There’s so much to see and do across Brisbane during the day and this certainly doesn’t change once the sun has set. From rooftop bars and great restaurants, through to live music and a huge range of entertainment, there’s plenty to discover and experience across the Queensland capital once day turns into evening.
Here are some of the top picks of the best things to do in Brisbane at night.
Catch Some Live Music
From local acts through to the big names in music, Brisbane’s live music venues play host to a great line-up of acts throughout the year. Take your pick from bars such as Black Bear Lodge and Brooklyn Standard, or stop by one of the other dedicated live music venues scattered throughout the city, including The Foundry and The Brightside.
Take In The View From Brisbane Lookout
Brisbane Lookout, perched at the summit of Mount Coot-tha, offers spectacular views across the city during the day but is also the perfect spot for a panorama of the Queensland capital after the sun has set. Step onto the observation deck and spot Brisbane’s iconic buildings, marvel at the starlit sky or simply watch on as the city lights twinkle below. No matter if you’re a local or are visiting from interstate, the outlook is sure to leave you in awe of the city.
Treat Your Tastebuds
Whether you’re on the hunt for a classic pub meal, international flavours or a fine dining experience, there is no shortage of great dining options to choose from across Brisbane. Get a taste for modern Australian cuisine at award-winning Bacchus or ARIA, be transported to Italy at 1889 Enoteca, or embrace Asian fusion at Madame Wu. Delight in the French techniques used at Restaurant Dan Arnold, or make a Detour for palate-bending dishes. For cheap eats, look to Hai Hai Ramen, The Defiant Duck, Fratelli Famous, and El Camino Cantina.
Meander Market Stalls
Several of Brisbane’s regular markets also open to punters at night. Head to Eat Street to feast on fare from stalls dishing up burgers, dumplings, doughnuts, homemade ginger beer and South American barbecue. There are clothing, handicraft and other trinket stalls to browse in between bites. The Twilight Makers Market has more than 65 stalls with vendors offering jewellery, candles, handmade treats, and more. Stroll Southbank for the Collective Markets, which happens every Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.
See A Performance at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre
The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (also known as QPAC) plays host to an impressive lineup of entertainment throughout the year, from live music and theatre performances through to comedy and dance shows. The performance calendar has something for every one, be it family-friendly shows or nights out that will thrill, delight and entertain.
Take A Step Back In Time
Get to know Brisbane’s past on a nighttime tour of some of the city’s historical builds. Swing by the colonial fortifications of Fort Lytton to see it brought to life by illumination during a performance of Fort Lytton at Night, or learn about the haunted heritage of the city when you join an outing with Brisbane Ghost Tours.
Head To The Drive-In
The drive-in is a nostalgic icon of the 1950s and Brisbane is home to a number of these four-wheel-friendly cinemas, which are perfect for a night out with friends, a family outing or a date night with a difference. Take your pick from outdoor theatres, including the Yatala Drive-In in Stapylton and the Eat Street Drive-In in Hamilton, and enjoy the latest release films, cult classics and American diner-style food.
Sip At Brisbane’s Rooftop Bars
When the weather warms up, head up above street level and make the most of the Brisbane’s collection of rooftop bars. Kick back with a sundowner as day becomes night at some of the city’s most popular watering holes, such as the Eleven Rooftop Bar, The Rooftop at the Stock Exchange Hotel, or Dandys Rooftop Bar at The Fox Hotel. These rooftop perches make great go-tos for a pre- or post-dinner drink, or you might opt to graze on the bar snacks on offer at each of these drinking dens.
Looking to experience Brisbane at night for yourself? Find and compare cheap flights to Brisbane, as well as plenty of great hotels across the city with Webjet. Plus, if you’re headed to the Queensland capital with your paramour, you can also explore 10 of the most romantic things to do in Brisbane.
Feature Image Credit: Fergus Tuomey.
