthday Celebration!

Don't Miss:

A riverside drink beneath the Story Bridge
Dinner overlooking the Brisbane River
The stunning city skyline after dark
A stroll along the waterfront boardwalk

Find Out More: howardsmithwharves.com

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3

Brisbane River & CityCat

Best for: Sightseeing and exploring the city from the water

One of the best ways to experience Brisbane is from the river itself.

Hop aboard a CityCat ferry and cruise past some of the city's most recognisable landmarks, including the Story Bridge, South Bank, Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane CBD.

It's an affordable and relaxing way to explore the city, with ferry terminals conveniently located near many popular attractions.

Our Tip: Choose a late-afternoon service to enjoy the city skyline as the sun begins to set.

Plan Your Journey: translink.com.au

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4

City Botanic Gardens

Best for: A morning walk or a peaceful escape

Located within Brisbane's CBD, the City Botanic Gardens offer a beautiful green escape from the busy city streets.

Wander through the gardens, admire the impressive trees and enjoy the riverside walking paths.

It's an ideal spot for a morning walk, coffee break or some downtime before the conference begins.

Cost: Free.

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5

Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)

Best for: Art, culture and a rainy-day activity

Located in South Bank's cultural precinct, QAGOMA is one of Australia's leading art destinations.

Explore impressive collections of Australian, international and contemporary art, including works by First Nations artists.

General admission to the galleries is free, although selected exhibitions and events may require tickets.

Find Out More: qagoma.qld.gov.au

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6

Mount Coot-tha Lookout

Best for: Panoramic views and photography

For some of the best views in Brisbane, head to Mount Coot-tha Lookout.

Enjoy sweeping views across the city skyline, Brisbane River and out towards Moreton Bay.

Visit during the day for clear views or at sunset for a spectacular outlook as the city lights come to life.

If you have a little extra time, explore the nearby Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha.

Cost: Free to visit.

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Eat, Drink & Experience Brisbane

Brisbane's dining scene has something for every occasion, from relaxed riverside lunches to sophisticated restaurants and lively rooftop bars.

7

Queen's Wharf Brisbane

Best for: Dining, drinks and entertainment close to the conference

Home to The Star Brisbane, Queen's Wharf is one of the city's newest lifestyle and entertainment precincts.

With restaurants, bars, entertainment and impressive river views, there's plenty to explore without venturing far from the conference venue.

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8

James Street, Fortitude Valley

Best for: Stylish dining, cafés and boutique shopping

James Street is one of Brisbane's most fashionable precincts, featuring acclaimed restaurants, wine bars, boutiques and beautiful outdoor dining spaces.

Perfect for a long lunch, afternoon shopping or a relaxed dinner with colleagues.

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2

Howard Smith Wharves

Best for: Drinks with a view

With its spectacular riverside location, Howard Smith Wharves deserves another mention.

It's one of Brisbane's best places to enjoy an afternoon drink, a lively dinner or a memorable evening out beneath the Story Bridge.

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9

South Bank & Fish Lane

Best for: Restaurant hopping and casual dining

South Bank offers a huge variety of restaurants, cafés and bars, with plenty of choices along Little Stanley Street, Grey Street and River Quay.

Nearby Fish Lane is also worth exploring, with its collection of small bars, restaurants, laneway dining and public art.

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10

Eat Street Northshore

Best for: Street food, live entertainment and a fun evening out

If you're in Brisbane over the weekend, Eat Street Northshore is well worth a visit.

This vibrant riverside night market is filled with food stalls offering dishes from around the world, alongside live music and entertainment.

It's a fantastic option for groups, couples or anyone looking for something a little different.

Location: Hamilton, Brisbane

Find Out More: eatstreetnorthshore.com.au

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Looking for Something a Little More Adventurous?

11

Story Bridge Adventure Climb

Experience Brisbane from a completely different perspective by climbing one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

The Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers guided experiences with spectacular views across the city and Brisbane River.

A great option for those looking for something memorable during their stay.

Bookings Required: storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au

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12

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Get up close to some of Australia's most recognisable wildlife at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

Located at Fig Tree Pocket, the sanctuary is home to koalas, kangaroos and a variety of other Australian native animals.

A fantastic experience for international visitors or delegates travelling with family.

Find Out More: lonepinekoalasanctuary.com

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13

Kangaroo Point Cliffs

Take in spectacular views of the Brisbane River and city skyline from Kangaroo Point.

Popular with walkers, runners and outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers scenic riverside pathways, beautiful lookout points and opportunities for adventurous activities including rock climbing and kayaking.

Our Tip: Visit around sunset for some of the best photo opportunities in Brisbane.

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Have an Extra Day or Two?

Why not turn your conference trip into a Queensland getaway?

Brisbane is perfectly positioned for exploring some of South East Queensland's most beautiful destinations.

14

Moreton Island (Mulgumpin)

Best for: Beaches, snorkelling and island adventures

Escape to an island paradise just off the Brisbane coast.

Discover pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, snorkelling adventures and the famous Tangalooma Wrecks.

A fantastic option for those wanting to experience Queensland's natural beauty.

Allow: A full day or overnight stay.

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15

Gold Coast

Best for: Beaches, shopping, dining and entertainment

Just south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast is famous for its beautiful beaches, surf culture, theme parks and vibrant dining scene.

Spend the day at Burleigh Heads, explore Broadbeach or enjoy the famous coastline.

Allow: A full day or longer.

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16

Sunshine Coast

Best for: Coastal relaxation and scenic escapes

Head north to discover the stunning Sunshine Coast, including Noosa, Mooloolaba and the beautiful coastal towns along the way.

Enjoy beaches, boutique shopping, outstanding dining and laid-back coastal charm.

Allow: A full day or overnight stay.

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17

Tamborine Mountain

Best for: Wineries, rainforest walks and hinterland scenery

Escape the city and explore the beautiful Gold Coast hinterland.

Tamborine Mountain offers lush rainforest walks, charming cafés, boutique wineries, artisan shops and spectacular scenery.

Allow: A half-day to full day.

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Short on Time? Here's What We Recommend

Getting Around Brisbane

Brisbane is an easy city to explore, with plenty of transport options available.

Walking: Many of Brisbane's major attractions, restaurants and riverside precincts are within walking distance of the CBD.

Public Transport: Brisbane's trains, buses and ferries connect the city with surrounding suburbs and attractions. Use Translink to plan your journey.

CityCat Ferries: A scenic way to travel along the Brisbane River while enjoying the sights.

Taxis & Rideshare: Readily available throughout the CBD and surrounding areas.

Car Hire: Recommended if you're planning to explore the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast or hinterland destinations at your own pace.

Plan Your Journey: translink.com.au

Discover What's On During Your Stay

There's always something happening in Brisbane!

From live music and theatre to markets, exhibitions, sporting events and festivals, be sure to check what's on while you're visiting.

Useful Links:

Visit Brisbane: visit.brisbane.qld.au
Visit South Bank: visitsouthbank.com.au
Queensland Performing Arts Centre: qpac.com.au
Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art: qagoma.qld.gov.au
Translink: translink.com.au

We hope you take the opportunity to explore everything Brisbane has to offer.

Enjoy your stay, and we look forward to welcoming you for the Professionals 2026 International Conference & Awards!

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