OVERVIEW

Set against the lush backdrop of Brisbane’s tallest mountain, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha is a 56-hectare oasis of subtropical beauty just 7 km from the city centre. Opened in 1976, it showcases one of Australia’s most diverse living plant collections, from fragrant tropical displays to dry native landscapes. Visitors can wander tranquil lakeside paths, explore themed gardens, or climb to the Mount Coot-tha Lookout nearby for sweeping city views. Entry is free, making it one of Brisbane’s most beloved green escapes.

QUICK FACTS

Opening Hours

Daily 8 am – 4 pm (extended hours for the café and restaurant)

Entry Fee

Free

Location

152 Mount Coot-tha Road, Toowong QLD

Best Time to Visit

September to November for jacaranda blooms and spring flowers; autumn and winter for cooler walking weather.

Suggested Visit Duration

2–3 hours (longer if visiting the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium or joining a guided walk)

Leonard Koh, CC BY-SA 4.0 , CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

HIGHLIGHTS

There’s plenty to explore across the gardens’ gently undulating grounds.

• Tropical Dome – a striking glasshouse filled with rainforest plants, palms and orchids

• Japanese Garden – a peaceful sanctuary of water, stone and foliage, designed by Japanese landscape architect Ken Nakai Maeda

• Australian Plant Communities – wander among native species from rainforests to arid regions

• Fragrant Gardens – dedicated to plants chosen for their scent and texture

• Arid Region and Bamboo Collections – fascinating contrasts in form and adaptation

Chris Olszewski, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

VISITOR INFORMATION

FACILITIES

☕ Café & Restaurant
🚻 Toilets
🅿️ Free Parking
Gift Shop
Picnic Areas

ACCESSIBILITY

Most main paths are paved and suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Accessible parking and toilets available.

GETTING HERE

Public Transport: Buses stop regularly at the main entrance on Mount Coot-tha Road. From the CBD, the journey takes about 20 minutes.
Parking: Free onsite parking is available adjacent to the gardens.

IS THE TASMANIAN BOTANIC GARDEN SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES?

Absolutely. Kids love the Hide ‘n’ Seek Children’s Trail and open lawns for play. There’s plenty of shade and space for a family picnic, plus educational programs and school holiday activities.

FOOD AND DRINK

Relax at the Botanic Gardens Café, serving coffee, meals and light snacks with garden views, or enjoy fine dining at Summit Restaurant & Bar at the nearby lookout. Picnic areas and barbecues are also available throughout the grounds.

EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

• Free guided walks daily (except public holidays)

• School holiday workshops and children’s nature programs

• Seasonal plant sales and botanical art exhibitions

• Astronomy shows and events at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium within the grounds

INSIDER TIP

Visit early in the morning for tranquil paths and birds splashing on the lakes. Afterward, drive or walk up to Mount Coot-tha Lookout for panoramic views over Brisbane and Moreton Bay.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

MOUNT COOT-THA LOOKOUT

Just a five-minute drive from the gardens

SIR THOMAS BRISBANE PLANETARIUM

Located within the grounds – great for families and astronomy fans

Nearby bush walks and picnic spots

BRISBANE FOREST PARK AND JC SLAUGHTER FALLS

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Website: Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha

Contact: (07) 3403 2535