How to Discover Ipswich during Your Next Stay

Ipswich is a charming holiday hotspot for those in search of a tranquil hideaway down under. In spite of its peaceful surroundings and natural beauty, there's more to do in this dynamic town than spend time inside aa plush hotel. From exploring the city's best markets to splashing around its biggest water park, here are some of the best ways to spend your holiday in Ipswich.

Shop like a Local

The best way to uncover the retail landscapes of Ipswich and stock up on some tasteful souvenirs is to head to the many local markets that take place on weekends and certain weekdays. Those in search of authentic local food and other homemade goodies should head to the Peak Organics Market, which takes place each Saturday while tourists in search of a Friday market can dig into local treats at the expansive Springfield Markets. Travellers in search of unique wares that are made in Ipswich will find no finer alternative to the Handmade Expo Market and the Ipswich Antique Collectable Fair.

Discover Queens Park and the Ipswich Nature Centre

Ranked among the oldest parks in all of Queensland, Queens Park first opened its doors to the public as early as 1864. Home to its very own environment centre and playground, the park's flying fox region as well as its Japanese gardens have become a big hit with visitors of all ages. Don't forget to stop by the café for a warm drink before heading into the Ipswich Nature Centre, which is also contained within Queens Park. The mini zoo of sorts is accessible free of charge and one can catch a glimpse of its intriguing inhabitants including wallabies, wombats, emus, bilbies, and snakes while a stunning aviary is also part of this enclosure.

Explore Top of Town

Occupying pride of place near the historical reaches of Brisbane Street, in the heart of Ipswich city centre, lies one of the liveliest shopping districts in town. Home to countless cafés and restaurants, this area is a prime location for fashion boutiques, vintage shops, and speciality stores the likes of Embers and Twine, Vintage Advantage, and the C.J Vogler & Son outlet, which opened its doors back in 1877 if records are to be believed. The Soul Cauldron is another trendy shopping venue located in this leafy part of Ipswich that's worthy of exploration.

Hit the Art Galleries

Those based at Oaks Ipswich Aspire Suites Apartments or any other centrally located Ipswich hotel should take the opportunity to discover the area's artistic heritage with a trip to some of Ipswich's finest galleries. The Ipswich Art Gallery remains one of the finest regional art hubs in all of Australia with a special focus on visual arts and the social history of the area's creativity. Having been one of the first galleries in the country to open a gallery specifically for children, the venue remains a cultural institution on which young artists rely to showcase their work. The Lyne Marshall's Studio Gallery, on the other hand, is located half an hour away from the heart of Ipswich and is another engaging point of interest for art lovers.

Go Biking at Castle Hill or Hidden Vale Adventure Park

Mountain bikers heading to Ipswich will find no finer location to engage in their favourite pastime than the biking trails crisscrossing Castle hill. Laden with advanced tracks, the area, which is also known as Blackstone Hill, is just as spectacular as the Hidden Vale Adventure Park where the Cycle Epic event takes place each year. Bike rentals are also accessible near both Castle Hill and the Hidden Vale Adventure Park, so cyclists need not worry about finding the right gear for their biking excursion.