5 Unique Things to Do in Brisbane This Weekend

If you are endlessly scrolling through Google searching for "things to do in Brisbane" and coming up with the same tired suggestions, you are not alone. Whether you are planning a girls' night out, a solo self-care weekend, or just looking to break out of your standard dinner-and-drinks routine, Queensland’s capital has a lot more to offer than just a walk along South Bank.

To help you shake up your social calendar, we have curated a list of the five best unique things to do in Brisbane right now. From twilight adventures on the river to a brand-new take on the classic Paint & Sip located right here in Hamilton, here is your ultimate weekend itinerary.

1. Upgrade Your Paint & Sip at Ambedo Beauty’s Nail Social Club (Hamilton)

Move over, canvas painting! There is a new Paint & Sip in Brisbane, and this one leaves you with a flawless manicure instead of a painting you will likely hide in a cupboard.

Hosted by Ambedo Beauty, the Nail Social Club is revolutionising the classic paint and sip concept. Held at The Forefront in Hamilton, this intimate event trades the easel for premium gel nail products. Instead of painting a landscape, you are guided by a professional nail artist who will teach you exactly how to apply Builder Gel (BIAB) and gel colours like a pro.

Why it’s a must-do: You get to take the power back into your own hands by learning the secrets to a perfect, long-lasting at-home manicure. You will learn expert techniques, like how to properly use a precision flat, round-edged brush for flawless cuticle control, so you can ditch the expensive salon visits for good.

• Location: 221B MacArthur Ave, Hamilton QLD
• What’s Included: Professional instruction, all tools and materials provided, drinks and nibbles, a goodie bag, and exclusive on-the-day product discounts.
• Price: From just $36.50 per ticket (when you use the bring-a-friend duo discount). For less than the price of a couple of cocktails on a night out, you get drinks, food, and a life-long skill!

2. Feast Under the Fairy Lights at Eat Street Northshore (Hamilton)

Since Ambedo's Nail Social Club is located on MacArthur Avenue, you are perfectly positioned to make a whole day out of it by heading right next door to Eat Street Northshore.

Once your nails are freshly painted and cured, take a short stroll over to this iconic Brisbane weekend destination. Built from repurposed shipping containers, Eat Street is a sensory overload of international street food, live music, and vibrant fairy lights.

Why it’s a must-do: It is the ultimate post-manicure activity. You can grab some Korean fried chicken, fresh oysters, or a decadent dessert, and soak up the riverside atmosphere without having to travel across the city.

• Location: 221D MacArthur Ave, Hamilton QLD
• Price: $6.00 entry fee at the gate. Food and drink items vary, but you can generally expect to spend around $20 to $40 to get a good mix of savoury dishes and dessert.

3. Dine and Unwind at Howard Smith Wharves

No Brisbane weekend list is complete without mentioning the iconic Howard Smith Wharves. Located right under the Story Bridge, this lifestyle precinct is a favourite spot to grab a drink as the sun goes down.

While it is a popular spot, you can make it unique by booking a table at one of the lesser-known pop-up events or checking out the seasonal menus at Felons Brewing Co.

• Price: Free entry, but dining adds up quickly. Expect to pay around $20 to $25 for a cocktail, and $30 to $55 for a main meal depending on the restaurant.

4. Catch a Show at the Brisbane Powerhouse (New Farm)

If you love the arts, the Brisbane Powerhouse is a cultural hub that always has something eccentric on the calendar. From underground comedy shows to indie theatre and live music, this repurposed power station offers a gritty, industrial backdrop for an evening of entertainment.

Check their schedule for weekend events and pair it with dinner at their on-site restaurant for a completely stress-free evening.

• Price: While there are occasional free exhibits, ticketed comedy and theatre shows typically range from $45 to $80+ per person, plus food and drinks.

5. Kayak the Brisbane River at Twilight

Looking for something a little more active? Swap the standard weekend drinks for a paddle and experience the city skyline from the water. Twilight kayaking tours launch from Kangaroo Point and offer a stunning, peaceful perspective of the CBD as it lights up for the night.

You do not need to be an experienced kayaker to join, and gliding under the illuminated Story Bridge is a fantastic bucket-list Brisbane experience.

• Price: Guided twilight tours usually cost between $90 and $120 per person.

Ready to Try Brisbane's Best New Event?

While exploring the river and eating great food are always top-tier weekend plans, learning a new, empowering skill offers incredible long-term value.

The traditional Paint & Sip has officially had a glow-up. If you are ready to enjoy a drink, meet a beautiful community of nail lovers, and master the art of the perfect at-home manicure, grab your tickets to Ambedo Beauty's next Nail Social Club event today.

Tickets sell out fast, so be sure to secure your spot or join the waitlist for upcoming Hamilton sessions!