When your best friend lives interstate and says she needs you, you book a flight.
That’s exactly what I did last month and proceeded to spend a weekend doing all her favourite activities.
So, without further ado, here are the top 10 things to do if you want to be a Brisbane local for a weekend…
1. Enjoy a festival
At the time of my visit, Brisbane was in the throes of Festa Italiana – an annual Italian food and culture festival at Howard Smith Wharves.
Acoustic Italian music rang through the event, and red gingham tablecloths adorned tables throughout the festival. The smell of pizza and pasta lingered in the air and refreshing Aperol Spritzes tasted just as satisfying as they did in Italy.
Although Festa Italiana has now ended, it was one of many festivals on Brisbane’s cultural calendar! Still to come this year is Providore Park, Redfest Strawberry Festival, Night Feast, and the Good Food and Wine Show.
2. Explore New Farm Markets
The Jan Powers Farmers Markets Powerhouse has run from 9am to 12pm every Saturday for 26 years, and it is still bustling!
The market’s popularity is no doubt thanks to the rows of passionate stallholders selling handmade products and fresh produce like fruit, vegetables, artisan cheeses, pasta, bread, and more!
3. Picnic at New Farm Park
Since you’re already in New Farm for the market, have a picnic at New Farm Park!
Set up a blanket on the lush grass after a stroll along the riverside promenade, prepare your cheeseboard, people watch, enjoy the scenic view of Brisbane River, and have a laugh.
4. Catch a ferry at sunset
In Brisbane, a sunset cruise costs $1. That is if you board one of Brisbane’s ferries – known as CityCat’s and KittyCat’s – at the right time of day.
These ferries are a go-to form of public transport and stop at a network of 22 terminals along the Brisbane River. They are not only an amazing way to get around the city, but also a great tool for sightseeing.
Taking in the Brisbane skyline and the iconic Story Bridge as the sun set behind them casting incredible shades of gold and pink across the sky was a memorable moment.
5. See the city from above
If you want a different view of the CBD, head to the Star Casino’s Sky Deck. 100 metres above the city, you can soak in the view day or night, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll appreciate it with a cocktail in-hand.
6. Get fancy
If you’re in the mood for fine dining, I recommend Tillerman Seafood Restaurant. It boasts resort-style riverside dining and serves incredible local seafood. Not to mention, the live piano player and friendly staff! I’ll be back at Tillerman every time I venture to Brisbane.
If you want something a bit more lowkey, I recommend Stratton Bar and Kitchen – an industrial-style venue within two transformed World War II hangars in Newstead.
7. Bust a move
My best friend and I spent our pre-teen and early teenage years dancing competitively together, so when we catch up, a dance break is non-negotiable.
For a night out, I recommend heading to Fortitude Valley – or ‘the Valley’ if you’re a local – and starting the night with karaoke at Lost Souls. After that, it’s only right to head to the local country bar! We selected Honky Tonks for a dose of live music.
After a country fix, head to Su Casa Nightclub and Rooftop for some R&B, before completing the night at a local kebab shop.
8. Wake up properly
For a great coffee and an incredible breakfast, Pablo’s Pantry is the answer. The food is delicious and the family behind the counter are passionate about delivering an amazing experience. They hope to create a feeling of home for every customer, and the recipes have been passed down from mother to daughter for generations. You can taste the love.
9. Smell the roses
Stop and smell the flowers at MILKBUD – a new florist in Woolloongabba. This florist has quickly gained popularity for its flowers over fillers philosophy, pet-safe range, zero plastic use, and on-trend stems.
10. Go old school
Finally, you can’t do a girl’s trip without a little bit of shopping. If you want to do that sustainably, I recommend a visit to Vintage Street in Stones Corner.
This shop offers a huge selection of second-hand designer clothing. I spotted a gorgeous Prada handbag for $100, and the Burberry coat collection is amazing! Not to mention, if you want to continue the vintage vibes, there is a record store called Sonic Sherpa just next door.
There is so much to see and do in Brisbane! But if you want to embrace being a local for a weekend, these top 10 tips are a fool-proof method.
Ally Hall joined the Western Sydney Publishing Group in 2024, and focuses on entertainment and community stories. She is a graduate of the University of South Australia.