Fun things to do at night on the Brisbane River
Discover exciting things to do at night along the Brisbane River. Enjoy scenic CityCat rides, starlit picnics, and vibrant dining at riverfront restaurants.
Looking for things to do in Brisbane after dark? We've pulled together a bunch of the city's best waterfront places and venues with views of the Brisbane River.
Getting around
In Brisbane, nothing is more iconic than zooming along the river on a CityCat. Luckily, you can enjoy water travel well into the evening. For the best night river experience, go upstairs on a double-decker CityCat for a 360-degree skyline view.
With 22 terminals from UQ St Lucia to Northshore Hamilton, CityCat offers easy, scenic travel to start your night. Jump on around sunset and enjoy the glow of city lights as your river ride unfolds and the skyline comes to life.
Gateway to the Valley and beyond
The Howard Smith Wharves ferry terminal is the gateway to Fortitude Valley and New Farm. Relax with a meal at Mr. Percival's waterfront bar. Then take a lift to Bowen Terrace and walk to your chosen venue.
Enjoy Fortitude Valley's nightlife or dine at La Costa on Brunswick Street. It all starts with a CityCat ride.
Picnic under the stars at New Farm Park
Brisbane's oldest and grandest park isn't just popular among day-trippers. Brisbane's oldest and grandest park attracts more than just day-trippers; it shines at night too! Gather your friends and pick a riverbank spot for a starlit picnic. Or cozy up with a blanket and enjoy the view.
Looking to find entertainment? The historic Brisbane Powerhouse is an easy, five-minute walk from the New Farm Park ferry terminal. It regularly hosts live performances, comedy, and cultural events. It also houses two much-loved riverside hangouts - Mary Mae's Bar & Kitchen and Bar Alto.
Other great picnic spots include Newstead Park, home to Brisbane's oldest house, Newstead House, Orleigh Park, and Rocks Riverside Park.
Eat your heart out at Eat Street
If doughnut fries, cronut ice cream, or Snickers cannoli tempt you, visit the famous Eat Street Northshore in Hamilton. Take a CityCat to Northshore Hamilton and head to the colourful shipping containers. Enjoy delicious food and music every Friday and Saturday from 4-10 PM, and Sunday from 4-9 PM. You will likely wish to visit multiple times to sample everything available.
Take a stroll through South Bank
Whether you're new to Brisbane or a local, a night on the river isn't complete without South Bank. This iconic area offers some of the best bars and restaurants, along with many options for eating and entertainment. Enjoy a meal at an eatery or swim at Streets Beach. Catch a show at QPAC or ride the Wheel of Brisbane for stunning city views.
Spend Friday or Saturday night late-night shopping at the Collective Markets on Little Stanley Street, open until 9pm. A short walk to Grey Street takes you to Fish Lane, known for buzzing bars, stylish restaurants, and vibrant street art.
The Collective Markets, South Bank Parklands
A night out on Oxford Street
Getting the CityCat to Bulimba is a sure-fire way to pack the most into a short walk! Peruse plenty of choices for drinks, dinner and dessert, including popular Gelatissimo Bulimba. Make it an Oxford Street progressive dinner. Stop at a few places while exploring this iconic Brisbane street.
Paddle the river at night in a kayak
What better way to see the river than spending a night on it. Get adventurous and experience Brisbane from a different angle with a twilight kayak tour.
Businesses like Riverlife Adventure Centre offer several evening tours. Some tours include a glass of wine and a grazing board at the end of the paddle. Trained instructors lead the tours, and you don't need any previous experience. You'll be gliding under bridges and past iconic riverside locations like a pro in no time.
Catch a show at Riverstage
Take advantage of Brisbane's weather and catch a show at Riverstage – the perfect place to experience outdoor, live gigs. Check out the event calendar for a variety of activities, from music concerts to family-friendly and community events.
Riverstage
Brisbane walks and river crossings
Brisbane has 5 bridges with pedestrian access across the Brisbane River, with 4 shared by walkers and cyclists. They link the CBD with South Bank, South Brisbane and Kangaroo Point. Together, they create an easy river walk for a night out.
Seeing the nightlights before the nightlife
Beyond bars, parks and dining spots, Council’s night‑light displays add atmosphere after dark. Landmarks like the Story Bridge and Walter Taylor Bridge glow at night, reflecting on the river. Bring a picnic blanket and relax in a riverside park. Enjoy the city glow for an easy, memorable night out.
Plan your night
With 50 cent fares, use the Translink journey planner to plan bus and river trips, for easy, stress-free travel.
Find more to do in Brisbane
With numerous activities in Brisbane, nights are always lively. For more ideas on what to see and do, download the Brisbane app.
Note: This article encourages locals and visitors to plan a day exploring Brisbane. Council does not endorse or have relationships with any businesses mentioned.