The best ways to explore Brisbane solO
The best part about a solo date? It’s all about you! Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveller, are venturing out on your own for the first time, or simply enjoy your own company, Brisbane holds a realm of possibilities. Discover this diverse city on your own terms with our list of ultimate solo date ideas. From relaxing retreats and exciting explorations to delicious dining and drinks, here’s how to make the most of your time alone in Brisbane..
Where to relax on your own in Brisbane
If your social cup has runneth over and you’re in need of some peace and tranquility, you’re not alone – but you could be. Treat yourself to a relaxing solo date at one of Brisbane’s best day spas or salons, where your only job is to unwind and focus on yourself.
W Brisbane’s AWAY® Spa is the ultimate solo retreat – with its river-view pods where you can enjoy some alone time with a refreshing drink and an ambient soundtrack. This luxurious spa also offers all the beauty and wellness treatments guaranteeing a pampered experience.
For a Japanese-inspired escape, The Healing Stone at Emporium Hotel South Bank provides a zen-inducing environment where you can enjoy a hot stone massage. West End’s rooftop Soak Bathhouse is an idyllic haven where you can unwind and experience open-air hot spas, mineral baths, a cold plunge pool, a steam room and sauna.
Kailo Medispa in The Calile Hotel employs traditional wellness philosophies combined with contemporary treatments. From massages to teeth whitening and everything in between, Kailo offers a deluxe solo date in the heart of James Street.
If you are feeling the need for fresh air why not pack a picnic and head to one of Brisbane’s lush green spaces. Roma Street Parklands, South Bank’s parklands, or the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha bring endless sunshine and tranquillity for you to while away an afternoon.
For a complete change of scenery, take a short road trip to one of greater Brisbane’s neighbouring regions. Wander through ancient rainforests or drive at your leisure through the Scenic Rim, catch a ferry for a beach day at North Stradbroke Island/ Minjerribah; or, stroll through the seaside villages in Moreton Bay.
If your idea of relaxation errs more on the side of learning something new, channel your inner creative with a Cork & Chroma painting class, a cooking class at Vanilla Zulu (fresh pasta, paella or pastries, anyone?), or perhaps a hands-on pottery class with Mas & Miek Ceramic House at Rivermakers, Morningside. For a less hands-on approach, relish an evening of laughs at a comedy show – try Good Chat Comedy Club or nearby The Sit Down Comedy Club.
Where to explore on a solo date in Brisbane
Exploring the ins and outs of Brisbane solo can be a thrilling adventure. Here, you’ll find an abundance of activities and tours to help you explore the city with confidence.
If shopping is your choice of cardio, why not elevate your experience with a private, guided tour with Spree With Me. Their chic tours, tailored to your tastes will lead you through Brisbane’s best shopping destinations.
Want to browse alone? Discover West End, Paddington and Bulimba for a mix of vintage clothing stores, independent book shops, record stores, stylish boutiques, top-notch cafes and design-savvy stores. Or, for high-end fashion and luxury goods, take a stroll down James Street in Fortitude Valley or Brisbane City’s open air Queen Street Mall.
For an art-filled afternoon, wander through the exhibitions of South Brisbane’s Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA),or soak in the theatrical pleasures of a performance at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). Afterwards, take a short walk over to Fish Lane for a drink and a bite at one of the many trendy bars, restaurants and cafes.
For a dose of adventure, consider a solo sunset kayak along the Brisbane River with Riverlife Adventure Centre or hike up Mt Coot-tha to take in the breathtaking views of Brisbane from the top. There is an abundance of hikes to choose from with Brisbane as your base.
If you're in the mood for a scenic day trip, head to Moreton Island/ Mulgumpin, just 25 kilometres off Brisbane’s coast. Spend the day snorkelling through the Tangalooma Wrecks, meeting wild dolphins and exploring the sand dunes, Alternatively, connect with the wildlife at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where 100 koalas, crocodiles and 70 other animal species call home.
If you’re feeling brave and want to try something a little left-of-centre, spook yourself on a haunted ghost tour of Brisbane and uncover the eerie secrets of the city’s past on a guided experience.
Where to eat and drink solo in Brisbane
Table for one? Yes please! Taking yourself on a date is your chance to savour every bite and indulge in the pleasure of your own company - no need to share your dessert.
Pull up a seat and dine at one of Brisbane’s top restaurants and bars. Watch culinary creations come to life as you relax in a bar seat at Fortitude Valley’s Bianca Restaurant. West End’s Pilloni offers the perfect spot for bar snacks and drinks, or you can feast on Greek delights by the riverside at Greca. Sample innovative and delicious dishes at Bar Francine, enjoy cheese and a wine for one at Woolloongabba’s South City Wine Bar, or people watch from a window seat at South Brisbane’s Maeve Wine.
If beer is your preferred tipple, you can join Brisbane’s Craft Beer Trail where you hop between Brisbane’s best brewery’s. Or, book a spot on the Best of Brisbane experience with Hop on Brewery Tours, to sample excellent pours while learning more about craft beer from a knowledgeable guide.
If you like a touch of elegance, treat yourself to a solo high tea experience. Savour tea, finger sandwiches, pastries and cake and avoid any competition over the last sweets. Belle Éphoche at the Emporium Hotel South Bank has become a go-to for sophisticated high tea experiences. And, if you wish, you can order a take-away high tea to enjoy in the privacy of a hotel room or to take on a personal picnic. Treat yourself to a high tea, petite high tea or cream tea at Devon Pixies, nestled in the historic Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct.
Need more inspiration for solo date ideas? Find out what’s happening when you visit Brisbane.
