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.

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

15 fascinating Brisbane museums to lose yourself in