Whether you’re planning a buck’s party, a birthday celebration, the ultimate Father's Day or just want a fun weekend away with the guys, look no further than Ipswich.Featuring an award-winning golf course, three race tracks (horse and cars), more than 100kms of epic mountain bike riding trails, live music venues, an arcade, hobby shop, cold beers and hearty steaks, Ipswich has everything you and your mates need for your next mancation.Here are 13 ideas to help with your planning...

Gone are the days of venturing out for your morning coffee or a bite to eat without your furry friend.Whether you’re out for your daily walkies, or looking for the ulti-mutt road trip, treat yourself and your fur baby at one of these great dog-friendly venues.Rosewood HotelYou no longer have to feel guilty about leaving your dog at home on the weekend when you head out for happy hour at the Rosewood Hotel!

From marvellous fashion finds to charming novelty items, special one-of-a-kind products and rare antiques, Ipswich is a great place for any shopaholic to shop ‘til they drop.One of the city’s best shopping districts is the Top of Town Precinct, which caters to every taste and budget.Fashion enthusiasts will love browsing the latest trends at Obsession Shoes, which carries overseas cult brands, while Oh! JoJo Boutique stocks clothing, accessories and jewellery.

Known for it’s 15 larger-than-life exhibitions that showcase the history of rail in Queensland, The Workshops Rail Museum is loved by children and adults alike.Families love visiting the museum as they can have their photos taken in front of the life-size locomotives, marvel at the impressive 90 square metre Queensland Model Railway (which is the largest in the state!), play at the Nippers Railway playground, and meet Thomas the Tank Engine, who makes a special appearance during the holidays.But there is so much more to the museum that you might have missed, or you might not know about.

Known for its rich history, world-class museums and galleries, eclectic retail outlets, unique farm experiences and flourishing dining scene, Ipswich is an amazing city that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.Conveniently located just a stone’s throw away from Brisbane, the Lockyer Valley, Toowoomba, Moreton Bay, as well as the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Ipswich is the perfect destination for a much-needed weekend getaway or fun-filled day trip.Ipswich is a must-see destination for people of all abilities and many accommodation providers, attractions, entertainment venues, restaurants and heritage centres are catering for all, no matter their ability level.

Are you looking for a cool new drinking spot where you can wet your whistle?You will find no shortage of watering holes in Ipswich, and to help you plan your visit, we have rounded up some of best bars and venues for you to raise a glass at.  We will cheers to that!Imbibis Craft Distillery​If you’re a self-confessed gin lover, head down to Ipswich’s newest craft distillery Imbibis for a tipple or two. The distillery is owned by renowned distiller Jason Hannay, who has won multiple awards for his creations. Each bottle is handcrafted using premium Australian ingredients including bottle brush, lemon myrtle, native pepper berry and anise myrtle. Here you can try a tasting paddle and even bring your own cheese platter or charcuterie board for the ultimate indulgence. The cellar door is open every Friday from 10am-6pm, and Saturday to Thursday by appointment.

Home to the largest Royal Australian Air Force Base, RAAF Amberley, Ipswich has a proud and long-standing military history.It’s not uncommon to hear the roar of the military jets and the cargo planes as they take off from Amberley and complete their training exercises above the skies of Ipswich, which is a spectacular sight for visitors and locals.Whether you are a plane and military enthusiast, or a genuine history buff, here are some of the best spots in the city to learn more about Ipswich’s rich military history. 

Spending a few hours riding your bike is a great way to not only get some exercise in the great outdoors, but it’s also a fun activity you can do with friends and family.Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced rider, Ipswich has plenty of pathways and trails to suit people of all ages.  So go explore Ipswich today!Brassall BikewayThe Brassall Bikeway is a popular route for families and cyclists as it links North Ipswich, Brassall, Wulkuraka and the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

Congratulations, you’re having a baby!Before you hear the pitter patty of tiny feet, you deserve to treat yourself to a well-deserved break away from your doctor’s appointments, washing onesies and stocking up on baby essentials at the supermarket.Just like a honeymoon, a babymoon is the perfect excuse for you and your significant other to get away for a few days to indulge in one last adult escapade before your little one arrives.

My heart begins to race instantly when I gently feel not one, but two pokes on my left arm while standing in Ipswich’s historic Old Flour Mill during the new Haunted Ipswich CBD Ghost Tour, hosted by renowned historian and Australian ghost hunter Jack Sim.Due to Covid regulations, I am standing at the side of the group during this presentation and more than 1.5 metres away from another living soul, so I know nobody from the group would have been able to shuffle over and touch me as a prank without me noticing.But who could it have been? Was it Hubert, the mill’s resident ghost who is believed to roam the building covered in flour from when he worked there as a young boy? Or was it my imagination playing tricks on me?