Contents
- Starting your Bar Crawl
- Bar Crawl Through the Valley
- Finishing the night strong with a Brisbane bar crawl
- Wrapping it up
- Tips for Survival
- FAQ’s
Everyone knows and loves a good bar crawl. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we uncover some of the hidden gems and renowned bar crawl hotspots scattered throughout the heart of Brisbane. Whether you are a seasoned local or just a curious traveller, this is your guide to a day of great drinks, good company and one memorable adventure. So, raise your glass and let the party begin as we discover some of the best bars in Brisbane to crawl!
Starting your Bar Crawl
Kicking off your Brisbane bar crawl in style is essential for setting the tone for the day. Start at a spot that offers great drinks, a vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food to energise everyone.
Maggie May
First things first, Maggie May is in town. This Newstead hotspot is a MUST in any bar crawl. Whether you’re planning to stop in for a drink or kick-start the bar crawl by indulging in her bottomless brunch, you honestly can’t go wrong. Whether you’re getting there bright and early for breakfast or wanting to go for some small or large share plates, starting the day off with Maggie’s 70s style and aesthetic will ensure everyone is set and ready to go for the fabulous bar crawl ahead.
Location:
84 Longland St, Newstead QLD 4006
Hours:
Monday: 7 am – 2 pm
Tuesday – Thursday: 7 am – 10 pm
Saturday: 10am – 12am
Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
Riverland Brisbane
With stunning views of the Brisbane River, who wouldn’t want to stop at Riverland? Their three level waterfront bar offers unparalleled views, as well as numerous local and international wines, plus 16 tap beers & ciders. Feeling peckish? It’s time to choose your flavour with their two unique menus: The Queenslander and The Traveller. But get in quick, as their destination menu changes every season!
Location:
167 Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 12 pm – 1 am
Friday – Saturday: 12 pm – 1 am
Bar Crawl Through the Valley
As you continue your Brisbane bar crawl, head over to Fortitude Valley, known for its eclectic nightlife and lively atmosphere. Here, you’ll find a mix of trendy spots and classic pubs and some of the best bars in Brisbane, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Hey Chica!
It’s time to spice up the day, and Hey Chica! has got you covered! The bar that is shaking up Brisbane’s nightlife, whether you’re looking for live music, top notch food or a unique drink, Hey Chica! is the place to be. This is definitely one stop on the itinerary you won’t want to miss. Hey Chica!’s themed dining and long list of cocktails make it a crowd favourite!
Location:
T11-14/315 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Hours:
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 11 am – 9 pm
Wednesday: 11 am – 12 pm
Thursday – Saturday: 11 am – 3 am
Sunday: 11 am – 12 am
Finn McCool’s
The Irish Jig is up… if Finn McCool’s isn’t on your list, then you’re missing out. The proud Irish pub is renowned for its live entertainment and free entry every Friday & Saturday night. Brisbane’s top Irish pub is a must stop on any crawl. Rally the troops and get pumped for the best Irish hospitality around, and of course a full pint (… or two).
Location:
295 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Hours:
7 Days: 11 am – Late
MAYA Mexican
Every Brisbane bar crawl needs a roof top stop on the list. MAYA Mexican has it all, with their Mexican-Australian fusion, and stunning panoramic views over the city, this is a must for anyone. With an enormous range of tequila and mezcal available, it’s definitely a detour worth taking.
Location:
757 Ann St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Hours:
Wednesday – Thursday: 12 pm – 11 pm
Friday – Sunday: 12 pm – Late
Dr. Gimlette Cocktail bar
Located in Brisbane’s high end fashion district, Dr Gimlette takes inspiration from some of the best bars in Brisbane and around the world and brings them to the heart of Brisbane. Oh, and did we mention their two martini carts that are ready to serve up every type of martini, allowing for the perfect escape within the city? And if cocktails aren’t your thing, there’s plenty of beer and wine to select from and keep everyone happy.
Location:
109 Edward Street, Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 3 pm – 1 am
Friday – Saturday: 12 pm – 2 am
Finishing the night strong with a Brisbane bar crawl
As the night progresses, it’s time to hit the dance floors and enjoy the vibrant nightlife that Brisbane is known for. These final destinations are perfect for dancing the night away and making lasting memories of your bar crawl.
Retros Nightclub
Retros… it has to be the last stop of the day. The dance floor is calling and it’s time to dance the night away with nothing but old school bangers. It’s known as one of the best nightclubs in Brisbane for a reason. With their signature fishbowl cocktails, classic throwbacks and disco mirror balls to set the mood, it’s time to wrap up the day and make it a night to remember!
Location:
32/321 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Hours:
Thursday: 9.30 pm – Late
Friday: 8 pm – Late Saturday: 7 pm – Late
Prohibition
A fan favourite, Prohibition provides a swanky and vibrant finish to any day. Get ready to dance until the early hours of the morning on the neon-lit floor. Make sure you visit their photo booth to capture the night. It’s sure to be a hit.
Location:
206 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Hours:
Thursday: 8 pm – 3 am
Friday – Saturday: 9 pm – 3 am
Wrapping it up…
As the night comes to a close, ensure you take a moment to reflect on the memories made and the cocktails savoured. Whether you discovered a new favourite bar or simply enjoyed the company of friends, one thing is certain – a night out in Brisbane is always an adventure. So, until next time, cheers, and be sure to check out our “Tips for Survival”
Tips for Survival
Surviving the Bar Crawl should be goal number one. If it’s not, maybe it’s time to re-evaluate the goals at hand. A Brisbane bar crawl can be both exciting and a challenge, but here are our top 5 handy dandy tips to ensure everyone makes it through;
- Pace yourself: It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Drink water between beverages; no one wants to be dehydrated.
- Eat!: Eat before you start, eat during the day, eat at the end of the night. Food is essential for a reason and gives you a reason to try some of the delicious meals that are on offer.
- No friend left behind: There is safety in numbers! Make sure no one is left behind or forgotten, and if need be, set up a buddy system.
- Know your limits: Everyone has a different tolerance for alcohol; don’t feel pressured to keep up with your mates if you’re feeling too intoxicated.
- Plan the day: If you’re following this Bar Crawl itinerary, you’re all set, but if not, know the locations you’ll be visiting and it’s good to know how you’ll get from one to the next. Consider transportation options like walking, public transit, or deso drivers – no one wants to spend half the day wondering how they are moving from one place to the next…
Remember, the goal of a Bar Crawl is to have fun and visit some of the best bars Brisbane has to offer. Enjoy the experience, but always prioritise safety and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a ‘Bar Crawl’?
It is an event where participants visit numerous bars in a single day/night, usually moving from one to the next over a period of time.
How does it work?
Participants often start at a designated meeting spot and then proceed to visit each bar on the itinerary. Having a set list of bars organised beforehand is a helpful way to move throughout the day with little confusion and stress.
How many bars should be on the list?
A good amount is 5-6 bars; this allows for a variety of bars to be visited without tiring the whole gang out.
What should you wear?
Picking a theme is always a fun idea but not essential. Be sure to wear comfy shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. It is also a good idea to check locations for any specific dress requirements that they may enforce.
Where did the term ‘Bar Crawl’ originate from?
The term “bar crawl” is believed to have originated in the UK in the early 20th century, where it was initially used to describe a pub crawl.
What should you bring?
The most important thing to bring is your ID. No ID – No Crawl. Other important items would be cash or a credit card and any essentials you may need throughout the day.
Where should the night end?
Ending the night with a dance or two is always a crowd favourite. It’s time to dance till your feet hurt, whether it’s Retro’s or Hey Chica!, there are plenty of venues around that will have the bangers playing till the early hours of the morning.
