New Farm River Walk: The Route Locals Love (And Tourists Miss)

Some days call for slow easy walking, a beautiful sunshine day, and a little relaxing escapade without having to travel to the outer limits of the country.

Today, I embark on a delightful day trip, showcasing some of the best riverfront gems Brisbane has to offer, all powered by my feet, public transport, ferries, and the occasional flat white (coffee).

Our adventure starts with a brew under the Story Bridge, climbing a cliff to a little-known Outlook with magnificent City & Bridge views, ended with lunch by the river – this New Farm River Walk is everything I love about this hidden gem. Stunning vistas, playgrounds, caffeine and restaurants, art spaces, history and a breezy CityCat ferry ride home. Here’s how the day unfolded, one step at a time.

 There’s something wonderfully freeing about being a tourist in your own City and letting someone else do the driving, especially when you’re anticipating a day of discovery, when your day trip delivers riverfront charm, easy walking and a bit of history and artful flair.

Stepping off the bus at the Cultural Centre Bus Station in South Brisbane, then a short stroll through the Southbank Parklands and onto the Southbank CityCat ferry terminal. 🔥Tip: Bus & City Cat fares are only .50 cents. Our trail exploration had begun; we were all so excited with anticipation, looking forward to the day ahead.

# A Riverside Day Out in Brisbane

The iconic CityCat was my chariot for the next leg of my journey. I just love cruising the Brisbane River on a CityCat, the views are always a treat – a moving postcard of the city skyline, the Story Bridge and all the action on the riverbanks. A few scenic bends in the river later we arrived: My destination: the bustling ever-lively Howard Smith Wharves, this is the start of our adventure – the New Farm River Walk. 

As soon as I disembarked, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee drew me in. I kicked off the day with a flat white and a yummy pastry from a café tucked under the cliffs at the Wharves. The place was buzzing with a vibrant energy, a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the riverside atmosphere. I settled into a cozy spot soaking up the River views, the Story Bridge towering over head. It’s a perfect spot to people watch and simply be – coffee and calm before the walk.

Coffee break done, instead of instantly continuing to the River Walk, I took a short detour. A quick stroll led me to the lift (yes, an actual elevator that travels up the cliffside) that whisks you up to Wilson’s Outlook Reserve Lookout. Talk about underrated. The view. WOW! Postcard perfect. The panoramic vistas of the city from up here are unreal – city skyline, ferries gliding past, and of course the majestic Story Bridge in all its glory, stretching across the river like a big coat hanger. It’s a fantastic spot for photos and to simply appreciate Brisbane’s impressive landscape.

Back down at the wharves, after my exhilarating lift ride and coffee by the water, I set off on the New Farm River Walk. The boardwalk hugs the gentle curve of the Brisbane River, joggers nodded hello, and I couldn’t help but pause to get some shots of the early morning light bouncing off the water. Glimpses of stunning homes and riverside mansions, lush greenery and the occasional kayaker paddling by are around every bend. It’s an easy, enjoyable stroll that truly immerses you in the riverside ambience.

The path meanders pleasantly along the water, offering constant river views. The River Walk is one of Brisbane’s must do’s – a trail for walkers, joggers and cyclists stretching out along one of the most scenic sections of the Brisbane River between Howard Smith Wharves to New Farm. With ferry terminals along the way and connections to walks to the Brisbane CBD & Botanic Gardens, there is so much more opportunity to further explore this region. 🔥Tip: I’ll leave a link to my recent Blog – Exploring Brisbane: A Perfect Day Walking Tour (click here for more information on this walk)

CityCat terminals dotted the edge, ferries gliding smoothly past onto their next destination. The path was alive with people all enjoying the beautiful Brisbane day. The River Walk is wide enough to accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists with dedicated lanes for each. There is sometimes not a lot of shade along sections of the Walk so it is always a good idea to carry water, wear a hat (particularly in the summer months) and slip, slop and on the sunscreen.

As I ambled along the boardwalk with the panoramic views of the Story Bridge disappearing into the background, we continued on. The sound of happy shrieks of laughter led me past an imaginative children’s playground with fitness workout equipment, a burst of colour and energy along the way. It’s wonderful to see families making the most of this fantastic public space.

A little further along, I reached the expansive green of Merthyr Park. People were scattered on picnic blankets, enjoying the sunshine and peaceful atmosphere. Stretching along the banks of the Brisbane River, it is such a beautiful spot to pause and simply watch the river flow by. It’s no wonder the locals like to keep this one a secret.

MERTHYR PARK: GREAT FACILITIES BEST KNOWN FOR:

• Riverside Location
• Walking Path
• Nautical Playground
• Gym Equipment
• Close to New Farm Park
• Explore the Small Beach & Mangrove Area
• Access to the Sydney Street Ferry Terminal
• Access to Cafes, Restaurants & Bowls Club

This river walk is a true Brisbane highlight, the path wide and well – maintained, offering a flat and easy stroll perfect for all ages.

From Merthyr Park, I detoured away from the river and followed a path that led me through the charming, leafy streets of New Farm. Admiring beautiful Queenslander homes and their well-tended gardens was pleasant change of scenery. Some of these luxurious New Farm homes were simply breathtaking, WOW – how the other half lives.

# Morning at New Farm Park

Before I knew it, I arrived at the expansive New Farm Park. This heritage listed park is a green, grassy oasis, boasting magnificent Jacaranda trees (though not in bloom today), fragrant rose gardens, BBQ’s, Riverside picnics, plenty of open spaces for families & play. This park is an institution, families getting together, friends kicked a football, the kids had a ball exploring the huge children’s playground.

 

I grabbed a coffee from the nearby Coffee Hut and took a moment to wander through these beautiful grounds past the rose gardens and moseyed on over to the Rotunda. No bands playing here today, all to myself, just some time out to enjoy my brew and think on what has been one sensational day before our next stop.  

# Exploring Brisbane Powerhouse

Back on the river walk, our next stop, the impressive silhouette of the Brisbane Powerhouse was coming into view, it’s where history hums through the walls-quite literally. Tucked along the banks of the Brisbane River, next to the New Farm Park River Hub, the Brisbane Powerhouse is a striking fusion of history and creativity. Once a coal-fired power station, this huge red brick building began operations in 1928 until it’s shutdown in 1971.  

For decades, it stood abandoned—its walls tagged with graffiti, its turbine halls echoing with the footsteps of squatters, artists, and dreamers. But in 2000, the building was reborn as a contemporary arts venue, preserving its industrial bones while pulsing a new life into an ever-evolving urban transformation.

This converted power station turned cultural hub always has something buzzing inside. At the heart of this building, exposed brick and steel beams showcase galleries, performing spaces, and pop-up installations. With fascinating exhibits on Brisbane’s industrial growth and sustainable energy, it offered a cool, thoughtful pause from our outdoor wanders.

We lingered over a photography show – The World Press Photography Exhibition – capturing world events, being part of an annual competition all on display over several levels. 🔥Tip: Free Entry!!!

# Lunch at Mary Mae’s Bar & Kitchen

Today, it was all about riverside dining, my stomach signaled it was time for lunch and feeling peckish Mary Mae’s Bar & Kitchen was the perfect destination. Nestled besides the Powerhouse, it’s a breezy, sun-drenched spot with views that stretched across the water.

The restaurant offers a delightful menu with plenty of options, from light snacks to more substantial meals. I grabbed a table inside (outdoor dining as well), placed my order and indulged in a classic chicken burger and cold beverage, that hit the spot after my walk. I enjoyed a delicious meal, surrounded by the buildings’ industrial charm, the vibe was relaxed, the service warm and friendly, it was the perfect place for an early afternoon refuel.

# Final Thoughts: Why the New Farm River Walk Captivates

Refreshed in both spirit and mind after my superb lunch, it was time to start the journey home. You have various options available: 🤔 By Bus: Translink bus routes & timetables will get you around. More info – TRANSLINK (click here for routes and availability), 🤔 Walk: Retrace your steps back to Howard Smith Wharves – connect to other services and walks to the Brisbane CBD 🤔 CityCat Ferry Service: Hop on/off as many stops as you like returning to your desired destination.

My legs were ready for a rest; I retraced my steps heading back to the New Farm CityCat Ferry Terminal (it’s about a 6 minute stroll along the river walk), to catch a ride back to the South Bank Parklands. Hopping on the CityCat, the late afternoon light cast a golden glow over the river. As we cruised along the river in and out of many stops, the city skyline unfolded beautifully, the cooling breeze making the return journey just as picturesque and enjoyable as the outbound.  

I disembarked at South Bank Parklands a short stroll along the bougainvillea arbour, the lively atmosphere a stark contrast to the earlier peaceful stretches of the walk. The Wheel of Brisbane turned slowly in the distance, ending our day at the Cultural Centre Bus Station ready to head home with tired feet and a full heart.

What a fantastic day trip exploring the New Farm River Walk! From a peaceful coffee start to breathtaking lookouts, vibrant cultural hubs, a relaxing CityCat ride, stunning Parks & Gardens, & lunch by the river.

This River Walk adventure offered a perfect blend of city views, park life, and riverside tranquility. The secret is out!!!!, this day trip truly offers something for everyone, I highly recommend giving it a go.

I’m already planning my next adventure, this isn’t just travel – it’s a way of seeing, feeling and exploring the not so “touristy” locations. I hope you enjoyed my Day Trip; I’ll be back here chasing more stories & locations soon. See you next time.