Things to do

Beyond the program, Brisbane has countless more experiences worth diving into.

For something that perfectly mirrors the spirit of Melt Festival, head to QAGOMA. Make, Believe, Magic: The Worlds of The Jim Henson Company is an immersive journey through the creative process behind some of the studio's most cherished stories, from The Muppets and Fraggle Rock to The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. Exclusive to Brisbane, it will transport you to another world. To keep the cultural momentum going, the Museum of Brisbane, the Institute of Modern Art and Metro Arts each offer their own compelling take on contemporary arts and culture.

When the sun goes down, Brisbane knows how to keep the party going. The Beat is Australia's longest-running LGBTIQ+ nightclub and one of the community's most beloved safe spaces, while Black Bear Lodge is a local favourite for a late-night boogie. For something more theatrical with your drinks, Tetto Rooftop Bar's Drag Bingo is the kind of evening that earns its own story.

Brisbane also does festival recovery exceptionally well. SOAK Bathouse and The Bathhouse Albion are both worth building into your itinerary, whether you need a deep soak, a sauna session or just a few quiet hours to recharge.

For the view-chasers, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb puts you atop one of Brisbane's most iconic structures, with sunrise and sunset sessions that are hard to beat. Or, just fifteen minutes from The City, the Mount Coot-tha lookout delivers a full panoramic views and is one of the best spots in Brisbane to watch the sunset. And for those seeking a place to check out the view and experience something unique in one handy location, Riverlife at Kangaroo Point offers kayaking, rock climbing and abseiling in addition to its incredible vantage point.

For something that fits right between nostalgia and nightlife, Netherworld is not to be missed. Brisbane's iconic arcade bar and proud LGBTIQ+ safe space packs in classic arcade games, pinball and boardgames alongside a great drinks list.

Melt season is also jacaranda season in Brisbane, when streets, parks and riverbanks erupt in vivid purple. For a list of where to see Brisbane explode with purple flowers while you're in town, check out our guide on where to find the jacarandas.

Where to eat & drink

Brisbane's food and drink scene is one of the city's greatest assets, and during Melt Festival it becomes an extension of the festival itself.

Beneath the Story Bridge, you’ll find Howard Smith Wharves, one of Brisbane's most spectacular settings to dine at anytime of day. With its riverside views and vast range of dining options, this convenient location is perfectly suited to everything from a quick pre-event lunch to a long, celebratory dinner after a show. For something quick and easy, Felons Brewing Co. sits at the heart of the precinct and offers a combination of upscale pub meals alongside a selection of beer brewed on site. Stanley brings a little slice of Hong Kong (with a modern twist) to the riverfront, YOKO Dining is the place to be if you want to be transported to Tokyo’s izakaya's and Greca is where you’ll find contemporary Greek taverna.

Over in Fish Lane, you’ll find one of Brisbane’s most exciting dining destinations, packed with independent restaurants, bars and cafes. For an early morning caffeine hit and a breakfast feed, Goodside, Lisboa Caffé, Cups on Melbourne and Lune Croissanterie are all worth your time. By night, Marlowe, an elegant Australian bistro in a heritage-listed Art Deco block, brings nostalgic comfort food with a modern, hyper-seasonal twist to its menu, while neighbouring venues Southside, Clarence and El Planta all have foodies flocking to the area.

James Street in Fortitude Valley is Brisbane at its most polished; one of the country's best dining strips and a natural base for a long, indulgent afternoon that spills into the night. On James Street, sAme sAme brings the heat and flavours of Southeast Asia to a minimalist, leafy setting, while SK Steak & Oyster pairs prime cuts, fresh seafood and a serious wine list for a special occasion.

If you’re looking to remain in the heart of The City for dinner, you’re almost spoiled for choice. STILTS, perched ten metres above the river, isn't just Queensland's first restaurant on a bridge, it’s a standout dining institution in its own right. Naldham House serves up European cuisine, Supernomal is a beautiful pan-Asian restaurant with a menu designed to be shared and hidden underground in the heart of The City, Central is a hidden Hong-Kong inspired restaurant kitted out with a disco ball, for those preparing for a little boogie after dinner.

When it's time for a drink, Brisbane's bar scene is thriving. Come To Daddy and The Wickham are two of the community's most beloved venues, each bringing their own energy to the Valley's nightlife, while The Sportsman Hotel is another institution worth a visit. For cocktails over conversation, Hello Gorgeous and Niky are more intimate and considered, and QUIVR, tucked at the end of Winn Lane, spins records and pours cocktails every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. For something cosier, seek out The Burrow in West End, Shaman in The City, Iris Rooftop in Fortitude Valley or The End in West End, all which bring their own distinct personality to Brisbane's after-dark scene.