Orient yourself at the Riverside terminal
Start near Riverside ferry terminal on the City Reach waterfront. Find Story Bridge downstream and follow current signs towards Howard Smith Wharves. Use this as a route anchor rather than a promise of continuous access to every section of waterfront; obey construction diversions and allow time to find the signed path.
Mobile data for your trip. Check what your current plan includes for roaming. If you need another option for maps, messages and booking details, compare NXTL eSIM coverage and rates. Check that your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked, and check coverage for every stop. Download important maps and confirmations for offline use too.
Follow the river towards the steel bridge
Continue towards Howard Smith Wharves, with the river as your guide. Look for the bridge’s repeated steel triangles and the contrast between the low wharf buildings and cliff above. Keep to the public route and let cyclists pass. You do not need to cross Story Bridge to enjoy this view, and an organised bridge climb is a different, separately booked activity.
Stop for a riverside meal
Consider Felons Brewing Co. for a brewery meal beside the bridge. Its riverside Fish n’ Chipper offers a casual seafood option; the brewery restaurant has its own menu and booking arrangements. Choose according to the weather and available seating. A restaurant table is an optional purchase, while the walk itself need not depend on finding one.
Choose a turnaround or New Farm extension
The wharves make a useful turnaround for a short walk. For more distance, follow the signed New Farm Riverwalk towards New Farm, then plan your return before committing to the extension. Bring water and sun protection for exposed sections. If you prefer to finish here, the precinct also has lift access to Bowen Terrace; check the venue’s current access information rather than assuming all hillside routes avoid stairs.
Separate ferry travel from a sightseeing cruise
Use the official Translink planner if a ferry forms part of your return, checking the named terminal and service for your destination. A public ferry is transport, with its own stops and payment rules; it is not a narrated sightseeing cruise. After dark, keep to lit public paths and shorten the plan if storms approach. A light layer can be useful while sitting by the river even after a warm afternoon.
For a separate boat outing, Check the Brisbane sightseeing river cruise. River City Cruises offers a 90-minute narrated sightseeing trip from the Cultural Centre Public Pontoon. This is different from a public ferry journey. Check the departure time and refreshment inclusion for your date. The listing excludes wheelchair users; confirm boarding needs before booking.
Check before you go
Opening arrangements and visitor rules can change. Check the official information before your trip.
