The city of Brisbane is a great place for a couple’s weekend away. Whether you’re after a relaxing time in the parks, beaches and cultural institutions, or a more action-packed trip involving outdoor pursuits and lively nightlife – Brisbane has it all to offer.
The City Botanic Gardens are a must do for any couple visiting Brisbane for the weekend. There are many different areas to the gardens including rainforest, lilly ponds and large grassy knolls ideal for picnics. Head to the Alice Street entrance for 11am or 1pm where you can join a free guided walk any day except Sunday. If you’d prefer to explore by bike, the Gardens Cycle Hire is located at the same entrance – there are more than enough cycle paths throughout Brisbane, so this is also a great way to see the city in an environmentally friendly way. Be sure to check out any events that might be happening at the ‘Riverstage’ too – located within the gardens, with a grass hill overlooking the stage, there are often concerts, shows and exhibitions happening all year round.
South Bank is also one of the major attractions in the city of Brisbane. Located on the banks of the Brisbane River, South Bank is widely considered as the centre of entertainment, culture and recreation in the city. Here you’ll find a variety of bars, restaurants, markets, boutique shops, museums and more. Head to the Parklands for a swim at the unique Streets Beach – a man-made beach complete with palm trees, white sand and chlorinated fresh water.
If you’re hoping for a more cultured outing, South Bank still has plenty to offer – check out the Queensland Theatre Company or the Queensland Performing Arts Centre for plays, musicals, ballet and opera, as well as music concerts. Head to The Gallery of Modern Art for contemporary, 20th and 21st Century installations, or The Queensland Art Gallery nearby which houses tens of thousands of paintings, sculptures and prints – like most galleries, admission is free with exception for special exhibitions.
If it’s an insight into Queensland’s history you’re after, head to the Queensland Museum where you’ll find items relating to European as well as indigenous history. The Queensland Maritime Museum is also worth a visit. The city’s West End is also worth a visit for similar market shopping as well as a bit of culture, with plenty of theatre on offer.
Moreton Bay is a great place to relax and get away from the fast pace of the inner city. It is located about half an hour from the city centre, and Moreton Island is a further hour by boat, but it’s worth the trip. Relax in one of the island resorts, or go swimming or snorkeling in the serene waters, where you’ll even have the unique opportunity to hand feed wild dolphins. Moreton Island is a great day out, but it is possible to spend a whole weekend there, as accommodation is available on the island itself.
If perhaps you’re after a more action-packed weekend, head to the Kangaroo Point Cliffs for some night-time rock climbing or abseiling and fantastic views of the lit-up city centre. You can also climb the Story Bridge and experience an amazing panoramic view of the city. Get your adrenaline kicks sky-diving or motor-gliding, or simply float across the city in a hot air balloon.
You may of course be hoping to get a bit of shopping done, and why not, with so much on offer. Check out Grey Street and Little Stanley Street where you’ll find shops to cater for everyone’s needs. Weekends are particularly great for finding one off art pieces, jewellery and fashion as around 80 stalls are set up as part of South Bank’s Lifestyle Markets. Consider how you’re paying for items too. While some of the markets may only take cash, some of the shops and restaurants take credit cards. If you own one, you can use a rewards credit card such as a platinum credit card to get you some extra value, some added benefits and maybe even some savings on your purchases!
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