As the temperature drops there's nothing better than sitting by a cosy fire, wine or beer in hand or enjoying a delicious meal.  Here's a few places in Ipswich where you can stay warm and cosy watching the flames this winter.Spicers Hidden ValeThe re-built Homage Restaurant design includes a double sided fire place.  There's comfy lounges where you can sit and enjoy the warmth of the fire with a drink and nearby tables overlook the fireplace.  There's also a fire pit outside to help up the ambiance.The Cottage RestaurantAt Cottage Restaurant there are two fireplaces.  The restaurant is a converted heritage home and the warmth travels throughout the rooms.  They also have a fantastic seasonal menu to try out in winter.

Ipswich is home to a lot of great experiences and attractions.  We've got a motorsport precinct which hosts the largest drag racing event outside of North America and the biggest international country music event in the country, as well as a top hot air ballooning business, award-winning cafes and restaurants and world-class parks and conservation estates, great to walk off those tasty goodies.But did you know that there are quite a few products made right here in Ipswich? Chilli Willies Pepper SaucesA family-owned business established in 1999, Chilli Willies designs delightful sauces from their mildest “friendly” style sauce right through to a “set your tail on fire” specialty. Spice up your kitchen with their variety of flavours such as Habanero Spontaneous Combustion, Mango ‘n’ Ginger Hot Bot, Blurter Hurter and Caribbean Pine ‘N’ Coconut.

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.

Before you head to Ipswich for an event, check out these 20 reasons why you should stay a little bit longer and explore Ipswich while you’re here.If you're looking for accommodation check our stay page.Soar high on a hot air balloon flightFloating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights offer a scenic one-hour journey over farmland and country landscapes.  Your blissful morning ends with breakfast at a popular local café.  Flights run most days but are weather dependent.

In the heart of Queensland, Ipswich beckons travelers with a unique narrative - one that intertwines a rich heritage with the pulse of innovation. Here, tradition stands hand in hand with change, and old-world charm gracefully blends with contemporary flair.Ipswich, bestowed with the title of a Heritage City, stands as a testament to time’s enduring beauty. Its streets are adorned with architectural marvels, but none quite as captivating as the Ipswich Antique Centre. Housed within a splendid building that whispers tales of yesteryears, this antique haven invites you to wander through history.

Whether your friends are two-legged or four-legged, here’s an epic weekend idea for you to enjoy.Start with an afternoon at Imbibis Craft DistilleryIpswich’s only gin distillery, Imbibis, is dog friendly and a great location to start the weekend at! Relax on the chesterfield sofa and sample one or all of the many different gin flavours.  You can also take a distillery tour from 2pm. Follow with dinner at Stony Creek BrewingHead to Stony Creek Brewing for Friyay feels, a feed and some frothies! Explore the range of craft beers all brewed onsite in the 100-year-old brewery or taste the multiple drool-worthy items on the menu - I’m looking at you, cob loaf! Sit in the laneway where pups are welcome. Be sure to check out the building the brewery is situated in - it is located on top of Ipswich’s first water source, and to this day remains the local watering hole.