Mt Coot Tha Lookout

The popular Mt Coot Tha Lookout is possibly Brisbane's best overall lookout point, offering panoramic 360° views that extend all the way out to Moreton Island and the Lamington ranges on clear days. An essential visit for all first-time visitors to Brisbane, Mt Coot Tha is reachable within a 15 minute drive from the CBD, with the drive itself also being quite pleasant, passing Brisbane's TV towers and providing a great outlook along the way. The lookout clocks in at 287m in height, and resides amid some beautiful and well-kept gardens while also offering a number of other facilities as well. There's plenty of space from which to get a clear view of the city and its surrounds despite its popularity, so be sure to bring your camera along for the trip to get some unmatched travel photos of Brisbane's skyline. Mt Coot Tha comes equipped with clean toilet facilities, as well as paid telescopes for those looking for a closer view of the region, while there's also a reasonably-priced cafe from which to purchase refreshments or enjoy an icecream on a hot day. Those looking to extend their stay at the top can also embark on an easy-to-moderate walking track that starts at Slaughter Falls and passes through some nice bush scenery; this does not require a great deal of fitness to enjoy. Mt Coot Tha is also home to the excellent Summit Restaurant, which serves as an excellent venue for its combination of great views and high quality dining. Other attractions within easy reach of the lookout include the lovely Mt Coot Tha Botanic Gardens, and the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, both of which can be visited via public transport. The lookout is accessible via bus; take #471 from the city which takes around 35 minutes to arrive at the lookout from the CBD. If self-driving, bear in mind that parking can be hard to come by - so try and get there early (or late). Our recommendation: try to arrive just before sunset and watch the transition from day to night for the best of both worlds!