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.

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

Start planning your Queensland adventure at all.com.

15 fascinating Brisbane museums to lose yourself in