1. Cuddle a Koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Getting cosy with native Australian animals is essential. Brisbane is the perfect place to tick some koala time off your bucket list with the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary only 15 minutes’ drive from the Brisbane CBD. As the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary you’ll have 130 cuddle-ready koalas waiting for you.
2. Climb the Story Bridge
Brisbane has its very own version of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and it is just as climbable. Featuring 360-degree views of Brisbane and the surrounding areas it is one of the best views of the Brisbane skyline. We recommend booking in advance so you don’t miss out as popular climbs tend to book out.
3. Ride the CityCat
The Brisbane River carves its path through Brisbane City – in many ways defining it. That is why CityCats – Brisbane’s fleet of modern, river-faring commuter boats – can really show you the shape of Brisbane as they glide to and from their destinations. With stops across Brisbane, make your way to your nearest CityCat terminal and ride the Brown Snake to your heart’s desire.
4. Go to a game at Suncorp Stadium
Whether you’re a rugby fan, a soccer fan or completely new to sports, the atmosphere at Suncorp Stadium is like no other. Grab a beer and settle in before kickoff to appreciate the full experience. While you’re there snap a pic with Aussie rugby league legend Wally Lewis – you’ll find his statue on the Caxton Street side of the stadium.
5. Watch the sunrise at Mt Coot-tha
Set your alarms nice and early and hit the summit before the sun breaks to get the ultimate golden hour experience while you watch Brisbane wake up. Top tip: check the sunrise time the day before to make sure you don’t miss out.
6. Go on a XXXX Brewery Tour
Let us introduce you to the famed Milton Mango. Milton Mango is a term we use for the much loved XXXX Gold beer coined because of the yellow colour of the can and its brewing location in Milton. Not only should having an ice cold XXXX be on your Brisbane bucket list but visiting their home should be a top priority.
7. Take a selfie with the BRISBANE sign
Just in case you’ve forgotten where you are the BRISBANE sign is here to remind you. As an iconic part of the Brisbane landscape you’ll want to strike a pose and get the perfect pic to remember your Brisbane experience by.
8. Eat pancakes at absurd hours at the Pancake Manor
The Pancake Manor is a Brisbane institution and is the one place that allows you to satisfy your pancake cravings 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 364 days a year (they step away from the grill on Christmas day). Housed in an old church, the Pancake Manor gives the perfect vibe to consume pancakes no matter the time of day or night.
9. Have a barbecue in a park
Barbecues are a huge part of Australian culture and as such it is no surprise to find this one on our Brisbane bucket list. Barbecues can be found in over 370 parks and nature spaces in Brisbane – you can find your local one by clicking here. Snags (sausages), bread and tomato sauce are essential.
10. Run the Kangaroo Point Stairs
Or walk… we won’t judge. If you’ve been in Brisbane for a while chances are you’ve heard the rumours about the Kangaroo Point Stairs. Some call it exercise, others refer to it as torture but however you choose to see the stairs we recommend you give them a go. Plus, you’ll find a very pretty view at the top making it all worthwhile.
11. Stroll through QAGOMA
The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art are a hive of activity. Located in adjacent buildings in South Bank these galleries are home to an ever evolving collection of Australian and international exhibitions with a focus on contemporary art in Australia, Asia and the Pacific. Entry is free and make sure you check out their calendar of events to plan your visit accordingly.
12. Take a day trip to Moreton Island
This island paradise is only 35km off Brisbane and is easily accessible from the Brisbane CBD. You’ll want to catch public transport to Moreton Bay and hop on a passenger ferry over to the island. When you arrive there is an abundance of activities to keep you busy including dolphin feeding, snorkeling and sand tobogganing to name a few.
13. Catch a game at the Gabba
Home to the Brisbane Lions (Australian rules football), Brisbane Heat (cricket) and the Queensland Bulls (cricket) the game roster at the Gabba is strong. Snag yourself some tickets and enjoy a game, or for a unique experience head along to their exclusive stadium tours which are just $6 for student card holders – score!
14. Go chasing waterfalls at Cedar Creek Falls
Cedar Creek Falls is an easy one-hour drive from Brisbane in the Tamborine National Park. Take in the cascades, waterfalls, rock pools and lookouts while you take a stroll and descend down into the open canyon. You can swim in the rock pools so don’t forget to pack your togs (swimsuit).
Student One Bucket List
15. Cuddle with Charlie
This is a Student One perk that you definitely don’t want to miss. Charlie is our very own good boy who loves to man the Student One Adelaide Street reception and will never say no to a cuddle.
16. Catch a flick in the cinema
With your own private cinema the options are endless. Pop on a movie or binge watch your favourite TV show. Did someone say marathon?
17. Visit the Sky Lounge
We are lucky to get a special view of Brisbane up in our Sky Lounge and as a favourite spot for Student One students you’ll have to see this view to believe it.
18. Go for a dip in the Wharf Street pool
Make the most of Brisbane’s never-ending summers and splash around in the Wharf Street pool. Not everyone is lucky enough to have their own inner-city pool.
19. Play a game of pool
You can’t leave Student One without challenging one of your neighbours to a friendly – or competitive – game of pool.
20. Fire up the barbecue
Barbecues in the park are great, but why not make the most of the facilities right on your doorstep? Cut the travel time by cooking up a feast on one of the many Student One barbecues.
21. Join a sunset yoga class
When the stress of the semester gets too much, yoga is a great way to keep your cool. Student One’s sunset yoga takes place in the Sky Lounge at Wharf Street, so you can meditate on the sweet view of Brisbane City.
22. Grab a bike and do a lap of the city
With bikes free and available for your use it is a no brainer to take advantage (remember to BYO helmet). Get in some exercise and pedal your way through the city sites.
