Plants, Planets and a Mt Coot-tha View

Why go

This western hillside outing works for visitors who enjoy both nature and a broad view of the city. Start with a relaxed trail through the Botanic Gardens, moving between tropical and Australian plant collections. The Planetarium is close to the gardens and changes the subject from plants to the sky; its displays make a useful sheltered middle stop. Leave the lookout until last so the city and Moreton Bay panorama becomes the day's payoff. The uphill connection takes more effort than the short map distance suggests, so keep a generous walking allowance and a steady pace. Check the Planetarium's current program if a skydome presentation matters to you.

The route, stop by stop

World itinerary estimate: 95–285 min

1. 01

   Main stop · 45–90 min

   Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha

   Choose these expansive gardens for a plant-focused outing: their 56 hectares bring together tropical, subtropical and Australian collections below Mount Coot-tha.

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2. Walk · 3 min · Estimated

   02

   Main stop · 30–60 min

   Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium

   The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium sits inside Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha. Astronomy displays, the Cosmic Skydome and Sundial Courtyard make an indoor-led companion to a garden walk.

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3. Walk · 36 min · Estimated

   03

   Main stop · 20–45 min

   Mount Coot-tha Lookout

   Go to Mount Coot-tha for Brisbane's broadest central lookout: the terrace frames the city, its winding river and, on a clear day, Moreton Bay.

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