What to do in Brisbane as city gets reputation as king of cool

Delegates from some of the planet’s biggest tourism operators have been blown away by Brisbane’s transformation. SEE OUR COOLEST HOTSPOTS

City workers Maddie Ford and Brian Maan in the trendy Burnett Lane. Picture: Nigel Hallett

Brisbane is getting cooler by the minute – and we’re not talking about the weather.

Delegates from some of the planet’s biggest tourism operators have been blown away by Brisbane’s transformation from Hick Central to Hipster Heaven as the River City rides a wave of cool towards the 2032 Olympics.

Almost 1000 representatives from global travel companies have just wrapped up visits to Queensland for the Australian Tourism Exchange, with delegates gushing in their praise for a city they used to say was most notable for its airport.

Recent appearances of celebrities such as Hollywood A-listers Owen Wilson and Margot Robbie have added to the new aura, while pop star Billie Eilish also gave the River City a ringing endorsement during her Aussie concert tour, declaring she had “no idea Brisbane was so awesome”.

The Brisbane Favours the Bold tourism campaign, the brainchild of the Brisbane Economic Development Agency, is also driving perceptions about the cool-factor in the city, featuring trendy spots like Howard Smith Wharves, Emporium hotel and edgy laneways and basement venues.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the city’s “cool factor” was soaring.

“And the rest of the world is taking notice,” he said.

“From sold-out music festivals and international art exhibitions to the buzz around our local dining scene and riverfront precincts, our city is officially Australia’s lifestyle capital and cultural powerhouse.

Brisbane Economic Development Agency CEO Anthony Ryan said the city was “turning heads for all the right reasons”.

“Our lifestyle, iconic precincts and major events calendar are drawing international attention – and it’s clear the momentum is building,” he said.

“Brisbane is setting the pace on the road to 2032.”

Mr Percival’s at Howard Smith Wharves. Picture: Nigel Hallett

Amanda Wu from Shanghai Eastern Airline International Travel was in Brisbane for ATE and said the city’s evolution

“Coming from a mega city like Shanghai, we used to think that Brisbane was small and there wasn’t much to do … we used to have our clients stay in Brisbane for half a day then transfer to other cities,” she said.

“But this experience at ATE has completely changed that perception.

“Brisbane has got so much to offer – art, fashion and cool experiences like Howard Smith Wharves.

“Add to that the sunshine and laid-back vibe, it’s a great holiday destination – we will definitely be suggesting our clients stay in Brisbane longer.”

Anna Au-Yeung, Global Head of Destination Marketing at Travelport Hong Kong, said Brisbane was a star on the rise.

“Brisbane feels alive, buzzing and effortlessly cool,” she said.

“Brisbane truly surprised and delighted me in so many ways – and I’ve already been sharing my experience with friends, family, and industry peers who are now asking for tips.”

Olivia Harvey from New Zealand’s House of Travel said Brisbane had “big city energy, combined with relaxed holiday vibes”.

“From South Bank to Howard Smith Wharves, riverside bars and hidden laneway spots, there is so much to choose from,” she said.

Henry Wignall, founder of the UK-based Wimeya travel company, said

“It’s perhaps sometimes overlooked in favour of the ever-popular Sydney or edgy and trendy Melbourne, but … it’s a young city with a really cool food and beverage scene,” he said.

“Having had a brief taste 12 years ago and a small idea of what to expect, I’d say I was pleasantly surprised (this time).

“It very much has a cool vibe with so much to do for everyone.”

The Calile Hotel in James Street, Fortitude Valley

BRISBANE’S 10 COOLEST EXPERIENCES

Mr Percival’s, Howard Smith Wharves

Vibrant riverfront vibes and arguably Brisbane’s best sunset views. This iconic bar made headlines when Margot Robbie famously shouted the bar.

TAMA Super Club, Fortitude Valley

Underground energy meets high-concept cocktails at TAMA, Brisbane’s boldest night-life newcomer with sleek design and late-night swagger.

The Calile Hotel, Fortitude Valley

With celeb guests including George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Liam Hemsworth, Bono and Shawn Mendez, the Calile sure knows how to attract the in crowd.

A design-lover’s dream, blending luxe resort vibes with urban sophistication in the heart of James Street.

Crystalbrook Vincent, Brisbane CBD

Art meets sustainable luxury at Crystalbrook Vincent, nestled under the Story Bridge. Bold interiors, locally inspired menus, and a creative, eco-conscious energy makes this one of the coolest places to stay in the River City.

Penelope Bistro & Bar, Fortitude Valley

A glamorous new venue evoking a chic European supper club, where dinner turns to dancing and cocktails flow till late.

Central, Brisbane CBD

An underground dumpling bar channelling the flavours and fast-paced spirit of Hong Kong. Neon-lit, punchy, and deliciously different.

Burnett Lane, Brisbane CBD

Set in the shadows of Queen’s Wharf, this is the kind of hipster enclave that smug Victorians thought only exist in that rain and wind-soaked southern snorefest. Coffee, beers and funky dining options await.

Fish Lane, South Brisbane

Tucked behind South Brisbane’s cultural precinct, Fish Lane oozes cool with top spots like Southside and Bar Brutus drawing crowds for cutting-edge eats, cocktails and laneway vibes.

Caffeine Club Coffee Raves, Kangaroo Point

A uniquely Brisbane-coded trend taking “rise and grind” to a whole new level. Think DJ sets, dance floors, and espresso-fuelled mornings at spots like Darvella and Joey’s.

Albion Bathhouse, Albion

A luxe wellness sanctuary designed for deep rejuvenation. Infra-red saunas, cold plunges, and “elevated self-care” in a minimalist setting.

Originally published as What to do in Brisbane as city gets reputation as king of cool