GoGet's Top 12 Best Lookouts in Brisbane

Australia has many cities that could claim the title of 'best lookouts', but there is something special about looking out across Brisbane's sprawling cityscape. As the River City prepares to become a new "global city" by 2031, the ever expanding building additions make the sunset glow a little more enchanting.

Along with the gleaming skyscrapers, the Brisbane River is ringed by distinctive bridges and lush neighbourhood parks. This mixture produces magnificent metropolitan views that make renting a GoGet well-worth it in order to reach them all! With hundreds of rentals across the city and designated parking for carshares, you'll be travelling in comfort to the best lookouts in Brisbane (which most on this list are completely free!).

Mt Coot-tha Summit

Mt. Coot-tha viewpoint has a certain notoriety, making the windy trip up to it justifiable (especially at night). The parking spaces near the lookout offer full cityscape views down below. Additionally, there are numerous walking paths around the mountain that lead to the lookout, as well as a cafe where you can enjoy a coffee or pack a picnic for a meal with a view. The summit of Mt. Coot-tha is home to Brisbane's most well-known lookout as the large observation deck offers a prime spot for a few selfies alongside a telescope for a closer look at city activity. The 52 hectares of the subtropical Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium are also not to be missed.

Sir Thomas Gaffney Lookout

The peaceful Green Hill Reservoir Park and Sir Thomas Gaffney Lookout are on the opposite side of Mount Coot-Tha. There is an off-leash dog park here that is encircled by a short walk and an extended building covered with street art. Framed by lovely vegetation, the Sir Thomas Gaffney Lookout is certainly something to behold, just try to avoid travelling here during peak hours when the roads are busy (not so serene).

Kangaroo Point Cliffs 

Popular with Brisbane's ultra-cool and fitness fanatics, the outlook atop the Kangaroo Point Cliffs is the main reason to visit Kangaroo Point. A fantastic view of the city throughout the day is provided by the waterfront location, but the sunset is truly magical. Rock climbers and abseilers love to scale the imposing cliffs at Kangaroo Point, which offer a stunning background to the river opposite Brisbane Botanic Gardens. If you’re feeling energetic why not climb the 107 steps to the summit for a memorable experience? Afterwards, book a cliffside seat at Joey's on Riverside Terrace for tapas, pizza, and drinks to finish off your afternoon.

The Scenic Rim

The Scenic Rim stays true to its name with boutique vineyards, gin distilleries, jungle hikes, and scenic settlements. This area has plenty of things to discover and is only about an hour's drive from Brisbane, so turn on the stereo and cruise comfortably in your GoGet. Enjoy tastings or a lavender gelato while overlooking lavender fields at Kooroomba Vineyard & Lavender Farm, or stop by Tamborine Mountain Distillery for a drink. As you stroll through the 30-metre-high Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, take in the breathtaking vistas of the rainforest. Not a city view, but a sight you don't want to miss in the region.

Mt Gravatt Lookout

Mt Gravatt Lookout, the southside's crown treasure, is the best reward for climbing the mountain. The entire Brisbane skyline, Moreton Bay islands, D'Aguilar Ranges, and Glasshouse Mountains are all visible on a clear day making it one of the best Brisbane lookouts. Whether you have kids or are in the mood to eat, you can relax as there is both a playground and a restaurant!

Bartley’s Hill Lookout, Ascot

Bartley's Hill Lookout is tucked away in the lush suburb of Ascot, hidden if you don't know where to look. When you see the views of the city and Story Bridge, you'll be pleased you didn't miss this spot. This location is so lovely that it is frequently used for wedding photos. The hill appears to have been used as a public observation point starting around 1925. Interestingly, during World War II, an aircraft observation post was built there due to its high elevation. Parking is abundant, and there are benches where you can sit back and enjoy the sights and sea breeze.

Whites Hill Reserve, Camp Hill 

Who would have imagined that Brisbane's inner metropolis could include such a sizable, mesmerising natural reserve? Of course, we're referring to Whites Hill Reserve, where you can enjoy playground equipment, BBQ and picnic areas, endless bushwalking opportunities, nature study opportunities, and views of the city from the lookout. Over 170 hectares in size, Whites Hill Reserve is around seven kilometres south-east of Brisbane's CBD, and supports a variety of plant habitats, including open eucalypt forests and rainforests. Within the reserve is Sankeys Scrub, a significant piece of dry rainforest. This bushland's mix of habitats makes it a crucial sanctuary for a variety of creatures. Dogs are not permitted because it is a nature reserve, but there is a dog-friendly area next to Boundary Road. Many visitors have also spotted koalas from the overlook!

Brisbane City Hall Clock Tower

A free tour of the 92-metre-tall Brisbane City Hall Clock Tower is the best way to get to know Queensland's capital city. You can learn all about the history of Australia's largest analogue clock as a guide leads groups of four onto an antique cage lift, taking you to the top for a 360-degree view. You can follow your curiosity into the Museum of Brisbane's colourful passageways after leaving the viewing area. Free tours run every fifteen minutes between 10:15 am and 4:45 pm.

Wheel of Brisbane

Did you know our very own Wheel of Brisbane was created by the same company that created the Ferris wheels in Paris, Kuala Lumpur, and Niagara Falls? The permanent, 60-metre-tall structure provides a 15-minute journey that offers a 360-degree view over Brisbane. There are 42 different gondolas that can accommodate parties of up to six adults and two kids under the age of 11. Time your trip around sunset to see the city lights along the river and South Bank light up.

The Story Bridge

Did you know that Brisbane's most recognisable bridge can be crossed on foot? The Story Bridge is a must-see in Brissy, much as the Brooklyn Bridge is in New York City. From Howard Smith Wharves, proceed straight ahead, ride the elevator up to Bowen Terrace, and then cross the 777-metre steel bridge. From the Story Bridge's observation deck, 80 metres above Brisbane River, you can enjoy completely immersive views of Brisbane for two unforgettable hours. The Story Bridge is one of only three bridge climbs in the world that offers spectacular views of the city at sunrise and dusk. But don't limit yourself to just the climb, Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers a variety of adventures, such as bridge abseiling. Although cameras are not allowed on the climb, the guides will capture your memorable moments along the way.

Howard Smith Wharves

Take in the scenery from a bend in the river beneath the Story Bridge while sipping a craft beer from Felon's Brewery or while strolling along the promenade at Howard Smith Wharves. Walk or bike down the Brisbane Riverwalk to New Farm while you observe the riverboats passing by and look up at the bridge. Brisbane has only recently added this hip lifestyle district, and when you see it in all its splendour, it's difficult to believe that such a prime position was disregarded for so long. With the Story Bridge serving as the perfect backdrop, there are numerous vantage points here.

Brisbane’s Various Rooftop Bars 

While Brisbane’s parks and nature reserves do offer some prime lookouts, Brisbane's rooftop bars have some truly incredible views that you can enjoy while sipping a refreshing drink (but always be sure to drink responsibly when driving a GoGet!). From the colossal city views at The Terrace in South Brisbane to the actual rooftop paradise that is the Valley's Cielo, Brisbane is filled with chic and upscale rooftop bars. The Emporium Hotel at South Bank's Terrace offers sweeping visibility of the Southland Parklands, the CBD, and the river. It is open from 7am till late for everything from breakfast to post-show beverages. It also has a retractable ceiling and glass canopy to handle any weather. If you're keen on finding more great spots, check out our article on The Top 10 Rooftop Bars in Brisbane.

Exploring Brisbane’s best lookouts promises incredible views of the city’s skyline, rivers, and surrounding landscapes, each spot offering a quality perspective of Queensland’s capital. From the lush heights of Mount Coot-tha to the enticing scenes of Kangaroo Point Cliffs, these lookouts are a must-see for capturing Brisbane’s natural beauty and urban charm. With GoGet, you can conveniently access each destination at your own pace, avoiding the hassle of public transport or parking concerns. Whether you're a local or visitor, GoGet makes it easy to experience Brisbane’s best vistas, giving you the flexibility and freedom to soak in the sights whenever it suits you. Looking for more to do around Brisbane? Check out our blog on The Ultimate Brisbane Bucket List. Just looking for somewhere to have a picnic or lush nature to explore? Check out the Best National Parks to visit from Brisbane.

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