Outdoor activities to try in Ipswich

Consider yourself a thrill seeker? Those with a need for speed can put pedal to the metal at the V8 Race Experience on the famed Queensland Raceway circuit. The track hosts a gleaming Chevrolet Camaro, now available to drive alongside its iconic Ford Mustang, ready for drivers to chase the ultimate adrenaline rush.

For a more leisurely paced, scenic ride, soar skywards with Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights where panoramic views of Ipswich unfold from the comfort of the wicker basket in the sky. For an even higher perspective, take the skies in a Pterodactyl Helicopter where you get to enjoy a picturesque joyride over the region’s rolling hills and winding rivers.

Back on solid ground, the Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway gives its passengers a fun-filled ride on its restored, heritage train carriages through postcard-worthy countryside.

In the heart of Queen’s Park resides the Ipswich Nature Centre, where visitors can meet an abundance of native wildlife and wander through beautifully landscaped gardens bursting with photo-worthy moments.

While sipping wine might not technically count as an ‘outdoor activity,’ a visit to Woongooroo Estate certainly feels like one. Nestled among vine-covered hills and scenic farmland, this boutique winery offers a relaxed and rustic tasting experience in the great outdoors.

Culture, creativity and curiosity in Ipswich

For a dose of drama, check out the, Ipswich Little Theatre Society Inc (fondly known as ILT). Housed in the city’s historic Municipal Incinerator, now the Incinerator Theatre, this performing arts company offers a rotating program that’s well worth syncing your stay around. If you’re more into musical theatre, the Ipswich Musical Theatre Company stages vibrant performances that regularly draw local acclaim.

Music lovers should make their way to the heart of Ipswich where Studio 188 resides, set inside a beautifully repurposed art-deco church it’s now a thriving arts hub that hosts emerging and establishing acts. For big-name bands, comedians, plays, musicals and more, Ipswich Civic Centre is the premier spot for major acts and a mecca of entertainment. Prefer a relaxed night out? Head to Limelight Cinemas to see the latest releases in comfort and style.

As a city with an intriguing history closely linked with trains, planes and automobiles, it would be remiss of sightseers not to set their peepers on Ipswich’s famed The Workshops Rail Museum, the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre and the Ipswich Historical Society. Those with an eye for design and architecture, you’ll will be delighted to learn the historical society is home to the Cooneana Heritage Centre's six architecturally significant buildings, harking back to the 1860s, offering a glimpse into the city’s architectural and industrial past.

Markets, boutiques, and unique antiques: Where to shop in Ipswich

Roadtrippers, ready your empty bags and pack light: shopping is no casual pastime, it’s considered a serious sport in Ipswich.

Everything old is new again in this city of vintage treasure troves and antique gems that await eager eyes. To seek out rare finds, antique and vintage shoppers should head to Ipswich Antique Centre, Marburg’s Scotland Yard Antiques, The Vintage Advantage and The Black Museum all perfect stops for curious browsers and eagle-eyed collectors.

For gifts, new threads, plants, artworks (or even art supplies to try creating your own), Ipswich is dappled with specialty stores. For stylish clothing, Trottie Becke, Oh! JoJo boutique, and Cute to Boot (for adorable fashion for little ones) are your go-to stores. Step into Obsession Shoes Boutique for all things footware, and for unique gifts head to Ulli’s New Age Rockz, The Soul Cauldron, Embers and Twine, Special Branch Collective, Dark Magician Games, Country House Gifts and Homewares, and A Gift With Love. Art lovers will feel at home at Starr Fine Art Atelier and Arttime Supplies perfect spots whether collecting or creating. And, for larger shopping experiences and all in one retail fix, head to the major shopping hubs Orion Springfield Central and Ipswich Riverlink Shopping Centre.

Prefer to shop under the sun? Ipswich’s vibrant market scene won’t disappoint. With an assortment of popular markets, with stalls stocking handmade wares, delicious foods and more. Sample local flavours and soak in the community vibes at Springfield Markets, The Handmade Market Expo Ipswich, Ripley Markets, Orion Markets, My Local Market – Walloon and the Ipswich Twilight Markets.

Ready to stop, shop, explore? Ipswich is calling, start planning your weekend adventure in Ipswich today.