The Iglu Guide | Blog
Brisbane by night for students
One of Australia’s cheaper student cities, Brisbane holds great appeal as a study destination and it’s really not hard to see why. Averaging 283 days of sunshine a year and situated in an unbeatable location, it boasts a high standard of living, incredible infrastructure and a top notch public transport system. Not only is it easy to get where you want to go – Brisbane offers a great experience when you actually arrive. Here’s what’s on offer after dark, when this fantastically student-friendly city comes twinkling back to life.
South Bank by night
The cultural heart of the city, South Bank has much to offer by night, and at less than 2km from Iglu Brisbane City it’s convenience living on tap. And that even includes GOMA, the world-renowned art gallery. Every summer, GOMA picks a couple of dates for an Up Late line-up where you can browse exhibitions and enjoy contemporary DJS, drinks, food and art workshops, all weaving their magic after dark. Alternatively, follow the bright lights and try a night climb on Brisbane’s Story Bridge. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and a whole heap of history along the way. Quench your thirst at the South Bank Beer Garden before taking a stroll along the promenade and taking your pick from the whole range of bars cafés and restaurants that line the South Bank. For classic fare, you can’t beat the Ship Inn for a comforting pub-style menu dating all the way back to 1864.
Fortitude Valley
Well known for its lively nightlife options, Fortitude Valley is Brisbane’s dedicated entertainment precinct and is home to a wide range of bars, clubs and music venues. Best of all, it’s less than 3km from Iglu Kelvin Grove. Try out the 70s vibe at Netherworld, complete with drinks, food and pinball games to keep you entertained. Enjoy a rooftop bar crawl through Cielo Rooftop and Iris Rooftop through to Maya Mexican and Valley Hops Brewing, or score some tickets to the latest live act at Fortitude Music Hall. Don’t miss Summa House, Brisbane’s all-year-round party venue featuring old school DJ classics, ping pong tables, signature cocktails and food to die for. But if you want to get a little more glam, head over to Saville Row for some speakeasy style vintage or play detective and try out the atmospheric rooms and nooks that make up the dive bar Tomcat. Running a limited food and drinks menu it’s simple fare all the way, unless of course you discover the secret door to the Boiler Room hidden in some wall art. Here, you can take it up a notch with charcuterie, cocktails and champagne, a just and fitting reward.
West End
West End is a popular after-dark Brisbane destination as it offers a whole range of activities. From cinemas and bars to clubs and restaurants, there’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy. Head to the beating heart of the action that is Boundary Street, and try out the Bearded Lady or Max Watts for the best in live music. Craft beer fans will enjoy the Archive Beer Boutique and Brisbane Brewing Co. while those who prefer a cocktail or two are spoilt for choice. Don’t miss The Lychee Lounge and the Cobbler where they may not mend your shoes, but you can BYO your own food.
Night markets
Keep your eyes open for night markets cropping up in and around the city, especially as they are a great place for students to pick up some cheap eats. The Alien night market on Brisbane’s south side is the new kid in town, offering up over 40 Asian food stalls as well as live entertainment and sideshow games. Opening its doors every weekend, it’s fast becoming a hot, neon-lit student destination of choice. Eat Street Northshore continues to provide foodie delights out of an iconic shipping container, just outside the CBD. Visitors to this abandoned docking site get to choose dishes from all over the world. Don’t miss the Collective Markets in Stanley Street Plaza selling vintage fashion, homeware, trinkets and more. Enjoy music food and drinks as you browse the stalls for gifts under the starry night sky.
Riverside action
There’s plenty of fun to be had down by the Brisbane River when evening falls. You can eat and drink with a view of the water and enjoy a great riverside atmosphere. Try out Fridays, a Brizzy institution serving up 180-degree vistas as well as drinks and dining as you look out over the magnificent Story Bridge. Asian fusion fans would not want to miss out on Madame Wu, and be sure to take full advantage of your scenic surrounds courtesy of Riverland’s large alfresco tables. There’s also action to be had in the water itself. Experience the city from a different angle by taking a twilight kayak tour, or grab some friends and take in the views from the iconic Story Bridge itself with a spectacular night climb. And when you’re done, be sure to drop into Howard Street Wharves just under the bridge for a celebratory drink.
Remember Remember…
As much as it’s fun to party the night away, it’s also good to remember to do everything in moderation. Living independently means taking responsibility for your own health and wellbeing. That means getting enough sleep, getting enough veggies in your diet and balancing work and play.
