We Brisbanites love our river. Early European explorers marvelled at the natural beauty they witnessed while travelling up its lower reaches, and even today the Brisbane River is our city’s major defining natural feature.
We use it for recreation and commuting. We pay big bucks for any residence with river views. We like to eat at restaurants along its banks. We fish in it, go kayaking on it, eat on it (aboard cruise boats), even walk and ride on it, courtesy of the floating RiverWalk.
There are so many ways to enjoy the river – here’s our pick of the best. Tell us how you like to enjoy the river – leave a comment below.
Simple pleasures
There are numerous parks, fishing holes and boat ramps along the Brisbane River banks, but our favourite spot is the much-loved New Farm Park. Kids go bananas in the huge fig trees, linked by wobbly bridges and play platforms; dancers practise their moves in the rotunda; couples laze on picnic rugs and everyone enjoys the riverside location and beautiful gardens.
Other riverside parks include Colmslie Park at Murrarie and Rocks Riverside Park at Seventeen Mile Rocks.
Go for a cruise
Several companies provide Brisbane river cruises: the picturesque Kookaburra River Queens paddle wheelers offer cruises while the MV Mirimar provides a river link from Brisbane city to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. But when it comes to value for money, we reckon you can’t beat the CityCats and ferries, which ply the river daily, offering the best-value river rides in town.
“Row, row, row your boat…”
If you’re looking for a more active river experience, dip your oar into the sports of rowing, canoeing and kayaking. The Brisbane River is a top spot to practise and you can see the city or isolated beauty spots from the water. How’s the serenity?
There are also casual rowing, canoeing and kayaking events organised by Brisbane City Council in the RAW and GOLD recreational programs. Give it a go!
Best vantage points
Get a bird’s-eye view of the river from the iconic Story Bridge. Take a day bridge climb and enjoy uninterrupted 360º views of the river, the city, the mountain ranges and Moreton Bay islands or try a night climb and experience the city lights reflecting onto the river.
Or head to Kangaroo Point Cliffs for impressive views over the river and city. (The cliffs are also a popular picnic spot.)
For the ultimate river view, book a hot-air balloon flight and check out its meandering course from above.
Riverside living
Yes, there are numerous grand houses and lofty apartments offering breathtaking views of the Brisbane River. Surely, however, the ultimate riverside residence is…wait for it…the historic Walter Taylor Bridge, 6km from the CBD. Erected in 1936 to connect Chelmer to Indooroopilly, the bridge is unique in that its two towers are still residences. (For trivia heads: a total of 13 bridges span the Brisbane River.) How quirky. How Brisbane.
Riverside dining
It’s a gorgeous day (yet again!) in Brisbane and you decide you want to indulge in fine food, wine and expansive views (as opposed to “glimpses”) of the Brisbane River. Where can you go? Check out the best riverfront dining options.
Events
The Brisbane River hosts numerous events, but our favourite is the annual Riverfestival, and highly anticipated QBE Riverfire, Queensland’s largest fireworks display. Nothing beats the thrill of watching the F-111s fly overheard for the “dump and burn”.
Favourite riverside places
This is a tough one. But there are a few venues and places that stand out, having become an integral part of our beloved Brisbane:
- South Bank – the playground and meeting spot for everyone. It’s a must-see spot for all visitors and the place residents return to again and again. For entertainment, nothing beats South Bank Parklands with its inviting lawns and year-round swimming at Streets Beach.
- Cultural Centre - incorporating Australia’s largest Gallery of Modern Art, the more traditional Queensland Art Gallery, the celebrated State Library of Queensland, Queensland Museum and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre – all with views of the water.
- Brisbane City Botanic Gardens – a green haven in the heart of the city.
- Brisbane Powerhouse – former power station on the riverfront has become a distinct Brisbane landmark, both as a stunning industrial creation and as a hub for creative performances.
- Portside Wharf – our international cruise terminal and vibrant retail precinct, combining great restaurants, cafés, cinema, fresh produce markets and apartment living. The vibe: sophisticated yet relaxed.
Find out what was voted your favourite Brisbane River experience in our Best of Brisbane poll.
What’s your favourite Brisbane River experience? Add your comments below.
The best thing for us is riding our bikes along the riverside paths. Great views; great exercise.