A local’s guide to Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves

Wave the Brisbane of yesteryear goodbye as Howard Smith Wharves sends the city’s cool factor to soaring heights.

Brisbane has unravelled from its nondescript cocoon into a vivacious social butterfly. Home to more than a fistful of the world’s best restaurants, euphoric waterfront bars and high-luxe accommodation offerings, the city surprises me from every angle. Nothing encompasses everything it’s become more vividly than Howard Smith Wharves, located beneath Story Bridge on the Brisbane River. A beautifully planned entertainment precinct, it’s my good time go-to. Here’s how I guarantee play-all-day fun for my entire family.

In short

If you only have time for one stop in Howard Smith Wharves, make it Felons Brewing Co. The team boast some of the city’s most masterful brewers and the vibe is always kicking across multiple al fresco zones, especially on a sun-drenched Brisbane day.

Top 3 reasons to visit Howard Smith Wharves

From its idyllic riverfront setting to the surprising number of communal spaces, Howard Smith Wharves thrills visitors of all ages – just ask my kids.

1. Felons Brewing Co

friends dining by the river with a view of the story bridge at Felons Brewing Co., Howard Smith Wharves — Felons Brewing Co. is the jewel in the crown of Howard Smith Wharves. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

My littlies love a lazy Felons Brewing Co session just as much as us grown-ups. Sprawled across two gigantic venues that spill into outdoor spaces and river-facing deck seating, the colossal brewery operation is Howard Smith Wharves’ headline act. For a kid-friendly visit, I head straight for the faux-turf Fish n’ Chipper section where a boat playground sits adjacent to al fresco tables with river views. My tribe love climbing and slippery dipping as they devour handfuls of hot chips and battered fish, while my husband and I (try to) soak up the ambience mere metres away.

If you’re kid-free, steal a seat inside The Brewery where pizza ovens, including one dedicated to thin n’ crispy creations, roll out top-notch pub grub. The beer is as good as it gets no matter your poison, but I recommend heading into the Barrel Hall to sample barrel-aged creations, a smashing Thai menu and pinball machines. No matter where you park your clan, Felons exudes an unpretentious, endlessly creative ethos that always ensures a memorable visit.

2. Story Bridge Adventure Climb

the Story Bridge Adventure Climb, Howard Smith Wharves — The Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers breathtaking views across the city. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

While there’s plenty to love at ground level, Howard Smith Wharves is also home to one of the city’s most ambitious above-ground attractions. The Story Bridge Adventure Climb shifted from Kangaroo Point in January 2025, making it all too easy to squeeze in an iconic adrenaline rush before exploring the rest of the precinct. Get suited up throughout the day but stay across the website for the once-monthly dawn climb which offers especially breathtaking views across the city and out to the Sunshine Coast’s Glass House Mountains and Moreton Bay.

3. Howard Smith Wharves’ outdoor spaces

the Brisbane River with tall buildings in the background — The transformation of Brisbane and Howard Smith Wharves continues to evolve. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Multiple grass patches at the New Farm end of Howard Smith Wharves blend interactive art installations with ample room to help stretch my kids’ legs out plenty fold. Best of all, they’re positioned to take in solid eyefuls of the Brown Snake (what we affectionately call the Brisbane River) as that Brooklyn-esque Story Bridge looms overhead. I love the Main Lawn in spring and summer when it’s dotted with picnic tables, live music and games every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from midday. Plus, you can order food to-go from Fellini’s Trattoria (more on all your food options below). If you’re visiting during the cooler months, pack a picnic rug because it’s still a fabulous time out.

Howard Smith Wharves restaurants and bars

Perched right up against the Brisbane River, each of Howard Smith Wharves’ dining and drinking hotspots offers a distinct dash of high-life revelry.

Fellini’s Trattoria

Carb loading comes easy at Howard Smith Wharves, especially that of the uber-delicious Italian-splashed variety. Fellini’s Trattoria opened in September 2025 right next door to the long-loved Mediterranean-inspired Ciao Papi. It’s more casual than Papi, offering breakfast spanning ricotta scrambled eggs, Nutella croissants and porchetta rolls, but the quality remains authentic and flavour-crammed while several spritzes and lovely international and local wines dot the drinks menu.

Ciao Papi

Evoking sun-drenched vacay vibes, Ciao Papi is a long-lunching stalwart that nails hearty fare from everyone’s favourite European destination. Located at the New Farm end of Howard Smith Wharves, the sophisticated eatery plates up a menu of al dente pasta, fresh seafood, pudgy and crispy pizzas alongside water views for days.

Stanley

Situated at the CBD end of Howard Smith Wharves, Stanley ’s waterfront setting embraces that warm Brisbane breeze with al fresco-enjoyed Cantonese cuisine. A slick operation that leans into local produce while warming your belly with the flavour bombs of Southern China, Stanley excels at yum cha for lunch and à la carte in the evening. Kick on after-dark festivities at Stan’s Lounge , one of my favourite Brisbane bars located just upstairs, where cocktails roll into the wee hours and a rotating door of DJs provides excellent ear candy.

Yoko

Next door to Stanley lies Yoko , renowned for its incredible Japanese fine dining and one of the best bottomless brunches in Brisbane. Score a table on Saturday or Sunday to seize a Buns & Bubbles brunch package with almost two hours of free-flowing prosecco, wine and beer, or visit any other time for traditional Japanese dining done right. The scene is Instagram-perfected, too, with a sumptuous mix of soft leather and warm timbers.

Greca

I highly recommend stretchy pants upon visiting Greca . Bringing the flavours of Greece to Howard Smith Wharves, this restaurant is inspired by traditional Greek tavernas and mirrors the same fun-loving ambience. Located right next to Yoko before you hit Mr Percival’s, a light and airy space offers an à la carte menu with all the classics. Think pita and dips, saganaki, eggplant moussaka, grilled sardines, lamb shoulder, souvlaki, and it just keeps going.

Mr Percival’s

Here for a good time? Mr Percival’s is Howard Smith Wharves’ overwater bar and one of the original venues to pull serious crowds to the entertainment precinct. It’s impossible to avoid getting swept up in the merriment of cocktail-laced catchups when the views directly beneath Story Bridge are this iconic. Sit back and spur on all-day waterfront antics with a menu that features small plates and large plates to pick at between drinks.

Felons Barrel Hall

While the food next door at Felons is bangin’, Felons Barrel Hall offers an entirely separate selection of flavour-crammed Thai dishes. Designed to share with the whole table, the menu spans traditional snacks, salads, curries and hibachi grilled delights. Wash the goodness down with barrel-aged beers that come on tap or by the bottle in the shape of cleverly packaged wine-bottle designs.

Howard Smith Wharves accommodation

There may only be one spot to rest your head at Howard Smith Wharves, but it’s one of the city’s most acclaimed overnight stays.

Crystalbrook Vincent

If you haven’t fallen head over heels for the Crystalbrook chain yet, prepare for hotel excellence centred on creativity and design. As each location is distinguished through a unique character, Crystalbrook Vincent celebrates Australian artist Vincent Fantauzzo so hundreds of his original works line the walls. While the rooms are flawless, there’s also Fiume , the rooftop bar, to slink into come sundowner o’clock, plus Mews , a top Howard Smith Wharves spot for breakfast at the CBD end of the precinct.

The history of Howard Smith Wharves

the Story Bridge aglow with lights at night above Felons Brewing Co., Howard Smith Wharves — The heritage-listed site is historically significant. (Image: Richard Greenwood)

Paying spectacular homage to its original 1930s structure, Howard Smith Wharves is a tribute to the last surviving wharfage in central Brisbane. It was first built by the Queensland Government as a project to provide relief work during the Depression era, around the same time Story Bridge was erected across the Brisbane River. Soon after, it served as a shipping facility for Howard Smith Co Ltd. Sitting pretty, yet vacant, since 1960, the heritage-listed site was transformed through a $110 million development project in 2017, which breathed new life into the precinct while honouring its legacy. Several buildings were raised above sea level to create flat grounds, and in went the structures that stand today. Howard Smith Wharves is set to undertake a multi-million-dollar expansion in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, which will see a new boutique hotel, expanded spaces, potential pontoons and a pool deck added, utterly transforming one of the city’s most cherished locales.

Getting to and around Howard Smith Wharves

Address: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane

Getting there: The nearest train station is Central Station in the CBD, which is one kilometre away. If you’re walking from the cliffs of Bowen Terrace, take the lift opposite Malt St down for instant access. If you’re coming in via CityCat, Howard Smith Wharves has its own ferry terminal.

Parking: A dedicated car park is located below ground with prepaid bookings available at this link . There is also the Secure Parking Emirates Car Park on Eagle St, which places you about three minutes’ walk from the precinct.

Opening hours: Howard Smith Wharves is open daily but check individual venue websites for precise opening hours.

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

Start planning your Queensland adventure at all.com.