Dive into these 12 fun things to do in Brisbane Australia Lachlan lives in Paris and is the Head of Content and Community at misterb&b, an LGBTQ+ accommodation platform. He enjoys coffee and cocktails (not always in that order), and loves to… Check current availability, inclusions and booking conditions.
Must-See Spots In Brisbane Australia
GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art): Australia’s largest collection of modern art.
Queensland Museum: Natural history and science exhibits.
QPAC (Queensland Performing Arts Centre): Ballet, opera, and theatre.
Brisbane Powerhouse: Arts, comedy, and festivals in a converted power station.
Brisbane’s Cultural Icons: Must-See Spots That Define the City
Brisbane isn’t just a gateway to beaches and hinterland—it’s a city bursting with creativity, performance, and history. Whether you’re an art lover, science enthusiast, or theatre buff, these four standout destinations offer a deep dive into the soul of the River City.
🖼️ GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art)
Location: South Bank Cultural Precinct Why Visit: Australia’s largest collection of contemporary art
GOMA is a bold, light-filled space that showcases cutting-edge exhibitions from around the world. From immersive installations to provocative video art, it’s a place where creativity meets curiosity.
Highlights: Asia-Pacific contemporary works, Indigenous art, and the Children’s Art Centre
Bonus: Entry is free for most exhibitions, and it’s right next to the Queensland Art Gallery
Queensland Museum
Location: South Bank, beside GOMA Why Visit: Fascinating natural history and science exhibits
This museum is a treasure trove of Queensland’s biodiversity, paleontology, and cultural heritage. It’s perfect for families and curious minds of all ages.
Highlights: Dinosaur skeletons, the Sciencentre, and rotating global exhibitions
Bonus: Interactive displays and free general admission
🎭 QPAC (Queensland Performing Arts Centre)
Location: South Bank, part of the Cultural Centre Why Visit: Brisbane’s premier venue for live performance
QPAC is where Brisbane’s arts scene comes alive. With four theatres hosting everything from ballet and opera to musicals and contemporary dance, it’s a cultural cornerstone.
Highlights: Queensland Ballet, Opera Queensland, and touring Broadway productions
Bonus: Pre-show dining options and riverside views
Brisbane Powerhouse
Location: New Farm, along the Brisbane River Why Visit: A gritty-chic arts hub in a repurposed power station
This industrial space turned cultural icon is a magnet for comedy, indie theatre, and experimental art. It’s also home to major festivals like MELT and Brisbane Comedy Festival.
Highlights: Stand-up comedy, cabaret, visual art, and live music
Bonus: Stunning sunset views from the riverside bar and nearby New Farm Park
Quick Cultural Circuit
Spot
Type of Experience
Best For
GOMA
Modern & contemporary art
Art lovers, families
Queensland Museum
Science & history
Kids, curious minds
QPAC
Performing arts
Theatre-goers, music fans
Brisbane Powerhouse
Indie arts & comedy
Night owls, festival seekers
From the polished galleries of South Bank to the raw energy of New Farm, Brisbane’s cultural scene is as diverse as it is dynamic. Want help crafting a full-day itinerary around these spots, complete with food stops and hidden gems? I’ve got plenty of local flavor to add.
FAQs
Q: Is GOMA free?
A: Yes, most exhibitions are free, though some special shows charge entry.
Q: Where can I see live music?
A: Fortitude Valley is Brisbane’s live music hub.
Q: Does Brisbane have theatre shows?
A: Yes, QPAC hosts musicals, plays, and touring productions.
Q: Are there festivals in Brisbane?
A: Yes, Brisbane Festival in September is the biggest annual event.
Q: Is the Queensland Museum family-friendly?
A: Yes, with interactive science and dinosaur exhibits for kids.
Sponsored Popular Items
Quick take: Musement.com offers a worldwide selection of tours and attractions
Brisbane: Private Brisbane Night Tour with Stops Australia Sit back, relax and enjoy Brisbane by night in a private tour. Get driven around Brisbane after dark with stops for photos and exploring. See the beauty of Brisbane and surrounds at… Check current availability, inclusions and booking conditions.
Brisbane: 2-Hour Kayak Hire on Brisbane River Australia Get out and discover Brisbane's beautiful river with this 2-hour kayak hire. Be your own kayak tour guide, whether you're a first-timer or an experienced paddler. Cruise along the… Check current availability, inclusions and booking conditions.
Byron Bay, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Noosa Hop-On Hop-Off Pass Australia Hop-on hop-off along Australia’s East Coast! Travel Byron Bay, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Noosa & Rainbow Beach at your pace, with local tips, must-see spots & exclusive discounts.
One of the world’s premier collections of Chinese imperial artifacts—from jade carvings to intricate scrolls. A truly indoor escape to dive into thousands of years of history.
With nearly 700,000 pieces, you could easily spend 2–3 hours or more exploring.
Located in Shilin—reachable via MRT plus a short bus or shuttle ride.
2. Taipei Fine Arts Museum
Contemporary art lovers, this is your stop. Home to the famous Taipei Biennial, and features rotating global and local exhibitions.
Located in Zhongshan District, easily accessible via MRT.
3. National Taiwan Museum
Charming and imaginative—featuring miniature models from fairy tales to architectural wonders, plus the world’s smallest working TV.Taipei Travel GeekWikipedia
Cozy, indoor and perfect if you’re looking for something unique.
Nearby, the Tittot Glass Art Museum showcases live glasswork in an intimate setting.Wikipedia
Combine with a hot spring soak for a relaxing rainy-day experience.
Why These Work for Rainy Days
Fully indoors: Ideal for avoiding downpours.
Diverse appeals: From centuries-old artifacts to tiny models and avant-garde art.
Accessible via MRT: Rain-friendly and easy to reach.
Suggested Rainy-Day Museum Crawl
Destination
Best For
National Palace Museum
Iconic collection; rich cultural immersion (North Taipei day trip option)
Taipei Fine Arts Museum
Contemporary art & rotating exhibits
Miniatures Museum + National Taiwan Museum
Unique, playful, and history-rich for families
Beitou area combo
Culture + relaxation with museum and hot springs nearby
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Sponsored Popular Items
Quick take: Musement.com offers a worldwide selection of tours and attractions
Taiwan Taipei: Quick Photoshoot with Taiwan Photographer Taiwan Best deals for Taiwan Taipei: Quick Photoshoot with Taiwan Photographer. Welcome to Taipei Taiwan! Say goodbye to selfies, I will be your personal photographer. Let me show you the beauty of Taipei, and capture the best of you! Check my IG: mason.taiwan.photographer Available from getyourguide.com.
Taiwan Taipei: Quick Photoshoot with Taiwan Photographer Taiwan Best deals for Taiwan Taipei: Quick Photoshoot with Taiwan Photographer. Welcome to Taipei Taiwan! Say goodbye to selfies, I will be your personal photographer. Let me show you the beauty of Taipei, and capture the best of you! Check my IG: mason.taiwan.photographer Available from getyourguide.com.
Taiwan Taipei: Half-day VIP Photoshoot Taiwan Photographer Taiwan Best deals for Taiwan Taipei: Half-day VIP Photoshoot Taiwan Photographer. Wanna try local way to travel? Don't worry about the travel plan. Let me choose the iconic spots and hidden gems for you while capturing the best of you! Check my IG: mason.taipei.photographer Available from getyourguide.com.
Taiwan Tainan: Photoshoot with Taiwan Photographer Taiwan Best deals for Taiwan Tainan: Photoshoot with Taiwan Photographer. Welcome to Tainan Taiwan! Say goodbye to selfies, I will be your personal photographer. Let me show you the beauty of Tainan, and capture the best of you! Check my IG: mason.taipei.photographer Available from getyourguide.com.
