If you’re looking for a road trip where you can bring your best mate, then look no further than Ipswich!Book in for a pet friendly stay at the luxurious Spicers Hidden Vale.The Chinese Cottage is pup-friendly and the pooch package includes daily a la carte breakfast, complimentary WiFi, a plush dog bed, water bowl, food bowl, lead, doggie bags, blanket and a long lasting bone.
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Ipswich Blog
Attending an event in Ipswich?We have the low down on how to make your weekend stay as authentic as possible to experience the full breadth of Ipswich whilst you visit.Eat like a local...Car Racing and smoked meats just go hand in hand, am I right? Legendary restaurant, Phatboyz Smokehouse, is quickly becoming a recognised name across Australia with their five metre smoker affectionately named Frank the Tank. Lucky for you Phatboyz is only a 10 minute drive from the iconic motorsport precinct here in Ipswich, we highly recommend you phone ahead to book a reservation. Down the road Walloon Hotel and their newly opened beer garden is always a vibe too if you are looking for somewhere afterwards to back it up with a brew.
There’s just something special about high teas. From the elegantly set table and beautifully presented tiers of finger foods and sweets, to the charming atmosphere and the joy of good company, high tea provides a serene moment of indulgence and connection.In today’s busy world, high tea invites you to slow down. Here are the best places to enjoy high teas in the Ipswich region.Fourthchild Cafe, Restaurant and BarNestled in one of Ipswich’s charming heritage buildings, Fourthchild has been a beloved part of the Top of Town precinct for over a decade. Originally built in the 1800s as The Shamrock Inn, this historic venue now offers an inviting all-day dining experience, alongside a beautifully presented deluxe high tea. Guests can relax on the back deck which has a lovely view the iconic St Mary’s Church. Fourth Child’s delicious deluxe high tea includes traditional sandwiches and scones with jam and cream along with other tasty savoury and sweet treats.
If you’re a self-confessed bacon aficionado, Ipswich is a foodie playground your tastebuds need to explore.From sizzling breakfast classics to creative bacon-infused lunches, dinners and even decadent sweet treats, the city serves up dishes that celebrate this beloved ingredient in every bite.Here are some must-visit venues for bacon lovers to indulge at.
There’s no better excuse to dive straw-first into frothy, chocolatey indulgence than National Chocolate Milkshake Day (September 12).To celebrate, Ipswich is serving up everything from over-the-top creations dripping with decadent toppings to silky-smooth classics that never go out of style. And the best part? These dreamy drinks aren’t just for one day a year - you can sip them whenever the craving hits.Here are some of Ipswich’s must-try milkshakes which are guaranteed to sweeten your day.
If you're out and about in the Heritage City attending events, like Christmas in Ipswich, Planes, Trains and Autos or SPARK Ipswich, here's a handy list of the best places to eat in Ipswich Central.Baked by Joseph and AnnBaked by Joseph and Ann has a cult following and it’s easy to see why when they create viral fruit pastries, decadent cakes and great baked treats.Baked by Joseph and Ann has a location at 173 Brisbane St and 115a Glebe Rd Silkstone they are open 7am-12pm Tuesday to Sunday.
If you’re searching for somewhere cosy to wine and dine this winter, ditch the couch and head out to these great restaurants to try some mouthwatering winter menus that will leave your tastebuds feeling pretty darn satisfied.Tick one of these culinary delights off every weekend, or try a few at once!If you’re searching for somewhere cosy to wine and dine this winter, ditch the couch and head out to these great restaurants to try some mouthwatering winter menus that will leave your tastebuds feeling pretty darn satisfied.
Juicy patties, melty cheese, and all the toppings you could dream of – Ipswich chefs sure know their way around a burger. From no-frills favourites to jaw-dropping creations, these are Ipswich’s best burgers...La ParillaFor a flavour explosion that will set your taste buds dancing, look no further than the fiery, fresh, and oh-so-tantalising South American flair of La Parrilla (meaning “The Grill” in Spanish).Your stomach won’t stand a chance once you lay eyes on their burger menu, with these two options both packing a punch.
Ipswich is home to some of South East Queensland’s most passionate artisan producers—creators who turn local ingredients, generational skills and a whole lot of heart into unforgettable flavours. From craft gin and award‑winning spirits to small‑batch ice cream and farm‑fresh treats, this is your guide to tasting your way through Ipswich’s thriving locally made scene.Sip & Banter – Handcrafted Gin with HeartTucked into the rolling hills of Tallegalla, Sip & Banter Distillery is a must‑visit for gin lovers exploring Ipswich. Owners Tim and Jo Shanahan craft bold, juniper‑forward gins that balance traditional techniques with regional ingredients.Their standout Honey Mac Gin Liqueur blends their award‑winning Navy Gin with macadamias and honey from their own hives—a true taste of the region. Prefer a classic profile? Their citrus‑bright gin with warm mountain pepper is a crowd favourite.
With literary holidays announced as one of 2026’s hottest travel trends, it’s no surprise readers are seeking experiences beyond the pages. From browsing bookshops to attending library events, author talks, DIY book crawls and plenty of wide-open spaces for a relaxing picnic, Ipswich has everything you need to turn your love of books into a fun, feel-good getaway!In this guide, I’ll show you where to find the best bookish spots across the city, some great workshops and upcoming author hours at Ipswich’s seven libraries, and where to refuel with a great coffee or bite to eat and introduce you to the concept of a book crawl!I’ll also share the best parks and reserves perfect for a literary picnic, plus accommodation options so you can stay a little longer and truly soak up everything Ipswich has to offer.