With most of Australia’s state borders closed, there’s never been a better time to explore your own backyard – or even your front doorstep. As summer approaches, we’ve compiled a quick guide to the Brisbane CBD for our Brisbane members to safely enjoy the warmer months in the city, and maybe find some hidden gems in the Brisbane CBD. 

Located in Frog’s Hollow, Christie Spaces Queen St. and Creek St. are both situated only a short stroll to Brisbane’s Botanical Gardens. Still operating during COVID-19, the botanical gardens are a safe and affordable way to explore the city and take in some spectacular views. Every Sunday on the north side of the gardens, you’ll find the Riverside Markets – a vibrant outdoor market with stalls for clothing, crafts & international food, plus live music. 

Heading North in Frog’s Hollow, you’ll find even more open space with the Roma Street parkland which features a barbeque area, the Garden Room café and houses the Brisbane Moonlight Cinema during the warmer months – due to reopen in November 2020! 

If it’s food and drinks you’re after, only a 3 min walk from Christie Spaces Adelaide St. or Queen St., Red Hook is a New York-inspired eatery, bar and restaurant hidden on Creek Street. With weekly specials for budget hunters, including Wings Wednesday offering up 2.2lbs (1kg) of buffalo wings for just $13, and Taco Truck Tuesday serves up cheap tacos after 5pm. It’s a little hard find via Creek Street, as it’s located around the back on Gresham Lane. This hidden gem is much easier to find if you approach from Elizabeth Street. 

Only a few doors down, hidden in the same laneway as Red Hook is the Gresham Bar. As the only bar with heritage licensing in Brisbane, the Gresham showcases its historic architecture alongside high-quality whisky, rum and wine. With experienced mixologists behind the bar, the Gresham also boasts an extensive cocktail list and a no-frills dress policy, making it a perfect spot for some casual Friday afternoon drinks. Pair one of their carefully selected wines with a charcuterie or cheese board or enjoy a bespoke cocktail on its own! 

Tucked away in Eagle Lane only a 5-minute stroll from Queen St. and a short 3-minute walk from Adelaide St., Brooklyn Standard is an American-themed underground bar. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with plenty of seating, an American style bar menu and live music almost every night of the week. Featuring a more laid-back atmosphere, Brooklyn Standard is a great spot to mingle with co-workers or to just enjoy the music. 

For something a little more low-key, the Pig N’ Whistle Riverside Pub is located right out front of the riverside terminal up from the Eagle St. Pier. About a 5-minute walk from either Christie Spaces location, this easy-going British themed pub is Brisbane’s home to football – (English football that is!) – and is the place to catch the premier or minor leagues games.  

So, while we all carry on and adjust to the new normal – and while the borders remain closed – make the most of your homebound situation and make sure to explore something new around! 

If you’d prefer a Bavarian twist over a British one, the Bavarian on Eagle Street Pier has all your Bavarian favourites to enjoy on a waterfront terrace. From pork knuckle to a German sausage trio plate and a variety of German beers on tap, the Bavarian is a great place for a “working” pub lunch or some Friday drinks.