A Fun and Creative Friday Night in Brisbane: The Paint and Sip BYO Experience
If you’re looking for an engaging way to start your weekend in Brisbane, the Paint and Sip BYO in Brisbane CBD offers a lively and social evening that combines art, relaxation, and a bit of fun. Although we haven’t personally attended, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a laid-back night that’s suitable for both locals and visitors alike.
What we love about this experience is its central location—easy to reach by public transport—and the supportive environment created by professional artists who encourage even absolute beginners. Plus, the ability to bring your own drinks and snacks makes it feel like a mini celebration with friends or even solo.
One potential downside is the fact that it takes place in a somewhat dark studio, which might not appeal to everyone, especially those uncomfortable painting in low light.
Still, it’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting to unwind, get a little creative, and meet new people in Brisbane’s lively city centre.
This experience is best suited for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy social outings and are curious about exploring their artistic side without the pressure of prior experience. It’s a great way to start your weekend with some laughs, a splash of colour, and the chance to create a memorable keepsake.
Key Points
- Location: Central Brisbane, easy access by public transport
- Price: Around $32.28 per person, offering good value for a 2-hour social activity
- No Experience Needed: Suitable for beginners, with support from a professional artist
- BYO Drinks and Snacks: Make it a relaxed, personalized experience
- Duration: About 2 hours, perfect for an evening out
- Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, maintaining an intimate vibe
An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Paint and Sip BYO class in Brisbane is designed as a fun, laid-back activity that encourages people to pick up brushes and let their inner artist shine—without any pressure. Hosted at Wesley Taylor Art Studios, now at the stylish Next Hotel Brisbane, the venue offers a welcoming environment where creativity flows as freely as the drinks you bring along.
You can also read our reviews of more evening experiences in Brisbane
The Itinerary and Setting
The tour kicks off at 6:30 pm at the Uptown 91 Queen St, right in the heart of Brisbane’s bustling CBD. From there, you gather in a relaxed studio environment, ready to start painting. The main “stop” is simply the studio, but the highlight is how the instructor, a local artist, guides the group through the process of creating their own masterpiece.
Although the tour mentions a visit to the Brisbane River as a meeting point, the core activity takes place in the studio. The river setting adds a scenic touch to the overall experience, but the focus remains on the fun of painting and socialising.
The Art Class Experience
No prior art skills are necessary here. The class is designed to be inclusive, with encouragement from the instructors at every step. As one review enthusiastically noted, “The directors of the class came around and were really encouraging even when you knew it was terrible but that made it all the more funny.” This supportive atmosphere means you won’t feel out of place whether your brushstrokes are perfect or a little wild.
The studio’s lighting is ambient, which some might find charming, but others (like Wanda) might find it less ideal if they prefer brighter conditions. The use of UV glow paints adds a playful twist, making the night more lively and entertaining, especially for those who enjoy a bit of visual sparkle.
What You Can Expect
Over the course of around two hours, you’ll learn some helpful tips and tricks from the artist, discover your artistic “flow,” and most importantly, have fun. The class isn’t about creating a masterpiece but rather about enjoying the process. You might not leave with a sellable painting, but you’ll definitely leave with stories, laughs, and a souvenir of your night.
The Social Element
Reviews reveal that this activity shines as a social outing. Shannon J loved how she and her friends sipped drinks and shared laughs, even when the painting wasn’t winning awards. Wanda appreciated reconnecting with friends, chatting and enjoying the night in a relaxed environment. The BYO aspect makes it feel like a casual, personalized party.
Price and Value
At just over $32 a person, this is a reasonably priced way to combine art, socialising, and a little indulgence. Compared to other entertainment options in Brisbane, it offers good value—especially considering you can bring your own drinks and snacks, turning this into a mini party in the heart of the city.
Practical Considerations
- Public Transport: The venue’s central location makes it easy to get to, whether you’re coming from elsewhere in Brisbane or staying in the city.
- Group Size: The studio hosts up to 30 people, creating an intimate, friendly environment.
- Duration: The 2-hour timeframe makes it a perfect start to an evening out, or a standalone activity for a relaxed night.
- Booking: It’s recommended to book about 41 days in advance on average, which indicates popularity, especially for weekend plans.
Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This activity is ideal for beginners or those wanting a casual, social night out. It’s perfect if you’re in Brisbane and looking for something different than the usual dinner or bar crawl. Solo travellers can join in and meet new people, while groups of friends will find it a fantastic way to unwind and get creative together. It also suits couples looking for a fun, interactive date night in the city.
Final Thoughts
The Paint and Sip BYO class in Brisbane offers a laid-back, friendly environment where you can enjoy a few drinks, learn a bit about painting, and have plenty of laughs. Its central location and flexible format make it a convenient choice for a memorable night out. While it’s not a serious art lesson—nor does it aim to be—what it does well is provide an accessible and enjoyable experience that’s perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to start the weekend relaxed.
If you’re after a social activity that combines creativity with a casual, fun atmosphere, this class is definitely worth considering. Just remember to wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on and bring your best party spirit.
Paint and Sip BYO in Brisbane CBD Friday night
FAQ

Is prior art experience required?
No, the class is designed for beginners, so no previous painting skills are needed.
Can I bring my own drinks and snacks?
Yes, you are encouraged to bring your own drinks and snacks to enjoy during the session.
What is the location of the activity?
It takes place at Wesley Taylor Art Studios, now located at the Next Hotel Brisbane in the CBD.
When does the activity start?
The class begins at 6:30 pm, making it a perfect start to your Friday evening.
How long does the class last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you enough time to relax and get creative without feeling rushed.
Is the venue easy to access?
Yes, the location is near public transportation, making it convenient to reach from various parts of Brisbane.
What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 30, fostering a friendly and intimate atmosphere.
What is the overall value for the price?
Considering the supportive environment, central location, and the social aspect, the price of around $32 is quite reasonable for a fun night out.
Can I expect to leave with a finished painting?
While you will create your own artwork, the emphasis is on fun and socialising rather than producing a gallery-worthy piece.
This painting and sipping experience blends art, socialising, and a dash of Brisbane city charm. Whether you’re new to art or just want a relaxing, different evening, it’s a lively way to kick off your weekend.




























