Weekend Escapes: Brisbane

When was the last time you travelled down the highway and spent a weekend in Brisbane? If it’s been a while, chances are you won’t even recognise the place thanks to an array of newly opened hotels, restaurants and shopping precincts. Here’s what to see and do for your next weekend escape to Queensland’s capital city!

Saturday:

Start your weekend with a spot of shopping in James Street, New Farm. The Calile Hotel is a brand new feature to the well-known shopping and dining strip and is home to a slew of designer boutiques from Camilla and Marc to Mr Zimi. If you’re feeling peckish, head upstairs to the stunning Hellenika restaurant for some Greek eats and an Aperol spritz by the pool. 

If the spritz went down a treat, it’s just a 10 minute walk from James Street to the brand new Howard Smith Wharves, which is home to Felons Brewery, abundant outdoor areas, two indoor event spaces, a soon-to-open boutique hotel, and the stunning overwater bar Mr Percival’s. The best part about the venue is its location; directly under the Story Bridge with views of the river and city. 

Saturday Night:

There are plenty of world-class restaurants (new and old) to check out in Brisbane right now, including Honto, Mrs Browns, Stokehouse and the list goes on. Our pick of the bunch would have to be Three Blue Ducks located within the five-star W Hotel in the CBD. Although the restaurant has a stunning fit out and an incredible menu, it’s not an intimidating venue, thanks to its focus on real food and laid back dining.

All that food and drink is sure to make you sleepy, so why not book into the immaculate W Hotel upstairs? With cutting-edge amenities and an artist-designed interior, it’s an experience for the senses that you won’t be forgetting for a long time. 

Sunday:

They don’t call it Sunday fun-day for no reason! If you still have dollars to burn, take a stroll through Brisbane city and check out the range of shopping from high street to high end. Don’t miss any nooks and crannies as this is where the best shopping and cafe spots hide. Our pick for brunch? Felix For Goodness in Burnett Lane. There’s always something incredible to see in South Bank, and you simply can’t go past a visit to GoMA, even if it’s just to escape the crowds and enjoy the art for half an hour.

Once you’re out of the city and heading north, we recommend Range Brewing in Newstead for not only high quality craft beers, but some of the best pizzas in Brisbane. 

Finally, head to Eat Street Northshore to finish off a food and entertainment-filled weekend. It’s recently expanded to include 180 dining, entertainment and retail shipping containers and there are now more places to sit and enjoy time with family and friends by the river. 

 

Iconic things to do in the River City:

• Climb Mt Coot-tha

• See a show at QPAC

• Witness a Kangaroo Point sunset

• Take a Lime Scooter or City Cycle Bike for a spin around the city

• Ride the Wheel of Brisbane

• Abseil the Story Bridge

• Swim at the Enoggera Reservoir 

• Go for a swim at the South Bank Streets Beach

• See a gig at the Triffid

• Ride the City Cat

• Have a picnic at New Farm Park

• Go to one of the many farmers markets around the city