Nestled in Brisbane's friendly inner-west, Milton is a burgeoning suburb with a tonne of history. With several businesses based here, it's always been a great spot to grab lunch or an after-work drink but its sporting ties are what make Milton famous. Read on to discover these top things to do in Milton.
Smiling down over Milton is the famous XXXX Brewery and the perfect way to get to know the Brisbane-based beer’s background is on a guided brewery tour. The 90-minute tour is topped off with a tasting. Here's cheers to that!
For a cheap and cheerful lunch, pop into Mrs Luu’s Vietnamese Canteen. The former owners of the popular Trang restaurant in West End opened this Milton eatery, which now has more locations around Brisbane. It’s only open on weekdays, so make this your mid-week fix.
Right next door to Mrs Luu’s is Bunker, considered one of the best cups of coffee around. Situated in a vine-covered garage, this hidden gem is a must-visit. It's only open on weekdays but also has a stall at the Milton Markets if you need that weekend caffeine fix.
The Milton Markets is a favourite spot for farm-fresh goods and handmade treats. Popping up every Sunday from 6am to 12noon in Milton Green, it’s jam-packed with farmer stalls, delicious breakfasts, handicrafts, fashion and more. '
Milton always has some new restaurants, bars and cafes to tempt hungry locals and visitors. Visit La Stazione for epic Italian and Ribs and Rumps for hearty flame-grilled meat dishes, both located on Railway Terrace. Also check out Warehouse 25, an underground gin distillery, bar, eatery and live music venue on Finchley Street between the XXXX Brewery and Suncorp Stadium.
Milton’s Park Road was one of the first Italian-style café precincts in Brisbane and a popular haunt of cyclists and late-night imbibers. The giant Eiffel Tower replica is hard to miss and provides the perfect couple selfie spot without the European airfare. Hot tip: La Dolce Vita does a neat Nutella Italian hot chocolate.
One of Brisbane’s most scenic routes to run, cycle or walk is the Bicentennial Bikeway that meanders along the Brisbane River from Toowong into The City.
If you like your beverages a little less mainstream, The Scratch Bar is another Milton fave that’s worth a visit. With a rotation of local, craft and independent brews on tap and a BYO food policy, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon when you’re in the area.
When someone recommends a great fish-and-chippery, don’t walk, run! The Fishery on Baroona Road is one of those places you’ll want to share with friends or keep to yourself. With a huge selection of fresh fish and shellfish, eat in, take away or prepare a fishy feast at home.
Frew Park, situated between Haig and Milton roads, is heaven for kids of all ages. With a huge, futuristic playground, it’s a destination in itself. The park also features fitness equipment, barbecues and a huge lawn area that’s ideal for kicking a ball around.
Roy Emerson Tennis Centre is also located at Frew Park and stands on the grounds of the famous Milton Tennis Centre that hosted Aussie and international superstars. Hire a court and equipment to get your game on or be a spectator from the elevated viewing platform and café.
Milton’s main claim to fame is the legendary Suncorp Stadium (formerly Lang Park). From State of Origin to international rugby tests and touring musicians and with a 52,500-seat capacity, Suncorp Stadium is one of Brisbane’s world-class sporting and concert venues.
Q-Masters is a welcoming Milton institution that has racked up more than 25 years of pool, snooker and billiard games. Open until midnight daily, it’s the perfect place to cue up a pool table and late-night catch-up with an onsite café and bar.
Built in 1891, the picturesque Anglican Parish of Auchenflower is a hidden gem near Suncorp Stadium. Its heritage status meant the grounds had to be retained during the development of the stadium, leaving an unexpected architecture juxtaposition that’s well worth a squiz.
Being a local favourite and a nationally known restaurant is no easy feat, however, Deer Duck Bistro does both in style. The personality-filled space is quirky and fun with a menu to match. Book in for a degustation (also available for vegetarians), which is ever-changing and always delicious.
Tuk Tuk Bar and Restaurant on Park Road has a secluded back garden bar with a Thai flourish. Just follow the fence along Gordon Street and you’ll find a garden oasis serving delicious Thai dishes, refreshing cocktails and bottled and tap beer.
Lose yourself in an independent bookstore – Mary Ryan’s is a sanctuary for avid readers. With a huge selection of books and gifts, this inner-city book lover’s haven is a welcoming home that feels like a warm hug.
With no shortage of parks, it's not hard to find the perfect picnic spot as well as the perfect finger food at Tognini's Cafe Deli on Baroona Road.
Once a month, the Polonia Polish Club holds a Market Day on Saturday mornings where non-members can buy all the smallgoods, pastries, pierogis and crafts their hearts desire. You can also sit down and sample the goods in the restaurant and beer garden.
Enjoy a night out in Milton. Start at The Scratch Bar then move along to Milton Common for local craft beers by Common Ground Brewing and delicious bites. Head over to Newstead Brewing, a large brewpub with plenty of space for everyone, and make your final stop at Warehouse 25 gin distillery.