Brisbane is a city that offers many different opportunities to indulge in Australian culture, nature, and adventure. There are definitely some more expensive activities, like climbing the Story Bridge or taking a trip to the nearby theme parks. But you don’t need a holiday loan to explore the city, and there are just as many wallet-friendly activities to keep you entertained. Save your money for the bars and restaurants, and take advantage of some of these cheap things to do in Brisbane.
10 Cheap or Free Ideas To Explore Brisbane
Brisbane has so much to offer, and there’s plenty to do that won’t blow your whole travel budget! Here are 10 cheap or free activities you can add to your itinerary.
1. Brisbane Botanic Gardens (Mount Coot-tha)
The Brisbane Botanic Gardens are located at the foot of Brisbane’s tallest mountain, Mount Coot-tha. You can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the wide range of plants and wildlife for free! Enjoy a picnic or snap some photos of the beautiful scenery.
And when you’re done exploring, take a trip up to the Mount Coot-tha lookout to soak up the spectacular views from the viewing platform. There’s a cafe up there too, so you can relax and take in the sights.
2. Museum of Brisbane
Located in the iconic Brisbane City Hall, the museum is home to some of the most breathtaking art displays and an immersive experience that helps you step back in time to experience Brisbane and Australia’s history.
You can book a free tour to get an expert’s view on the museum’s highlights, and even take a trip up the iconic clock tower for a magnificent 360 view of the city.
3. Enjoy AFL football at The Gabba
A cheap and immersive Australian experience for sports enthusiasts is to catch an AFL game at The Gabba. Whether you are on holiday or visiting Brisbane, find out why Australia is known for its AFL and enjoy the electric atmosphere and die-hard supporters.
4. South Bank Parklands
The South Bank Parklands are a short stroll from the city center and offer something for everyone. The Parklands offer stunning scenic gardens and public art, with the iconic Streets Beach just a short walk away, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Take a stroll down the South Bank Parklands with a steaming cup of coffee and immerse yourself in the beautiful view of the Brisbane River. The South Bank Parklands is a fantastic and free location to explore with your family or friends.
5. Cruise Brisbane River
The best way to explore the Brisbane River is on the CityHopper, which offers free admission and takes you to different parts of Brisbane every 30 minutes. This free Brisbane River cruise offers scenic views of landmarks such as the Story Bridge and South Bank. This free activity is an incredible way to get to know the city. Finish the night off with a riverside dinner at one of the great restaurants in the Howard Smith Wharves precinct.
6. Queen Street Mall
If you’re staying in the city, you’ll likely stumble across Queen Street Mall on your own. But if you’ve got some holiday savings burning a hole in your pocket, this is the place to be. It’s worth a stroll down the mall just to see some of the public art exhibitions and buskers doing what they do best. Plus, the James Street shopping precinct is just a short bus ride away, so you can squeeze all your shopping into one day!
7. State Library of Queensland
A free idea in Brisbane is to visit the State Library of Queensland. Whether you want to spend hours reading your day away or have a relaxing afternoon browsing the art installations, the state library is the perfect place. But the State Library of Queensland is more than a place to read, with free exhibitions, events, and unforgettable city skyline views from the rooftop gardens.
Just around the corner you’ll find the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art, both of which offer free entry, although some exhibitions may require paid bookings.
8. Enjoy Nature At Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre
A visit to Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre, as the name suggests, is full of beautiful walking tracks offering an opportunity to see wildlife up close and spot a kangaroo or koala.
At the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre, you can enjoy a large variety of activities from wildlife viewing to swimming, paddling or even cycling and mountain biking. Entry to the Discovery Centre costs only $8.90* for an individual adult, making it cheap and affordable for a day full of wildlife encounters.
9. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Another wildlife adventure awaits at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where you can get up close with Australia’s iconic koalas. For $35*, you’ll have the opportunity to hold one and capture the moment with a photo. It’s a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience that showcases Australia’s incredible wildlife. And, despite the name, the sanctuary is home to all sorts of Aussie wildlife waiting to be discovered.
10. Cleveland Markets
For a relaxing urban afternoon, the Cleveland Markets offer a unique shopping experience where you can spend as little as you want or spoil yourself with gifts. Treat yourself to handmade goods or enjoy local delicacies. The Cleveland Markets have no entry fee, which means more money to spend on the markets and support the locals.
Explore Brisbane Without Breaking The Bank With Red Tree Finance
Brisbane has so much to offer its visitors, from exhilarating AFL games and stunning views to holding and meeting a koala. To make sure you can enjoy your trip to Brisbane, mix in some low-cost activities with some more expensive activities. If you are short of funds for the trip, a holiday loan can help you enjoy your trip and repay the cost over time.
Red Tree Finance offers loans up to $5,000, so you don’t have to miss out on your holiday. If you have any questions or need any additional support, contact the Red Tree Finance team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s free in Brisbane?
There are many different free activities to do in Brisbane, including:
- The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art
- City Botanic Gardens
- Museum of Brisbane
- South Bank Parklands
Is there anything fun to do in Brisbane?
Brisbane is full of fun and exciting activities for any age group. Whether you want to explore the city and enjoy some delicious cuisines, Brisbane is a fantastic place to visit. Here are some fun activities to do in Brisbane:
- Watch the Brisbane Lions at The Gabba
- Cruise down the Brisbane River
- Visit the Botanic Gardens and immerse yourself in nature
- Hold and cuddle a koala at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Where can I go within 2 hours in Brisbane?
If you are visiting Brisbane and only have a couple of hours to explore the beautiful city, consider visiting:
- The State Library of Queensland
- Cruise down the Brisbane River
- Visit New Farm Park
- Explore the South Bank Parklands
People also read:
- How To Reduce Debt And Gain Financial Control
- 20 Cheap Things To Do in Sydney For Under $30
- Can I Get A Loan If I Already Have One?
The information provided in this blog is of a general nature and is provided without considering your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or other professional advice.
Before making any financial decisions or taking action based on the information presented, you are strongly encouraged to assess its appropriateness in light of your individual circumstances. Red Tree Finance does not intend to provide personalised financial advice, and you should seek independent financial, legal, tax, and other relevant advice tailored to your unique situation.