How to have the ultimate boys weekend in Brisbane

When the questions is ‘what should we have for dinner?’, the answer is not ‘pies at the ground’. Unless you've reserved a spot at Suncorp Stadium's own rooftop bar, Sonny's, where you'll feast on Tex-Mex bites while soaking up all the on-field action from the best seats in the house. 

On Caxton Street, settle in for burgers and beers at Fritzenberger or Brewski, grab classic pub grub at The Lord Alfred, or get a little bit classy at Black Hide Steakhouse if you’re after the perfect cut of red meat.

On the other side of Suncorp Stadium you’ll find Newstead Brewery, serving up wings, burgers and pizzas, all washed down with one of their locally brewed beverages. Just around the corner is the Italian institution La Stazione (ask for the house beer too).

For dining near The Gabba, simply cross the road at the Stanley Street end for nearly endless options. Some nearby staples include The German Club, Pineaple Hotel, Electric Avenue (head upstairs afterwards to find the hidden whisky bar), The One Mile or Easy Times Brewing. 

Of course, there's more to a boys' weekend in Brisbane than just the game (and game-day eating). With limited time in the River City, you want to eat right - so be sure to get your hands around one of Brisbane's best burgers or splash out on a meal at the city's best restaurants: the woodfired cooking at Agnes is one to book your spot at well in advance. We've got brunch sorted, too. 

Drink

Is there a better way to get the gist of the city on a boys’ weekend in Brisbane than by taste-testing its local drinking dens?

If you fancy yourselves quite the beer connoisseurs, you’ll be excited to discover Brisbane's thriving craft beer scene. While you'll easily be tempted by the ultimate craft beer crawl, if you only have time for a schooner or two, head to Newstead Brewery or Howard Smith Wharves. The latter is only 3km from the Gabba (walking is best, although a lime scooter is even quicker) and is home to arguably the favourite spot for a sundowner, Felons Brewing Co. The massive brewery has seating aplenty, food options and a range of beers brewed on site.

Want the locals to show you around the best brews? Hop On offers half day and full day brewery tours, while River to Bay uniquely blends a river cruise with stops at three local breweries along the way. 

If you prefer to get a little classy and sport your best pair of chinos, check out Brisbane’s best rooftop bars. or these cocktail bars. If you're kicking on, check out local live music at these joints.

Stay

Where to stay in Brisbane depends on what you're here for. If you're heading to a game at Suncorp Stadium or the Gabba, Brisbane City and South Bank are your best options, with plenty of accommodation to suit.

For river views, eclectic styling and an in-room cocktail bar, check in to W Brisbane and enjoy a pool-side wind-down after the final siren. Planning some big nights out? Stay in the heart of Brisbane's nightlife district, Fortitude Valley, where you'll find fun and flair at spots like Hotel X or The Constance.

Explore

There is much more to Brisbane than just the on-field action, so pack your boardies and your sense of adventure.

If you've been able to wrangle a long weekend, spend a day on island time thanks to Brisbane's ferries. Keen surfers can catch their break at Main Beach on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), while scuba divers can descend below here for some incredible sights, including manta rays in summer and grey nurse sharks in winter. Also within easy reach of Brisbane lies Moorgumpin (Moreton Island), where you can spend a day snorkelling shipwrecks, dune-surfing and sending it up the sand on quad bikes. 

Those staying on the mainland won't be short on things to do, either. From rock-climbing or abseiling in the heart of the city to tackling mountain biking trails, your sense of adventure will be well-satiated. 

Hone your skills at Gin School, or hunt for new records and vintage finds in Paddington. Engage in some friendly competition and tee off at St Lucia Golf Links or Royal Queensland (if you want to splash out). For something a little less serious, book a round at Holey Moley's mini golf bar, or try your hand at axe-throwing or save yourselves from the zombie apocalypse during a virtual reality experience. Winner buys the first round?

On a budget? Check out these things to do that won't break the bank. 

For more awesome things to do during a boys' weekend in Brisbane, head here.