What is South Bank in Brisbane?
South Bank is a riverside park and cultural precinct in Brisbane, built on the site of World Expo 88. It has gardens, a free swimming lagoon, restaurants and museums.
After Expo 88 closed, the site was turned into public parklands that opened in 1992. A highlight is Streets Beach, a man-made lagoon with sand and lifeguards, where people can swim free of charge in the heart of the city.
A curving arbour covered in bright pink bougainvillea runs through the parklands. The Wheel of Brisbane, a large Ferris wheel, offers views over the river and city skyline.
Culture and events
South Bank is home to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the Queensland Museum, the State Library of Queensland and the Gallery of Modern Art. The Nepal Peace Pagoda, built for Expo 88, still stands in the park.
Markets, outdoor cinemas and festivals are held throughout the year. The Goodwill Bridge links South Bank to the city's botanic gardens for walkers and cyclists.
Did You Know?
World Expo 88 attracted more than 15 million visits over six months and helped transform Brisbane's image.