From five-star dining and regional foodie adventures to thrilling sporting showdowns and unforgettable experiences, Brisbane is bursting with exciting new things to see and do. 

 

See below Visit Brisbane's top trending accommodation, food and drink, experiences and major events in May 2025 and beyond. 

 

ACCOMMODATION  

 

ISOLETTO 

Brisbane 

 

Now open as part of the latest stage of Queen's Wharf Brisbane, Isoletto Pool Club offers a luxe, hotel guest escape atop The Star Brisbane. 

  

Set high on the Level 7 Leisure Deck, this sun-drenched, resort-style sanctuary is inspired by endless summer days. Hotel guests can unwind beside three shimmering infinity-edge pools, relax in elegant cabanas, or lounge in the water itself thanks to built-in 'wet lounges.' 

  

WHERE Queen's Wharf Brisbane  

INSTAGRAM @thestarbrisbane 

WEBSITE https://www.star.com.au/brisbane/hotels/isoletto-pool-club  

 

 

FOOD & BEVERAGE 

 

SUPERNORMAL 

Brisbane CBD 

  

The team behind Melbourne's Supernormal launched its highly anticipated Brisbane sequel in late 2024. The venue has boomed since opening, with Condé Nast Traveler naming Supernormal Brisbane in their hot list of the best new restaurants globally for 2025. 

  

Supernormal welcomes a dynamic menu inspired by Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul, and Hong Kong, featuring handpicked lobster on brioche rolls, golden fried vegetable dumplings with a crisp lattice, and scallop roasted in an ultra-umami kelp butter.  

  

Located on the riverside level, the restaurant has views to the Story Bridge, with indoor and riverside dining for up to 150 guests, plus an upstairs private dining area for up to 50. 

   

WHERE: 443 Queen St, Brisbane 

INSTAGRAM: @supernormal_brisbane 

WEBSITE: https://brisbane.supernormal.net.au/  

 

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PENELOPE BISTRO 

Fortitude Valley 

  

From the talented team behind Agnes, Same Same, and Bianca comes Penelope, a stylish new eatery set to shake up Fortitude Valley's dining scene. Promising a fresh take on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Penelope will bring together bold flavours, seasonal produce, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.  

  

With an impressive lineup of culinary minds behind the concept, the much-anticipated opening is sure to be one of Brisbane's hottest new dining destinations.  

  

WHERE 15 James Street, Fortitude Valley 

WEBSITE https://penelopebistro.com.au/ 

 

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THE FIFTY SIX RESTAURANT, NALDHAM HOUSE 

Brisbane City 

 

Brisbane's dining scene has levelled up with the opening of The Fifty Six at Naldham House.  

 

Sitting atop the city's buzzing new hospitality precinct, the new Cantonese restaurant is spearheading DAP & Co's multi-venue project. The menu delivers an elevated take on Cantonese classics, from house-made dim sum to rich, brothy seafood dishes and indulgent small plates like drunken prawn tarts and tea quail eggs with caviar.  

 

With a cocktail list crafted to complement the menu's bold flavours and a relaxing riverside setting, The Fifty Six is set to redefine modern Cantonese dining in Brisbane. Bookings are now open. 

 

WHERE 33 Felix Street, Brisbane City 

INSTAGRAM @thefiftysixrestaurant  

WEBSITE https://www.thefiftysix.com.au/  

 

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MULGA BILLS 

Kangaroo Point 

 

Perched at the foot of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Mulga Bill's is Brisbane's newest riverside dining spot, offering a relaxed all-day menu with a Mediterranean twist. Open from 6am until late, the space is perfect for morning coffees, long lunches, and sunset drinks by the water. 

 

Expect woodfired pizzas, fresh seafood tapas, and the 'Joyride' banquet, plus the daily Pizza Power Hour serving up $20 pizzas from 3:30pm–4:30pm. With scenic views and a laid-back vibe, Mulga Bill's is set to become a go-to for cyclists, commuters, and casual diners alike. 

 

 

WHERE: 155 Alice Street, Brisbane City 

INSTAGRAM: @mulga.bills 

WEBSITE: https://www.mulgabills.com.au/  

 

 

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LUC LAC 
The Star Brisbane 

 

Lúc Lắc is a vibrant new South East Asian eatery and bar at Queen's Wharf, bringing the bold flavours of Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore to life.  

 

The restaurant features an open kitchen and stone bar, where guests can enjoy cocktails while soaking in the lively atmosphere. The beverage menu offers a mix of classic cocktails, Asian-inspired drinks, and exclusive wines for perfect pairings.  

 

The food menu is a sensory delight, with dishes like Kampot peppered beef, crispy snail and pork spring rolls, and Vietnamese-style baby goat yellow curry, all showcasing the best of Queensland's local produce. 

 
WHERE Queen's Wharf Brisbane, The Terrace 

INSTAGRAM @luclacbrisbane  
WEBSITE https://www.luclac.com.au/  

 

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STILTS 

Kangaroo Point Bridge 

 

Perched atop the highly anticipated Kangaroo Point Green Bridge is Stilts. The restaurant offers an upscale dining and drinking experience that celebrates Australian land and sea with appearances from steak, lobster and mud crab.  

 

Located in a prime spot, the restaurant encompasses panoramic views over the Brisbane River, CBD, Story Bridge, and Kangaroo Point cliffs. 

 

WHERE Kangaroo Point Bridge  

WEBSITE https://www.tassisgroup.com.au/brands  

 

 

EXPERIENCES 

 

STORY BRIDGE ADVENTURE: ACCESSIBLE CLIMB  

Brisbane City  

 

Story Bridge Adventure Climb is making history as the world's first wheelchair-accessible bridge climb, setting a new benchmark for inclusive adventure tourism. 
 

People with accessibility requirements including wheelchair users can experience the thrill of scaling Brisbane's iconic Story Bridge in a specially designed wheelchair. 

 

The motorised stair climber wheelchair is of the highest safety standard and has been customised using advanced technology especially for the Story Bridge.  

 

The advanced wheelchair ensures individuals with accessibility requirements can expect smooth and safe movement over inclines, ergonomic design for participant comfort and integrated safety features. 

 

WHERE 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane City 

INSTAGRAM @storybridgeadventureclimb 

WEBSITE https://storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au/accessible-climb 

 

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FELONS BREWING CO BEER YOGA 

Howard Smith Wharves  

 

A uniquely Brisbane experience, Felons Brewing Co. host beer yoga every Wednesday on the Fish & Chip Lawn! Soak in some afternoon sun, sip on a cold brewery-fresh beer and have a bend. 

 

WHERE Felons Brewing Co 

INSTAGRAM @felonsbrewingco 

WEBSITE howardsmithwharves.com/whats-on/hsw-x-sukhino/  

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PINEAPPLE TOURS: HOP ON AND OFF BRISBANE CITY LOOP 

Brisbane City 

 

Experience the best of Brisbane at your own pace with Pineapple Tour's flexible Hop on Hop off Bus service. Operating daily from South Bank, this service lets you explore Brisbane's top attractions, cultural landmarks, and scenic locations with complete freedom.  

 

Whether you're sightseeing, shopping, or dining out, hop on and off as often as you like. 

 

With engaging commentary, plenty of photo stops, and air-conditioned ease, it's the perfect way to experience Brisbane's culture, history, and stunning riverfront – all in just a few hours. 

 

WHERE First pick up at Emporium South Bank  

INSTAGRAM @pineappletours 

WEBSITE https://www.urbantours.com.au/brisbane-sightseeing-tour  

 

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BY.ARTISANS  

West End 

 

Step into the world of craft and creativity at BY.ARTISANS, where hands-on workshops let you blend, mix, and create. Their expert-led experiences include: 

• Gin Tasting: Sip and savour a curated selection of artisanal gins while learning about botanicals and distillation. 

• Gin Blending: Become a master distiller for the day, mixing your own signature gin to take home. 

• Soap Making: Craft your own luxurious, all-natural soaps using premium ingredients, perfect for gifting or self-care. 

WHERE 99 Jane Street, West End 

INSTAGRAM @by.artisans  

WEBSITE https://byartisans.com.au/pages/experiences  

 

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THE VINO BUS 

Mt Tambourine Winery Tour and Events 

 

Explore the Gold Coast Hinterland's Mt Tamborine with The Vino Bus! Tours can cater to all from corporate to hens' parties, with tastings at 4 venues including boutique wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries, plus a 2-course lunch.  

 

For a more intimate and luxury experience, Private Wine Tours are available with door-to-door service for your special occasion.  

 

Pickup from is available from Brisbane, Gold Coast, or Tamborine Mountain. 

 

WHERE Mt Tambourine – various Brisbane pickup locations   

INSTAGRAM @thevinobus  

WEBSITE https://www.thevinobus.com.au/  

 

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URBAN TOURS: BRISBANE SIGHTSEEING VIA MINI BUS 

Brisbane City 

 

See the best of Brisbane in comfort with Urban Tours' guided minibus adventure. The curated tour takes guests through the city's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, from the historic grandeur of City Hall to the beauty of the Botanic Gardens.  

 

With engaging commentary, plenty of photo stops, and air-conditioned ease, it's the perfect way to experience Brisbane's culture, history, and stunning riverfront - all in just a few hours. 

 

DATES Monday – Saturday, 9am 

WHERE Brisbane, CBD  

WEBSITE https://www.urbantours.com.au/brisbane-sightseeing-tour  

 

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REVELING'S NEW SURF SAFARI TOUR  

Brisbane City 

  

This brand-new experience allows you to ride the waves with former World Surfing Champion and Olympic Coach, Bede Durbidge, on an exclusive surf safari along Australia's most iconic coastlines.  

  

Designed for all skill levels, this bespoke experience takes you to Moreton Island's secluded beaches, Stradbroke's world-class breaks, or Byron Bay's legendary surf spots.  

  

Unwind with a gourmet beach barbecue or craft beer tasting at Balter Brewing, co-founded by Bede himself. With private 4WD access, ferry or helicopter transfers, and personalised coaching, this is the ultimate luxury surf adventure. 

  

WHERE                                    Tours available in Moreton Bay, Stradbroke Island,  

Currumbin Beach or Byron Bay 

INSTAGRAM                            @reveling____ 

WEBSITE                                 https://www.reveling.co/australia/event-experience/sports-adventure  

 

 

MAJOR EVENTS 

 

BLUEY'S WORLD 

Northshore, Hamilton  

 

This interactive experience brings the Heeler family's iconic Queenslander home to life. Embark on a guided adventure through the living room, playroom, backyard, and more, solving clues, playing games, and helping a gnome have their best day ever.  

 

Finish your visit in Bluey's Brisbane neighbourhood, complete with Alfie's Gift Shop, an indoor playground, and Golden Crown takeaway.  

 

It's time to live and play just like Bluey and the Heelers! 

 

DATES 7 November 2024 - 27 April 2025  

WHERE Northshore Pavilion, 281 MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton  

INSTAGRAM @officialblueytv 

WEBSITE https://www.bluey.tv/blueys-world/  

 

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NRL MAGIC ROUND  

South Brisbane 

 

The magic of Magic Round lights up Suncorp Stadium again in 2025 as 16 clubs converge on Brisbane for a festival of football like no other.  

 

Since its inception in 2019, Magic Round has become a highlight of the NRL season and 2025 will be no exception as every game in Round 9 is played at the home of Queensland rugby league, Suncorp Stadium.  

 

Limited seats available via: https://www.nrl.com/tickets/magic-round-brisbane/.  

 

DATES 2 – 5 May 2025  

WHERE Suncorp Stadium, Milton  

WEBSITE https://www.nrl.com/  

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BALLET PRELJOCAJ 

QPAC 

 

Experience the breathtaking artistry of Ballet Preljocaj, exclusive to Brisbane. 

 

Renowned for pushing the boundaries of ballet, France's leading contemporary choreographer Angelin Preljocaj masterfully reimagines Swan Lake, transforming this classic tale of love, betrayal and seduction into a modern-day tragedy. 

 

Hailed by The New York Times for its “nuanced, fragile physical poetry”, this groundbreaking adaptation features dramatic choreography and Tchaikovsky's timeless score, combined with contemporary arrangements, performed live by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. 

 

DATES 31 May – 7 June 2025 

WHERE QPAC, South Bank  

INSTAGRAM @atqpac 

WEBSITE https://www.qpac.com.au/whats-on/2025/ballet-preljocaj-swan- lake  

 

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2025 BRISBANE MARATHON FESTIVAL  

Brisbane City  

 

On 1 June 2025, Brisbane trades its usual city hustle for the rhythmic pulse of thousands of feet pounding the pavement. The Brisbane Marathon Festival isn't just one of the country's oldest running events – it's a celebration of community, endurance, and that unbeatable runner's high.  

 

Whether you're tackling the full marathon, testing your speed in the Brisbane Half Marathon, or enjoying a more leisurely 10K, this is your chance to soak up the city's best sights with every stride. 

 

DATES 1 June 2025 

WHERE Brisbane City  

INSTAGRAM @brisbanemarathon 

WEBSITE https://brisbanemarathon.com.au/  

 

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AFFORDABLE ART FAIR BRISBANE  

Bowen Hills  

 

After a hugely successful first edition in May 2024, Affordable Art Fair will be returning to Brisbane in 2025! Join us in May at the Brisbane Showgrounds Exhibition Building in Bowen Hills.  

 

With an exciting art scene in Brisbane and beyond, the fair will be showcasing galleries from Queensland and across Australia with a mixture of emerging and established artists.  

 

Whether you're a lover of landscapes, smitten with sculpture or an adorer of abstracts, we're sure you'll find something to suit your taste, space and spend! 

 

DATES 8 – 11 May 2025 

WHERE Brisbane Showgrounds, Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills 

WEBSITE https://affordableartfair.com/fairs/brisbane/ 

 

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EAT LOCAL MONTH  

Scenic Rim  

 

Scenic Rim Eat Local Month invites you to experience a month-long celebration of award-winning local produce, farms, wineries, distilleries, and authentic paddock-to-plate experiences. 

 

With over 100 events, explore the Scenic Rim through hands-on workshops, masterclasses, and farm tours. Meet passionate producers, indulge in locally sourced dishes at long lunches, flavour-filled dinners, and exclusive dining experiences hosted by top Queensland chefs. 

 

DATES 30 May – 29 June 2025 

WHERE Scenic Rim   

WEBSITE https://www.eatlocalmonth.com.au/ 

 

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WALLABIES V THE BRITISH & IRISH LIONS  

Milton 

  

Be there as the Wallabies and The British & Irish Lions go head-to-head on Australian soil for the first time in 12 years! 

  

Last time the two teams played in Brisbane, the Lions clinched victory by just two points. Will history repeat itself or will the Wallabies claim revenge in front of another sell-out crowd? Brace yourself for a thrilling clash of sheer determination as these rugby giants battle for supremacy. 

  

WHERE                                   Suncorp Stadium, Milton  

WHEN                                      Saturday 19 July, 2025  

WEBSITE                                 https://suncorpstadium.com.au/events/wallabies-v-the-british---irish-lions  

 

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OPEN SEASON 

QPAC, The Tivoli, The Princess Theatre and more. 

  

With Winter rolling in, Open Season 2025 is here to heat things up.  

  

Back for its biggest and boldest year yet, the 5th Edition of this city-wide music and arts series will ignite Brisbane's most iconic venues with 30+ electrifying events, from intimate gigs to full-blown spectacles.  

  

From Skeggs to Kita Alexander to Kamasi Washington, there is something for everyone at this year's Open Season.  

  

Book your tickets here: https://openseason.live/ 

  

WHEN 25 May to 30 July 

WHERE QPAC, The Tivoli, The Princess Theatre and more.  

INSTAGRAM @openseasonbrisbane 

WEBSITE https://openseason.live/  

 

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