Travel Itinerary: A Weekend in Brisbane
Over the past five years, it’s been glorious to watch Brisbane, a once sleepy town only home to the XXXX brewery, make a transformation to the place it’s always dreamed of being: a cultural hub designed to try and give Melbourne a run for its money. Want proof? Lonely Planet (you know, the website to go-to for all things that evoke wanderlust) dubbed Brisbane as Australia’s hippest city. Straight from the horse’s mouth, Brisbane is an energetic town on the way up, with an edgy arts scene, pumping nightlife, great coffee and restaurants. Convinced you need to spend some time discovering this riverside city? Great, here are some fun-filled ideas to fill your weekend trip to Brisbane.
Explore Southbank
Whether you’re a night explorer or bask in the glorious sunlight, Southbank boasts an array of delights designed to entertain even the fussiest traveller. The Parklands at Southbank has the uncanny ability to unleash your inner child. How? Remember when you were a kid and during the Summertime, your Mother set up the sprinkler in the backyard for you to run through, hop over or just plain sit on top of? Well take that, add some artsy-fartsy architecture and you’ve got yourself the best kid’s water play area in Brisbane. Once you’ve towelled off, you can either tackle your fear of heights on the Wheel of Brisbane, stroll through the bougainvillea adorned Arbour or explore the cobbled laneways of Stanley Street before enjoying some waterfront dining or feasting on your own delectable in one of the many picnic spots.
Immerse Yourself in an Exhibition at GOMA and QAG
While you’re off gallivanting around Southbank, take a five-minute trek towards South Brisbane to visit two of Queensland’s dynamic visual arts institutes, the Gallery of Modern Art and the Queensland Art Gallery. For kids, there is the highly acclaimed Children’s Art Centre with interactive pieces and for those in need of a mind-probing, GOMA offers feature films and exhibitions showcasing the talents of popular film-makers and artists.
Tantalise Your Tastebuds at the Eat Street Markets
Brisbane has its fair share of markets; from the quirky Young Designers Market at Southbank and Suitcase Rummage at Reddacliffe Place to the overwhelmingly large Brisbane Markets at Rocklea for all things produce. However, something is brewing over at the Hamilton Wharf. The Eat Street Northshore is Brisbane’s very own street food market – any foodies heaven. Indulge in aromatic international fares while you bob along to the musings of the local live performers every Friday and Saturday evening.
Swish Some Wine and Catch a Jazz Show
Everybody loves to unleash their inner yuppie every now and again. For that, there’s nothing like a night spent sipping casually on a cocktail or a glass of wine while listening to the smooth sounds of a Jazz ensemble. The Bowery, The Brisbane Powerhouse and the Brisbane Jazz Club feature local and international artists ready to blow you away (pun totally intended). Don your snootiest face for a night of good wine and music: beret optional.