In a region bursting with romantic possibilities, Ipswich offers an array of unforgettable date ideas for couples seeking adventure, relaxation, and everything in between. Whether you’re indulging in a luxurious hanging picnic at The Soul Nook Collective, taking a leisurely stroll with llamas at The Llama Farm, or embarking on an adrenaline-fuelled escape room adventure followed by a delectable dinner at Pumpyard Bar and Brewery, there’s no shortage of ways to create cherished memories with your loved one. From hot air balloon flights over picturesque landscapes to creative Sip ‘n’ Dip classes and intimate degustation experiences at The Cottage Restaurant, each outing promises romance and excitement. Here is a curated list of must-do dates in Ipswich, promising unforgettable experiences to ignite romance and create lasting memories with your loved one.
1. Take a hanging picnic
If you’re after something special and romantic then a hanging pod picnic at The Soul Nook Collective will tick all the boxes.
Indulge in a packed and styled picnic with your love.
And if something more down to earth is your thing, you can book picnics in bell tents or just under a tree with a couple of chairs!
2. Walk a llama
You can book guided llama walks in the afternoon at The Llama Farm. Depending on the time of year you might just start to catch the sun setting as the walks start at 3.30pm and go for about two hours.
On your walk you’ll get to take one of the farm’s friendly llamas for a walk down to the Brisbane River.
If Llamas aren’t your thing, you can also book a time to visit the farm animals at the Haigslea Ewe Nique Hobby Farm and grab a coffee from the on-site cafe. Or take a stroll through the Ipswich Nature Centre and visit the nearby Queens Park Cafe.
*Note both The Llama Farm and Ewe Nique Hobby Farm are closed for the month of February, but gift vouchers are available to purchase if you want to gift for Valentine’s Day…
3. Escape room and dinner
For the ultimate date night book a Seraphim Escape Rooms session and pair it with dinner at Pumpyard Bar and Brewery.
Enjoy beer tasting, burgers and brisket then, once your stomach is full, it’s time to get a shot of adrenalin at Seraphim Escape Rooms Ipswich, as you work together as a team to find clues, solve puzzles, unlock locks, and try to escape before your time runs out!
With three great games to choose from, some of which are the scariest around, this is an experience you’ll never forget, and a date night like no other.
4. Hot air balloon flight
Floating tranquilly above the ground while watching the sunrise will give your date a romantic day to remember. The Floating Images Hot Air Balloon experience is finished with a beautiful breakfast at Fourthchild Cafe.
5. Sip ‘n’ Dip class
A class where you can both express your creative sides, have dinner and a tipple or two is on offer thanks to Sip ‘n’ Dip classes, which run around the Ipswich region.
There’s a range of classes on offer from resin, paint, kokedama and more.
6. Picnic in the olive grove
Spend a day outdoors at the Watercress Creek Olive and Limes Farm. Wander in the orchard and book a picnic pack full of cheese and olives and dips!
7. Round of golf
You can tee off for a round of golf at the award-winning public golf course Brookwater Golf and Country Club. Then finish the day with lunch or dinner at the restaurant on site.
8. Antiquing
There’s a number of antiques shops around Ipswich including the Ipswich Antique Centre and Vintage Advantage in Ipswich Central or you could take a drive to the country town of Marburg and pop into Scotland Yard Antiques and The Black Museum both in Marburg’s main street.
9. Visit Spicers Hidden Vale
Arguably the most romantic date night would be a night at Spicers Hidden Vale in the Ipswich town of Grandchester with dinner at the hatted Homage restaurant. Follow dinner with an uninterrupted view of the stars or take a 4WD tour to a lookout for champagne and nibbles.
Take full advantage of the resort pool, enjoy a market garden tour and cheese and wine tasting in the cellar, or just relax and enjoy the view!
There’s a few other places to stay in the region that speak romance, cute B&Bs including Cumquat House or the historic Woodlands of Marburg would also hit the romance mark…But there’s also Quest Ipswich and Oaks Ipswich Aspire Suites in the heart of the Ipswich Central for a getaway.
10. Spend a few hours at Hardcore Blasters
If you love adrenalin and adventure, then you’ll love Hardcore Blasters.
Book in for a challenge with a live action search and destroy mission, definitely a date to remember!
11. V8 Race Experience
Does your date love fast cars? If so a V8 Race Experience for two would be the ultimate adventure! Take laps as a professional driver guides you through the turns or book for hot laps only as a passenger. There’s also a new drift experience and go-karts available.
12. Take a ride on a heritage train
Train and history lovers will enjoy taking a trip down memory lane in restored heritage carriages pulled by either a historic steam or diesel engine train.
The Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway only runs on certain days, be sure to book ahead.
13. Degustation at The Cottage Restaurant
Known for their romantic and quality dishes, The Cottage Restaurant, offers a five or seven course degustation menu that you can pair with wines.
Enjoy the gourmet food, gorgeous wine and great company.
14. Ghost tour
A quirky date idea is to book in for a ghost tour. Tours run at the Ipswich Cemetery, in the CBD and at the Goodna Cemetery and unveil the haunting histories of the town.
15. Pet and feed the camels
A day out at Summer Land Camels with a farm tour or just a stop to the cafe for breakfast or lunch would make for a nice date idea, but if you really want to impress book in for the Sunrise Camel Ride and Breakfast where you can ride around the stunning property and finish with a scrumptious breakfast.
16. See how gin is made at an award-winning distillery
On Friday afternoons you can head over to Imbibis Craft Distillery to tour and taste the award-winning drops produced on site. Learn about the making process with a distillery tour or add on a grazing platter for two by ordering with Imbibis’ partner Baked by Brooke to make the date extra special.
17. Hiking
If you like to stay fit and active a sunrise or sunset hike to some of the region’s most popular peaks with a few snacks and some bubbles makes for a great date idea.
You could try the White Rock-Spring Mountain Conservation Estate and stop at the Gunpit Ridge or Main Ridge lookout, or if you’re an advanced climber try Flinders Peak. Just check parks information online to ensure they are open before you go.
Ipswich offers a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to every couple’s preferences and interests. Whether you’re seeking thrills, relaxation, or a touch of romance, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From picturesque picnics to adrenaline-pumping adventures, each outing presents an opportunity to create lasting memories and strengthen the bond with your partner. So, why not embrace the charm and beauty of Ipswich for your next date and embark on an unforgettable journey together?
SheSociety is a site for the women of Australia to share our stories, our experiences, shared learnings and opportunities to connect.
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