Top Rated Attractions in Rest of Australia

Nestled in the bush on the banks of the Brisbane River, Lone Pine houses at least 100 species of animals native to Australia. It is the ideal place to get a close look at unique wildlife, offering opportunities to cuddle koalas and feed kangaroos. Lone Pine is one of the oldest and largest koala sanctuaries and it operates an important breeding and research program to ensure the survival of Australia's most cherished creatures. Kangaroos, wombats, Tasmanian devils are some of the other animals spotted here. Picnic and barbecue facilities are scattered throughout the 18-hectare (44-acre) site.

Since the Gardens' opening in 1976, more than 52 hectares (130 acres) has been developed to represent plant varieties from around the world. Attractions include the Fragrant Plant and Herb Garden; the Exotic Rainforest; Japanese Garden; Tropical Dome Display; Arid Region Plants & Cactus House and the Lagoon & Bamboo Grove. A 30-minute self-guided tour of the Aboriginal Plant Display shows plants used by Aborigines for medicine, shelter and food.

The City Botanic Gardens or Brisbane Botanic Gardens as it was once referred to as is one of Brisbane's heritage-listed sites. Within these gardens are a colorful collection of exotic and native plants to delight the eye and beautiful lily ponds and lush green lawns to calm the soul. The site was chosen for a public garden in 1828, with fertile soil producing healthy crops for the prison settlement nearby. In 1855, botanist Walter Hill declared that the botanical gardens would occupy the area. Some of Hill's plants from the 1850s remain on Residence Hill and the weeping figs on Walter Hill Walk were planted by the botanist in the 1870s.

Roma Street Parkland is home to landscaped gardens and water features like ponds and woodlands, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Known to be one of the most beautiful contemporary display gardens in the country, the Roma Street Parkland is home to a variety of flora and fauna such as fern gullies, eastern water dragons, rainbow lorikeets, possums and black flying foxes. Other features of the parkland include pathways for walking and cycling, themed gardens for display, rocky outcrops, and even an amphitheater that plays host to concerts, plays and other theatrical productions. Artworks and train rides in the park are some of the other attractions here. Whether to escape the city for a few hours, attend live music events, check biodiversity on display or to simply mingle with the locals, the Roma Street Parkland has got it all.

In 1770 James Cook named this expanse of blue water, cradled by Moreton Island and North Stradbroke Island, after his friend in England, the Earl of Morton. However, it was fellow explorer Matthew Flinders who first entered and mapped the islands. Today, the bay has become an natural playground for Brisbane's residents and many people enjoy the rich waters and islands, such as St. Helena Island, Peel Island and South Stradbroke Island. Fishing and water sports abound and Coochiemudlo Island, offering the closest beach to the suburbs of Brisbane, provides a safe swimming area with just a short ferry ride.

South Bank, considered one of the most prominent places for entertainment and fun in Brisbane, is thronged by visitors regularly. Unfolding along the Brisbane River, it features award-winning restaurants, relaxing walking trails, picnic spots, a tranquil stretch of riverfront, swimming facilities, and more. Promising a world of enriching experiences, South Bank also entices visitors with several events held at regular intervals and offers opportunities for activities that cater to all ages. Some prominent landmarks located here include the Queensland Maritime Museum, Queensland Museum, South Bank Parklands, and Queensland Gallery of Modern Art.