The coolest things to do in Brisbane this winter

As the winter chill sets in on Brisbane town, delve into an array of cool activities from ice skating in King George Square to sipping toasty cocktails fireside at one of the many rooftop bars the city has to offer.

Winter in the Sunshine State may be here for a short time but it’s a good time - and the river city makes the most of the cooler weather. Crisp sunny days float seamlessly into brisk winter nights, as the city comes alive with winter activities to entice.

There’s a pop-up family friendly ice-skating rink, food and wine festival and a gondola perched high above the city, so don your puffer jacket, dig out your diary and start working your way through Brisbane’s best winter activities. 

Ice skate in the square

The popular outdoor ice-skating rink in King George square has popped up just in time for winter and extends to the July school holiday period.

Loaded with fun for the whole family and centrally located in the CBD, King George Square has been transformed into a festival of snow over winter. Think: an eclectic array of street performers, food stalls and an Apres ski bar for the adults. Along with the supersized skating rink there’s even an ice slide to snow tube down.

Winter Reloaded at W

The Wet Bar at W Hotel has been transformed into a Apres Ski paradise, with the city skyline as the backdrop, it’s got all the trimmings of a European winter.

The indoor and outdoor bar boasts some of the most sublime views across the river to Mt Cootha and beyond. A purpose-built gondola takes pride of place, where you can enjoy a curated list of winter cocktails, complemented by a share plate menu.

Designed with the French Alps in mind, be tempted by a three-cheese fondue, mini Shepherd’s pies and lobster mornay sliders. Sip a Spicy Chocolat Chaud (a French hot chocolate) by the outdoor fires, with enviable views across the city the Wet Bar is an ideal winter destination.

Bubbly in an ingloo

The decadent Veuve Clicquot Igloo Bar tastefully transforms the grounds of historic Customs House just in time for those chilly, romantic nights.

Snuggle up in your own private igloo and enjoy a glass of the finest bubbles around, complemented by a fresh, locally sourced tasting menu. Devour dishes like Moreton Bay Croissants and Tasmanian Pacific oysters, topping off an evening of bubbles and igloos in style.

Whilst it’s all about the champagne, there’s also wine, beer and cocktail list on offer so no one will go thirsty.

Spice up winter

The talented chefs at Spice Central Kitchen and Bar in Southbank have designed a winter menu threaded with fresh local produce and spices from across the globe.

Try the winter warmer special of braised short ribs, slowly cooked for 6 hours the meat falls off the bone, served with mash potato and chimichurri. Paired with a selection of fine wines and an assortment of local beverages.

After dinner take a spin around the Brisbane Eye Ferris Wheel, grab a blanket, warm your mitts on a hot chocolate and sit back while enjoying the city lights from great heights.

Winter flavours in James Street

The popular James Street food and wine trail is a showcase of chefs and artisans, that culminates in a local providores market on August 1.

The four-day winter food and wine extravaganza will have you rooftop yoga bending, champagne long lunching and sampling some of the tastiest menus in town. Specialised events will be held alongside popular James Street eateries, opening the boutique shopping precinct to locals and visitors alike.

Winter skating inside

If inside ice-skating is more your thing, Brisbane has a couple of Olympic ice-skating rinks to choose from.

From Boondall to Acacia Ridge, the Ice World Skating Rinks are designed for budding skaters and the novice skater who wants to hone their skills on the ice.

Part of the tapestry of Brisbane for over 30 years, the Olympic size skating rinks are purpose built to accommodate both the north and south side of the city.

Perfect for parties, dates or catch ups with your mates, it’s a world of ice bustling with music and bright lights. There’s also a rink side café where you can watch the fast-paced skating action pass by while warming up with a brew.

As the winter sun sets over the city, it’s a novelty to dress up and enjoy the cooler temperatures before the Queensland heat rises again.

Catch a movie at the drive in

Kick it old school and get up close and cosy at the Yatala Drive-In, ideal for those brisk Brisbane nights.

Watch the latest blockbusters in a 50’s inspired setting adorned with life like statues of Elvis and Marilyn. There’s also retro diner serving up all the classics, like choc tops, popcorn and soda pops.

Deck out your rig with blankets and pillows, grab a friend and watch some of the latest winter flicks in the comfort of your own car. If you’re looking for the perfect winter night out – this is it.

After more fun events to fill your social dairy with? Check out the best things to do all over Queensland this winter.