South Bank Parklands

About South Bank Parklands

South Bank Parklands is a things to do venue in South Brisbane, Queensland.

It was developed on the site of Brisbane’s World Expo 88 and officially opened in 1992. The history of South Bank Parklands dates back to the 1840s when it served as a meeting place for the traditional landowners and a central focus point of early European settlement.

It later became the business center of Brisbane but was forced to shift due to floods in 1893. Over the years, South Bank has undergone various changes in use, including as a site for theaters and industry.

In the 1970s, the parkland was reclaimed along the river bank, and the Queensland Cultural Centre was built. The successful World Expo 88 was hosted in 1988, leading to a public campaign for the site to be redeveloped as parkland.

The South Bank Corporation was established in 1989 to oversee the development and management of the new South Bank Parklands. The parklands offer a range of attractions, including the popular man-made beach called Streets Beach, the Grand Arbour with its bougainvillea-covered tunnel, the Wheel of Brisbane for panoramic views, the Courier Mail Piazza for community events, and various dining options.

The parklands also house the Queensland Conservatorium and a mix of rainforest, water, grassed areas, and plazas. South Bank Parklands hosts annual cultural events and festivals such as the Australia Day Festival, Riverfire, and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

It has been

Good to know

• Type: Things to Do
• Area: South Brisbane, Queensland
• Phone: (07) 3029 1797
• Website: visit ↗

Frequently asked questions

Find more things to do in South Brisbane or browse the South Brisbane local guide.