The world’s largest urban subtropical garden is spread across sixteen hectares of green space spread across Brisbane’s inner city. The Roma Street Parklands are a tapestry of individually-designed gardens and parklands, home to diverse horticulture displays of plants from around the world. It is one of the most beautiful examples of flora in the city – no matter the day or week, people can be found picnicking, kite-flying, relaxing in the sun, playing footy on the grass or exploring the vibrant gardens. The Roma Street Parklands are Brisbane’s greenest asset, and are a delight to visit and explore.
The Parklands publish a brochure that explains the different parts of the gardens to visitors. Volunteer guides also take groups around on tailored tours exploring the design, flora, art and history of the park, but these must be booked well in advance. Self-guided walks are available in a downloadable brochure. For a more unique tour, hop onto the Parkland Explorer, a trackless hop on, hop off train that takes visitors to key locations around the parklands.
Another option is just to wander – webbed pathways crisscross the park, offering many hours of exploration. Keep an eye out for the central lake surrounded by lotus, papyrus and water lilies; large public sculptures, mosaics and murals; and the open-air amphitheatre where actors or musicians may be performing. Picnic tables and barbeques are scattered throughout the park, but these fill up fast on weekends and holidays so consider coming prepared with your own gear to relax on. Pack a picnic lunch, or grab a bite from the chic café just near the main lake.
The Parklands are an easy walk from central Brisbane – pedestrians can enter from Albert Street, Roma Street and via the Normanby Pedestrian Link. Roma Street Transit Station is right below the parklands, and is the major transport hubs in Brisbane. Buses and trains from around Brisbane and Queensland arrive here by the minute, offering easy access to the beautiful parklands above. Multistory and street parking is available for a nominal fee.
