Tuk tuks, jet skis and speakeasy bar crawls: Eight unlikely ways to explore Brisbane
Climb the Story Bridge for an incredible view of Brisbane. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland/Reuben Nutt
Brisbane has seriously stepped up its tourism game in recent years – from high-end dining and buzzing cafes to a thriving cultural and entertainment scene.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking to go beyond the typical tourist spots or a local ready to try something new, these experiences might just surprise you.
Climb to the top of the Story Bridge
The Story Bridge Adventure Climb is one of the oldest experiences (currently celebrating its 20th birthday) that Brisbane has to offer.
This all-ages activity is perfect for visitors craving a history-fused adventure, or locals who might regularly commute over the bridge but have never seen it from this angle.
Choose from climbs running morning to evening, including a full moon climb or a celebratory toast at the summit with a Felons beer or champagne.
Early last year, the SBAC became the world’s first wheelchair accessible bridge climb with the installation of a specially-designed wheelchair. Using advanced technology, the wheelchair has been customised to ensure smooth and safe movement over all inclines, ergonomic design for increased comfort and further integrated safety features.
Small bar and public art tour
After establishing one of Sydney’s leading tour experiences, Brisbane native Justin Steele has brought his company, Local Sauce Tours, home to Brisbane.
Since launching locally in 2024, the small-group tours have showcased the city’s vibrant nightlife, hidden laneways and thriving public-art scene, offering both visitors and locals the chance to see Brisbane in a new light.
Popular experiences include the Small Bar and Street Art Tour, where guests visit three speakeasy-style bars while learning about Brisbane’s street art and the Ultimate Brisbane Walking Tour, designed for those wanting a deeper dive into the city’s history and First Nations heritage before finishing with a drink overlooking the Brisbane River.
Brisbane is the only Australian city where a tour in a tuk tuk is an option. Photo: Facebook/Tuk Tuk Tours
Cruise around in a tuk tuk
It’s not something you see every day, but Tuk Tuk Tours has officially launched in Brisbane and is quickly becoming one of the city’s most unique sightseeing experiences.
Not only are they the only passenger tuk tuks in Australia, they’re also eco-friendly and zero-emission, making them a sustainable and stylish way to explore the city.
Tuk Tuk Tours caters to everything from birthday celebrations and corporate team-building events to romantic sunset rides and private city adventures. Expect lots of laughs, endless photo opportunities and local insider knowledge as you cruise through the streets on this three-wheeled ride.
Poseidon Adventure has expanded its Townsville operation to Brisbane. Photo: Facebook/Poseidon Adventure
Hop onboard a jet ski
If you’re chasing the thrill of a fast motorboat, a tour with Poseidon Adventure Jet Ski Tours might be just what you’re after.
Following great success in Townsville, the company has expanded to Brisbane, offering guided jet ski experiences for thrill-seekers.
Popular tours include a 70-minute adventure along the Brisbane River, a two-hour cruise to Moreton Island or an extended four-hour Kooringal experience, where guests can glide across the crystal-clear waters of Moreton Bay and stop at the famous Gutter Bar to enjoy fresh oysters straight from the source.
Keep an eye out for Poseidon Adventure’s upcoming Tangalooma snorkel tour, which will launch soon.
Jump on a bicycle tour
Discover Brisbane’s highlights on two wheels with the Urban Tours Brisbane Bicycle Tour, running Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
The tour begins at 2pm from the historic Naval Offices in Kangaroo Point, before setting off on a two-hour journey through the city. Riders cruise past the skyline, over the iconic Story Bridge, through New Farm and the Brisbane Powerhouse, before continuing to Howard Smith Wharves and the City Botanic Gardens.
The terrain is mostly flat, with a moderate level of fitness recommended. Trust us on this one – you’re going to have a wheel-y good time.
See the city from the river on your very own electric Go Boat. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland/Darran Franks
Hire a GoBoat for the afternoon
These self-easy-drive electric picnic boats from GoBoat Brisbane depart from Breakfast Creek and are available for one to three-hour rentals.
Cruise along the scenic Brisbane River at your own pace, passing historic landmarks as you make your way towards New Farm Park. Bring your own food and drinks, or elevate the experience with pre-arranged cheese board add-ons prepared by the GoBoat crew.
Paddle down the river in a kayak
For those keen to get their feet wet, a kayaking adventure with Riverlife Adventure Centre is the perfect way to explore Brisbane from the water – this is the River City, after all.
The 90-minute group experience begins at Kangaroo Point, with tours departing every day, either during the day or at twilight. Paddle beneath inner-city bridges and spot iconic landmarks including the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the historic Story Bridge and the Myora Shipwreck along the way. Private group tours are also available on request.
Fly sky high above the city
If you’ve ever wanted to treat yourself to an adventurous soar above Brisbane, look no further than Bekaa Air.
This scenic 25-minute flight aboard a floor-to-ceiling glass-door Robinson R44 helicopter carries up to three passengers, looping over the city skyline before cruising towards the iconic Mount Coot-tha Lookout. Departing daily from dawn until dusk, the experience offers a luxurious and thrilling way to see Brisbane from a whole new perspective.
Bookings at the Bekaa Air website
Republished from The Weekend Edition
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