Explore the museums and art galleries in Brisbane City, where contemporary exhibitions meet rich history and culture. From iconic exhibitions to hidden gems found along the street, The City is packed with experiences for art, culture and history lovers. Start your cultural day out with these must-see spots in Brisbane’s City centre.
Located on the third floor of the historic City Hall building, Museum of Brisbane (MoB) is one of Brisbane City’s best-kept secrets. Experience Brisbane’s dynamic culture scene through ever-changing exhibitions, interactive workshops and insightful tours that celebrate the past and present of Brisbane’s fashion, music, art, cultural and design. Don’t miss the MoB Shop during your visit where you can browse the thoughtfully curated range of contemporary jewellery, homewares, books and more by independent artisans.
For those seeking a deep dive into Brisbane’s history and involvement in World War II the MacArthur Museum Brisbane in the heritage-listed MacArthur Chambers building is a captivating visit. It offers a powerful, emotional and informative look as to what it looked like behind the front lines of our role in one of modern history’s greatest conflicts, and how we catered for up to one million U.S military personnel passing through to the Pacific War.
Step back in time with a visit to the Commissariat Store, Queensland’s most significant and second oldest surviving building, established by convicts in 1829. The building itself is a remarkable piece of history and is housed as one of 11 heritage buildings that make up the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane precinct. This museum offers a captivating glimpse into Brisbane’s rich history during the World War’s through a series of rotating exhibitions and fascinating collections of models and artefacts.
QUT Art Museum and its sister gallery, William Robinson Gallery, are two of Brisbane City’s leading visual art institutions. At QUT Art Museum, you’ll find in-house curated exhibitions drawn from the university’s extensive art collection of more than 3000 objects. The exhibition includes paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, primarily by Australian artists.
The William Robinson Gallery in the beautiful surrounds of Old Government House proudly celebrates the works of Australia’s outstanding landscape artist William Robinson, housing more than 300 objects. Both galleries are complemented by a year-round program of special events, virtual tours and incredible educational experiences.
Step back in time to understand World War II and how it affected the world and the part that Brisbane played. This transformative journey is offered as a hybrid experience available in person, online or as a tailored tour for students. Queensland Holocaust Museum provides an emotionally moving exploration of the Holocaust, designed to engage and educate everyone. It houses fascinating artefacts, interactive displays and first-hand stories from Queensland survivors.
Discover Brisbane City’s streets like you never have before, as you find art hidden down laneways, within lush parks and magnified on high-rise facades, The City is filled with spectacular and unexpecting public art. Take a deep dive into The City’s vibrant cultural landscape with the curated art trail.