Brisbane’s best: Friend dates and hangouts

Brisbane is all about good vibes, epic hangouts and creating unforgettable moments with friends. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or planning an incredible night out, Brisbane has seriously cool places.

Here’s some inspiration for things to do with friends in Brisbane. Whether it’s for run club, book club, girls’ night, a sports game or trivia night, there’s something for everyone.

1. Howard Smith Wharves: Activity for every mood

Hit a mid-week slump and need a boost? Gather your mates and head to Howard Smith Wharves for events to suit every mood.

Get your heart pumping with a 5-kilometre walk or run at Felons Run Club. Prefer to slow down? Try Felons Beer Yoga. Looking for a mental challenge? Test your mind with Harry’s Trivia, every Wednesday in Felons Barrel Hall.

Relax with a mid-week catch-up at Felons. Every Tuesday, enjoy a nostalgic night with free movies. Invite your friends, grab a bean bag and chill-out.

2. Fish Lane: Girls’ night out

The day has come, ladies! Take your friends out for a night at Fish Lane. The bold street art and glowing Outdoor Gallery light boxes create the perfect backdrop for your evening.

Start the evening with a pre-dinner drink at Kiki. Then head to Maeve for plenty of share plates.

As the night comes to an end, enjoy a glass of wine from the menu at La Lune Wine Co. If you want to switch things up, try one of the many beers on tap at Saccharomyces.

Enjoy quality time with friends until the last sip.

3. Rosalie Village: A hidden gem

Nestled in the hilly streets of Paddington is Rosalie Village. This quiet area has a friendly vibe, making it a great option for a low-key catch-up with friends.

Grab a coffee and explore Yesterday’s Thrift Shop—you never know what treasures you might find. Duck into Cinebar to catch the latest movies. Enjoy a meal and a drink from the comfort of your seat.

For a colourful brunch spot that blends Hungarian flavours with Australian tastes, Smoked Paprika is a must visit.

Patio by Range is a local favourite for a lazy afternoon drink. If you can’t wait for the weekend to gather the crew, try their trivia on a Tuesday night.

4. James Street: Bougie encounters

James Street is home to Brisbane's trendiest cafes, bars and restaurants. But it's more than just a foodie hub. When you’re meeting friends for lunch, dinner or drinks, take time to explore the latest fashion and lifestyle trends.

Try something new and make your own signature scent at New York born Le Labo on James Street. Visit Queensland’s first Le Labo store. A fragrance expert will help you and your crew craft unique scents.

For a fun experience with friends, The Calile Hotel has a new event called Rooftop Harvest. It emphasizes home-grown food, cultivation, and wellness inspired by Callie's rooftop garden.

5. Fortitude Valley: The heart of Brisbane’s nightlife

Fortitude Valley is known for its vibrant bar scene. It also offers unique experiences to enjoy with friends.

Spice up your evening with mixology at Savile Row. Enjoy their special whiskey or cocktails, or try making your own in a masterclass. Savile's understated, yet moody sister, Finney Isles, located across the street, is a great pre and post-dinner spot.

Level-up your weekend and join a brewery tour at rooftop bar and brewhouse Valley Hops Brewing or the award-winning Soapbox.

Feeling competitive? Meet up at Oche for a couple rounds of darts or head to Blute’s Bar for karaoke.

If you love music, check out what's on at The Tivoli or Fortitude Music Hall. Their live shows promise unforgettable nights out!

6. Bulimba and Martha Street: Suburban socials

For relaxed suburban vibes, head to Oxford Street in Bulimba. Martha Street in Camp Hill is also great for meeting friends.

Need an idea for unique date night, hen’s activity or simply need a good bonding sesh with the girls? Try Rosé Soirée on Oxford Street in Bulimba for a fun paint and sip experience. Afterwards, explore Bulimba’s high street shops.

Make a day of it! Grab takeout from a local café or restaurant. Head to Vic Lucas Park for a riverside picnic with beautiful views. Don't forget to swing by Riverbend Books and pick up your next read for book club.

On Martha Street, check out the unique bronze animal sculptures by local artist Simone Eisler as you stroll the street. Get a coffee at Blackbird Espresso or have a bite at Picnic on Martha. You can relax at the new neighbourhood bar, Rays by Range (Brewing). It's where good food, drinks and vibes meet.

7. Caxton Street: Casual meets chic vibes

Just a stone’s throw from Suncorp Stadium, Caxton Street pulses with energy day and night.

The iconic Caxton Hotel is a local favourite. It’s perfect for watching the footy or enjoying a cold beer with friends.

Lefty’s Music Hall offers a special western-themed experience for live music. Recently, the Queensland Hotels Association named it one of the top entertainment spots for 2024.

Want a chill afternoon? Head to Caxton Street Brewing Company for vinyl and music bingo. For fun after dark, gather your friends for stand-up comedy at Good Chat Comedy Club. It’s now inside the brewery.

Across the street, The Barracks blends 3 of Brisbane's key heritage-listed buildings with contemporary architecture. Once a horse stable and barracks, it is now home to delicious restaurants like French-Vietnamese restaurant Libertine. The laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere makes The Barracks a go-to for any mid-week or weekend catch-up.

8. Brisbane Powerhouse: Experiencing new heights

Council’s Brisbane Powerhouse is a landmark cultural venue along the Brisbane River. It also boasts breathtaking views of the water.

For an evening of art and culture, organise a meet-up to enjoy its incredible line-up of events. Its annual program includes favourites like Brisbane Comedy Festival, OHM and Brisbane Festival.

Powerhouse is also home to Brisbane’s first permanent outdoor cinema. You can enjoy Dendy Powerhouse screenings all year round.

Want a bonding experience no-one will forget? Let dining meet adrenaline and enjoy a meal 4-storeys high at Vertigo Brisbane.

Want more inspiration?

Brisbane is growing and evolving. We’re working hard to keep it the best place to live, work, and relax. Planning a spontaneous catch-up or a long-overdue night out? These spots make enjoying the best of Brisbane easy.

Looking for more ideas on where to eat with friends? Explore our top dining spots and relaxing places to unwind.

You might also like to read these articles by The Weekend Edition written in partnership with Council:

_{This featured content is designed to inspire residents and visitors to plan a day out and explore Brisbane. Brisbane City Council disclaims any relationship with, or endorsement of, businesses featured in this article.}