The CITY:
Date ideas

Treat yourself at a fancy restaurant

Treat yourself and your loved one to a meal to remember, whether it’s a long lunch or a dimly lit dinner, your options are endless in The City. Riverside dining makes for the perfect backdrop, discover the likes of Opa Bar and Mezze, Stilts Dining, Tillerman Seafood Restaurant and Alchemy Restaurant. If you’re looking for a moody venue to set the scene, book into Naldham House, Doughcraft, The French Exit or Malt Dining.

End your evening with a nightcap

A moonlit stroll along the river is arguably one of the best ways to wrap up your date night, but we would suggest that a sneaky cocktail in one of The City’s cosy bars is even better. Sip a signature Negroni at Before + After, snuggle in the booths at Dr Gimlette or try a taste of Japanese-inspired cocktails at The Boom Boom Room.

Discover laneways

Brisbane City is filled with hidden laneways that are home to cosy venues for breakfast, lunch or dinner dates, there are even spots to enjoy a tipple. You could even spend a whole day exploring, starting at Burnett Lane’s Felix for Goodness for breakfast, stop in at Mumbleberry in Heritage Lane for some shopping, indulge in Corbett & Claude off Elizabeth Street for lunch, have a bite or two at Milquetoast before enjoying a nightcap at The Gresham Bar in Gresham Lane.

Kick it old school with a bowling date

Home to 10 bowling lanes, a laser tag arena, a mini golf course, private karaoke rooms and three escape rooms, Strike Wintergarden offers many out-of-the-box options for fun date activities.

…Or a movie night

For a date night with a vintage vibe, check out Elizabeth Picture Theatre. The cinema is housed in a heritage building and combines old-world charm with comfortable reclining seats and an opulent bar. You can also split a popcorn at Event Cinemas at the top of Uptown and catch one of the latest in a V-MAX cinema experience. Up the romance level as you watch a movie under the stars at Skyline Cinema, playing old-school blockbusters.

Pack a picnic

Pack your picnic blanket and pick up some gourmet treats before heading to one of The City’s luscious green picnic spots. Swing by The Wolf Deli or Mumbleberry to create your own picnic pack or find a ready-made platter at The Gardens Club. Add a box of handmade Dello Mano brownies, or a sweet array of chocolates from Koko Black or Noosa Chocolate Factory to your gourmet haul for something a little sweet.

Once your picnic goodies are sorted, make your way to one of Brisbane City’s beautiful parks to relax and watch the world go by. Queens Gardens and Post Office Square will position you perfectly for people watching or the Brisbane Botanic Gardens will have you resting under the shade of the trees by the Brisbane River.

A trip to the florist

Whether you’re buying them for yourself or a loved one, a beautiful bouquet is sure to make anyone a little giddy. The City has some of the best florists in Brisbane. Check out the gorgeous pre-prepared arrangements or collaborate with professionals to create a bespoke bunch of blooms.

Treat your loved one to a shopping spree

Queen Street Mall found in the heart of The City is home to a wide variety of retailers and is the perfect place to take your loved one shopping. From luxury designers to Australian label boutiques, discover this open-air mall together and don’t leave empty handed.

A picture is worth a thousand words

Why not take a stroll through the Museum of Brisbane and explore the unique art and collections that reflect the stories and people of Brisbane. With intriguing exhibitions to immerse yourselves in and interact with, you’ll be able to share your opinions and thoughts for days to come.

Date night to staycay

Turn your few hours together into an overnight stay in The City. Enjoy a luxurious staycay at The Westin Brisbane, W Brisbane, Hyatt Regency or, for a more heritage atmosphere, discover Stamford Plaza or Royal on the Park. There are so many options to choose from, with river views and lavish amenities, you can’t go wrong.