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com/landmarks/oceania-landmarks/landmarks-of-australia/”>landmarks in Australia, you’d know there are quite a few of them are here in Queensland.
Queensland’s urban skyline is adorned with man-made masterpieces that stand tall like sentinels of innovation, progress and human endeavour.
From the impressive steel arch of the Story Bridge to the iconic towering skyscrapers of Brisbane’s CBD, these landmarks define the state’s modern aesthetic and captivate visitors with their grandeur and inspiring vision.
1. Story Bridge – Brisbane
The Story Bridge is an iconic steel cantilever bridge that spans the Brisbane River in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It is a heritage-listed landmark that connects the northern and southern suburbs of Brisbane.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and construction of the bridge. Adventure seekers can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the bridge provides a pedestrian and bike path.
Don’t miss: The Story Bridge Adventure Climb is a must-try for thrill-seekers. It’s a unique way to explore the city from a different perspective.
Another highlight is the nightly light show that illuminates the bridge, giving it a magical and mesmerizing atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Book your adventure climb in advance to avoid disappointment, and make sure to dress appropriately for the weather. If you’re visiting during the summer, bring sunscreen and a hat, as it can get very hot.
For the best views, plan to visit during sunrise or sunset. Parking can be challenging, so consider taking public transportation or walking if possible.
2. South Bank Parklands – Brisbane
A sprawling park on the southern bank of Brisbane River in Brisbane’s central business district.
What to see or do: Walk around the picturesque gardens, take a dip in the man-made Streets Beach, enjoy a picnic or a barbecue by the riverside, or explore the many restaurants, bars, and shops around.
Don’t miss: The Wheel of Brisbane, a 60-meter high ferris wheel that offers magnificent views of the city skyline and the river.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park in the late afternoon to catch the golden hour and watch the sunset over the skyline. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses as Brisbane can get hot and sunny even in winter.
Avoid weekends and holidays as the park can get crowded with locals and tourists alike.
3. Kuranda Scenic Railway – Cairns
A historic railway that runs from Cairns to the village of Kuranda, offering spectacular views of rainforest, waterfalls, and tropical landscape.
What to see or do: Enjoy a charming train ride through the lush rainforest, crossing bridges, tunnels, and waterfalls. The journey takes about 2 hours, and there are stops to take pictures and admire the landscape.
Once in Kuranda, explore the markets, shops, and galleries, interact with wildlife at the butterfly sanctuary, koala gardens, or birdworld. Have lunch at one of the restaurants with a breathtaking view.
Don’t miss: The Barron Gorge and Stoney Creek Falls, two of the highlights of the train ride. In Kuranda, check out the aboriginal cultural center, the heritage markets, and the Rainforestation Nature Park.
Insider travel tips: – Book your ticket in advance to secure a seat and avoid long queues.
4. Sea World – Gold Coast
A marine mammal park, oceanarium, and theme park located on the Gold Coast of Queensland, Australia.
What to see or do: Attend animal shows, interact with animals such as dolphins, penguins, and seals, enjoy thrilling rides such as Jet Rescue and Storm Coaster, explore exhibits such as Polar Bear Shores and Shark Bay.
Don’t miss: The Dolphin Nursery Pool, where you can see baby dolphins up close and watch them playing with their mothers. Also, the Penguin Encounter exhibit is a must-see, where you can watch a colony of penguins waddling, swimming and fishing.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds and get the best viewing spots for the animal shows.
Sea World offers a number of behind-the-scenes experiences, like the opportunity to be a trainer for the day, so check the park’s website for details and make reservations in advance.
5. Brisbane City Hall – Brisbane
Brisbane City Hall is a historic landmark building in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It is known for its stunning architecture and impressive clock tower.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a free guided tour of the building, including the impressive auditorium, reception rooms, and the clock tower. The clock tower offers stunning 360-degree views of the city from its observation deck.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the City Hall Art Gallery, which features a range of contemporary artists and rotating exhibitions. Also, make sure to take a look at the stunning King George Square located just outside.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the schedule for the City Hall’s regular outdoor movies, concerts, and other cultural events, which are popular with locals and tourists alike.
It’s also worth noting that the clock tower tours require booking in advance, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
6. Dreamworld – Gold Coast
Dreamworld is a popular theme park located on the Gold Coast, Australia.
What to see or do: Dreamworld offers a variety of rides and attractions for visitors of all ages. Thrill seekers can ride the Big 9 thrill rides, including the famous Tower of Terror II and Giant Drop.
Families can enjoy the DreamWorks Experience, featuring characters from Shrek, Madagascar, and Kung Fu Panda movies, and the ABC KIDS WORLD, dedicated to the little ones.
There are also shows, animal experiences, and water slides.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Tiger Island, where you can watch Bengal and Sumatran tigers being fed and playing, and the Dreamworld Wildlife Foundation, which supports conservation efforts of endangered species.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo with Dreamworld’s iconic Big Red Car from The Wiggles.
Insider travel tips: Buy your tickets online in advance to save money.
7. Warner Bros. Movie World – Gold Coast
Warner Bros. Movie World is a popular movie-themed amusement park located in Gold Coast, Australia.
What to see or do: – Enjoy thrilling rides inspired by popular movies like Superman Escape, Green Lantern Coaster, and Justice League 3D.
Don’t miss: – The Wild West Falls Adventure Ride is a must-see for fans of water-themed rides.
Insider travel tips: – Park tickets can be purchased online in advance for a discount.
8. Mount Coot-tha Lookout – Brisbane
Mount Coot-tha Lookout is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and offers panoramic views of Brisbane city and its surrounds.
What to see or do: From the Lookout, visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of Brisbane city and the surrounding countryside. There is also a restaurant and cafe on site, as well as a gift shop and picnic areas.
The Lookout is a popular spot for sunsets and a great place to take photos.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Mount Coot-tha Lookout is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, which are located nearby.
The gardens are home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, and visitors can take a leisurely walk through the grounds or join a guided tour.
Insider travel tips: – The Lookout can get busy, especially on weekends and public holidays. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
9. Australian Outback Spectacular – Gold Coast
Live show experience that showcases the Outback Australian traditions and cattle station life.
What to see or do: Enjoy a 3-course Aussie dinner and drinks while watching the high energy performance featuring talented performers, animals, and special effects that bring the Australian Outback stories to life.
Don’t miss: The show’s finale, where the amazing stunts, pyrotechnics, and showmanship come together for an unforgettable climax.
Insider travel tips: Book in advance to secure the best seats in the house. Also, arrive early to enjoy the pre-show entertainment, which includes meeting the animals and taking photos with the performers.
10. Roma Street Parkland – Brisbane
Roma Street Parkland is a sprawling oasis located in the heart of Brisbane, Queensland. It is one of the largest city parks in the world, covering an area of 16 hectares.
What to see or do: There’s plenty to see and do in Roma Street Parkland.
Take a stroll through its lush and vibrant gardens, admire the stunning water features, and enjoy the scents of the fragrant plants.
Don’t miss: Check out the Spectacle Garden, which features a breathtaking display of colorful blooms, designed to bloom at different times throughout the year.
Another highlight is the Rainforest Walk, where you will experience a tropical paradise right in the heart of the city.
Insider travel tips: Consider bringing a picnic along and enjoy it in one of the several picnic spots throughout the park.
If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll enjoy the Children’s Garden, which features a play area, a maze, and plenty of interactive displays.
Additionally, take advantage of the free guided walks and bird watching offering at the park.
11. Cairns Esplanade – Cairns
The Cairns Esplanade is a scenic foreshore promenade that runs along the coastline of Cairns, Queensland.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, swimming or having a picnic. There is also a large outdoor swimming pool, a skate park, a beach volleyball court and a children’s playground.
Don’t miss: The Cairns Esplanade is a perfect spot to catch a breathtaking sunrise or sunset.
It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the views, and you might even spot some local wildlife such as flying foxes or monitor lizards.
Insider travel tips: Head to the Cairns Esplanade Night Markets which run every day of the week from 5 pm to 11 pm. You can find unique souvenirs, delicious food and entertainment.
Also, do not forget to bring sunscreen, hat, and plenty of water, as Cairns has a tropical climate and it can get hot and humid.
12. King George Square – Brisbane
Public square located in the heart of Brisbane’s Central Business District.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafes, or attend one of the many events that take place in the square throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The iconic Brisbane City Hall, located at the center of the square. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of this stunning building.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule of events before your visit as there is always something happening in King George Square, from live music performances to markets and art exhibitions.
Also, make sure to visit at night to see the stunning light show projected onto Brisbane City Hall.
13. Queensland Museum and Science Centre – Brisbane
A museum and science center located in the heart of Brisbane, showcasing the cultural and natural heritage of Queensland.
What to see or do: Explore the interactive exhibitions and displays, including ancient dinosaur fossils, the history of the local Aboriginal people, and the impact of the Great Barrier Reef on the region.
Marvel at the innovative and hands-on science exhibits, including live experiments, interactive displays, and immersive experiences.
Don’t miss: The massive steam locomotive, the Queensland Flood exhibit, and the incredible Mind and Body exhibition, which explores the human mind and body in depth.
Insider travel tips: Visit during school holidays to take part in special events, workshops, and activities held throughout the museum.
Check out the Museum Shop for unique souvenirs and gifts, and grab a cup of coffee or snack at the onsite cafe.
Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
14. South Stradbroke Island – Gold Coast
An island located off the coast of Gold Coast, Australia.
What to see or do: -Enjoy the pristine beaches with crystal-clear water for swimming, surfing or sunbathing.
Don’t miss: -Watching dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural habitat.
Insider travel tips: -Plan your trip ahead of time, as this island is only accessible by private boat or ferry services.
15. Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park – Brisbane
A scenic park located on the cliffs of Kangaroo Point, overlooking the Brisbane River and city skyline.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the riverside boardwalk, have a picnic on the grassy slopes, rock climb the cliffs, bike or rollerblade along the pathway, or join a guided abseiling adventure down the cliffs.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunset views from the cliffs, the iconic Story Bridge nearby, or the city lights at night.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own food and drinks for a picnic or BBQ, as there are no food vendors in the park. Avoid the midday heat and humidity by visiting early in the morning or late afternoon.
Parking can be limited on weekends, so consider taking public transportation or walking from the CBD across the bridge.
16. Paradise Country – Gold Coast
Paradise Country is an Australian farm experience located on the Gold Coast that showcases the country’s rural traditions and wildlife.
What to see or do: Visitors can see and interact with an array of animals like kangaroos, koalas, sheep, and cows. You can also enjoy farm activities such as boomerang throwing, whip cracking, and sheep shearing.
The park also puts on a daily stock horse arena show featuring cutting and riding skills.
Don’t miss: Make sure you attend the Australiana Outback Show, a famous must-see attraction at Paradise Country. The show features horseback riding and whip cracking along with other amazing displays of bush skills.
Insider travel tips: Book online to save money on tickets. Choose to visit early in the morning or towards the end of the day to avoid the crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat as there is not a lot of shade around the park.
17. Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre – Brisbane
A premier venue for conventions, exhibitions, and events in Brisbane, Australia.
What to see or do: Attend various events hosted here, ranging from concerts and trade shows to corporate events and conferences.
Check out the latest art exhibition at the on-site art gallery, and dine at one of the many restaurants and cafes.
Don’t miss: The scenic location of the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre along the South Bank Parklands, overlooking the Brisbane River and the city’s skyline.
Insider travel tips: – Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the center.
18. Coolangatta Beach – Gold Coast
Coolangatta Beach is a stunning strip of sand located on the southern end of the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia.
What to see or do: Enjoy a swim in the clear water or relax on the golden sand with stunning views of the ocean. The beach is perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, and sunbathing.
Take a long walk or jog along the beach while enjoying the scenic views.
Don’t miss: Visit the Greenmount headland for panoramic views of the beach and coastline, or take a walk on the beach walkway up to Point Danger for a bird’s eye view.
Insider travel tips: If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the week, or early in the morning. Parking near the beach can be challenging, so arrive early or take the public transportation.
Try the tasty seafood and coffee from the local restaurants and cafes in Coolangatta.
19. Tangalooma Island Resort – Moreton Island
A beachfront resort located on Moreton Island, just a short ferry ride away from Brisbane.
What to see or do: Enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and sandboarding. Take a dolphin feeding tour or try your luck at fishing.
Relax on the sand and soak up the sun, or take a hike to explore the island’s natural beauty.
Don’t miss: The nightly wild dolphin feeding experience, where you can get up close and personal with these friendly creatures.
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray, as the resort is located in a subtropical climate.
Book activities in advance to ensure availability, and be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride on the ferry to and from the island.
20. Wheel of Brisbane – Brisbane
The Wheel of Brisbane is a giant Ferris wheel in the heart of Brisbane, Australia.
What to see or do: Take a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane and enjoy unbeatable panoramic views of the city and the Brisbane River. Each capsule of the wheel is air-conditioned and offers a comfortable and scenic ride.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the cityscape, including the iconic Story Bridge and the lush South Bank Parklands. Also, make sure to take a ride at dusk or after dark to experience the dazzling lights of Brisbane.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a thrill, take a ride at night when the lights of the city are at their most impressive.
Also, consider purchasing tickets online in advance to skip the lines and save time.
21. Treasury Building – Brisbane
Historic government building in the heart of Brisbane city.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the building, or simply admire its grand exterior and intricate details.
Don’t miss: The courtyard, which features a relaxing water fountain and beautiful greenery despite being surrounded by the bustling city.
Insider travel tips: The building is located within walking distance from a number of other popular attractions, such as the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the South Bank Parklands.
It’s also a great spot for a quick photo stop while exploring the city.
22. Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets – Gold Coast
A bustling night market held every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday along the beachfront promenade of Surfers Paradise.
What to see or do: Stroll through over 100 market stalls offering handcrafted jewelry, fashion, art, and souvenirs. Enjoy live music and street performers while you shop.
Don’t miss: Try the delicious food stalls and grab a bite to eat while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Look out for unique items like hand-carved boomerangs and natural skincare products.
Insider travel tips: