The Best Brisbane Museums To Visit | Australian Traveller

Let curiosity lead the way at every extraordinary Brisbane museum on our tried-and-tested list.

Whether you’re a fully-fledged history buff, enthralled by envelope-pushing thinking or just looking for something new to explore, a Brisbane museum can provide the ultimate remedy. Shining a light on vintage relics, budding genius and just about every curiosity in between, the city’s most beautifully curated odes to history endlessly inspire. We round up our absolute favourites for guaranteed great learning.

1. Queensland Museum Kurilpa

the sparklab at Queensland Museum Kurilpa — Let your imagination run wild in SparkLab.

The big daddy in the Brisbane museum scene has it all. Queensland Museum Kurilpa , located in South Bank’s culture precinct, reflects on the moments in time that shaped Queensland—and they don’t miss a beat.

Covering prehistoric giants, Aboriginal cultures, the First World War, native flora and fauna, science and space, and more, 15 million artefacts provide an unparalleled education.

The temporary exhibitions are additionally thrilling, venturing into international civilisations.

Address: Corner Grey and Melbourne Streets, South Bank

2. Museum of Brisbane

guests looking at paintings inside the Museum of Brisbane — See for yourself why the Museum of Brisbane is acclaimed for its art. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

While the Museum of Brisbane is acclaimed for its art, it also tracks the social history of the city, gathering artefacts to reveal local storytelling.

Exploring Brisbane’s First Nations roots and culture before taking visitors through how daily life has evolved over time, it’s a wonderful space located on the heritage-listed Brisbane City Hall’s top floor. While you’re up there, don’t miss the views out to the Clock Tower and copper dome.

Address: Level 3, Brisbane City Hall, King George Square, Brisbane

3. Queensland Art Gallery

Brisbane museums — Discover the latest exhibitions at QAGOMA. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

An incredible museum to rival the majesty of those found in international cities, the Queensland Art Gallery is a must.

Operating in conjunction with the Gallery of Modern Art (more on that soon) to form QAGOMA, the city’s leading cultural conglomerate, this Brisbane museum opened its South Bank doors in 1982.

Exhibiting both historical and contemporary pieces from around the world, its collections come together to chart how Australian and international cultures have evolved.

Additionally, the structure itself is mind-blowing, built with a ground floor Water Mall dotted with sculptures and fountains. It’s one of the city’s most beautiful and calming indoor structures.

Address: Stanley Place, South Brisbane

4. Gallery of Modern Art

a look inside the Gallery of Modern Art — Step into the Gallery of Modern Art. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The other half of QAGOMA, the Gallery of Modern Art , is a Brisbane museum filled with contemporary works from right around the globe.

Painting a beautiful, ever-revolving picture of the creativity currently unfolding internationally, it’s home to mixed media exhibitions spanning drawing, digital imagery, sculpture, costume and painting.

Address: Stanley Place, South Brisbane

5. Brisbane Powerhouse

an aerial view of the Brisbane Powerhouse — Brisbane Powerhouse majestically stands on the Brisbane River. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Renowned as the city’s preeminent performing arts and cultural centre, Brisbane Powerhouse also attracts a string of touring exhibitions that illustrate Australia’s creative evolution.

A colossal power station from the 1920s, lovingly transformed into a stellar Brisbane museum, the cultural hub’s events roster soars past 1,250 individual exhibitions and performances each year. Check the website to see what’s currently enchanting.

Address: 119 Lamington Street, New Farm

6. MacArthur Museum Brisbane

a cap display at MacArthur Museum Brisbane — This Brisbane museum offers a glimpse into MacArthur’s headquarters.

Reflect on the events of the Second World War at the MacArthur Museum Brisbane , part of the heritage-listed MacArthur Chambers in the middle of town.

Shining a light on the achievements of American General Douglas MacArthur, who served as Supreme Commander of the Allied forces in the South-West Pacific Area (SWPA), the absorbing Brisbane museum offers a glimpse into his headquarters and daily activities, which were stationed in this very spot between 1942 and 1944.

Address: Level 8, MacArthur Chambers, 201 Edwards Street, Brisbane

7. Commissariat Store Museum

a look inside the Commissariat Store Museum, Brisbane — The Commissariat Store Museum will transport you back in time.

While it’s often what’s inside that counts, everything you see on the outside of the Commissariat Store Museum also impresses. Queensland’s oldest habitable structure was built in part by convicts from 1828 to 1829, and its sandstone, brick, and iron-guarded windowed facade transports you back in time.

Inside, you’ll find extraordinary artefacts to illustrate the military department’s daily life as well as pieces that tell the unique history of Brisbane over the centuries.

Address: 115 William Street, Brisbane

8. Queensland Maritime Museum

Ever intrigued by life out at sea? At the Queensland Maritime Museum , you can dive a little deeper. One of the largest maritime museums in the country, this Brisbane museum is committed to sharing the state’s unique offshore history. Navigating the origins of various lighthouses, sailing expeditions and practices, naval activity, vessel construction, radio operations and more, the team leaves no stone unturned.

Address: Corner Stanley and Sidon Streets, South Brisbane

9. QUT Art Museum

two women admiring paintings at the QUT Art Museum in Brisbane — QUT Art Museum houses more than 3,000 objects.

Showcasing the state’s finest visual arts, the QUT Art Museum , spearheaded by the Queensland University of Technology, houses more than 3,000 objects.

Passionate about contemporary works, especially, this Brisbane museum offers a diverse collection of paintings, ceramics, sculptures, drawings, prints and further works on paper. Rotating exhibitions provide further food for thought while celebrating Australia’s most exciting creative minds.

Address: 2 George Street, Brisbane

10. Queensland Holocaust Museum

A powerful Brisbane museum led by a team of committed peacemakers, the Queensland Holocaust Museum provides a deep perspective into the horrific events that transpired between 1933 and 1945. As the team strives to preserve the memories and stories of lives lost, while educating younger generations who aren’t familiar with what occurred in Europe and the widespread aftermath, this collection provides deeply moving insight.

Address: 168 Charlotte Street, Brisbane

11. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium

the exterior of Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium — Swing by Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium for all things astronomy. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Pretty as a picture inside the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha , the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is a spectacular tribute to all things beyond our planet.

The star of the show is undoubtedly the Cosmic Skydome, which offers astronomer talks on the solar system and constellations, but don’t miss the Display Zone filled with models and interactive exhibits, including a replica of Neil Armstrong’s Apollo spacesuit.

Address: Mount Coot-Tha Road, Mount Coot-Tha

12. Brisbane Tramway Museum

A family-friendly Brisbane museum adored by little ones, the Brisbane Tramway Museum is devoted to preserving the city’s historic trams. The team of volunteers also run trams from the museum, though electrical maintenance was being undertaken last time we checked, so visit the website to confirm it’s back up and running. Regardless, vintage trams take centre stage here and you’re invited to jump on board and partake in tours when the museum opens its doors each Sunday.

Address: 20 Tramway Street, Ferny Grove

13. Queensland Police Museum

law enforcement relics at Queensland Police Museum — Head to the Queensland Police Museum for some serious law enforcement history.

Chart the state’s ultra-colourful history of law enforcement at the Queensland Police Museum , a Brisbane museum erected within the Queensland Police headquarters.

25 displays take visitors through the ins and outs of things like forensics and prisoner housing, leaving you in awe of just how far our coppers and police innovation have come over the centuries.

Address: Ground floor, QPS HQ, 200 Roma Street, Brisbane

14. Brisbane Motor Museum

luxury cars displayed inside Brisbane Motor Museum — Brisbane Motor Museum showcases luxurious sports cars.

A 25-minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD, the Brisbane Motor Museum is a must for rev heads. Heads will spin as a rotating mix of artworks, motoring gear and, of course, sensational automotives themselves, instil awe with every visit.

From luxurious sports cars and vintage Rolls-Royces to itty-bitty people movers, there’s a set of wheels to fall in love with wherever you look.

Address: 959 Nudgee Road, Banyo

15. Army Museum South Queensland

Located within the Victoria Barracks, the state’s oldest existing military barracks, the Army Museum South Queensland gathers a wide collection of artefacts from army life across the years. From taxidermy carrier pigeons to surveyor memorabilia and recreations of where army officers set up digs while on duty, the Brisbane museum provides a profound perspective into the Australian Defence Force’s unwavering heroism.

Address: 80-86 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane

Check out the best art galleries in Brisbane.

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay — Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay — Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.

15 fascinating Brisbane museums to lose yourself in