Roma Street Parkland

A subtropical wonderland on the city’s edge, and the largest of its kind in the world, Roma Street Parkland sprang to life in 2001 on the site of the former Roma St railway goods yards on the outskirts of Brisbane CBD.

The park, which has an upper and lower level connected by bridges, is essentially a wildly variant collection of subtropical precincts - the Arid zone, fern gully, the rainforest and Pandanus headland to name a few - each with their own microclimate which the visitor can experience when moving between them.

The crowning glory though is unquestionably the Spectacle Garden, an extraordinary explosion of colours that can only occur when the world’s most unique flowering subtropical plants are thrown together as they are here.

Other highlights include the artworks by Brisbane’s finest artists scattered throughout and for children, the sizeable playground along the upper reaches, and the mini train which chugs its way around through all the precincts in a continuous loop on weekends and holidays (and makes for easy transport between the cafe and playground).

The cascade lawns and barbecues on the lower level and the abundant wildlife such as ducks, wader birds and water dragons, are also a popular spot for locals and visitors, alike.

Roma Street Parkland is also the site of many organised activities, from Mums and Bubs walks, free exercise classes and guided park and art walks to festivals, theatre performances and concerts.