Queensland Art Gallery Brisbane
Brisbane's premier art destination, showcasing diverse Australian and international contemporary art in stunning modern architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Queensland Art Gallery Brisbane
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Brisbane's premier art destination, showcasing diverse Australian and international contemporary art in stunning modern architecture.
"A truly beautiful space with its impressive collection and exhibitions."
🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions
General admission is free! Special exhibitions may require tickets. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Indigenous Australian Art
Australian Cinémathèque and various galleries
Discover powerful works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, reflecting rich cultural narratives and contemporary issues.

Contemporary International Art
Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
Immerse yourself in cutting-edge global art, from thought-provoking installations to vibrant paintings and sculptures.

Judy Watson Exhibition
Specific exhibition spaces
Explore the impactful works of Judy Watson, focusing on cultural collections and repatriation themes.

Asia Pacific Triennial
Various galleries
Experience this major exhibition showcasing contemporary art from across the Asia Pacific region.
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Special Exhibitions Extra
South Bank Cluster
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions
General admission is free! Special exhibitions may require tickets.
:ticket:👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything! :athletic_shoe:
📱 Use the QAGOMA App
Enhance your visit with audio guides and exhibition info. :iphone:
☕ Cafe & Restaurant Onsite
Grab a bite or coffee without leaving the gallery complex. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions
General admission is free! Special exhibitions may require tickets.
:ticket:👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything! :athletic_shoe:
📱 Use the QAGOMA App
Enhance your visit with audio guides and exhibition info. :iphone:
☕ Cafe & Restaurant Onsite
Grab a bite or coffee without leaving the gallery complex. :coffee:
📸 Photography Allowed (Mostly)
Check signage for specific areas where photography is permitted. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise QAGOMA for its impressive and diverse collections, spanning both Australian and international art. The gallery's modern architecture and thoughtful curation are frequently highlighted as positive aspects, making it a beautiful space to explore. Many appreciate the free general admission, though special exhibitions can incur costs. The convenient South Bank location adds to its appeal.
"Really great gallery with nicely detailed descriptions and information about the artists and artwork.
The exhibition is a nice blend of different styles and media, from diverse artists from different periods.
The arrangement of the works makes it especially intriguing, since no style or period overstays its welcome. It's not room over room with old paintings or statues, but a nice mix that always surprises, whenever you turn a corner."
Bo Leberecht
"It was a truly beautiful space with its impressive collection and exhibitions. The gallery shops offer art related items, books, cups, loose leaf tea, and hand cream. This place is right next to the museum and it's located in the middle of the city which makes it very convenient to visit!"
Tina Johami
"A very impressive brutalist architecture building. It looks and feels structurally impregnable, stark yet comforting.
An extensive variety and collection of Australian and international artists'works.
A thoroughly enjoyable experience."
Riccardo Catenacci
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
QAGOMA is easily accessible in Brisbane's South Bank. You can take a bus, train to South Brisbane station, or even a ferry to the South Bank ferry terminal. Driving is also an option with nearby parking, though it can be pricey.
Yes, there are several parking options in the South Bank precinct, including the Cultural Centre car park. However, it's often recommended to use public transport due to potential congestion and cost.
Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk across the Victoria Bridge from the CBD to South Bank, taking about 15-20 minutes.
Trains to South Brisbane station or buses that stop at the Cultural Centre bus station are very convenient. The ferry is also a scenic option.
Yes, QAGOMA is very well-connected by public transport, making it easy to reach from anywhere in Brisbane.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is free. However, special ticketed exhibitions will incur a fee.
QAGOMA is typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours until 8 pm on Wednesdays and Fridays. It's closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
For general entry, no booking is required as it's free. However, for popular special exhibitions, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid queues.
Discounts may be available for concession card holders, students, and children for special exhibitions. Check the QAGOMA website for details.
QAGOMA is closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. It's best to check their website for specific public holiday hours.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include Indigenous Australian art, contemporary international collections, and the rotating Asia Pacific Triennial. Keep an eye out for specific artist retrospectives like Judy Watson.
Yes, QAGOMA often has interactive displays and family-friendly activities. Check their website for current programs.
Photography is generally permitted in most areas for personal use, but always look for signage indicating restrictions, especially for special exhibitions.
Yes, QAGOMA offers free guided tours that provide deeper insights into the artworks and exhibitions. Check the daily schedule upon arrival.
To fully appreciate the collections, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to see special exhibitions and enjoy the cafe, you could easily spend half a day or more.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, QAGOMA has a cafe and a restaurant offering various dining options, from light snacks to full meals.
The cafe typically offers coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals, perfect for a break during your visit.
The restaurant offers a more formal dining experience and prices can vary. The cafe is generally more budget-friendly.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries. It's best to dine at the onsite cafe or restaurant.
South Bank is packed with diverse dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining, just a short walk away.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas of QAGOMA, but always check for specific signage, especially for temporary exhibitions.
Flash photography is typically not allowed as it can damage artworks. Always adhere to the gallery's guidelines.
Yes, the architecture of the buildings, the diverse artworks, and the surrounding South Bank precinct offer many great photo opportunities.
The grand entrance, the outdoor spaces, and areas with striking installations often make for memorable shots.
Professional photography or filming usually requires special permission and may incur fees. Contact QAGOMA directly for inquiries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to check the QAGOMA website for their current kids' programs and activities, as these can change seasonally. The South Bank precinct itself also offers plenty of open spaces for kids to run around after a gallery visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the nearby South Bank Parklands, or grab an affordable coffee and snack from the gallery's cafe to keep costs down. Utilizing public transport also saves on parking fees.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Students
Consider visiting the Queensland College of Art Galleries at Griffith University nearby, which often showcases emerging artists and offers affordable pieces for sale. The gallery's free tours and extensive exhibition catalogues can also be invaluable resources.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Indigenous Australian Art
Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of media, including paintings, sculptures, bark paintings, and multimedia installations. The Australian Cinémathèque within QAGOMA also screens films by Indigenous filmmakers, offering another lens through which to understand these rich cultural expressions.
Many exhibitions are curated with input from Indigenous communities, ensuring authentic and respectful representation. It's an opportunity to engage with stories and perspectives that are vital to Australia's cultural identity.
The Architecture of QAGOMA
The interplay of light and shadow within the galleries is a key feature, enhancing the viewing experience of the artworks. The Queensland Art Gallery, in particular, features a beautiful water mall and open courtyards, offering moments of tranquility amidst the art.
These structures are not just containers for art but contribute to the overall experience, providing a sense of scale and grandeur that complements the diverse collections housed within. [^Review]
Special Exhibitions and the Asia Pacific Triennial
A cornerstone of QAGOMA's programming is the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT). This major exhibition, held every few years, showcases cutting-edge art from across the Asia Pacific region, providing a vital platform for artists from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Attending an APT exhibition or another special event is highly recommended for a comprehensive QAGOMA experience. It's advisable to book tickets in advance for these popular shows to avoid disappointment.
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