Guide to the Museum of Brisbane

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Tucked inside the heritage-listed City Hall, the Museum of Brisbane is one of those Brisbane attractions that surprises most visitors. It isn’t a sprawling mega-museum but rather an intimate space that feels personal and fresh. Here you’ll find carefully curated exhibitions showcasing the city’s history, art, and culture, often with a focus on local artists and stories you won’t find anywhere else. 

One of the museum’s biggest draws is how approachable it feels. Entry is free, exhibitions are ever-changing, and there’s a constant line-up of Museum of Brisbane events from artist talks to family workshops. Add in the famous Clock Tower tour, which takes you up in a heritage cage lift to sweeping 360° city views, and you’ve got a must-do experience right in the heart of Brisbane. 

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What makes the Museum of Brisbane so popular?

People flock to the Brisbane Museum because it really is one of those attractions that brings the city to life. Rather than overwhelming you with endless exhibits, it focuses on Brisbane’s identity; its growth, its people, its art, and even its quirks. The museum is well-known for its rotating exhibitions, so whether it’s contemporary art installations or cultural deep-dives, no two visits feel quite the same. 

The highlight for many is the Museum of Brisbane clock tower tour. Step into one of the oldest working cage lifts in the country, ride to the top of City Hall, and you’ll be treated to panoramic views across the CBD and beyond. It’s a free experience, but spots are limited, so it’s best to book ahead. Families, couples, and solo travellers alike also love that there’s often something interactive going on, from children’s craft workshops to artist-in-residence programs. 


How long does it take to explore the Museum of Brisbane? 

Thanks to its size, the Museum of Brisbane is an easy stop on any Brisbane city itinerary. Most people allow 1–2 hours to explore the main galleries, snap a few iconic Museum of Brisbane photos, and climb the clock tower. If you’re attending a special exhibition or community project, it’s worth giving yourself up to 3 hours. 

The manageable layout makes it perfect for a short cultural hit between exploring the other things to do in Brisbane, but locals often return because there’s always something new on the program. 


How much does it cost to go to the Museum of Brisbane?

One of the best parts about visiting the precious Museum of Brisbane is that general entry is completely free. That makes it a great budget-friendly option, especially for families and backpackers. Some special events, workshops, or guided experiences may carry a small fee, but for the most part, you can enjoy the museum at no cost. 


How to get to the Museum of Brisbane

You’ll find the museum inside Brisbane City Hall, right in King George Square. The address is 64 Adelaide Street, Level 3. 

  • By train: It’s a 10-minute walk from either Central or Roma Street stations. 
     

  • By bus: Numerous buses stop along Adelaide Street, Ann Street, or at King George Square bus terminal. 
     

  • By car: There’s underground paid parking at King George Square car park, with entrances via Adelaide Street and Roma Street. This does have a height restriction, so if you are travelling in a campervan, you may want to explore the local council street parking options.  
     

To get inside, head through the King George Square entrance, turn right at the staircase, and take lifts 7 or 8 up to Level 3. 


Best time to visit the Museum of Brisbane

Because it’s an indoor attraction, the museum is perfect in any weather, be that blazing summer sun, sudden tropical storms, or even the cooler winter months. That said, if you prefer a quieter visit, aim for weekdays or times outside the lunch rush. Early mornings or late afternoons (after 2:30 pm) are especially calm, giving you space to enjoy the exhibitions without the crowds. 


Weather at the Museum of Brisbane

The museum itself is climate-controlled, but knowing the broader Brisbane weather can help with planning your day. The city has a subtropical climate, which means hot, humid summers (December–March) with frequent but brief downpours, and mild, dry winters (June–August). Spring and autumn tend to be the sweet spots, known for being warm, comfortable, and less sticky. 


Best place to park your campervan near the Museum of Brisbane

Parking a campervan in central Brisbane is tricky thanks to height restrictions and tight spaces in city car parks. The safest option is to base yourself at a nearby holiday park and use public transport to get into the city. 

  • Brisbane Holiday Village is another good choice, located a little further out but well-served by buses and trains into the centre. 

Once you’re parked up, you can enjoy the museum and surrounding attractions without worrying about squeezing your van into a city car park. 


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