The Optimist

Boondall Wetlands Reserve
An area of 1000 hectares of mangroves, tidal flats, grassland and forest on the edge of Moreton Bay near Nudgee Beach. Boondall, Brisbane.
Brisbane City Botanical Gardens
The City Botanic Gardens were established in 1855. Here you can find elderly palms and figs, and a mangrove walk, all beside a pleasant bend in the Brisbane River.
Brisbane Forest Park
This huge parkland is situated in the D'Aguilar Range, 10km North of the CBD. It has an abundance of walking trails of varying distances, all taking in native flora and fauna. It is an ideal park for horse riding, cycling, camping or scenic drives. The park houses the Walk About Creek study centre, where you can see many freshwater creatures close up, another highlight is the walk through aviary. 60 Mt Nebo road, (07 3300 4855). Bus from city
Mt Coot-tha
The place for obtaining a view of the whole city is Mt. Coot-tha, situated 7km west of the city centre. A collection spread over 52 hectares with over 20,000 plants and species from around the world. The lookout gives a spectacular view of Brisbane. There is also a large Botanic Garden and the Brisbane Planetarium can also be found here. Sir Samuel Griffith Drive, Mount Coot-tha (07 3403 8888).Bus from city.
New Farm Park
A family park with jungle gym, hide and seek trees and large places for children to play. New Farm, Brisbane.
Perrin Park
A local park with bicycle tracks, picnic areas and an area to let your dogs run free. Toowong, Brisbane.
Roma Street Parklands
Roma Street Parkland is a large sub tropical gardens in the centre of Brisbane. There are a number of themed gardens, rainforest and places to sit and relax. Within the garden is a large collection of public art. There are also picnic areas, BBQ and a playground. Roma Street, Brisbane (07 3006 4545).
Southbank Parklands
These magnificent parklands in the heart of the city are situated on the western bank of the Brisbane River. Covering 16 hectares, which include restaurants, playgrounds, markets, walking and cycling paths and a beach. It really has something for everyone. Southbank (07 3867 2051).