Kick off a day of shopping in Brisbane, Australia, at the Queen Street Mall, smack in the middle of the city’s Central Business District. Sure, it’s a tourist spot, but that doesn’t make it a less perfect space for launching your Brisbane excursion.

More than 26 million people a year visit this sprawling pedestrian mall. Many shoppers spend an entire day at the mall, its street fronts and arcades, where more than 700 international, local and regional shops await their business. Plus, it’s a hot spot for street performers, citywide events and galleries.

Afraid you’ll get lost? Don’t worry; look for Roving Ambassadors with blue-and-yellow “I” (for “Information”) symbols on their uniforms. These Brisbane Visitor Information Centre employees direct you to shops and offer advice to make the most of your visit.

A must-see stop at Queen Street Mall is Wintergarden, currently undergoing a massive renovation. Wintergarden is home to more than 50 retailers featuring a few familiar names to U.S. shoppers, including Queensland’s first Coach store.

Eco-conscious shoppers should head to Biome, which touts its Adelaide Street shop as Australia’s “greenest retail store.” Biome specializes in sustainable style and eco-friendly products. The store showcases its ideals in its décor, including a floor made of recycled tire rubber and wine corks.

All this shopping is sure to whet your appetite, but not just for food. Sample what else Brisbane offers by heading to Eagle Street Pier. This waterfront district has amazing views of the city plus famous dining destinations. Casual dining options abound along the pier, including Grill’d. This burger joint specializes in healthy — yes, healthy — burgers using fresh produce and a flame grill.

For an unforgettable meal, book a reservation at ARIA. Chef Matt Moran uses Australian produce and contemporary flair to create dishes including John Dory (pan-seared fillet with celeriac, school prawns, white asparagus, and a Sauterne and foie gras butter) and pumpkin (roast butternut pumpkin with trompette mushrooms, semolina dumplings and salted pumpkin seeds). These culinary works of art are just the thing to compete with ARIA’s stunning views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge.

If Sunday is your day of choice, continue shopping overlooking the Story Bridge at Brisbane Riverside Markets, 123 Eagle St. Here, scout furniture, jewelry, clothing, artwork and more by local artisans. Adding to the market’s charm is live music and entertainment. Riverside Markets is open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays.

ARIA Restaurant
Biome
Brisbane Riverside Markets
|Brisbane Visitor Guide
Brisbane Visitor Information Centres
Eagle Street Pier
Grill’d
Queen Street Mall
Wintergarden