Saturday, 29 July 2023

48 Hours in Brisbane: A Goal Kicking Guide to A Weekend in The Sunshine State’s River City

Brisbane 
Brisbane is a cosmopolitan and lively hub for arts, sport, culture and dining, heavy on laid-back charm, and increasingly recognised as a modern and sophisticated city on a global scale. 

And while the locals already know why it’s just been named one of Time Magazine’s ‘2023 World’s Greatest Places’, we’ve compiled an itinerary for you to get a sense of Brissie’s unique appeal – just in time for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. 

If you’re considering traveling to Brisbane for the tournament, schedule some time either side of the game to experience all there is to enjoy in Australia’s sunshine state. Ready to live 48 hours in Brisbane to the max? 

Here’s how… 

Discovering Brisbane: a girls’ weekend away Rally your three best sports-loving girlfriends for an adventure-packed weekend of wine, whale watching and world class women’s sport in balmy Brisbane. 

Where to stay 

miss midgley’s is on the lively James Street, renowned as a popular retail and lifestyle destination in the heart of trendy inner-city suburb New Farm. miss midgley’s is the delightful revitalisation of one of Brisbane’s oldest heritage homes. The 160-year-old stone building is named after Annie Migley, who opened a private school in the building in 1905 called Miss Midgley’s Educational Establishment. Architects and mother-daughter duo Lisa and Isabella White have transformed the historic home into five self-contained apartments to create Brisbane’s newest boutique hotel. Located on the doorstep of James Street, this high-energy pocket of Brisbane boasts a collection of iconic Australian designer stores, such as Camilla and Marc, Venroy, Aje, and Mister Zimi. Additionally, the area features some of the city's best restaurants and bars, including Bianca, SK Steak & Oyster, Gerard’s Bistro, and Sushi Room, all nestled under the shade of giant Moreton Bay Fig trees. This bustling neighborhood is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike, making it the ultimate base for a girls’ weekend away. Guests have the option to book one apartment or rent the entire house. Bookings via the website. 

Friday night: 

After a long week, what better way to celebrate than with a couple of vinos, close friends and a great meal? Look no further than City Winery’s Wine and Food Pairing Experience. Hosted by an experienced sommelier from the City Winery team, you will enjoy a four-course shared menu, with matched wines, be introduced to the finer points of wine tasting, and learn how food and wine work together. It’s a truly interactive dining experience. Book here. 

Friday night, late: 

You’re on a girls trip, so it’s time to let off some steam! Take a short walk from Wandoo Street to Superfly Studios in Fortitude Valley, a new nightclub that plays everything from ABBA and Fleetwood Mac to Meghan Trainor and Lizzo … and entry is free! Try not to overdo it though, Brisbane has a lot in store for you tomorrow. 

Saturday morning/day 

Start the day early at one of the city’s many beautiful breakfast spots. Our picks in and around New Farm: ● Agnes Bakery, Fortitude Valley 
● The Green, Fortitude Valley 
● King Arthur, Fortitude Valley 
● For something a little fancier, mix people watching with poolside dining at Hellenika at The Calile. 

Fueled and fed, it’s time to take advantage of Brisbane’s balmy winter days by jumping aboard the 75-minute Tangalooma Island Resort passenger ferry for a Whale Watching Day Cruise. Arrive at the Holt Street Wharf in Pinkenba (a 20-minute drive from miss midgleys) for a 10:00am departure. The cruise will take you to Moreton Bay to see Humpback Whales on their annual migration between their feeding grounds in the Southern Ocean and their breeding and calving areas in northern tropical waters. The whales are their most active at this time of year, so expect to see them rolling and breaching to provide breathtaking viewing. A light lunch, and tea and coffee are served onboard the cruise. Bookings can be made via the website. 

Saturday night: 

Locals flock to Caxton Street for dinner and drinks when there’s a game at Brisbane Stadium. We suggest making a pre-game booking and soaking up the atmosphere at one of these great restaurants: 
● Moda Tapas 
● Ivy Blu Rooftop 
● Pilgrim Brisbane 
● If you’re in the mood for something a little fancier, try Gambaro, Caxton Street or Black Hide Steakhouse. 

If you lose track of time at dinner/drinks on Caxton Street - don’t stress - just follow the crowd to Brisbane Stadium for the main event, the FIFA Women’s World Cup! Be part of history in the making by reserving your tickets here. 

Sunday: 

Feeling a little second-hand after a few big nights on the town? What better way to recuperate than a visit to Soak Bathhouse, a luxurious-but-affordable urban bathhouse, day spa and massage experience right in the heart of West End. Traditional bathhouses tend to be silent, but not this one! The Soak team loves people laughing, connecting with friends, and re-energising while they soak. Book via the website. Finish the weekend on a high by stopping at James Street’s latest and greatest food and wine bar, The Lodge Bar & Dining. Set in a heritage Queenslander, the venue melds fashion (it’s an offshoot of Kiwi brand Rodd & Gunn) and locally sourced produce to deliver an unforgettable modern-but-classic fine dining experience. Bookings via the website. Return to work on Monday feeling reinvigorated after a weekend of unforgettable activities, culinary experiences, bonding time with your closest friends and enjoying world-class women’s sport in the Sunshine State. 

*Alison Prowse alison@altshift.com.au 

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