Did you know Brisbane comes alive after hours? From stargazing to picnic-rug lazing, energetic adventures and river cruising, check out the top things for you to do in Brisbane after dark!
See the twinkling fairy lights
Admire the illuminated Story Bridge while picnicking at Captain Burke Park in Kangaroo Point or experience the twinkling fairy lights under sprawling fig trees in the City Botanic Gardens. From the Terraces in Paddington to Sandgate Town Hall, Brisbane is being lit up to provide the perfect backdrop for a picnic or dinner date - or talking point on a romantic walk. Find out about scheduled light-ups of buildings, bridges and other iconic streets and landmarks across Brisbane here and here.
Relax on the river
Cruise the Brisbane River on a CityCat or Kitty Cat under the stars and make a stop at Brisbane Powerhouse for a drink, dinner or even a show. Then hop on a double-decker CityCat for the trip home - it's got an upper deck with seating for 20, allowing you to admire Brisbane's stunning skyline of city lights.
Try twilight canoeing
Explore Brisbane waterways at sunset on a guided canoe paddle with Brisbane City Council's Boondall Wetlands Environment Centre. Have a fun evening out on the water, learn about our waterways, wetlands, and wildlife all as you watch the sun sink into the ocean and the moon rise into the night sky. All equipment and a complimentary cuppa are supplied, but bookings are a must. Keep on eye here for the latest tour dates.
Get lost in a laneway
Stroll down the city's twinkle-lit laneways offering great food, live music, street art and outdoor galleries. From hole-in-the-wall cafes in Winn Lane to small bars like Laruche Bar in Bakery Lane, Insta-worthy street art and indie fashion, some of the city's best can be found just off the beaten track. Winn, Bakery and California Lanes are a must when in Fortitude Valley, while Burnett and Eagle lanes are perfect for those looking for something a little different in the heart of the Brisbane CBD. And just over the river, don't go past Fish Lane - stretching six blocks between Merivale and Cordelia Streets, you have six cafes, 16 restaurants, 11 bars, and 15 public art installations to choose from!
Take a moonlight walk
Wander the Riverwalk from Riverview Court at New Farm to the bustling Howard Smith Wharves precinct. It's less than a 900-metre walk but once you're there, enjoy dinner or a drink at one of the popular bars and eateries on offer. Plus the Riverwalk connects to the riverside boardwalk, creating an uninterrupted route all the way to the stunning Botanic Gardens, which is lit up like an enchanted wonderland by night.
See the city from new heights at Mt Coot-tha
Stargaze and get a new perspective on the city skyline at night from the Mt Coot-tha Summit. Set amongst beautifully manicured gardens, the Lookout provides a remarkable view of Brisbane and beyond. Enjoy a meal at the Summit Cafe, then take in the spectacle of the city lights and star-lit skies. If you can't make it up the mountain but still want to view the skyline by night, Wilsons outlook in New Farm or the Kangaroo Point Cliffs also offer epic vantage points.
Shop under the stars
Wander through the variety of stalls showcasing the best of local designers at the Collective Markets held weekly at South Bank. Enjoy a unique range of clothing, inspiring artworks, cleverly crafted ceramics, food to keep your tummy satisfied and live musical entertainment. Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until 9pm. Brisbane's Queen Street Mall is also open late on Friday night for some evening retail therapy.
Walk on the wild side
Looking for an adventure after dark? Enjoy a guided night walk with staff from Brisbane City Council's Environment Centres and discover the wonders of the bushland at Downfall Creek Bushland Centre and surrounds under the moonlight. Learn about our native nocturnal wildlife and explore a 1200-metre trail. Bookings required.
Feast at Eat Street
Take a trip around the world exploring different flavours and cuisines at the Eat Street Markets on Brisbane's Northshore. Think 70-plus shipping containers fitted out into food stalls, covering everything from Japanese pizzas to Korean sliders, fish and chips to snails in garlic sauce. You can take on a classic pub-style burger chased by a vegan brownie - Eat Street really caters for all tastes and dietary requirements. With lights, live music and atmosphere aplenty, the vibe is electric – and it's all just 10 minutes from the city. The best way to reach Eat Street using public transport is via CityCat to Northshore Hamilton ferry terminal, from here it is an easy and flat 250m walk.
Go for a late-night dip
Have a dip at Streets Beach at South Bank Parklands on the edge of the Brisbane River. Positioned within 17 hectares of gardens at South Bank, Streets Beach is Australia's only manmade beach and a must-visit in Brisbane. The pools are currently open and patrolled by lifeguards from 7am until midnight, daily.
Get your cultural kicks
Want to be inspired? Go to the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art and immerse yourself in culture! GOMA's signature Up Late events bring an exciting vibe to major exhibitions. The Gallery's iconic spaces are filled with live music by established and emerging musicians as well as talks by local identities on featured artworks. See their website for more details.
Night-time Putt Putt
Putt putt lovers rejoice! Your week just got better with Victoria Park's cheap weeknight mini-golf deal for students and adults! From Monday to Wednesday you can enjoy discounted rates between 5pm and 9pm - just remember the course closes at 10pm. No bookings required. Alternatively, head to St Lucia's Garden Mini Golf Putt, Brisbane's newest putt putt course.
So, what are you waiting for?
As the sun sets and fairy lights illuminate a different side of the city, Brisbane truly does come alive! Once you've trawled through all these options, check out Council's Brisbetter Local Explore page to discover what makes Brisbane's suburbs shine.
