[2023 GUIDE] The Best Places to Go Shopping in Brisbane

Shopping in Brisbane is the perfect place to find unique and interesting items for every budget.

Brisbane is the perfect destination for a wardrobe revamp. Each of the city’s four shopping precincts has something to offer, featuring a range of brand-name outlets, department stores, and eclectic boutiques. Queen Street Mall consists of international labels and historic arcades, Edward Street is lined with designer boutiques, Elizabeth Street offers fashion-forward brands, and Adelaide Street features popular Australian designers.

Fortitude Valley is the place to be if you’re looking for up-and-coming Australian designers. For those who enjoy the thrill of the hunt, Woolloongabba has antique treasures and collectible items, and Paddington offers homewares, bookshops, and vintage boutiques.

As much as shopping in Brisbane is about buying new things, it’s also about taking a break. Cafés are plentiful throughout the city, so shoppers can rest their feet and refuel before continuing their spree. Alternatively, if you just want to chill out with a drink at one of Brisbane’s cool bars or pubs – go right ahead!

The Best Places to Go Shopping in Brisbane

1. Queen Street Mall

Queen Street has seen an exciting revival in retail activity over the past few years. This pedestrianized shopping hub in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD is home to some of the world’s most iconic luxury and high-street brands. The four department centers – Myer Centre, Wintergarden, Queen’s Plaza, and MacArthur Central – provide shoppers with big-name brands and high-end designer fashions from renowned labels such as Dior, Chanel, Saint Laurent, and Louis Vuitton.

In addition to these centers, numerous international and Australian brands along Queen Street offer everything from fashion to dining options. Popular names include Uniqlo, Zara, Zimmermann, and Scanlan Theodore. Take a break between your shopping spree to explore the open-air bars, cafes, and eateries that line the streets.

Those looking for something a little more unique or perhaps with some historical significance should explore the famous Brisbane Arcade and Tattersall’s Arcade close by. If you’re still keen on exploring more boutiques and cafes, detour into Charlotte Street or Edward Street for interesting independent finds.

2. Westfield Chermside

The place in question is one of Australia’s most popular shopping destinations, renowned as the third largest place for shopping. It is a haven for all kinds of artistic and crafty items that are sure to delight kids and adults alike.

The mall is a sight to behold, with its festive decorations and vibrant lighting creating the perfect atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Shopping here provides an enjoyable experience for tourists and locals to explore and find something new. From traditional crafts to modern designs, this mall has everything you could possibly need.

3. Latrobe Terrace

Paddington is a charming city-fringe suburb located just moments from Brisbane City. It is known for its abundance of food and fashion stores and its famous breakfast spots. Latrobe Terrace is a bustling street lined with over a dozen fashion boutiques, homeware pop-ups, and specialist antique and vintage stores.

Those looking to find some vintage treasures should visit the Paddington Antique Centre inside the heritage-listed Plaza Theatre. This is one of the city’s most beloved shopping destinations, so it’s important to allow plenty of time to explore all it has to offer! Double down on a few flat whites before beginning your shopping spree in this vibrant area.

4. Tattersalls Arcade

Since its opening, the mall has been offering customers a luxurious shopping experience inspired by kingly traditions. Boasting a wide variety of brands and world-class amenities, shoppers can find something for everyone. From trendy timepieces to timeless suits and precious gifts for special occasions, this mall has it all under one roof.

The atmosphere of the mall is truly amazing; you can feel a sense of relaxation as soon as you step inside. Everything from the decor to the music creates an enjoyable and comforting environment for an unforgettable shopping experience.

5. DFO Brisbane

This place is the perfect option for shoppers who want to find all their necessities in one spot. It is located in an easily accessible area and can be navigated via public transport such as buses. Whether it’s the festive season or just a regular outing, it has stores and malls that have all the essentials you may need. 

There are also many eateries nearby if you get hungry while shopping. This place is a great choice for those looking for affordable and expedient shopping in Brisbane. Get excited to explore this place and enjoy your journey!

6. James Street

James Street in Brisbane is renowned for its high-end shopping district. With its European charm and tree-lined streets, shoppers can expect a relaxed atmosphere as they browse the exclusive collection of luxury independent boutiques, beauty stores, artisan homeware stores, and niche Australian fashion labels. Designer drops such as Isabel Marant, Acne, and Comme de Garçons can be found at Calexico, Camargue and Maryons Shoes. Alternatively, The Venroy, By Baby, and Wolf & Ordnance offer luxury linens, fine jewelry, and Australian accessories.

Recently, James Street welcomed boutique hotel The Calile, which has further elevated the area to compete with other global shopping precincts. A variety of award-winning dining options are available within the complex as well as a luxury day spa offering pampering treatments. For those looking for a respite from shopping or simply wanting to take in the views, Lobby Bar at The Calile is highly recommended. With an Aperol Spritz in hand, you can enjoy the sights of Ada Lane from this beautiful bar setting.

7. Westfield Carindale

The Eastside of Brisbane is home to one of the most popular shopping destinations in the city – the redeveloped Queensland Shopping Centre. Completed in 2012, it is now the third-largest shopping center in Brisbane and attracts many visitors with its 450 stores offering a variety of products and services. 

Also, its 6000 car parking spaces make it even more convenient for shoppers. It’s no wonder this shopping center has become a go-to spot for boutique shopping in Brisbane!

8. Oxford Street

Bulimba’s Oxford Street is the perfect place to find something special, only minutes away from the city center by CityCat. It’s a haven from the hustle and bustle of the CBD, full of eclectic homeware, fashion, and vintage stores, and plenty of cafes and restaurants. 

In the middle of Oxford Street is a beautiful park popular for picnics under the jacaranda trees – it has all the vibes of a small local village. The Common Thread boutique is a great choice if you’re looking for sustainable wares. For chic homewares, head to Indigo, and if you’re a book lover, Riverbend Books is worth visiting for coffee and some reading material.

9. Winn Lane

Fortitude Valley, located in Australia, is a popular destination for locals and tourists. It offers everything from daily necessities to shopping opportunities. A trip to the Valley can be as short as 45 minutes if you need to pick up something quickly, or it can last up to 3 hours if you want the full shopping experience. 

The Valley also has plenty of cafes and restaurants for those who feel peckish along their journey. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a delicious meal, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste buds.

10. Winn, California and Bakery Lane, Fortitude Valley

No longer is Melbourne the only city with a bustling laneway scene. Brisbane has also made a name for itself in recent years, boasting its own collection of small bars and independent boutiques within the city’s laneways. Connecting Ann, McLachlan, and Brunswick Street, these laneways offer innovative local fashion brands, eclectic vintage threads, vinyls, handmade homewares, and one-of-a-kind pieces.

The shops in these lanes are also known for showcasing Brisbane’s up-and-coming art, music, and dining talents. Winn Lane, California Lane, and Bakery Lane are particularly popular amongst shoppers looking for something more unique than what can be found in regular stores. In particular, Sunday Social is a great spot for exceptional vintage clothing; Phoebe Paradise sells bold prints and accessories; The Outpost offers alternative menswear.

When it comes to food options, look no further than Ben’s Burgers down Winn Lane or TSO’s down Bakery Lane – both serve up delicious burgers or cocktails accompanied by live music.

11. Winter Garden, Brisbane

The Queensland Premier, Joh Bjelke-Petersen, opened this store in 1982. It is well known for its cool and rare offers all over town. It is a three-story building with 60 specialty shops to provide visitors with whatever they need. 

Reaching the store is quite easy, so it’s worth giving it a try! The place provides unique and exclusive products you won’t find anywhere else in town. You will find something special that you would like to buy or keep as a souvenir.

12. Brunswick Shopping Mall

Located in the heart of Fortitude Valley, the mall is a great spot to relax and unwind. If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of life, it’s an ideal destination. It’s easily accessible, so you don’t need to venture too far out of your comfort zone.

When hunger strikes, plenty of small shops offer delicious food options to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for snacks or something more substantial, you’ll surely find something that will hit the spot. So why not take a break and explore what this shopping center has to offer?

13. The Barracks Shopping Center

This park is a popular destination due to the immense variety of stuff it has to offer. It’s a must-visit spot and should be on your list when visiting the area. To make sure you get the most out of your visit, it’s important to arrive as early as possible, as the place can become quite crowded.

The parking situation is relatively easy, although it can be difficult to navigate through many people if you arrive late. Therefore, if you decide to go there, plan ahead and arrive on time so that you won’t miss out on any of the fun!