Start the road trip this evening — aim to leave after peak evening commitments to get an early start for Day 2. Drive safely and keep rest stops planned every 2 hours.
Quick stop at the Big Banana precinct to stretch legs and take photos of the iconic banana — easy to spend 30–60 minutes wandering the gardens and souvenir shops. (Attractions/ride extras are paid.)
Drive through Springfield Central — short walk through parkland/riverwalk to see the newer suburb layout and community precincts. Good for a relaxed morning stroll.
Hike in White Rock (Spring Mountain Conservation Park) — moderate trek with great bushland views; allow 2–3 hours depending on route. Bring water, sun protection and sturdy shoes. Check park access (open daylight hours).
Watch sunset from the Mt Coot-tha lookout — panoramic views across the city and Moreton Bay; Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens close at dusk so leave plenty of time to get back down. (Typical sunset around 6:15–6:30pm in late Nov — confirm exact time.)
Visit GOMA and the Queensland Museum (note: Queensland Museum is free with the Questacon card per your note); both are in the South Bank precinct — allow 2–3 hours combined. GOMA opening hours usually from 10:00am; check special exhibitions and opening times in advance.
Walk the city core to see the City Botanic Gardens, Brisbane City Hall (City Hall tours and clock tower tours available — check times and tickets), Old Government House and surrounding heritage sites. The Botanic Gardens are open from early morning to dusk.
Try a well-rated Indian restaurant in the city (book ahead if you want a weekend evening) or a relaxed CBD bistro — sample local Queensland cuisine or favourite Indian dishes.
Choose a short coastal stop — Point Cartwright is an easy lighthouse walk with coastal views; Mount Coolum is a steeper climb (allow 1.5–2 hours) if you prefer a hike. Most outdoor spots are open daylight hours.
User note requested a good Indian restaurant in Mooloolaba — try a well-rated Esplanade Indian eatery (many operate 11:00am–9:00pm). If unsure, The Boathouse or a beachfront café are reliable alternatives.
Start at the coastal spots (Hells Gates, Fairy Pools) — these coastal formations and short walks are spectacular and good for photos; keep to marked paths and tide advice for safety. Free to visit during daylight.
Drive or walk to Laguna Lookout for sweeping views over Noosa Heads and coastline — a short visit but a must-see lookout. Noosa National Park walking trails are open from early morning to dusk.
Visit Snapper Rocks (Tweed Heads/Burleigh area) for iconic surf and the point break. Walk nearby Burleigh Heads National Park lookouts if time permits. Free and open daylight hours.
Visit Natural Bridge (famous rock arch and waterfall) then drive to Best of All Lookout for rainforest and coastal panoramas. Natural Bridge walk is typically 30–45 minutes; visitor centre hours vary — park access is daylight only.
Start at Queens Park and stroll the Botanic Gardens — excellent flower displays, ponds and quiet walks. Gardens are open daylight hours and are perfect for a relaxed morning.
Visit the compact UniSQ Japanese Garden and nearby Laurel Bank Park (great for photo stops) and the Queensland State Rose Garden if in bloom. These are all free public gardens.
If you prefer paid attractions, consider DownSteam (heritage train precinct) or the Live Steamers — check opening times (usually weekends or by appointment) and ticket prices before visiting.
If energy and timing allow, a short drive/hike up Spring Mountain local trails to watch sunset is possible; check exact sunset time and trail safety before heading up.