Australia is one of those dream destinations many travelers have in the back of their respective minds. Everything about the culture and the environment has this unique vibe to it, despite the fact you can still find McDonald's and KFC there.
If you're headed to Brisbane, there are more than a few classic sights you absolutely must see. Some people will tell you they're a little touristy, but you are a tourist after all. Lean into it and enjoy these experiences you might just kick yourself for missing.
Brisbane Botanic Gardens
Not to add any confusion to your planning, but there are two botanic gardens in the city. The first and oldest of them is the City Botanic Gardens in the Brisbane Central Business District. The second one is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens in the Mount Coont-tha neighborhood of the city. Both are exceptional, and offer different experiences depending on what you're looking for.
Fort Lytton National Park
Constructed in the 1880s to protect Brisbane from naval attack, Fort Lytton remained in active service until after World War II. Then, it became the first historic national park in 1990. Like most historical monuments, Fort Lytton holds tours, does reenactments, and has a museum. This is definitely a must-stop location for any history buffs.
Story Bridge
Opened in 1940, this beautiful steel cantilever bridge allows traffic of all kinds to cross the Brisbane River. And it was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 1992 for good reason. This bridge is synonymous with Brisbane, offering incredible views to anyone willing to do the bridge climbs. If you're there during the annual Riverfire fireworks display, you're in for quite a show.
Mount Coot-tha Summit Lookout
At 226 meters above sea level, it's hard to find a better view of Brisbane than this. The Summit Lookout on Mount Coot-tha offers multiple viewing options for a panoramic look at the city. On top of that, it's also home to the Summit Restaurant which has a variety of dining experiences. Just don't be surprised if a lot of other people have the same idea you do.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
If there were ever two animals associated with Australia, they would have to be the kangaroo and the koala. Now, kangaroos can get a little punchy so you might want to steer clear of that situation. Koalas, on the other, hand can be quite delightful. Or at least sleepy. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary offers an opportunity to get up close with these animals, though holding them is no longer an option.