City Parks and Gardens

Offering impressive views across the river of the city and surrounds, the cliffs at Kangaroo Point are a popular picnic and recreation spot. The base of the cliffs is dotted with whimsical pavilions, vibrant sculptures, shaded walking and cycling paths and barbecue facilities.

The cliffs provide excellent rock-climbing possibilities for all skill levels and are used as a training ground by local rock-climbers and abseilers. The manmade cliffs are most impressive when viewed at night, their rocky formations lit from below by powerful spotlights.

Visit one of the world's largest urban subtropical gardens, right in the centre of Brisbane. Nestled between prestigious Wickham Terrace and the bustling Roma Street Train Station, this inner-city oasis features a variety of distinct sections including coastal wetlands, arid succulents, rainforest ferns, and an ever-changing display of colourful annuals.

The parklands feature a web of boardwalks and pathways that meander past rocky outcrops, waterfalls, a lake, amphitheatre and a range of unique works by local artists. Have an al fresco meal in Melange Cafe or Eves on the Park Restaurant while the kids explore the adventure playground, or enjoy the shaded barbecue and picnic facilities. Even the furry member of the family is welcome, provided they are kept on a lead.

Its central location makes Roma Street Parklands easily accessible by train, bus, car or foot.

Rail:
Roma Street train station is directly beside Roma Street Parklands. All suburban trains stop here and access to the parklands is through the exit at Platform 10.

Bus:
Brisbane City Council buses stop at several locations near Roma Street Parklands. There are stops along Wickham Terrace, College Road, Turbot Street and Roma Street. City Sights buses pick up and drop off passengers outside the Carriage Shed every 45 minutes, daily.

Car:
There are two main road entrances, one on Roma Street and one on Parkland Boulevard, off Gregory Terrace.

Pedestrians:
There are two main pedestrian entrances, one each on Albert Street and Roma Street.

Disabled Accessibility:
Pathways and toilets in the Roma Street Parklands are wheelchair and stroller-friendly. The children's playground features a Liberty Swing which allows children in wheelchairs to enjoy the fun and recreation of swinging.

Disability parking bays are located at College Close carpark, near The Lookout, on Parkland Boulevard (near Melange Cafe and on the lower level opposite Roma Street Station Platform 10). There is also a small number of disability parking bays located near the Amphitheatre.

No fees apply for disability parking at any time; however a 4 hour limit applies from 6am-8pm to bays on Parkland Boulevard.

For the most spectacular views of Brisbane, head to the observation deck at Mount Coot-tha. Panoramic views stretch from the cool mountain ranges in the distance to the glittering waters and islands of Moreton Bay. At night, the black velvet of the starlit sky seems to meld into the twinkling lights of the city below.

Nestled in the natural bushland of Brisbane Forest Park and accented by beautifully manicured gardens, the contemporary Summit Restaurant and Bar takes full advantage of the exceptional views. For a more casual dining experience, Kuta Cafe offers visitors an ever-changing menu complemented by the sensational views.

Wander through the heritage-listed building, admire the original features and view the timeline of photos showing how the facilities have changed over the years.

There are several picnic areas and a handful of walking tracks located around the lookout. Follow the Aboriginal Track to Slaughter's Falls, keeping your eyes open for a glimpse of some original Aboriginal tree carvings and rock paintings.

Getting There:
Mt Coot-tha Lookout is located at Sir Samuel Griffith Drive, approximately 7km west of the city centre. Take Milton Road from the city or the Western Freeway north from Ipswich.

Bus number 471 departs from stop 22 on Adelaide Street in the city. The bus stops at both the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens at the base of the mountain and at the summit lookout at the top.

Disabled Accessibility:
Public and disabled parking is available at the lookout and at the entrance to the Botanic Gardens. Accessible male and female toilets are located at the Tropical Dome and near the lookout. The Gardens, cafe and restaurant each have ramp access.

Some of the gradients throughout the botanic gardens and the park can be steep and assistance may be required.

The creative design of New Farm Park, initially designed in 1912, reflects the genteel leisure activities of the time, yet still impresses and endears the public to this day. The park's stunning vistas, spectacular jacaranda drive, magnificent rose gardens and river frontage are remnants from its establishment, having been accentuated by more recent subtropical additions of palms, figs and poincianas.

The park has a rich history, having been a bountiful source of food for local Aborigines before the area was cleared to plant food crops for the convicts, and later used as a race track for the Moreton Bay Jockey Club. Imagine the click of the mallet hitting the ball, and the boisterous cheers of the aristocracy challenging each other to a game of croquet. Picture the ladies, dressed in their Sunday best and carrying parasols, strolling the paths alongside the river.

The park has a strong, long-standing association with the local community, including the post-war Italian community. Today the park is popular with local mothers and children, festival organisers, wedding parties, sports enthusiasts, and picnickers. The park has been linked to the Brisbane Powerhouse arts venue and features interpretive history signs, a gazebo, tennis courts and a nearby ferry terminal.

Disabled Accessibility:
The park is accessible to wheelchairs. It also provides toilets and parking spaces for the disabled.