Exploring Brisbane's River: Walks, Cruises & Dining
Brisbane's iconic waterway weaves through the heart of the city, creating a stunning backdrop for countless adventures. Whether you're keen for a leisurely stroll along tree-lined paths, a relaxing cruise with skyline views, or a delicious meal overlooking the water, the Brisbane River offers it all. Let's dive into the best ways to experience this beloved Queensland landmark.
Why Is Brisbane Known as the River City?
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
The river has played a crucial role in Brisbane's development since European settlement, serving as both a vital transport route and recreational space. This winding waterway stretches approximately 344 kilometres from Mount Stanley to Moreton Bay, creating a distinct serpent-like path through the heart of the city.
Today, it continues to be a central part of Brisbane's identity, with locals embracing riverside living. While the river's brown appearance might not make it seem like an ideal swimming spot (and you'd be right – swimming isn't recommended due to strong currents and the local bull sharks, which can be found up to 80 km upstream!), it offers plenty of other ways to enjoy the water.
Which Riverside Walks Are a Must?
Brisbane boasts an impressive network of riverside paths that allow you to experience the city from different perspectives. Whether you're a keen jogger, a casual stroller, or simply looking for a scenic route between destinations, these walks deliver stunning views at every turn.
The Brisbane Riverwalk is perhaps the most iconic pathway, stretching along significant portions of the river and connecting various precincts. This extensive network allows you to follow the river's meandering path from New Farm through the CBD and across to South Bank, with multiple bridge crossings providing circular routes of various lengths.
South Bank and the Arbour Walk offer one of the most picturesque sections of riverside strolling. The vibrant cultural precinct features a beautiful 1km walkway covered with bougainvillea, connecting the Queensland Performing Arts Centre to the Maritime Museum. Along the way, you'll pass the famous Streets Beach (Brisbane's inner-city beach), expansive parklands, and numerous dining options – perfect for breaking up your walk with a coffee or meal.
The recently completed Kangaroo Point Green Bridge is a game-changer for pedestrians and cyclists. This stunning piece of infrastructure connects the CBD with Kangaroo Point, offering breathtaking river views and cutting travel time between these popular precincts. The bridge itself is an architectural marvel worth visiting, with dedicated viewing platforms where you can pause to take in the cityscape.
What Cruises Give You the Best Views?
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
While walking allows you to experience the river at your own pace, cruising offers a unique perspective of Brisbane from the water itself.
The CityCat ferry service is one of the best ways to see Brisbane. These sleek catamarans zip along the river with multiple stops from The University of Queensland to Northshore Hamilton. For just the price of a standard transport ticket, you can hop on and off throughout the day, exploring different riverside precincts. The open-air rear decks provide perfect photo opportunities of the skyline, especially during sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.
For a more structured experience, dedicated Brisbane River cruises offer everything from informative sightseeing tours to luxurious dining experiences. Kookaburra Showboat Cruises combines spectacular views with entertainment and dining, while Mirimar Cruises offers a popular journey to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
Where Can You Enjoy a Meal by the Water?
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Brisbane's riverside dining scene has exploded in recent years, with several precincts offering world-class restaurants with water views.
Howard Smith Wharves has rapidly become Brisbane's premier dining destination. Nestled beneath the Story Bridge, this revitalised heritage site houses a collection of restaurants, bars and breweries, all offering spectacular river views.
Highlights include Greca for modern Greek cuisine, Stanley for Cantonese delicacies, and Felons Brewing Co. for craft beers in a relaxed setting.
Riverbar & Kitchen in the CBD offers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience with uninterrupted river views. Their seafood-focused menu perfectly complements the waterfront setting, while the breezy outdoor area is ideal for afternoon drinks as the CityCats cruise by.
South Bank's dining precinct includes the elegant OTTO Ristorante, specialising in refined Italian cuisine, handmade pasta, and seasonal ingredients. If you ask us, the Spaghetti with Mud crab, dill, chives and flying fish roe is a must!
Thrills and Views on the Story Bridge Climb
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
For the adventurous, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers an exhilarating way to experience Brisbane from above. As one of only three bridge climbs in the world, this 2-hour experience takes you 80 metres above the river for unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, river, and surrounding mountains.
The climb is suitable for most fitness levels, with experienced guides sharing fascinating information about Brisbane's history and landmarks along the way. Sunrise, daytime, twilight and night climbs are available, each offering a different perspective of our beautiful River City.
Where to Stay in Brisbane
After a day exploring Brisbane's riverfront attractions, you'll need a comfortable place to rest. The Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane offers the perfect base for your river adventures, situated just a short stroll from the CBD and many of the attractions mentioned above.
With comfortable rooms, excellent amenities, and a rooftop pool offering city views, it's an ideal choice for both leisure and business travellers. Plus, the hotel's central location means you're never far from Brisbane's riverside pathways, dining precincts, and cultural attractions. Book your Brisbane River stay today!