After creating multiple travel posts about our last overseas travels, I thought it was about time I spread some love for my own city. I have lived in Brisbane, Queensland my whole life and one of my favourite things is that there is always something new opening up and you will most likely know someone who knows someone who knows the owner.

So Michael & I spent a whole day in Brisbane City last week, exploring our favourite places by foot.

WANDER

My favourite thing (perhaps after eating) would be exploring. The things that you don't buy.
Looking around at gardens, smelling flowers, looking up at architecture, the things only noticeable on foot.

Pop by the Markets & pick up some fresh bread, cheese & fruit from local vendors.
Jan Powers Brisbane City Markets every Wednesday. Top of Queen St

Take your bounty down to the gardens, find a spot in the shade & let the day slip away from you.
Botanical Gardens. Alice St, Brisbane City QLD 4000

Look up, don't let the city pass you by. Take note of the little things, the hidden historical architecture, the light bouncing through the buildings. One of my favourites is the Wickham Terrace Car Park. Yes a car park. The circular ramp reminds me of the Guggenheim in NY.

SHOP

My favourite Brisbane stores will make you forget about online shopping with their interiors alone.

Showroom. 104 Edward St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
I walked in and instantly wanted to move in. I honestly don't know how anyone works in there, I would be playing with their product and wanting to shoot it 24/7. If you are after local products, homewares, styling props - this is your heaven.

The Lip Lab Brisbane. 59 Adelaide St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Who wouldn't love the idea of seeing your custom cosmetics being created?

Folio Books. 133 Mary St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
My go-to when searching for new art books, coffee table books or philosophy reads.

Optiko Eyewear. Tattersall's Arcade, 202 Edward St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
If I needed another reason to have bad eye sight so I could wear opticals daily, this would be it.

Apartment. Level 1, 105 Albert St, Brisbane Q 4000
This menswear store has your man covered.

& next door..

Violent Green. Level 1, 105 Albert St, Brisbane Q 4000
Brands like Lazy Loaf, Kowtow, Deadly Ponies, Matin, Etre Cecile.. do I need to explain why I love this place?

EAT & DRINK

Let's get down to what you all really want to know. Where to get good coffee (& food of course).

John Mills Himself. (pictured below) 40 Charlotte St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
It is a hidden gem, so look out for signage. It is either down an alleyway or through a building depending which street you come from.

Marchetti. Tattersall's Arcade, 202-210 Edward St, Brisbane City QLD 4000

Strauss. 189 Elizabeth St, Brisbane City QLD 4000

Noosa chocolate Factory. 156 Adelaide Street, Brisbane City 4000

Le Bon Choix. 379 Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Pop up to Showroom above, then come down for baked goods.