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Iconic landmarks, multicultural food and the best beaches in the world. You’ll never be short of extraordinary things to do in Australia—but did you know, there are just as many local, creative activities to explore in smaller cities like Brisbane, Perth and beyond? You just need to know where to look!
Here’s your guide to the underrated crafty neighbourhoods you should visit in 2025 and the best creative things to do when you’re there.
Make the most of the nightlife in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
Affectionately referred to by Brisbanites as “The Valley”, this cultural hub comes alive when the sun goes down. Whether you’re hitting the dance floor or mellowing out at a cocktail lounge, there are plenty of creative activities in the area to get your night started.
Fancy a casual catch-up with friends? Sculpt clay and sip wine at a pottery class. Looking for something a little more adventurous? Get your glow on at a Turkish mosaic lamp class. However, if you’re after an experience that really stands out from the crowd, we recommend trying a paint and sip class in the dark—a surefire way to spark your curiosity before heading out for a cheeky marg or two!
Stroll the streets of leafy Subiaco, Perth
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We’re travelling across the country now to foodie paradise Subiaco, Perth. The streets here are lined with boutique stores, classy cafes and beautiful gardens so it’s the perfect place to enjoy coffee and good company. After sipping your morning brew, be sure to try your hand at mosaic making or Japanese ink painting.
If you decide to spend the morning exploring local markets, wind down with DIY terrariums or a knitting workshop in the afternoon—a mindful way to make the most of this welcoming Perth suburb.
Craft in nature on Tamborine Mountain
Our guide to the best things to do in Tamborine Mountain might be a little different to what you see on the typical list. While chasing waterfalls or hiking in the national park are still must-do activities, we also recommend spending some time visiting the studios of talented makers in the area.
Cosy up at a candle making class, ignite a newfound passion for glassblowing or practice mindful crafting with macrame. No matter what you choose to do, Tamborine Mountain is the perfect town to tune into you.
Escape the city rush for the Adelaide Hills
East of the CBD, the Adelaide Hills is renowned for its good food, sprawling vineyards and spectacular views, but did you know there’s a whole creative community spread throughout this region?
Between wandering wineries and admiring fine art, take a few hours out of your day to try your hand at pot painting or clay sculpture. Capture the otherworldly beauty of the region with a photography course or get inspired by the nature that surrounds you at a terrarium class. Whether you’re after close encounters with wildlife, local artisan markets or a satisfying beer at German-inspired town, Hahndorf, jump in your car and explore all that the Adelaide Hills has to offer.
Discover something new on every corner in Fyshwick, Canberra
Fyshwick in Canberra has reinvented itself into a seriously cool neighbourhood that you should check out. Head to this industrial turned retail centre and you’re sure to find something different on every corner—whether that be a designer op shop, a makers market or a sustainable brewery.
It’s also the perfect place to add variety to your creative things to do list! Transform a canvas into art that pops with a textured painting class, fire up the grill at a BBQ cooking class or learn all about the power of your nose at a candle making class. If you’re looking for a unique day out in Canberra then Fyshwick is the place for you.
And that tops off our list! No matter which creative neighbourhood you choose to explore, you’re guaranteed to find local experiences you’ll love. The only question left is, where do you travel to first?
