Museum of Brisbane
Brisbane City Hall, 64 Adelaide St., Brisbane, Queensland, 4000
The Museum of Brisbane is at the heart of the “Brissie-ism” cultural and social movement—a newly-coined descriptor that aims to highlight Brisbane’s rich past and exciting future. Housed in the city center, the museum hosts a collection that began in 1859 and extends across various mediums to reflect the city's vibrancy today.
The basics
You’ll find the museum on the third floor of the historic Brisbane City Hall, which is a treasure all by itself. Built in 1930, the building boasts towering columns and a classic Australian sandstone exterior.
A visit to the museum will help place Brisbane in context—with works of art from the 19th century to the present, you’ll be able to see Brisbane through the eyes of its locals and hear some of its most fascinating history. With past exhibits that have reflected on the legacy of the Brisbane floods, the city’s fashion history, and plenty of fun events for kids, this museum is a must for first-time visitors to Brisbane.
Things to know before you go
If you’re visiting as a group of 10 or more, visit the museum website to book in advance to ensure the best experience.
Check the online museum sensory and accessibility map to make the most out of your visit—the museum offers weekly “Quiet Afternoons,” which minimizes the presence of sensory stimuli in the exhibitions.
Check the online calendar of events at the museum website—the museum frequently hosts special family-targeted events.
How to get there
Located at the intersection of Ann Street and the Inner Northern Busway, the museum is in the heart of the downtown core. It’s a short walk from most locations downtown and directly opposite a central bus station. Those crossing the river from the southern side can take a ferry to the North Quay 2 terminal before walking 10 minutes to the museum and entering via the King George Square entrance.
When to get there
As a free museum, it’s a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Opt to visit in the afternoon on a weekday, where you can enjoy the cool respite from the Brisbane heat, but it won’t be too crowded with school kids. It’s open all week long, from morning to evening.
Take a trip to the top
After exploring the museum, take a free City Hall clock tower tour. Once the tallest building in Brisbane, the scene from the top of the tower gives you a panoramic view of the city and a chance to view Australia’s largest analog clock. Book online to reserve your spot before visiting—the tours fill up fast!
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