Brisbane Destination-Information Listings

Boondall

Best known as the home of Brisbane’s premier concert hall, entertainment centre and sporting complex, the suburb of Boondall is located approximately 20 minutes drive north-east of Brisbane’s city centre. The suburb also harbours the Boondall Wetlands Park - an extensive system of important wetlands that partly encircles the Brisbane Entertainment Centre and Sports Complex. The Entertainment Centre regularly hosts big name acts from overseas along with major shows and sporting events. Set beside a lake amongst the wetland paperbarks, the grounds of the Entertainment Centre are a great place for a picnic with barbeque facilities provided. For something a little different, at the Sports Complex you can strap on a pair of skates and take to the ice! At the Boondall Wetlands Park visitors can learn more about the area at the purpose-built Environmental Centre. At the Centre you can sign up for a range of activities including cycling adventures, guided walks, arts, crafts and indigenous cultural workshops. Winding through the wetlands are a system of boardwalks that allow visitors a closer look at this fragile and unique environment. Black ducks and wood ducks are regularly seen in the Wetlands. From September to March, the Wetlands become the home of migratory wading birds from as far away as Alaska, China and Japan. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the walking path up to Anne Beasley’s lookout. The walk is steep but the views are sensational. There are several hotels and motels in Boondall with a wide range of dining options in the suburbs nearby.

Brisbane City

Make a journey to downtown Brisbane and you'll realise how beautiful a city can be. You’ll find a unique combination of old and new - where sandstone cathedrals blend seamlessly with steel and glass skyscrapers, modern architectural design is teamed with a healthy respect for tradition. A network of grassy parks, drooping palm trees and a river that snakes through the heart of town reflects the sub-tropical environment in which we live. Pristine, colourful, adventurous, inviting and open; these are all accurate descriptions of the heart of the city. And if you’re looking for some retail therapy, then the Queen Street Mall is the place to head for a complete shopping experience. Over 700 stores trading seven days a week call this kilometre strip home. South Bank's Little Stanley Street should be next on your shopping list, a little urban sophistication right by the river. For those who love to party, Brisbane's superb selection of nightlife venues will keep you more than entertained. Or, for something a little more cultural, there’s live theatre, galleries, museums, and even guided walking tours of Brisbane’s historical sites. Brisbane is a major transport hub and you'll have no trouble connecting with all the other great places to see from the centre of town.

Brisbane Region

Come to Brisbane and you'll discover a region that's not only filled with energy, you'll also find it's filled with endless things to do. Sophisticated and progressive, dynamic and diverse, Brisbane delivers on all fronts. Visitors and locals alike delight in the very best food, wine, arts, entertainment and major sporting events, all surrounded by a unique environment of relaxed sub-tropical flair. There's exciting shopping, a buzzing night life scene, and no end to the range of outdoor adventures on offer, such as sailing, surfing, hot-air ballooning and four wheel drive excursions. You'll also find this region is a creative hotbed, with local artists, musicians, writers, jewellers and fashion designers all making their name on the international stage. At the same time, this is a place without pretension, a city with its feet planted firmly on the ground. And that's exactly what so many people love about Brisbane. From the sun and sand drenched islands in the east, to its cool and crisp mountain rainforests in the west - and all the attractions of a vibrant, modern city in between - Brisbane offers the best of both worlds. The full spectrum of accommodation options are available; and the transport network connects with every major destination in the region and beyond.

Chermside

Chermside is unofficially recognised as the mini CBD of Brisbane’s northern suburbs. The suburb is home to one of the largest shopping centres in the country, providing shop-a-holics with plenty of retail therapy. It was the first shopping mall to be built in Australia and is as popular now as it was when it first opened to great fanfare back in 1957. The shopping centre contains hundreds of speciality stores as well as major national department chains. The latest Hollywood blockbuster can be caught at the huge cinema complex, and for lunch you’ll be spoilt for choice by a dizzying array of food outlets, restaurants and cafes. Outside of the shopping centre, busy Gympie road also offers a great range of shops and stores to explore. Chermside locals enjoy a large network of parklands along beautiful Downfall Creek. A system of bikeways and footpaths connect various areas and allow visitors to enjoy the pleasant surroundings at leisure. Good picnic and barbecue facilities are provided along with a pool, children’s playground and historic war memorials. Chermside is just 10 minutes drive north of the Brisbane city centre with excellent public transport available. Accommodation options include hotels, motels and motor-inns.

Eagle Farm

The Brisbane suburb of Eagle Farm is synonymous with horse racing due to the nearby location of the Eagle Farm and Doomben racetracks. During the winter racing season Eagle Farm comes alive with colourfully attired race-goers and jockeys along with frisky race horses and their nervous trainers. The Royal Brisbane Golf Course is nestled on the banks of the Brisbane River on the southern side of Eagle Farm. The course is known as one of Australia’s finest and has hosted several Australian Open Championships and Australian PGA Championships. Visitors to Eagle Farm will find good accommodation in the neighbouring suburbs of Hamilton and Ascot. Two of Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs, Hamilton and Ascot are known for their grand hilltop mansions, bustling restaurant precincts and charming leafy tree scapes. Accommodation options include quality hotels, motels, units, bungalows, bed-and-breakfasts and villas. Eagle Farm is situated at the northern end of the Gateway Bridge, approximately 20 minutes drive from the Brisbane city centre and only five minutes drive from the Brisbane Airport.

Fortitude Valley

Once considered a down-at-heel pocket of the city, Fortitude Valley has emerged over the past decade as one of Brisbane's liveliest and most progressive precincts. Known as The Valley, this is where a flourishing cultural community, a pumping party scene and a highly progressive dining industry collide. This is where quality cafes spill over with early morning patrons; where sophisticated bars and clubs feature the latest in decor and music; and where shoppers discover all manner of avant-garde designs. A good place to start any visit to The Valley is the Brunswick Street Mall. Lined with cafes, bars and eateries, the mall acts as a hub, with many people starting their shopping excursions or big nights on the town right here. Adjoining Brunswick Street is Ann Street, a strip famous for its fashion boutiques. For cutting-edge and retro designs, unique one offs, and the very latest in urban threads, try one of the many boutiques along this strip. Elsewhere, the classy James Street precinct is a sign of how fast things are moving ahead in Brisbane, and just how exhilarating they can be. Featuring fresh fish and produce markets, cookery schools, designer furniture, an art-house cinema and several hip bars and cafes. The Valley is also home to Brisbane's Chinatown, where Chinese supermarkets, exotic ingredients and steaming Yum Cha breakfasts bring people back time and time again. Entry into Chinatown Mall is marked by passing under traditional Chinese gates and 320 kilogram stone guard-lions. Walk around and you will see Chinatown is alive with architecture, fabrics, colours and emotions of the Orient.

Hamilton

Gracing the banks of the Brisbane River, Hamilton is an eclectic mix of new world sophistication and old world prestige. Just 10 minutes’ drive from both the Brisbane city centre and Brisbane Airport; Hamilton contains some of the best examples of Queensland architecture, from the 1800s to the present day. Once a working wharf area, riverside Hamilton is now a stylish precinct of chic alfresco cafes and award-winning restaurants. Enjoy a freshly ground coffee, delicious meal or delectable dessert overlooking the waters of the Brisbane River. These fine eateries jostle for space with exclusive designer boutiques, unique homewares and gift shops, and fresh produce and seafood markets. The area is also home to an international cruise ship terminal complete with stylish shopping precinct and cinema. Hamilton is the place you’ll find arguably one of Queensland’s oldest, most beautiful and iconic pubs - The Breakfast Creek Hotel. Soak up the history of the elegant French Resistance style building as you down a coldy and demolish one of the best steaks in the country. But be on the lookout for the ghost said to haunt the halls! The hills of Hamilton are dotted with luxurious homes and palatial mansions some dating back to the 19th Century. Hamilton’s main thoroughfare, Kingsford Smith Drive was built by convicts and is named after Hamilton’s most famous son, the pioneering aviator Sir Charles Kingsford Smith. Bed and breakfasts, motels, hotels and luxurious apartments are some of the accommodation options available at Hamilton.

Kangaroo Point

Dominated by illuminated soaring cliffs and the Story Bridge over the Brisbane River, Kangaroo Point is a mecca for inner city outdoor activity. By day and night climbers and abseilers dangle precariously from the cliff face. Bike riders and rollerbladers zoom up and down the pathways, past the artistic sculptures and tropical trees, while joggers and walkers enjoy the scenery at a slightly slower pace. And if you feel like getting out on the water, there are options for kayaking on the river. Or even climbing the bridge. For those wanting to take it easy, the free barbeques in the grassy picnic grounds are ever popular with families and friends getting together for a good time. Kangaroo Point is also the home of The Brisbane Jazz Club and an old but lively historic pub - the perfect way to unwind down by the river.

Lytton

Lytton, near the mouth of the Brisbane River and Port of Brisbane, is one of the most historically significant areas of Brisbane. The suburb is home to Fort Lytton, built as a first line naval defence between 1880 and 1881. Constructed more than 30 years before the outbreak of World War One, Fort Lytton’s role was to protect the city and its shipping routes from naval invasion. One of the most well preserved forts of its kind in Australia, Fort Lytton is encircled by a water-filled moat, and is concealed behind large grassy ramparts. Hidden underground passages secretly connect different sections of the Fort and many of the original guns have been restored to working order. If you visit the Fort on special occasions you might be lucky enough to see a military re-enactment and hear the booming 64-pounder guns in action. To get the most from your visit to the Fort join a guided tour and immerse yourself in Brisbane’s wartime history at the Fort Lytton museum. Aside from its military importance, the Fort also claims a place in history as an airstrip once used by Australia's most famous aviator, Sir Charles Kingsford Smith. Surrounded by scenic river views, Fort Lytton is a great place for a picnic and is just half an hour drive from the centre of Brisbane. Good accommodation options can be found nearby at seaside Wynnum. Hotels, motels, hostels, self-contained units and holiday rentals are all available.

Manly

With immediate access to Moreton Bay, Manly is a boat lover's dream. The centerpiece of Manly is Manly Harbour, a marina crowded with magnificent yachts and quality eateries. Manly is renowned for its relaxed yet sophisticated nautical atmosphere. And there's so much to do - from seaside family picnics to bike riding, from water sports to markets, it's all here. To get a real taste of the seaside location, why not take a sailing cruise out on Moreton Bay, or try boom-netting off the back of a boat with Manly Eco Cruises. About 17 kilometres from the Brisbane Central Business District, Manly is perfect for families. There are good bike and walkways, a community swimming pool and a seawater wading pool. In the summer, outdoor activities such as canoeing and rollerblading are also very popular. Spend some time in this wonderful waterfront precinct with its inspired streetscape and you will want to stay forever.

Milton

The first of the suburban villages to undergo revitalization, Milton is recognized as sparking Brisbane’s love affair with exciting, individual precincts. A favourite with the in-crowd, this lively precinct is characterised by the expensive sports cars that line Park Road while their owners sip coffee in cafes. The iconic Italian restaurant La Dolce Vita will also be found on Park Road, along with a string of other eateries. This is where the well dressed and well heeled rub shoulders and make plans for tomorrow. The shopping is classy too, with the shops boasting everything from antiques and books to one-off jewellery pieces to Cuban cigars. There are plenty of choices if fine dining is what you are looking for, and the kitchens often stay open late. Milton is also home to the buzzing Coro Hotel, a beautifully refurbished landmark that is now a magnet for sophisticated party types. Drive by on any given Sunday and you’ll see the patrons spilling from the verandas as they get into the swing of things and celebrate the weekend. Other attractions worth visiting in the area include the iconic Castlemaine Brewery built in 1878 (home of XXXX beer) and the incomparable Suncorp Stadium, home to the Brisbane Broncos and the Queensland Reds and Queensland Roar FC. Milton is just 5 minutes' drive from the centre of Brisbane.

Mount Cotton

Scenic Mount Cotton is a semi-rural area south of Brisbane, known for its pretty country drives, invigorating bush walks, and award-winning winery. Mount Cotton is in the middle of a koala conservation area and the surrounding local councils have set aside large tracts of land to protect the koala’s natural habitat. On a walk through Venman Bushland National Park you just might be lucky enough to see one of these cuddly marsupials. The Sirromet winery at Mount Cotton is considered one of the best in the country. Regular events are held in the spacious grounds, featuring big name acts from around the country and overseas. Wines produced on site have won major awards in France, the US and the UK. Find out what the fuss is all about by treating your taste buds to a sample at the cellar door. The winery’s gold star restaurant enjoys impressive views over the surrounding countryside and is consistently rated as among the best in Australia. For a change of pace, visit the local driving training centre and learn how to drive a real Porsche! Just 10 minutes’ drive east of Mount Cotton is Redland Bay where you can catch a ferry to the Bay Islands. Accommodation in the area includes guesthouses, bed-and-breakfasts and farmstays. Mount Cotton is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the centre of Brisbane.

New Farm

Spending time in New Farm is to experience quintessential Brisbane. There’s a mixture of upbeat cafes, shops, restaurants, gourmet delis and modern bars packed with creative types, professionals and the occasional colourful character. And right next door by the river, you’ll find the fourteen hectare, Jacaranda-filled New Farm Park that provides the perfect antidote to all the action. New Farm has forged an identity you won’t easily find in other cities, and it’s all about a free spirited love of life - sharing great food with friends, investigating galleries and exhibitions, or just kicking back and not doing much at all. On the main thoroughfare - Brunswick Street - you’ll find a cluster of excellent restaurants, as well as the nationally renowned New Farm Deli and Cafe. And if that’s not enough to tempt your taste buds, try the fresh seasonal produce at the Farmers Markets (held on every second and fourth Saturday of the month). Elsewhere, the classy James Street precinct is a sign of how fast things are moving in Brisbane, and just how exhilarating they can be. Featuring fresh fish and produce markets, cookery schools, designer furniture, an art-house cinema and several hip bars and cafes, James Street is a sanctuary for lovers of urban chic. To feed the mind, make sure you visit the Brisbane Powerhouse. The architecture here is raw and textured, with obvious cues taken from the building’s industrial past. This provides the perfect backdrop to the stimulating exhibitions, concerts and performances that regularly take place.

Paddington

Paddington is a charming urban village well known for its traditional Queenslander houses that dot the hills amongst large, leafy trees. But the suburb is also gaining a reputation for being a hotspot for dining, wining and shopping. Make sure you head for the meandering main strips of Latrobe Terrace and Given Terrace that run right through the heart of Paddington. Along these two joining roads, you’ll find a number of popular bars, cafes and restaurants, such as the award-winning bar The Lark, divine restaurants Montrachet and Grappino. Also along these strips you will discover a huge array of stores ranging from antique to home wares, designer to shabby chic. This suburb is truly coming to life with new stores opening every month. You could definitely spend a whole day in Paddington exploring its many boutiques. Further down the road you will find Suncorp Stadium, where you can catch an action-packed game of rugby or soccer. Then the action doesn’t stop until the early hours of the morning on Caxton Street, home to an array of hotels, clubs and bars. They’re all conveniently close together, so if you like to do a bit of bar hopping, this is the place for you.

Pinkenba

Just 20 minutes drive from the Brisbane City Centre, Pinkenba is a contradicting blend of semi-rural lifestyle and industrial activity. The massive form of the Gateway Bridge looms large in Pinkenba’s background and to the north you’ll find the Brisbane Airport. Situated on the shores of the Brisbane River, Pinkenba’s boat ramp is well utilised by boaties headed for the good fishing grounds found at the river’s mouth. With its close proximity to Fort Lytton, the Port of Brisbane and the mouth of the river, Pinkenba played a key role in Brisbane’s defences during World War II. Several reminders of this time remain, including an anti-submarine indicator and loop huts at Myrtletown Reserve. The Pinkenba State School was also the first school in Brisbane to have an air raid shelter. The Royal Brisbane Golf Course is nestled on the banks of the Brisbane River on the eastern edge of Pinkenba. The course is known as one of Australia’s finest and has hosted several Australian Open Championships and Australian PGA Championships. Accommodation can be found in nearby Hamilton, one of Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs. Here you’ll find quality hotels, motels, units, bungalows, bed-and-breakfasts and villas along with a host of dining and entertainment options.

Sandgate

The architectural beauty of both civic and residential buildings throughout Sandgate makes this coastal village of one Moreton Bay’s heritage showpieces. Sandgate, located below the Redcliffe peninsula, was a popular seaside destination for Brisbane’s colonial settlers in the late 1800s. Its rich historical past is a feature of the area today, with many homes and buildings reflecting the classic architectural styles of this bygone era. Take the opportunity to walk Sangate’s Historical Trail featuring Sandgate Post Office, Railway Station and Sandgate Pier and the famous clock at the Town Hall. Sunset over the the Shorncliffe Pier is a spectacular sight well worth watching, perhaps over a drink or meal at one of the seaside hotels such as the Full Moon Hotel. Every full moon, Sangdate hosts Moonfest on the beach at Shorncliffe. Watch as fire dancers and fire stick twirlers dance with the full moon rising! Also important in the area are the protected environmental parklands of Tinchi Tamba, Deagon and Boondall located to the west and south. Nature lovers come to Sandgate to enjoy the mangroves and marine life sanctuaries that have been set up to protect the environment. Take a walk through the Boondall Wetlands and view the incredibly diverse birdlife. Sandgate is also renowned for its thriving artistic and cultural community with many local theatre groups, artists, and musicians living and performing in the area. The annual Bluewater Festival held over the Easter weekend, attracts many visitors to watch the offshore start of the Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race. Sandgate is a 35-minute drive from the centre of Brisbane.

South Bank

A holiday in Brisbane is not complete without a visit to the city’s vibrant cultural heart at South Bank. Nestled on the banks of the meandering Brisbane River and dominated by magnificent views of the Brisbane skyline across the water, South Bank is an exciting melting pot of colour, culture, lifestyle, good food and art. The precinct buzzes with energy and is home to Queensland’s largest performing arts venue, museum and modern art gallery. Its beautiful man-made beach and lagoon on the banks of the river is lined with white silica sand and is very popular on a hot summer’s day. Just a short walk from the beach, a large outdoor Piazza regularly hosts free performances, shows and short film screenings. Discover unique one-off fashion statements and quirky designer homewares along the bustling shopping strip and at the art and craft markets held every Saturday, Sunday and Friday evening. Food, glorious food, can be found in abundance in one of many top-rated cafes and restaurants that line South Bank’s perfectly manicured streets. When the Queensland sun dips below the horizon, South Bank comes alive as the trendy pubs, cocktail bars and restaurants fill with pleasure-seekers on their way to catch a ballet, opera, Broadway-style show, art exhibition, or the latest blockbuster at the cinema across the road. South Bank retains many beautifully landscaped gardens complete with free barbeques and room to throw a Frisbee or kick a ball. There are several interactive playgrounds for the kids and the beautiful Brisbane River can be enjoyed from the Clem Jones Parade lining its banks. Three, four and five star hotels accommodate visitors to South Bank. In the surrounding suburbs you’ll also find backpacker hostels, self-contained units, motels and motor-ins.

South Brisbane

The inner city suburb of South Brisbane has undergone a renaissance in recent years to become one of Brisbane’s most popular areas. Once full of warehouses, factories, and wharves, South Brisbane underwent an incredible metamorphosis when the derelict industrial area on the banks of the Brisbane River was transformed into the site of the World Expo in 1988. Now the suburb hums with the sounds of cosmopolitan coffee shops, fashionable wine bars, quality hotels and multi-ethnic cafes and restaurants. South Brisbane is bordered by South Bank, the city’s premier recreational destination. At South Bank you can swim in the pristine waters of the man-made beach, enjoy stunning views and beautiful parklands, treat your taste-buds to a dizzying array of dining options and catch some theatre, ballet, opera, a concert or art exhibition. A number of beautiful old buildings still punctuate the South Brisbane landscape. Worth a look are Saint Andrew’s Anglican Church, the former Municipal Chambers and a number of old pubs that have withstood the tests of time and whims of fashion. The Brisbane Convention Centre can also be found at South Brisbane. This large Centre regularly hosts expositions, charity balls, gala dinners, seminars, comedy performances, and concerts by big name acts. South Brisbane is a two minute drive or ferry ride across the river from the Brisbane City Centre. Accommodation options include hotels, motels and self-contained apartments.

Spring Hill

Perched on the cusp of the Brisbane city centre, Spring Hill is one of Brisbane’s most popular suburbs, within easy walking distance to the best of what Brisbane has to offer. To the west are the beautiful Roma Street Parklands where you can feed the ducks and take the boardwalk high above a forest canopy. To the south is the bustling city heart and to the west is funky Fortitude Valley, a colourful hub of live music, groovy nightspots, trendy cafes, art galleries and Brisbane’s Chinatown. Spring Hill is one of the oldest residential neighbourhoods in Brisbane, with many houses dating back to the nineteenth century. Along the streets you’ll find quaint workers cottages and terrace houses from the 1800s, along with beautifully restored heritage-listed buildings. There are many fine award-winning eateries in the area, as well as cute coffee shops, historic pubs and colourful nightspots. Overlooking the city centre, The Windmill in Wickham Park was built by convicts in 1827 and was one of Queensland’s first stone buildings. Of equal historical significance are the Spring Hill Baths, built in 1886. Surrounded by a ring of quaint individual dressing rooms, the baths are still in operation today. Spring Hill is within easy walking distance of the Brisbane city centre and just 15 minutes’ drive from Brisbane airport. Accommodation in Spring Hill ranges from bed-and-breakfasts and self contained units to luxurious hotels.

The Gap

Hidden away on the fringes of Brisbane’s leafy outer suburbs lies a secluded community known as The Gap. Surrounded by lush bushland but just 15 minutes drive to the Brisbane city centre, locals at The Gap truly enjoy the best of both worlds. Visitors are drawn to The Gap to enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of Brisbane Forest Park – over 28,500 hectares of unspoiled bushland offering opportunities for bushwalking, mountain-bike riding, horse-riding, bird-watching, picnicking or camping at a remote site in the hills. The rich diversity of birds, animals and plant life in this park is surprising, and after enjoying any one of the picturesque walking tracks, it’s easy to see why the locals have preserved this unique part of natural Brisbane. Tuck into a barbeque lunch at Jolly’s Lookout and enjoy sweeping views over the Samford Valley. Venture further with a short rainforest walk among strangler figs and climbing vines. Marvel at the sheer size and scale of Wivenhoe Dam on a scenic drive of the area. Back at The Gap, you can visit the Walkabout Creek Wildlife Centre - a living showcase of the amazing wildlife diversity of south-east Queensland. Get up close and personal with the reptiles, frogs, mammals, fish and birds that call this part of the world home. Accommodation is the area is limited to holiday rentals and homestays, however a good selection of hotels and motels can be found in the suburbs closer to the Brisbane city centre.

Toowong

Toowong is a very popular, well known Brisbane suburb located five minutes drive west of the Brisbane city centre. The suburb is nestled between mighty Mount Coot-tha and the north bank of the meandering Brisbane River. From the banks of the river beautiful views of the city skyline can be enjoyed. A cosmopolitan and multicultural part of the city, Toowong still enjoys the kind of friendly, relaxed ambience Queensland is famous for. Located within Toowong are two of Brisbane’s most famous, heritage-listed hotels. These hotels have been beautifully restored and, along with several others establishments, offer superb dining and wonderful views of the river. Toowong is a great spot to indulge in a little retail therapy. A large shopping complex in the heart of town offers everything from specialty stores to supermarkets. Nearby shopping precincts offer more variety and interest, with a wide range of gift shops, homewares and designer boutiques. Every day tastebuds are tantalised at Toowong’s lively cafes, sushi bars, bistros, hotels and top notch restaurants. On the western outskirts of Toowong, at the foot of Mount Coot-tha, are the beautiful Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. This huge garden contains over 5000 plant species from around the world and offers a number of delightful walking trails with spectacular views. On the Aboriginal art trail you’ll find fascinating tree carvings and rock paintings. Families will enjoy the astronomy programs offered at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium located within the Gardens. Accommodation options in Toowong include apartments in riverside high-rises that take advantage of the city views. Villas, studio apartments and holiday rentals are also available.

West End

It takes all kinds to make a community. And 'all kinds' is exactly what you’ll find in West End - only five minutes from the heart of Brisbane. From dreadlocked musicians lazing on couches sipping tea to Chinese restaurateurs cooking up steamed pork buns, from indigenous artisans offering their wares to Greek grandmothers gossiping on the corner, it’s all here in West End. The rich tapestry of life in West End is largely due to the fascinating migrant and indigenous communities that have called this precinct home from the very beginning. Today, this intoxicating collision of so many cultures is the main draw card, with many locals and visitors spending time here to take in the sights, sounds and exotic tastes on offer. Generations-old stores sit side by side with non-pretentious newcomers, modern European restaurants mix with budget Asian eats, and somehow it all seems to work perfectly. With Boundary Street as the focus of activity, you’ll find laid back cafes are in plentiful supply, as are restaurants, bars and pubs. And when you are not eating, there are many weird and wonderful boutiques, book stores and small galleries to insatiate the appetites of visitors. And at night, West End comes alive with great live bands and music.

Wilston

Wilston is a highly attractive precinct in Brisbane, in more ways than one. Its stunning blend of old and new architecture - from workers’ cottages to modern architect-designed homes - paints a superb picture. Its inner city location and breathtaking views of the city from more elevated streets of Wilston Hill means property here is highly sought after. Just as popular is the burgeoning hub of alfresco dining, cafes and delicatessens. Wilston’s main street, Kedron Brook Road, has excellent shopping by day, and the village practically buzzes with activity at night under the lights. Local stores in the area are supplemented by larger centres at Lutwyche Shopping Centre and slightly further away at Stafford and Brookside. Wilston is easy to get to, with regular trains and buses from the city.

Windsor

Situated five minutes north of Brisbane’s city centre, the suburb of Windsor is steeped in the history of Brisbane. As one of Brisbane’s older suburbs, the landscape of Windsor is sprinkled with grand old homes, majestic Queenslanders, heritage-listed buildings and renovated workers cottages. Hilly parts of the suburb boast stunning city views, while the low-lying areas enjoy the calm tranquillity of Enoggera Creek. The Windsor Historic Society is based in the former Council Chambers, a quaint old stone building, constructed in 1897 from stone carved out of the nearby Windsor quarry. The old building and quarry are now heritage-listed and you can visit them for a glimpse of this fascinating piece of Brisbane history. While you’re in the area visit the Windsor War Memorial located near the Chambers building and admire the beautiful old stone cenotaph. Wilston locals have set aside one hectare of their suburb for an organic community garden at Northey Street. The fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs harvested from these community-managed gardens can be purchased at regular growers’ markets conducted on site. Attractive parkland and walkways are provided alongside beautiful Enoggera Creek. A relaxed stroll along the creek will take you to Downey Park containing playing fields, parkland as well as some remnant bushland. The Park also offers excellent city views. You will find a wide variety of good restaurants in Windsor as well as take-away options and cafes. Accommodation options include four star hotels and motor-inns.

Woolloongabba

Looming large on the south side of inner city Brisbane, the Brisbane Cricket Ground, affectionately known as "The Gabba" dominates the Woolloongabba landscape. Built in 1896 and currently home of the Brisbane Lions AFL team The Gabba puts the suburb of Woolloongabba on the national sporting map. One of Brisbane’s oldest suburbs, Woolloongabba’s streets are lined with old and heritage listed buildings. The grand old Princess Theatre in Annerley Road was built in 1888 and still hosts live theatre performances to this day. Historic Logan Road and Stanley Street have many interesting antique and curiosity shops along with second-hand furniture stores and several popular restaurants and cafes. Woolloongabba’s early working class history is evident in a number of beautifully restored pubs in the area dating back to the mid 1800s. Many original 'Queenslanders' also remain along with quaint workers cottages on narrow streets. Woolloongabba is just around the corner from South Bank, one of Brisbane’s most popular precincts. Accommodation options in Woolloongabba include hotels, motels, studio apartments, and self-contained units.

Wynnum

The hub of the eastern bay coastal villages, Wynnum is a lively, family friendly seaside suburb. About 15 kilometres from the Brisbane Central Business District and about 30 minutes by car, Wynnum attracts all kinds of visitors who enjoy the atmosphere of a village by the water. Taking a relaxing stroll along the Esplanade at Wynnum is a highlight of the area, as is the wading pool and waterpark for the children. Other favourites of the children are the Wynnum North bird hide, where they can watch native birds feeding and resting, and the Wynnum Mangrove Boardwalk with its storybook trail. There are plenty of first-rate dining options around Wynnum, with the main dining and shopping areas being Bay Terrace, Tingal Road and Glenora Street. So whether you are looking for a cafe, take-away, pub or restaurant, you will find something to suit your taste in Wynnum.