Brisbane City has some beautiful parks, designed to be accessible for everyone, including adults with disability. Here’s your guide to the best accessible parks in Brisbane, complete with ratings for shade and views, tips on where to park, and recommendations for affordable food nearby.
1. South Bank Parklands
Why It’s Great: South Bank Parklands offers a vibrant riverside experience with wide, flat pathways, accessible restrooms, and plenty of activities. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Shade: ★★★☆☆
Views: ★★★★☆
Best Accessible Parking: Accessible parking is available in the South Bank Parklands underground car park with easy access via lifts. There are also spots on Little Stanley Street near the main entrance.
Affordable Food Nearby: Brooklyn Depot offers affordable, tasty burgers with an accessible entrance and casual vibe. Harajuku Gyoza is another budget-friendly option, known for its delicious Japanese dumplings.
2. Roma Street Parkland
Why It’s Great: Roma Street Parkland is an urban garden paradise with easy access via ramps, flat paths, and accessible restrooms. The Spectacle Garden is a highlight for nature lovers.
Shade: ★★★★☆
Views: ★★★★☆
Best Accessible Parking: The College Close Car Park offers the best accessible parking, with spaces close to the main entrance and Roma Street Station. Or, catch the train in and save while building independence skills.
Affordable Food Nearby: Brewski Bar on Caxton Street is a great spot for craft beers and affordable bites like burgers and fries, with wheelchair access. Scout Cafe offers affordable brunch options and good coffee in a relaxed, accessible setting. These are a short walk from the parklands.
3. New Farm Park
Why It’s Great: New Farm Park is known for its expansive rose gardens and beautiful riverside views. The park is mostly flat, with accessible restrooms and parking close to all the main attractions. It's close to the river so you can enjoy a walk along the river or play games in the park. On a Saturday, New Farm Park is home to a market with great food and coffee.
Shade: ★★★★☆
Views: ★★★★☆
Best Accessible Parking: Accessible parking is available near the Brunswick Street entrance and by the Brisbane Powerhouse, providing easy access to the park’s main areas.
Affordable Food Nearby: Cafe 63 at New Farm serves budget-friendly, classic Australian cafe food with a welcoming, accessible environment. Even cheaper - pick up a BBQ chicken and some rolls and have a picnic in the park.
4. City Botanic Gardens
Why It’s Great: The City Botanic Gardens provide a tranquil escape in the middle of Brisbane, with wide, flat paths and lush greenery. The gardens are perfect for a relaxing walk or a peaceful picnic. There is often an event on in the university next to the gardens and on weekends the botanic gardens hosts a market with music.
Shade: ★★★★☆
Views: ★★★☆☆
Best Accessible Parking: Accessible parking is available on Alice Street, close to the main entrance, making it easy to get into the gardens.
Affordable Food Nearby: Kadoya Japanese offers affordable gourmet meals with wheelchair-accessible seating. Pancake Manor nearby is a great budget-friendly option for a more substantial meal, with good accessibility features.
Conclusion
So there you have it, Brisbane’s parks offer a perfect blend of accessibility, things to do, and convenience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax in the shade or a vibrant space to explore with a view, these parks provide the ideal setting. Plus, with affordable and accessible dining options nearby, you can enjoy a full day out without breaking the bank. So, plan your visit, and experience the best that Brisbane’s accessible parks have to offer!
