Things to do this winter in Brisbane
Here in Brisbane, we do winter a little differently. The days are clear and crisp with wide blue skies, where all you really need is a light jacket and a barista-made beverage to stay warm. If you’re feeling the chill, it might be time to come defrost in Brisbane, where you can enjoy outdoor and indoor activities in beautiful weather.
Where to dine
On a cool winter’s morning, there are few things more satisfying than seeking out fresh food and soul-warming coffee at a farmers’ market. Luckily, there is a rich variety of markets across Brisbane to choose from. Think flaky pastries, freshly baked bread, blooming flowers, fresh produce, and more. With treats in hand, it would be remiss not to head for a sunlit park or green space to enjoy your goods. New Farm Park, South Bank Parklands, Davies Park and Brisbane’s Botanic Gardens are just some of the nearby parks by the hub of markets that offer idyllic spots for lazing on a picnic blanket.
As lunch and dinner roll around, settle in at one of Brisbane’s incredible riverside restaurants. When the sun sets, city lights dance on the river while hearty, comforting dishes are served with a view.
At Howard Smith Wharves, found beneath the sparkling Story Bridge, there’s a range of restaurants to cosy into with a range of cuisines to choose from, find Asian, Greek, and Italian fare that won’t leave you disappointed. Walk along the riverfront boardwalk to discover Opa Bar + Mezze, Massimo, Mulga Bills and Babylon, all serving up delicious winter feasts and belly-warming drinks to end the day on a toasty high.
To linger a little longer, settle inside a comfortable restaurant, work your way through a degustation dining experience at the likes of Restaurant Dan Arnold, Exhibition and many other fine-dining establishments scattered throughout Brisbane.
After dinner, wander into one of Brisbane’s best wine bars for top drops and a welcomed hit of warmth on a winter’s night. Or, if you are looking for a more immersive foodie experience, book a Delectable Tour or Kiff and Culture Tour to discover more of Brisbane’s ever-evolving dining scene.
Winter adventures
Adventure abounds in Brisbane and, with the heat of summer behind us, winter months pose the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and get active in Brisbane. Some of the best things to do in winter include kayaking along the river, rock climbing at Kangaroo Point Cliffs and trying your hand at abseiling with Riverlife Adventures Centre. Then, there’s the iconic Story Bridge Adventure Climb, offering one of Brisbane’s best views of The City skyline.
Winter in Brisbane is the perfect time to immerse yourself in nature, whether that’s a scenic hike or a stroll along a local walking track. Many are found within a short drive from The City, making it easy to keep warm as you step out into the fresh air.
However, if your idea of adventure leans a little less active and a little more towards perusing designer stores, there’s no judgment here. Enjoy a shopping escapade on Fortitude Valley’s James Street, where a collection of premier fashion boutiques, local and high-end designers, homeware, food provisions and trendy bars are waiting for you to discover.
For the flavour-curious, take an expert-guided tour of Brisbane’s best breweries with Hop On Breweries, and get to know the brewers behind The City’s most innovative pours. Or, for those who want to craft their own tour, follow the Craft Beer Trail through Brisbane City.
If you prefer to share a few drinks with friends alongside some entertainment, Brisbane Racing Club has got your winter line up covered. Dress up and soak up live entertainment like no other and make a day out of the races.
If Brisbane’s winter isn’t quite cold enough and you’re seeking to feel more chills, book yourself in for a ghost tour or true crime tour and feel the hair stands up on the back of your neck.
Wintertime arts and cultural inspiration
Whether you’re feeling the chill or soaking up the mild temperatures, visiting one of Brisbane’s top art galleries or museums is always an inspiring way to spend the day.
Just a short stroll from the restaurants, cafes and bars of Fish Lane and nestled in the sprawling grounds of South Bank, Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is comprised of two galleries that are bound to surprise and delight. From world-renowned travelling exhibitions to interactive experiences, QAGOMA offers something for visitors of all ages.
Alongside QAGOMA in the cultural precinct sits the Queensland Museum – a favourite among dinosaur aficionados and history lovers alike. Home to more than a million items and specimens, it’s a must for those keen to delve a little deeper.
Across the road, you’ll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre(QPAC) where more than 1,200 local and international live performances take place each year, from world-class theatre and ballet to symphonies and contemporary concerts.
Nearby, Aboriginal Art Co. purveys its artful wares, from artworks to homeware and wearable pieces, take your time browsing and soaking in the detail of each piece on display.
To immerse yourself in the culture and history of Brisbane, book at Nyanda Cultural Tours.
Grab a coffee and take a short stroll over the river into Brisbane City, where you’ll land near the Museum of Brisbane, a creative cultural hub that shares stories of the state’s capital.
Visit the regions
When the weather cools, Brisbane locals head for the region’s panoramic surrounds. For a cosy winter escape or day trip, these picturesque pockets offer all the hallmarks of a cosy winter escape – think fireplaces, spa baths, farm stays and warming food.
A short drive south of Brisbane you will find Mount Cotton’s picturesque Sirromet Winery. Here, wine enthusiasts can enjoy a bottle of the winery’s finest alongside a hamper of picnic provisions by their own firepit, overlooking the rolling valley below. Better yet, book a stay at Sanctuary by Sirromet and wake up among the birdsong and vines in this beloved Redlands Coast destination.
Put your fluffy socks and boots on and embrace a farm stay experience in one of Brisbane’s regions this winter. In the Scenic Rim, settle into a charming, rustic working dairy farm and befriend the resident animals of Tommerup’s Dairy Farm. Or, nearby, enjoy the family-friendly charm of fourth generation Cedar Glen Farm Stay. In the history-rich city of Ipswich, farm experiences are a-plenty, with the likes of Tallavalley Farm B&B, Spicers Hidden Vale and Pocket Retreats dotting the region.
Come winter , Brisbane’s Moreton Bay has become a go-to for whale watching experiences. Hop aboard a whale-watching vessel with an expert guide to learn more about these beautiful creatures of the deep (from a friendly distance, of course). And, on North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah you can also become better acquainted with the giant mammals by boat or from land as they complete their migration. There’s always something interesting to do in Brisbane during our sunny winter.
Stay cosy in one of Brisbane’s beautiful accommodations both within the city and out in the regions.
