If you’re chasing a holiday that’s equally enjoyable for the parents as it is for the children, Brisbane is the perfect destination for families looking to escape for a long weekend. With its year-round sunny weather, exciting food scene, and range of indoor and outdoor attractions, there’s something for everyone.
To make life easier, we’ve compiled a long weekend itinerary featuring all the must-see attractions and hidden gems near your Riverside Hotel Brisbane.
Day 1 – Get to know Brisbane River
Start your day by checking into View Brisbane, located only a short drive from Brisbane Airport, then make your way along the Brisbane River to New Farm Park. As one of Brisbane’s most loved outdoor spaces, New Farm Park is a great spot for families to stretch their legs after a flight, with green space to run, playgrounds to explore and pathways to cycle.
Next up, head to The Powerhouse, a vibrant cultural hub on the banks of the Brisbane River. The kids will love the interactive exhibits and shows, while parents can take in some of the art and design installations or enjoy a coffee at Mary Mae’s riverside bar and restaurant.
When you’ve finished topping up your culture cup, jump on a CityCat toward Howard Smith Wharves. It’s here where you’ll find one of Brisbane’s best dining precincts, loaded with options for lunch, including Yoko, Greca, and Felon’s Brewing Co. There’s also a playground for the kids to burn off post-lunch energy.
In the afternoon, take it easy and explore the city of Brisbane. Stroll through the bustling Queen Street Mall and visit some of the many shops and landmarks that make Brisbane so unique.
Finally, end your day at Eat Street Northshore, a night market filled with food, drinks and live entertainment. With over 70 vendors selling everything from burgers to desserts, there’s sure to be something to please everyone’s taste buds. It’s the perfect way to cap off a day of adventure before heading back to the comfort of View Riverside Hotel Brisbane.
Day 2 – Immerse yourself in the culture of South Bank
Day two kicks off with a trip to South Bank, just a short CityCat ride from your Brisbane CBD accommodation. South Bank is home to many of Brisbane’s best cultural landmarks, so make sure to visit the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), a modern art museum showcasing contemporary international and Australian art. Queensland Museum is also close by, with exhibits featuring the natural and cultural history of the region.
Once you’re done exploring the South Bank, it’s time for lunch at Fish Lane, a colourful laneway filled with bars, cafes, and restaurants. A diverse range of cuisines is available, and the kids will love taking their pick from eateries such as Southside, Hello Please, and Julius Pizzeria.
After lunch, make a pit stop at Story Bridge on the way back to your riverside hotel in Brisbane. It’s here where you and the family can take a guided climb to the top of Brisbane’s main bridge for panoramic city views. Plus, kids climb for free on Sundays.
In the evening, head to Portside Hamilton for dinner. The precinct is filled with restaurants and cafes suitable for all budgets and is a great place to enjoy a meal with a side of sunset river views. The best part about dining at Portside is that it’s only a short walk back to your room at View Hotel in Brisbane.
Day 3 – Embrace Brisbane’s nature and nostalgia
On the final day of your family long weekend in Brisbane, set the alarm early and begin the day with a scenic hike up Mount Coot-tha. The mountain is a popular spot for visitors and locals, offering incredible views of Brisbane from the summit. It’s a great opportunity to take family photos and capture memories while staying active.
After breakfast at The Summit Cafe, make your way to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – a short drive from Mount Coot-tha and Brisbane CBD accommodation. As the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, Lone Pine is the ideal place to meet some native Australian marsupials and wildlife. You can even hand-feed the kangaroos and hold a koala for a more interactive experience.
In the evening, you’ll need a relaxing place to sit back and enjoy dinner. Lucky for you, one of Brisbane’s most iconic pubs, Breakfast Creek Hotel, is a stone’s throw from View Brisbane. This historical landmark has served locals for over a century and offers a range of tasty pub fare with a strong steak focus. The kids will love the fun alfresco atmosphere and the chance to soak in the vibes of an authentic Aussie pub. Then, it’s time for one final sunset stroll along the Brisbane River as you pack up and say goodbye to Queensland’s capital.
