The city:
Things to do with your mum

Treat your mum to some quality bonding time with her favourite child with a day in Brisbane City. Whether her weak spot is shopping, dining, pampering or exploring, you can say ‘thank you’ for everything she does with these mum-approved experiences in The City.

Shop with mum in The City

Look no further than the open-air shopping destination, Queen Street Mall, for the ultimate shopping date with your mum. With more than 500 stores, you can shop until you drop – or until your arms are too full to carry anything else, whichever comes first. From luxury stores to fashion boutiques, the choices are endless. Spoil her with something special from Chanel, Dior or Balenciaga then browse new season styles at big-name fashion boutiques including Zara, Seed and Aje. With hundreds more boutiques, department stores and specialty retailers nearby be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to shopping at Queen Street Mall to plan the perfect spree. 

High tea fit for your queen

Treat your mum like the queen she is with an elegant high tea. She’ll be spoilt for choice with fluffy scones or cucumber sandwiches at tea houses and cafés including Keri Craig Emporium, W Brisbane, Patina at Customs House and Room With Roses. It’s time to get dressed up as the options for bubbles and nibbles or tea and cake can be found all throughout The City

wbrisbane away spa baths
Away Spa, W Brisbane

Places primed for pampering

We don’t believe that mums should only be pampered on special occasions, so, why not treat her to a well-deserved ‘me day’ to show your appreciation? The City is full of luxurious beauty salons ready for you and mum to enjoy a head-to-toe glow up together. Start with a fresh cut, blow dry or style at Elysium Hair, Rixon Hair or Toni & Guy before moving on to a facial, manicure and pedicure at Stephanie’s Spa Retreat in the Sofitel Brisbane. Finish with a relaxing massage at the W Brisbane’s AWAY Spa or Heavenly Spa by Westin for the ultimate relaxing experience. 

Group of ladies dining at Donna Chang restaurant
Donna Chang, Brisbane City

Spoil mum with a long lunch

Mum deserves only the best so take her to one of The City’s fine-dining venues. Book a plush pink booth at Donna Chang or treat mum to a wine and dine experience at Persone in Brisbane Quarter. Central takes you underground for delicious dumplings while Opa Bar + Mezze serves up Greek-inspired eats and the best Brisbane River views. 

Indulge your sweet tooth

Indulging in a sweet treat or two is non-negotiable when planning to spoil your mum. Start the day with a sweet yet nutritious breakfast from Nodo Donuts and pair it with one of their signature drinks. For a little sweet treat on the go or to take home as a gift, Noosa Chocolate Factory on Adelaide Street is a must-visit for a range of handcrafted chocolate combinations and creations. For those mums who prefer to indulge in a flaky sweet treat, The Whisk Fine Patisserie, Lune Croissanterie or Doughcraft  delivers pastries galore. Or, for those looking for something icy cold, Yo-Chi and Gelatissimo can also be found in The City.

Plan a movie date  

Nothing says wholesome quality mum-and-me time more than a movie date. Event Cinemas in found in Uptown is your go-to for blockbusters and new releases or splash out and travel back in time at the beautifully restored Elizabeth Picture Theatre. Don’t forget to shout the popcorn, and probably the tickets too.  

Take a walk along the river  

Sometimes all mum wants is a little fresh air and quality time with their favourite child (you, of course). The Brisbane Riverwalk is one of The City’s most scenic walking paths following the river from the heart of The City across to New Farm, with plenty of spots to slow down, chat and enjoy the view along the way. 

Mulga Bills Brisbane City drinks
Mulga Bills, Brisbane City

Drinks, views and a sunset

The City is filled with bars boasting incredible views, perfect for sunset sips with mum. Enjoy cocktails with a bird’s eye view of The City at the on-bridge restaurant Stilts Dining and Pullman’s rooftop bar, Sixteen Antlers, or make your way up to the Queen’s Wharf precinct and discover a range of beautiful bars such as Cicada Blu or Pompette . If heights aren’t mum’s thing, there are plenty of riverside options to settle in for golden hour including Friday’s Riverside, Mulga Bills, Babylon, and Riverland . Wherever you choose, stunning views and a smile on mum’s face are all but guaranteed so be sure to book in your next date at one of Brisbane’s best bars.

Queen Street Mall evening