11 free and affordable things to do in Brisbane this winter
Explore Brisbane this winter without breaking the bank.
Winter in Brisbane is proof that fun doesn't need to come with a high price tag - just a sense of adventure and a warm jacket.
Here are 11 free and affordable ways to enjoy mild and sunny days and crisp nights in Australia's lifestyle capital from June to August.
1. Stroll the City Botanic Gardens or Roma Street Parkland
Brisbane's lush green, city parklands come alive in cooler weather. Pack a picnic, take a walk, or simply relax on a rug and embrace our subtropical winter days.
Roma Street Parkland hosts free winter school holidays activities (Playtopia) for 5-12 year olds.
2. Catch a free live gig
Bands in Parks, City Sounds and South Bank's Sunday Social on the Green offer regular free music performances by talented local artists. Just grab a spot and enjoy the vibe.
3. Visit a gallery
Explore world-class exhibitions, First Nations art collections, and contemporary installations at the Museum of Brisbane and QAGOMA.
Visit the Children's Art Centre to see kids exhibitions, or participate in kids' programs and events.
Enjoy free film screenings at GOMA Australian Cinematheque on Wednesday and Friday nights and Saturday and Sunday matinees.
4. Go for a hike at Mt Coot-tha
With crisp air and sunshine, winter is the ideal season to walk the tracks at Mt Coot-tha Reserve. Reward your efforts with a hot brew at the summit's cafe and panoramic city views.
5. Explore local markets
Looking for fresh local produce or artisan goods? Brisbane has a wide selection of markets that are perfect for people-watching, tasting local produce, and connecting with community. Find a market near you.
6. Head to a library for free events and workshops
Prefer to stay indoors on cool or cold days? Our libraries host a range of free activities - from author talks and book clubs to kids' holiday programs and tech classes.
7. Plant trees with your community
Join your community and plant new street trees to grow our urban forest at a community street tree planting event. Take home a free native plant and enjoy a sausage sizzle.
Alternatively, join in a volunteer bushcare working bee to help protect and restore Brisbane's unique biodiversity. With over 160 groups across Brisbane, there's bound to be an upcoming event near you.
8. Play at Wynnum Wading Pool Park playground
Explore the revamped Wynnum Wading Pool Park playground with new additions including sand-digging equipment, a shipwreck structure and beach houses.
9. Swim in a heated Council pool
Swim through winter at our 22 pools and aquatic centres. All locations offer at least one heated pool, creating more to see and do in the suburbs.
For the first time ever, we've heated Bellbowrie's 50-metre outdoor pool. Langlands Park Memorial Pool in Stones Corner heats all pools.
10. Discover the Brisbane Metro
The Brisbane Metro is here and winter is the perfect time to take a ride.
To help you explore the best of Brisbane, screens in each compartment show you places of interest when a metro approaches a station. Metros make it easier for you to leave your car at home.
Get out there and enjoy our city in style.
11. Get warm while keeping fit
There's something for everyone in our Active and Healthy program, including Active Parks and Growing Older and Living Dangerously (GOLD) activities.
Let our qualified providers inspire you to achieve your fitness and wellbeing goals. The program is open to residents of all ages, fitness levels and abilities.
Want even more ideas?
For more inspiration, explore:
- our What's On in Brisbane calendar
- more articles in Things to see and do in Brisbane.
Note: The featured content in this article is created to inspire residents and visitors to plan a day out exploring Brisbane. Brisbane City Council disclaims any relationship with, or endorsement of, businesses featured in this article.