How to Spend a Weekend in Brisbane: Top Things to Do in South Bank

When your weekend revolves around great events, Brisbane delivers in style. Whether you’re catching a blockbuster musical, exploring waterfront dining or discovering some of the city’s most iconic attractions, you’ll find the best things to do in South Bank right at your fingertips. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top experiences, incredible accommodation near South Bank and the tastiest dining options to round out your stay.

Start your weekend with the best things to do in South Bank

South Bank is Brisbane’s cultural heart. With river views, lush parklands and a long list of dining, arts and entertainment options, this precinct is purpose-built for slow wanders and memorable moments. If you’re spending a weekend here, these experiences should be at the top of your list.

Wander the South Bank Parklands

There’s no better way to ease into your holiday than with a stroll through the South Bank Parklands. This riverside stretch is filled with shady lawns, flowering bougainvillea and leafy paths that wind along the water. Locals come to exercise, picnic and lounge by the river, while visitors love pausing at the lookout points to take in views of the CBD across the water.

If you’re travelling with friends or family, the Parklands offer plenty of space to spend a morning relaxing before diving into the buzzier parts of the precinct. The pathways also connect seamlessly to QAGOMA, Streets Beach and the many eateries dotted along Little Stanley Street, making it a great jumping-off point for exploring the rest of the area.

Swim at Streets Beach

You don’t need to leave the city to enjoy a swim in sparkling, lagoon-like waters. Streets Beach is South Bank’s iconic inner-city beach, complete with white sand, lifeguards and a gentle, family-friendly pool. It’s free, easy to access and remains one of Brisbane’s most unique attractions.

Arrive early to secure a shady spot or come later in the afternoon when the heat starts to ease. Either way, it’s a refreshing way to cool off before or after a day of sightseeing. Families will appreciate the dedicated kids’ Aquativity area, while couples and groups often gravitate toward the quieter edges of the lagoon for a calmer swim.

A man in swim trunks joyfully lifts a laughing child in a swimsuit above shallow water. The cityscape, palm trees, and clear sky create a vibrant, carefree scene.

Explore world-class museums and galleries

Art and culture lovers are spoiled for choice in Brisbane. Just a short walk from South Bank, you’ll find both the Queensland Museum and the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). These world-class institutions showcase everything from Queensland’s natural history to cutting-edge exhibitions from local and global artists.

At Queensland Museum, you can immerse yourself in interactive displays, dinosaur skeletons and rotating exhibitions designed to appeal to visitors of all ages. Meanwhile, QAGOMA offers a blend of classical works, thought-provoking modern pieces and large-scale installations that encourage you to engage with art in unexpected ways.

If your weekend escape includes a show at QPAC, this cultural trio provides the perfect daytime contrast before the curtain rises at night.

A grand chandelier with cascading lights illuminates an elegant, modern lobby with high ceilings. Two people walk along a path above a reflecting pool.

Catch a show at QPAC

A trip to South Bank isn’t complete without experiencing a performance at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). As one of Australia’s busiest and most respected arts venues, QPAC hosts a year-round program of award-winning musicals, concerts, ballets and theatre productions.

If you’re planning a weekend away, keep an eye out for major productions gracing the stage. Recent favourites include Beetlejuice the Musical, The Last Ship and MJ the Musical, each bringing global talent and spectacular staging to Brisbane. Whether you’re a theatre regular or simply curious, seeing a show here is one of the most memorable things to do in South Bank. Pair your tickets with riverfront drinks before the show and you’ve got a night to remember.

Night view of Brisbane River, Wheel of Brisbane, and illuminated cultural buildings with reflections on the water.

Plan your Brisbane weekend

Where to stay: Accommodation near South Bank Brisbane

Choosing the right hotel can make all the difference to your South Bank weekend. To help you find the perfect match, here are some of the best accommodation near South Bank Brisbane, all available at My Queensland. Each property offers exceptional comfort, standout facilities and easy access to the precinct’s attractions.

Emporium Hotel South Bank

Sophisticated, striking and perfectly positioned, Emporium Hotel South Bank is the ideal choice if you’re after a touch of luxury. Its rooftop pool delivers sweeping views over the river and city, while the rooms and suites feel effortlessly refined. Step outside and you’re moments from the Parklands, Streets Beach, QAGOMA and the bustling dining scene along Little Stanley Street.

With a combination of comfort, architectural flair and convenience, it’s one of the best places to base yourself if you’re attending an event, planning a romantic weekend or simply wanting to make the most of South Bank’s cultural attractions.

Rooftop infinity pool with sun loungers and palm trees, overlooking a city skyline under a blue sky.

Novotel Brisbane South Bank

For a relaxed, contemporary stay that suits families, couples and groups alike, Novotel Brisbane South Bank is hard to beat. The hotel sits just a short walk from QPAC, the riverside promenade and some of the area’s most popular restaurants. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with all the modern touches you need for a stress-free weekend away.

Because it’s slightly tucked back from the main thoroughfare, Novotel offers a quieter retreat without compromising on convenience. Guests often gravitate to the outdoor pool between outings, and its easy access to South Bank’s highlights makes it a great all-round choice.

Woman relaxing on a sun lounger by a pool, reading a book under an umbrella.

Crystalbrook Vincent

Sitting on the river at Howard Smith Wharves, Crystalbrook Vincent is a striking, art-led hotel that blends bold design with effortless comfort. Its clifftop pool, curated interiors and focus on sustainable luxury make it a standout option for travellers wanting something a little different from their Brisbane stay.

From the hotel, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy some of the city’s best dining and nightlife, with the riverwalk offering an easy connection to the CBD and a short journey to the South Bank precinct. If your weekend revolves around an event or a night at QPAC, Crystalbrook Vincent offers the ideal mix of style, convenience and memorable moments.

Two people relax in an infinity pool, facing a large steel bridge spanning across a river. The backdrop includes city buildings and lush greenery.

Places to eat in South Bank

One of the best parts of spending a weekend in South Bank is the sheer variety of dining options. Whether you’re craving riverfront seafood, a long brunch or late-night drinks after a show at QPAC, the precinct caters to every taste and occasion. With so many places to eat in South Bank, you’ll have no trouble finding a meal that matches your mood.

Start your day with breakfast at one of the cafes scattered along Grey Street or Little Stanley Street, where menus range from classic eggs on toast to Middle Eastern-inspired brunch plates and cold-pressed juices. For lunch, restaurants along the river offer the perfect mix of scenery and fresh Queensland flavours. Think seafood platters, crisp salads, woodfired pizzas or modern Australian dishes served with a view.

As the sun starts to set, South Bank comes alive with evening diners. Many venues offer al fresco seating, making it easy to soak up the warm Brisbane air before heading to your show. Afterwards, wander back towards the river to find bars offering cocktails, craft beers and share plates late into the night.

If you’re staying at Crystalbrook Vincent, you’ll also have the buzz of Howard Smith Wharves at your fingertips. Its waterside restaurants and bars are favourites among locals and visitors alike, and the precinct’s laidback atmosphere makes it a great stop on any Brisbane weekend getaway.

Two women sitting at a table with various dishes and drinks, under a neon sign that reads

Make your Brisbane weekend unforgettable with My Queensland

A weekend in Brisbane offers culture, sunshine, great food and plenty of memorable moments, especially when you base yourself in or near South Bank. So, why not plan a weekend around one of the show-stopping musicals at QPAC with our exclusive Event Holidays? We’ve done all the work for you, perfectly packaging your event tickets with Brisbane’s best accommodation, along with flights, experiences and more.

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Categories : Travel