South Bank Visitor Guide

South Bank Corporation acknowledges the Traditional Owners, the Turrbal and Yuggera people, their custodianship and connection with the land, sea and waterways on which Brisbane’s inner city now stands. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.

Since time immemorial, First Nations people have managed, cultivated and cared for the landscape where Brisbane was established and continues to grow.

First Nations people hold profound knowledge, understanding and custodianship of the land, often expressed as Connection to Country. Country is a word for all of the values, places, resources, stories and cultural obligations associated with that area and its features. It describes the entirety of ancestral domains.

Connection to Country is expressed through stories, song, dance, hunting, fishing and gathering. It is alive in the many layers and history of the Brisbane landscape.

We recognise the importance of the living cultures of First Nations peoples on this land and the dynamic contribution First Nations people make to the Brisbane community.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

The South Bank Visitor Information Centre is located in Stanley Street Plaza. Open 9am to 5pm daily (07) 3867 2111 visit@south-bank.net.au Visit in person

• Free guided tours – 10am daily (90 minutes in duration).

• Free maps and brochures

• Information on restaurant and dining options at South Bank

• Hire strollers, manual wheelchairs and specialty pool wheelchairs

• Event information and general enquiries

• Reservations and bookings for tours, cruises and transfers, plus theme park ticket sales

WELCOME

South Bank is Brisbane’s favourite destination and one of Queensland’s most visited precincts, welcoming more than 16 million visitors every year. Nestled in a prime position on the Brisbane River, opposite the city centre, it is a lively cultural and leisure hub with extensive greenspace, playgrounds, the city’s only artificial beach and other water play areas, hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars, a cinema, theatres, museums and galleries, the Wheel of Brisbane and the iconic BRISBANE Sign.

It features a beautiful bougainvillea-laced arbour, a riverside promenade, its own rainforest, an ornamental and productive garden championing fresh seasonal produce and is also the city’s home of events. Safe, green, diverse and inviting, with something for everyone – South Bank is waiting to welcome you!

GET SOCIAL

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BE INSPIRED!

For help planning your visit to South Bank, learn more at: visitsouthbank.com.au

THE PRECINCT

GETTING HERE

AIR ROAD

ACTIVE TRANSPORT

Brisbane Airport operates both international and domestic terminals and is located just 20 minutes north-east of South Bank. Convenient transfers are available via rail, private shuttle, taxi or rideshare.

South Bank is conveniently located in South Brisbane, just over the river from Brisbane City. Secure underground car parking is available on-site, with more than 800 spaces including eight disabled bays, with lift and stair accessibility. Entry is via Tribune Street or Little Stanley Street. There are also adjacent off-street carparks at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) and Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) with a total of 2,479 additional spaces.

South Bank is perfectly placed for walking, cycling or scooting. From Brisbane City, you can stroll across Victoria Bridge, Neville Bonner Bridge or Goodwill Bridge to reach South Bank. The scenic riverside pathways connect seamlessly into Brisbane’s wider cycling and walking network.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

South Bank is well serviced by public transport – including bus, metro, train and ferry. The precinct is connected to Brisbane’s busway with buses and metros departing regularly from South Bank and Cultural Centre stations. It also has two train stations, South Bank and South Brisbane, as well as its own CityCat ferry terminal with services operating every day along our river network.

Scan to view our interactive map of the South Bank precinct

HISTORY

This part of South Brisbane, known as South Bank, has been a significant place in the history of Brisbane for tens of thousands of years before European arrival and continuously since then.

EARLY TIMES

For more than 60,000 years, the South Brisbane region was home to the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples, who cared for the land and used it as a gathering place for trade, marriage and ceremonies.

EARLY EUROPEAN SETTLEMENT

Surveyor General John Oxley first sailed up the river in 1823 and a year later Brisbane was established. By the 1840s, South Brisbane had become the city’s bustling business heart.

WALON-KAPA

‘WHIP-TAIL WALLABY THERE’ OR ‘PLACE OF FIGHT TALK’ OR ‘SWIRLING WATER’

Creeks and waterholes

Vine forest

Wetland and pools

Sandy beach

Aboriginal pathway

Aboriginal campsite

Bora ground

Pullen Pullen

South Bank area of today

TURN OF THE CENTURY

A major flood in 1893 destroyed the original Victoria Bridge and many wharves, submerging South Brisbane and moving the commercial heart of the town north. By the 1900s, South Brisbane had gained city status and had its own Town Hall, School of Art, theatres and libraries, and by the 1930s, thrived as a busy river port with markets, wharves, dance halls and theatres.

South Bank experienced decline following World War II as the docks moved to Hamilton and much of the waterfront was cleared. The world-class Queensland Performing Arts Centre opened in 1985, marking the start of revitalisation of the area.

WORLD EXPO 88

By 1984, South Bank was little more than old hotels, light industrial buildings and boarding houses.

However, the decision to stage World Expo 88 at South Bank was the catalyst for the modern development of South Bank and the emergence of Brisbane as a vibrant, world-class city. It showcased an almost continuous program of entertainment and events that sparked new life into the city and the South Bank precinct.

World Expo was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 30 April 1988. By the time it reached its conclusion six months later, more than 18 million people had experienced Expo at South Bank.

SOUTH BANK OPENS

Following World Expo 88, most of the site was cleared, but strong community advocacy saw the 17-hectare South Bank precinct remain public. In 1989, the Queensland Government established South Bank Corporation to oversee its redevelopment.

The South Bank precinct opened in 1992, with an artificial beach and lagoon with CBD views, garden and rainforest walks, picnic and barbecue areas, more than 20 restaurants and cafes, paid tourist attractions and cycling and pedestrian walkways.

More than 6 million people visited the precinct in its first year, proving that South Bank Corporation had successfully achieved its vision of a place for everyone.

Since then, South Bank has continued to evolve through thoughtful planning and investment, becoming the vibrant, iconic destination that locals and visitors enjoy today.

MUST-DO EXPERIENCES

With scenic views, a vibrant dining scene, iconic landmarks and tranquil spaces, South Bank is filled with exciting things to do. Whether you’re looking to fill an entire weekend or just a couple of hours, Brisbane’s favourite precinct has got you covered.

STREETS BEACH

Found between the Brisbane River and the bougainvillea-clad Arbour is the South Bank

icon, Streets Beach. Australia’s only innercity, artificial beach boasts a crystal-clear lagoon surrounded by pristine white sand and sub-tropical plants. This is the perfect place to soak up the sun, take a quick dip to cool off and enjoy the beach atmosphere in the heart of Brisbane.

BOAT POOL

For a more tranquil swimming experience, head to the Boat Pool. This expansive, crystal-blue pool is the ideal spot to unwind, cool off and enjoy Brisbane’s sunshine at a slower pace. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s the perfect alternative if you’re after relaxation without the sand.

AQUATIVITY

If you’re on the search for a family-friendly water-based activity, make your way to Aquativity, a fun and interactive water-play park. This space offers a great opportunity for children of all ages and families to learn and enjoy the outdoors. The vibrant location features a range of educational elements that reference the Brisbane River, local catchments, native fish and mammal species and the water cycle, all while keeping the kids cool.

WHEEL OF BRISBANE

An iconic landmark etched upon the South Bank skyline, the Wheel of Brisbane is a breathtaking way to take in views of Brisbane City. Rising 60 metres above South Bank, you will enjoy spectacular 360-degree panoramic views from the safety and comfort of a fully enclosed, air-conditioned gondola that seats up to six adults and two children.

The experience includes up to four revolutions on your 10 to 15-minute ride. There is a magical stop at the top and an engaging audio tour, pointing out popular Brisbane landmarks. Visitors can experience it a few ways with sights by day, lights by night, sunset rides or by enjoying a Sky-High Picnic on board with options for both kids and adults. There are also birthday and romantic experiences you can book for your loved ones as well as a range of wines to enjoy while you ride. Photo memories and other memorabilia are available as you exit the Wheel.

THE BRISBANE SIGN

The once-temporary Brisbane Sign has now become a much-loved permanent landmark in South Bank. Visitors to the city love to stand near the giant letters to take group photos or capture selfies with the Brisbane skyline behind them.

Originally designed and installed for the G20 Leaders Summit in 2014, which saw world leaders such as Barack Obama and Angela Merkel visit the city, the original sign was only meant to exist for one month, however, a permanent iteration has replaced the original and become a must-see in Brisbane.

Perched on a wide expanse of green grass near the southern bank of the river, outside Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the sign is hard to miss. You will find it most easily on foot, either by walking across Victoria Bridge from the city, down Melbourne Street from South Brisbane or taking a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk or Clem Jones Promenade.

RAINFOREST WALK AND NEPALESE

PAGODA

Rainforest Walk is a beautiful oasis tucked between the Wheel of Brisbane and Streets Beach. The boardwalk meanders through the trees, taking you past beautifully created spaces. The gentle sounds of the trickling stream invite calm and the well placed seating allows for time to pause and soak in the serenity.

Nearby is one of South Bank’s most treasured attractions, the Nepalese Peace Pagoda. The Kingdom of Nepal’s contribution to World Expo 88, the three-storey high Pagoda is a stunning architectural marvel, featuring over 80 tonnes of hand-carved Nepalese timber, sourced from the Terai jungle of Nepal and crafted by 160 families over two years. Visitors can wander through its lower level and explore its intricate design up close and enjoy the tranquil space for reflection and relaxation.

EPICURIOUS GARDEN

Tucked away in the heart of South Bank is a hidden gem – a lush, seasonal edible demonstration garden bursting with herbs, vegetables, edible flowers and more. Built in 2014 and maintained by a team of dedicated staff and volunteers, Epicurious Garden is designed to educate, inspire and connect the community around growing and cooking their own produce. The garden includes a harvest cart (open Tuesday to Thursday, 7am to 10am), where visitors can select their own free fresh produce –you’ll find everything from basil and sweet potato to coffee beans, fresh herbs and seasonal fruit. Our friendly volunteers are always happy to talk about what’s in season, offer gardening tips and share ideas for how to use what’s growing.

THE PROMENADE AND GRAND ARBOUR

Take a moment to slow down and meander through one of South Bank’s beautiful footpaths. Stroll beneath the beauty of the blooming bougainvillea flowers as the pink and purple colours bloom along the iconic Arbour footpath. The Grand Arbour features a kilometre-long sculptural installation composed of 443 steel tendrils up to ten metres high, supporting a canopy of bougainvillea blooms. Alternatively, join the locals as they walk, jog or cycle along the riverside of Clem Jones Promenade to soak up the stunning views of the river and city as it wakes up around you. It is just as delightful during the day, with an ice cream in hand, or at sunset.

SUNDAY SOCIAL

Looking for the perfect weekend wind-down?

Sunday Social features free, laid-back live music and epic picnic eats (BYO or ordered from one of the nearby restaurants) by the river. Held every Sunday on River Quay Green from 2pm to 5pm, this weekly event showcases the soft and smooth tunes of some of Brisbane’s best musicians, set against the backdrop of the Brisbane skyline.

SOUTH BANK MARKETS

Who doesn’t love a market?

The Collective Markets at South Bank are held every Friday evening (5pm to 9pm), Saturday (10am to 9pm) and Sunday (9am to 4pm). They run the length of Little Stanley Street and feature an exciting range of arts, craft, homewares, collectibles and much more. They’re an ideal way to find a unique gift or simply stroll through and enjoy the atmosphere or a bite to eat.

FOOD & DRINK

South Bank is bursting with incredible dining options, offering something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a casual restaurant for breakfast or brunch, a bar to share a meal and a few drinks with friends, a spot for a romantic evening out, or wanting to celebrate a special occasion with that magnificent river view, you’re spoiled for choice at South Bank.

LITTLE STANLEY STREET & GREY STREET

Little Stanley Street is one of South Bank’s most popular dining strips, offering more than 30 restaurants, cafés and bars. From Spanish tapas and Turkish banquets to Parisianstyle lunches, American diners and modern Australian favourites, this street serves up flavours from around the world. Whether it’s breakfast, dinner or late-night drinks, there’s always something to discover along this vibrant foodie boulevard.

Linking Brisbane’s cultural heart to South Bank’s dining scene, Grey Street is lined with bars and a range of international cuisines to suit every taste, all within easy walking distance.

RIVER QUAY

Set on the river’s edge with stunning city views, River Quay is home to some of Brisbane’s premier restaurants. Each venue offers its own distinctive take on world-class dining, all with a focus on fresh, local produce. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a long lunch, sunset drinks or an elegant dinner by the water. On Sundays, don’t miss Sunday Social from 2pm to 5pm for laid-back live music and picnic eats by the river.

STANLEY STREET PLAZA

Stanley Street Plaza is South Bank’s vibrant central meeting point, lined with fast and casual dining options between the grab-and-go Riverside Terrace and dine-in experiences on Little Stanley and Grey Streets. Enjoy a mix of cafés, dessert spots, international flavours and classic pubs, all set against a lively, cobbled-street atmosphere.

RIVERSIDE TERRACE

Home to South Bank’s most beloved casual eateries, Riverside Terrace is the ideal location for leisurely bites and weekend delights. Located in the heart of South Bank, adjacent to the iconic Streets Beach and Riverside Green, it is a space to rest, refuel and recoup. Boasting a broad range of casual dining options, from fresh sandwiches and pizza to decadent ice cream and healthy smoothies, there’s no better pit-stop when spending a day exploring South Bank.

GREEN SPACES

Roll out the picnic rug and relax in an inner-city oasis. South Bank’s lush green spaces are perfect for soaking up the sunshine, enjoying a casual lunch or simply unwinding with friends and family.

RIVERSIDE GREEN

With barbeque facilities, a large shade pavilion and a sprawling lawn, Riverside Green is the ideal spot for gatherings, picnics or simply stretching out under the sun.

RIVER QUAY GREEN

With stunning riverside and city views, River Quay Green is a great spot to enjoy the outdoors.

Riverside Green, Picnic Island and River Quay Green are licensed areas. Alcohol may be consumed responsibly within designated hours.

Terms and conditions apply - see visitsouthbank.com.au for more information.

SOUTH BANK

PICNIC ISLAND GREEN

Just past Flowstate, Picnic Island Green is perfect for families and friends alike. Kids can explore the naturebased playground, nestled among a majestic strangler fig, while the adults fire up the undercover barbecues.

RAINFOREST GREEN

A tranquil escape, Rainforest Green is surrounded by lush tropical plants and towering trees. This secluded grassy paradise is the perfect place to relax and recharge away from the bustle.

PLAYGROUNDS

If you’re looking for a place for the kids to burn off some energy while having plenty of fun, Riverside Green Playground is the place. There are climbing nets, huge slides and more, with a large green shady space and surrounding barbeques and cafes. Set up a base as the kids run back and forth for tasty fuel before conquering the playground again!

EVENTS AT SOUTH BANK

South Bank is Brisbane’s go -to destination for unforgettable events, offering a vibrant year-round program of arts and culture, festivals, sporting showcases and family-friendly fun. From major annual highlights like Riverfire and New Year’s Eve celebrations to a diverse array of activations for food lovers, music fans, couples and families, there’s always something exciting happening at South Bank.

WHAT’S ON AT BCEC

The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC) located on South Bank’s Grey Street is the city’s premier venue for international and national conventions and exhibitions, as well as public ticketed events.

DISCOVER QPAC

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre, better known as QPAC, is home to major Queensland performing arts companies including the Queensland Theatre Company, Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Queensland Ballet and Opera Queensland. More than 1,200 performances take to the stage each year, featuring major award-winning international musicals and significant artists.

EXPLORE THE CULTURAL PRECINCT

Neighbouring South Bank is the Cultural Precinct – the epicentre of Brisbane’s cultural scene with the Queensland Art Galley and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), Queensland Museum and the State Library all here.

QAGOMA presents historical and early modern Australian, Asian and international collections, as well as art of the late 20th and 21st centuries, in dramatic architectural spaces. Queensland Museum Kurilpa celebrates the stories of Queensland, from prehistoric giants to modern achievements and scientific discovery spanning millennia.

WHERE TO STAY

South Bank is the perfect place to stay for those wanting to be centrally located and close to everything Brisbane has to offer.

There are a range of options, from five-star luxury to family-friendly apartments. Enjoy views of the Brisbane River, immaculate facilities, a wide variety of entertainment options and things to do.

Check out Emporium Hotel South Bank, with its show-stopping rooftop infinity pool and elegant Terrace Rooftop Bar; Rydges South Bank Brisbane, right next to the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, with its seamless blend of convenience and comfort, perfect for both

work and play; Courtyard by Marriott South Bank, thoughtfully designed for comfort and accessibility and a fantastic option for business travellers, families and weekend adventurers; the contemporary Novotel Brisbane South Bank, ideal for families, couples or business travellers; Mantra South Bank, tucked along lively Grey Street with stylish apartments offering the comfort of home and convenience of being right in the middle of the action.

A little further afield, but still in South Brisbane, are: Alloggio, Ivy+Eve Apartments, Quest South Brisbane, Rambla short stay apartments and Riverside Hotel.

ACCESSIBILITY

South Bank is proud to be an accessible precinct for visitors, with various facilities and services available.

PARKING BATHROOMS

Several accessible parking bays are available near the car park lifts at the northern and southern ends of level B1.

Standard accessible bathrooms are located at South Bank Piazza, Stanley Street Plaza and Aquativity. For guests requiring additional support, a fully accessible bathroom equipped with a ceiling hoist is located at Riverside Terrace. Access to this facility requires an MLAK key. If visitors do not have one, they can visit the South Bank Visitor Information Centre for assistance. Guests must bring their own sling with loop attachments to use the hoist.

WHEELCHAIR HIRE

Wheelchairs and strollers are available for hire from the South Bank Visitor Information Centre, with fees starting at $7 for a half day. As well as standard wheelchairs we have a purpose-built beach wheelchair available which is free to use.

ACTIVITIES

South Bank is wheelchair accessible, featuring gardens, a free outdoor swimming lagoon and picnic areas.