Must see: Brisbane’s botanic gardens

For garden lovers, flower enthusiasts, walking trail aficionados, and outdoor adventurers alike, Brisbane’s botanical gardens are high on the list of must-see’s.

The tropical climate of Queensland makes the area a breeding ground for lush landscapes and an abundance of plant varieties, creating pockets of rainforest and picturesque gardens to explore.

Our top pick of Brisbane’s gardens to enjoy?

Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha

Queensland’s premier subtropical botanic gardens, the 52 hectares of stunning gardens are only 7kms from the city centre and offer a tranquil escape.

The landscaped park offers luscious rainforest, waterfalls, a scented garden, and lagoons that are home to dragons, turtles and eels, amongst other wildlife including brush turkeys and cockatoos.

Situated at the foot of Mount Coot-tha, the garden offers free guided walks and gardening workshops, as well as photography classes.

Little ones will love the Hide ‘n’ Seek Children’s trail where they can take part in a scavenger hunt, discover hidden treasures, and learn fun facts about plants and wildlife.

You’ll also find a 100-year-old Bamboo Grove, a Japanese Garden, a Bonsai House, a Fragrant Plants and Herb Garden, and a Fern House.

Throughout the relaxing oasis of greenery, visitors can spot trees that are over 80 years old including figs, conifers, maples and azaleas.

Or head to the Arid Zone and Cactus House for something a little different from a typical botanic garden!

The Botanic Gardens are also home to Maleleuca Wetlands and the Open Eucalypt Forest, not to mention a range of fruit trees bearing sweet scented fruits.

The Exotic Rainforest is our pick for feeling far away from the city and soaking in the calming sounds and crisp air.

Worth a trip in its own right, the Botanic Gardens holds the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium which presents interactive displays on everything space related, and projects shows onto the Cosmic Skydome.

With numerous activities and zones on offer, the area is much more than just a selection of beautiful flora, making it easy to spend a whole day exploring.

The Botanic Gardens are open every day and entry is free. Guided tours are on offer Monday – Saturday or pick up a map at the Information Centre. There is a café as well as picnic tables and seating areas to enjoy.

Also worth visiting is the City Botanic Gardens... 

City Botanic Gardens

The City Botanic Gardens is the city’s oldest park, having been originally planted with food crops to feed the prison colony. Now the gardens feature stunning ancient trees, rainforest glades and exotic species.

Located at Gardens Point, the lush area is bordered by the CBD and the Brisbane River and offers a peaceful escape for many city workers.

Attractions include Bamboo Grove, Weeping Fig Avenue, Mangrove Boardwalk, and ornamental ponds.

Free guided walks run Monday-Saturday and the gardens plays host to fitness classes and events, tai chi, pilates, and more.

We recommend pre-booking a picnic basket to enjoy within the gardens or renting a bicycle and exploring the grounds at your own pace.

Whether you live in Brisbane and need a new green space to explore and relax in, or are visiting for a weekend and want timeout from the busy city, you’ll love these two Botanic Garden options.

Have you visiting either of these beautiful sanctuaries recently? We’d love to know what you thought! Share with us on Facebook. 

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Heading to Melbourne instead? See Melbourne’s Best Gardens to Explore.
Sydney more your thing? See Sydney’s Most Beautiful Gardens.