Explore Fish Lane’s public art trail

While this South Brisbane strip is famed for its abundance of top-tier restaurants and bars, Fish Lane is also one of the city’s best troves of public art from some of Brisbane’s most talented artists. Starting from the South Bank end (not far from the Cultural Centre bus terminal), you’ll be greeted by a strip of luminescent lightboxes affixed above the entry to Fish Lane. Displaying a rotating selection of artworks curated by the team at QAGOMA, these boxes (which form part of Council’s Outdoor Gallery) double as a welcoming beacon to all who approach.

Before you head further in, eagle-eyed wanderers are encouraged to look for a tiny record store shopfront affixed to the brick wall near Bar Brutus. This adorable display is one of three tiny doors crafted by artist Mace Robertson, which feature as part of a city-wide collection. As you make your way down Fish Lane towards West End, you’ll spot large-scale mural works from the likes of Arina Apostolova, Loretta Lizzio, Claire Matthews (aka Fuzeillear), Samuel Tupou, Kuuki, Nike Savvas, Fintan Magee and Sofles.

Once you’re finished, retrace your steps and visit one of the many hot spots along the lane, such as Saccharomyces Beer Cafe, Kiki, Maeve and Julius Pizzeria.

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Take your dinner date to new heights at Vertigo

When it comes to getting to know someone, dinner and drinks is a tried and true date-night option. But, sometimes, a bit of excitement is needed in order to really find a spark. Few dinner spots offer the same kind of goosebump-inducing excitement as a bit of nosh at Vertigo. Described as the ultimate adventure experience, Vertigo sits 17 metres above the ground on the edge of iconic Brisbane City Council venue, Brisbane Powerhouse. 

Here, guests harness up and clip into their seat, which hangs over the lip of the Powerhouse roof. Once seated, diners can soak in the one-of-a-kind 360-degree views over New Farm Park and out to The City, before enjoying a three-course meal and drinks. At the end of the dinner, guests have the option of heading back to terra firma via a heart-stopping fourstorey dropline descent.

While that daring dinner date might be enough for some, there’s plenty more for couples to enjoy nearby, including a theatre show inside the Powerhouse itself, a movie at Dendy’s outdoor cinema or a stroll along the Riverwalk.

Indulge in some friendly competition at The Valley’s best entertainment spots

After catching up over cocktails at one of Fortitude Valley’s numerous bars, link up with your pals for a spot of one-on-one competition at some of the hub’s top-notch experiential venues. Do you have good hand-eye coordination? Why not prove it with a game of high-tech darts at Oche on Constance Street. With a number of game modes to try and a menu of food and drink options to keep energy levels high, you cannot miss with a night at Oche.

If you prefer classic arcade games, Netherworld on Brunswick Street is furnished with 15 pinball games and 25 arcade machines, as well as retro consoles and a stack of board games to choose from. What’s more, the bar boasts one of the best craft-beer selections in town as well as a plethora of vegan-friendly eats. Over on Warner Street, Holey Moley Golf Club is the spot to enjoy a round of putt putt, with 18 themed holes giving guests a number of unique challenges to navigate. 

Once you’ve expended a bit of energy, hit Fortitude Valley’s ultra-cool laneways for some much-needed sustenance (and some more street art). There are plenty of spots to try on Winn Lane, Bakery Lane and California Lane – there’s no wrong choice!

This article was written in partnership with our friends at Brisbane City Council, who have helped shape lifestyle precincts like Fish Lane, Fortitude Valley and Brisbane Powerhouse.