City Parks and Gardens
Offering particularly impressive views, the cliffs at Kangaroo Point are a popular picnic spot. Numerous gas barbeques are available at the base of the cliffs, punctuated by whimsical pavilions, vibrant sculptures and walking and cycling paths.
The cliffs feature excellent rock climbing possibilities for all skill levels and are used as a training ground by local rock-climbers. The man made cliffs are most impressive when they viewed at night, their rocky formations lit from below by powerful spotlights.
| Where: | Dock Street, Lower River Terrace and Ellis Street, Kangaroo Point. |
Visit one of the world's largest urban sub-tropical gardens, in the centre of Brisbane. Nestled between prestigious Wickham Terrace and the bustling Roma Street Train Station, the park features a variety of distinct precincts including coastal wetlands, arid succulents, rainforest ferns and an everchanging display of colourful annuals.
Follow a web of boardwalks and pathways past rocky outcrops, cascading waterways, and a range of unique artworks by local artists. Enjoy the shaded BBQ and picnic facilities, or have a meal in the cafe, while the kids explore the adventure playground. Even the furry member of the family is welcome provided they stay on a lead.
Its central location makes Roma Street Parkland easily accessible by train, bus, car or on foot.
Rail:
The Roma Street train station is directly beside Roma Street Parkland. All suburban trains stop here and access to the parklands is through Platform 10 exit.
Bus:
Brisbane City Council buses stop at several locations near Roma Street Parkland.
There are stops along Wickham Terrace, College Road, Turbot Street and Roma Street.
City Sights buses pick up and drop off 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.
Contact:
Ph:+61 (0)7 3006 4545
Website: http://www.romastreetparkland.com
Disabled:
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 near The Lookout, at College Close carpark, on Parkland Boulevard near Melange café and on the lower level opposite Queensland Railway Platform 10. There are 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 to bays on Parkland Boulevard from 6am-8pm.
| Where: | Albert Street and Roma Street, City. |
| Website: | Roma Street Parkland |
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 of Moreton Bay. At night, the black velvet of the starlit skies seem to meld into the twinkling lights of the city.
Nestled into 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, the Kuta Café offer visitors an ever-changing menu complimented by the sensational views.
Wander through the heritage-listed building, admiring the original features and view the timeline of photos showing how the facilities have changed over the years.
There are several picnic areas located around the lookout and a handful of walking tracks for the enthusiast. Follow the Aboriginal Track to Slaughter's Falls, staying alert for some original Aboriginal artwork.
Disabled:
Public and disabled parking is available at the lookout and at the entrance to the botanic gardens. Accessible male and female toilets located at the Tropical Dome and near lookout. The Gardens and Summit Restaurants and the Kuta Cafe each have ramp access.
Some of the gradients throughout the botanic gardens and the park can be steep and assistance may be required.
| Where: | Sir Samuel Griffith Drive, Mt Coot-tha. (Accessible from Milton Road and Western Freeway) |
| Website: | Brisbane Lookout |
The creative design of New Farm Park, initially designed in 1912, reflects the genteel leisure activities of the time, yet still impresses the public to this day. The park's stunning vistas, spectacular jacaranda drive and river frontage are remnants from that time, having been accentuated by more recent additions of palms, figs and poincianas, enhancing the subtropical character of the garden.
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, sportspeople, the elderly, and picnickers. The park has been linked to the Brisbane Powerhouse arts precinct, features interpretive history signs, tennis courts and is serviced by a new ferry terminal.
| Where: | 1030 Brunswick Street, New Farm. |
