Things to do
Ipswich gets #Urbanlisted
Ipswich is so much fun, Brisbane natives are starting to think locals are keeping epic eats and picturesque scenery to themselves! Here are some of the things that make Ipswich the best.
Pumpyard Bar and Brewery
A menu that includes frickles—that’s pickles coated in beer batter and deep fried in case you didn’t know—is an instant winner in our eyes. These guys have also built themselves a name for their niche brews, including a s’mores beer and, even a carrot one. The building itself is more than 100 years old.
Heisenberg Haus
German food mecca, Heisenberg Haus, has the best nibbles this side of Bavaria. The family owned restaurant is an ode the ‘Switch’s German roots. Aside from boasting a huge array of German beers, all your fave foods are on the menu including cheesy spätzle, vegetarian strudel and schnitzel. The pork knuckle challenge at the restaurant is for the brave and very hungry.
Rafter and Rose
Rafter and Rose’s set up is so adorable you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Notting Hill. This laneway café does it all; a killer eggs benny, bacon jam, and fresh local produce.
Journey’s Kitchen And Bar
If you’re all about boards—be it a cheese board or a charcuterie board—then we have a feeling you’re going to love Journey’s. These guys even do a DIY board so you can craft the spread of your dreams.
Floating Images Hot Air Ballooning
If you’ve ever wanted to go hot air ballooning, this is your chance. Floating Images are the closest to Brisbane and show you the most incredible views. It’s only 30 minutes’ drive from Brisbane.
Ironbark Ridge Vineyard Cellar Door
Ironbark Ridge Vineyard sits atop a ridge with a stunning vista out across Pine Mountain and Mt Flinders. The eight-and-a-half-acre vineyard is ripe for exploring while the original 1920s miners’ cottage is the perfect cellar door stop.
Flying Food Safaris & Helicopter Pub Crawl
If a helicopter pub crawl wasn’t on the top of your to-do list, we’re guessing it is now? Thanks Ipswich! These guys (Pterodactyl Helicopters) will take you – by helicopter, no less – to all of the best food spots Ipswich has to offer and show you how to match your bites and brews perfectly. Everything is produced locally and the tour is designed to showcase the best the region has to offer.
Hiking At White Rock
If hiking is your thing, Ipswich has some pleasant surprises in store for you. Even if hiking isn’t your thing, White Rock has tracks that range from 200m to 19kms, so there’s something for everyone. White Rock itself is stunning: a striking white cliff face that juts through the surrounding trees, is well worth the foot work.
Incinerator Theatre
Lovers of theatre, architecture and a good time take note, because the Incinerator Theatre is where it’s at. Its history as a waste incinerator only adds to its character. Plus, it’s the only building in Queensland designed by Burley Griffin (the dude who designed Canberra—cool, huh?).
Spicers Hidden Vale
Spicers Hidden Vale is potentially one of the fanciest places on earth. With an infinity pool overlooking the undulating planes, fresh produce from their own gardens and local farmers, seriously luxe fit outs, plus their award-winning, hatted restaurant, Homage, will actually blow your mind (and your taste buds)!
The Gypsy Cottage
The Gypsy Cottage feels like a fairy tale. Set amongst green, rolling hills of Rosewood with a view that never seems to end, you’ll never want to leave. Complete with a four post bed, a baby cow (omg) a fresh fruit platter and a fire place, this really feels like heaven on earth. Brisbane, who?
This article was compiled by Rachel Lay and originally appeared on the Urban List Brisbane.
Photo credits Ariana Gillrie and Jason Starr.
