From al fresco movie dates to adrenaline-pumping outings, there’s something for everyone on this list of romantic date ideas in and around Brisbane.
Brisbane is full of lovely romantic places to enjoy a date, from charming restaurants to fun outdoor adventures. If you’re searching for a fresh and exciting idea to share with your partner, we have curated a list of the most romantic things to do in Brisbane to inspire you.
Romantic Things to Do in Brisbane
Immerse in the Beauty of Brisbane Botanic Gardens
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, the oldest heritage garden in Queensland, established in 1828 as a food garden for the new colony of Brisbane.
Brisbane’s Botanic Gardens is a living museum of plant collections, displaying early heritage specimens and present-day exotic and native plantings. It is the perfect place for a romantic walk or to escape the hustle and bustle for an hour or two.
Dine on a Trawler
After a stroll around the Botanic Gardens, go to The Prawnster, one of Brisbane’s most unique dining experiences now located by the gardens.
Step aboard and take a seat at one of the boat’s carved wooden benches to enjoy some of the freshest seafood in the city, or pick up some prawns to take home.
The dine-in menu includes a variety of seafood, such as prawns of different sizes, oysters, Moreton Bay Bugs, salmon, and lobster, but if you would like to have bread rolls or salads on the side, you are welcome to bring your own (we take paper plates too). The Prawnster is licensed to enjoy a drink with your meal.
Indulge at a City Rooftop Bar
Elevate your evening with a dining experience at one of Brisbane’s enchanting rooftop bars. Sip on handcrafted cocktails, savour delectable cuisine, and revel in the breathtaking city views that stretch before you. Some of Brisbane’s best Rooftop Bar & Dining Venues include:
Soko Rooftop: Soko is a rooftop restaurant and bar on level 14 of Jubilee Place in Fortitude Valley. It’s an excellent place for a date night with a dining experience that is sophisticated, innovative, and exotic. The menu boasts a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours perfectly complemented by a curated wine and sake list. You’ll also find a cocktail-focused beverage menu with crafted signature creations and over 40 Pisco Sours flavours. The rooftop is beautifully decorated with an Amazonian theme, making it a unique place to dine and relax in Brisbane.
Iris Rooftop: Located on top of the stylish Hotel X, you will discover the equally fashionable Iris Rooftop. This impressive rooftop bar and restaurant in Brisbane is inspired by Mediterranean culture and features bright and lavish decor while offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, including New Farm, Fortitude Valley, and beyond.
The Terrace Rooftop Bar: One of the city’s most exciting rooftop bars sits atop the fabulous Emporium Hotel South Bank, offering unrivalled views across the city and beyond. Open all day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this is the place to impress!
Maya Mexican: Maya Mexican is a bright and stylish rooftop bar and restaurant offering a lush setting in which to enjoy breathtaking views of Fortitude Valley and the CBD. The rooftop menu is inspired by – you guessed it, the Maya region of Mexico! – and features a variety of delicious small plates and larger dishes, as well as an extensive range of tequila, mezcal, and Margaritas. It’s the perfect spot for a sunny lunch, afternoon drinks, or late-night vibes accompanied by live music and DJs.
Related: The Ultimate Guide to Brisbane’s Most Romantic Restaurants
Enjoy a Sunset River Cruise
Embark on a romantic journey along the Brisbane River with a sunset river cruise. River City Cruises Brisbane offers a laid-back sightseeing cruise highlighting Brisbane’s distinctive river scene. The tickets for this Brisbane cruise include cocktail food, and various drinks are available for purchase.
Try Brisbane’s First Permanent Outdoor Cinema
Operating year-round and showcasing a program of films Thursday – Sunday evenings, Dendy Powerhouse is taking advantage of Brisbane’s warm weather (and mild climates in winter) to screen movies at the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse, the city’s hub of contemporary art and culture – all year round!
Boasting 350 outdoor lounge chairs with wide armrests and wireless Dendy headphones for every customer with superior sound quality, you can order a glass of wine or beer, pair it with a cheese box or partake in one of Dendy’s classic cinema snacks, including their famous lovingly hand-scooped choc tops, all from the comfort of your seat via a QR code.
Soar Above the City
Enjoy panoramic views of the sparkling skyline soaring above the city on the Wheel of Brisbane. Afterwards, enjoy a meal at one of the numerous restaurants at South Bank to make it a memorable date.
The Trifecta: A Walk, Picnic & Live Music
Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of South Bank Parklands. Stroll hand-in-hand along the riverfront, indulge in a picnic on the lush lawns, and share laughter as you discover hidden gems within this urban oasis.
Time your South Bank romantic walk with the Sunday Social on the Greens – pack a picnic and a rug and listen to free live music with some of the best views of the Brisbane skyline in the city.
Related: Romantic Destinations Under Two Hours from Brisbane
Cuddle Koalas
Experience close encounters with Australia’s unique wildlife at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Cuddle koalas, hand-feed kangaroos, and meet diverse native species.
Climb the Story Bridge
Embark on an adventure together by climbing the iconic Story Bridge. As you ascend to greater heights, marvel at the breathtaking views of Greater Brisbane and gain a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings – you can see as far as the Glass House Mountains in the north, Moreton Bay in the east and the Scenic Rim Mountains in the south.
Enjoy a Picnic at New Farm Park
Escape the busy city life and enjoy a romantic picnic in the serene surroundings of heritage-listed New Farm Park, over a century old. Today, the park covers an area of 15 hectares and is a beautiful spot for a romantic picnic.
Can’t be bothered packing a picnic? Nearby riverfront restaurant Mary Maes will make it easy for you with their picnic hampers, so all you need to do is unwind and soak up the breathtaking surroundings.
Ride the City Cat to Northshore Eat Street
On the City Cat ferry, cruise along the Brisbane River and get off at Northshore Eat Street, where you can enjoy an incredible selection of international cuisines, live music, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to spend a Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening snacking and exploring. From mouth-watering American-style burgers to delicious Vietnamese bao buns, there is something for everyone.
After dinner, stroll through the elaborately decorated laneways and indulge in a range of salty snacks and sweet treats before jumping on the City Cat back to the city (or where you started).
Plan a Sunset Picnic
Witness the breathtaking beauty of a Brisbane sunset from the pinnacle of Mount Coot-tha. Set up a cozy picnic blanket, savour a delicious spread, and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours.
Related: Discover the best beaches in and around Brisbane
Kayak the Brisbane River at Sunset
Embark on a romantic twilight kayaking adventure along the glistening waters of the Brisbane River with Riverlife. Glide along the river in an illuminated kayak, passing under the Story Bridge, along South Bank and the CBD before returning to shore.
After the tour, you can enjoy a grazing board of cheese, dips and veggies and an assortment of chilled beer, wine and soft drinks.
Try Barefoot Bowls
If you’re looking for a fun activity that brings a touch of nostalgia and relaxed charm, why not try barefoot bowls at the Merthyr Bowls Club? The clubhouse has an interesting history, with its two ex-army barracks being trucked in and fitted together in the early 1950s. It’s in a fantastic riverside location and boasts a top-notch Tiff Dwarf green, good food, amenities and a diverse crowd.
If you’re feeling peckish, enjoy the club’s barbecue or well-priced a la carte menu before or after your game. The menu includes tasty options such as oysters, burgers, chicken kyiv, and curry.
Take a Day Trip to Moreton Island
Embark on a romantic day trip to Moreton Island, a paradise off Brisbane’s coast. This beautiful island is likely to be on the radars of travellers worldwide, with Lonely Planet crowning Tangalooma Beach as “the world’s best beach to see nature” in 2024. Explore pristine beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and create unforgettable memories amidst this natural wonderland.
The best way to reach Moreton Island is by taking a vehicle or passenger ferry from Brisbane. Tangalooma Island Resort welcomes guests and day trippers on their passenger ferry, which operates between Brisbane and the Tangalooma Jetty.
Be Culture-Vultures
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of art and culture by visiting the Gallery of Modern Art, which boasts an impressive collection of 17,000 pieces. You can discover interesting exhibitions, engage in thought-provoking conversations, and embrace the beauty of creativity.
With two galleries, the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you.
Enjoy a Drive-In Movie Experience
Step back in time and relish the nostalgic atmosphere of the Yatala Drive-In. Snuggle up in the comfort of your car, feast on delicious movie snacks, and lose yourselves in the magic of a classic film under the starlit sky.
Embark on a journey of discovery in Brisbane; whether you’re seeking adventure or cultural exploration for your date night or romantic getaway, there’s plenty for couples to do in Bris-Vegas!
Want more? Why not book one of these hinterland romantic getaways close to Brisbane?
