The Old Museum, Brisbane - a large white building with trees in front of it
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The Old Museum Brisbane

4.6
·583 reviews·Bowen Hills, Australia

Historic 1890s concert hall and arts hub in Brisbane, known for its stunning architecture and diverse events like markets and live music.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Catch vibrant markets

CrowdMedium
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The Old Museum, Brisbane - a large white building with trees in front of it

The Old Museum Brisbane

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Catch vibrant markets

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 1890s concert hall and arts hub in Brisbane, known for its stunning architecture and diverse events like markets and live music.

4.6
(583 reviews)

"Felt like stepping back in time—with music, atmosphere and history all lined up."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Event Schedule

Visit their website for upcoming markets, concerts, and exhibitions.

🚗 Parking Strategy

Street parking is tough; consider paid lots or public transport.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Handmade Design Markets

Handmade Design Markets

Various stalls throughout the venue

Discover unique crafts, jewelry, and art from local designers. A vibrant community hub.

Instagram+1
Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

The entire building and grounds

Step back in time with stunning 1890s architecture, vaulted ceilings, and timber detailing.

Reddit
Live Music Performances

Live Music Performances

Concert Hall

Experience diverse musical acts, from classical to jazz, in an atmospheric heritage hall.

Instagram+2

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Old Museum Brisbane hosts a variety of events, from markets to concerts. Check their schedule in advance to catch specific performances or exhibitions. Weekends often feature markets, while evenings might have music events. Instagram+1

Parking & Access

Street parking can be challenging, especially during popular events. Consider public transport or the nearby paid parking options. Reddit The venue is accessible, but confirm specific needs when booking tickets. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekend mornings
Why
Catch vibrant markets
Crowd
Medium
When
Event evenings
Why
Enjoy live music
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Swing by and check out the giant moon! #brisbane #brisbaneaustralia #queensland #thingstodo #thingstodobrisbane #placestogo
@joslaloh
40K likes • 351.6K views

🎯 Check Event Schedule

Visit their website for upcoming markets, concerts, and exhibitions. Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Strategy

Street parking is tough; consider paid lots or public transport. Reddit

Seems like a great first date idea #fyp #brisbane #australia #xyzbca #PlacesToVisit
@tj4d3
32.6K likes • 260K views
Looking for weekend plans? Check out the @handmadedesignmarket.au this Sunday, the 24th! I'll be showcasing my top pieces alongside a variety of unique handmade stalls. 📍Old Museum, Bowen Hills ⏰ 10am-3pm $5 entry fee or it’s free if you register online! See you there Xx . . . . . #brisbanemarkets #earringmaker #everydayearrings #twoclayhearts #whatsonbrisbane
twoclayhearts
78 likes • 0 views

🎟️ Market Entry Fee

Markets often have a small entry fee, sometimes waived if registered online. Instagram

🎶 Atmospheric Venue

The heritage hall offers incredible acoustics and a unique vibe. Reddit

Bachelor of Music students playing live at the Old Museum last night with lecturers Helen Russell and Mark Scholtes. @oldmuseum @marksholtez @hoyden57175
unisqsoca
61 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Event Schedule

Visit their website for upcoming markets, concerts, and exhibitions. Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Strategy

Street parking is tough; consider paid lots or public transport. Reddit

🎟️ Market Entry Fee

Markets often have a small entry fee, sometimes waived if registered online. Instagram

🎶 Atmospheric Venue

The heritage hall offers incredible acoustics and a unique vibe. Reddit

🚶 Explore the Grounds

The well-kept gardens offer a peaceful escape. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(583 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise The Old Museum Brisbane for its stunning heritage architecture and atmospheric concert hall, making it a fantastic venue for live music and vibrant handmade markets. While parking can be a challenge, the unique ambiance and quality of events make it a highly recommended destination. InstagramReddit

"Great venue for the handmade markets. Easy parking down the road $20 single entry on the weekend. Hard to find street parking."

Stephen Nicholls

"The Old Museum was built in 1891. Every brick looks great. It looks beautiful at every moment of the day. These days, classical music activities are held for the little ones. Sometimes music concerts are organized."

mustafa

"The space quality is remarkable, vaulted ceilings, grand timber detailing, and solid sound across decades old balconies. The ticket was fairly priced under $50, which felt fair for a live show in such an atmospheric, heritage hall. It felt like stepping back in time—with music, atmosphere and history all lined up."

Dianne Howard

What People Like

Historic architecture
Great acoustics
Vibrant markets

What People Dislike

Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Museum is located in Bowen Hills, Brisbane. Public transport is recommended as street parking can be difficult, especially during events. Check the Translink website for bus and train routes. Reddit

Street parking near The Old Museum can be very limited. Paid parking is available nearby, and some reviews mention $20 parking on weekends. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, Brisbane has cycling paths. Consider this if you're coming from a nearby suburb. Reddit

Yes, The Old Museum is accessible by bus. Check Translink for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Reddit

Given parking challenges, taking a bus or train to a nearby station and walking is often the most stress-free option. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry fees vary depending on the event. Markets like the Handmade Design Market may have a small entry fee (around $5), sometimes waived if registered online. Instagram Concerts and other performances will have separate ticket prices. Reddit

For specific concerts or performances, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular acts. Instagram+1 For markets, online registration might offer a discount or free entry. Instagram

Opening hours are event-dependent. Markets typically run from morning to mid-afternoon on weekends. Instagram+1 Concerts and other events will have specific start and end times listed on their schedule. Instagram

Concession availability will depend on the specific event organizer. It's best to check the event details or contact the organizer directly. Reddit

For some events, tickets may be available at the door, but it's not guaranteed, especially for high-demand performances. Booking ahead is always safer. Instagram

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The Old Museum hosts a variety of events including handmade markets, classical and jazz concerts, student performances, and sometimes exhibitions. Instagram+2

Yes, family-friendly events like markets and some music performances are held here. The grounds are also pleasant for a stroll. Reddit

The venue is known for its atmospheric, heritage hall with vaulted ceilings and grand timber detailing, offering a unique, almost time-traveling experience. Reddit

During markets, food trucks and stalls are often present. Instagram For concerts, there may be limited bar facilities. Reddit

Built in 1891, The Old Museum is a historic building that has served various purposes and is now a hub for arts and culture. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by event. For general visits and markets, personal photography is usually allowed. For ticketed performances, check the specific event's rules. TikTok

The grand architecture, vaulted ceilings, and timber detailing inside the concert hall are stunning. The exterior and landscaped grounds also offer beautiful photo opportunities. Reddit

Absolutely! The historic architecture and vibrant market scenes make it a very Instagrammable location. TikTokInstagram

Professional or commercial photography usually requires prior permission. Contact the venue management for details. Reddit

Daylight hours are best for capturing the architectural details and the gardens. Evening events offer a different, moody ambiance for photos. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Museum Brisbane is a great spot for families, especially when handmade design markets are on. These events offer a fun and engaging environment for kids to explore unique crafts and perhaps even find a special souvenir. Instagram+1 Some Reddit users recall visiting as children and finding the museum a magical place. Reddit

Look out for specific family-friendly events like children's classical music concerts. The well-kept grounds also provide a pleasant space for a family stroll. Reddit While parking can be a challenge, planning your visit with public transport in mind can make it a smooth and enjoyable outing for everyone. Reddit

🎶 Music Lovers

For music enthusiasts, The Old Museum is a must-visit. The Concert Hall's acoustics are celebrated, providing an exceptional listening experience for everything from classical to jazz. Reddit Check the schedule for performances by university music students,Instagram big bands,Instagram or local artists launching new albums. Instagram

The venue's historic charm adds another layer to the musical experience, making it feel like a special occasion. It's a chance to enjoy live music in a setting that complements the artistry, offering a more intimate and engaging atmosphere than larger, modern venues. Reddit

🛍️ Market Shoppers

If you love discovering unique handmade goods, The Old Museum's markets are for you. These events are a treasure trove of local talent, featuring everything from artisanal jewelry and homewares to art and fashion. Instagram+1 It's the perfect place to find gifts or treat yourself to something truly special and locally made. Instagram

Be prepared for a bustling atmosphere and a wide array of creative products. While entry fees are usually minimal, the opportunity to support local designers and find one-of-a-kind items makes it well worth the visit. Instagram Remember to factor in potential parking challenges and consider public transport for a smoother experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Old Museum Brisbane, established in 1891, is a significant heritage building in Bowen Hills. Its grand architecture, characterized by vaulted ceilings and intricate timber detailing, transports visitors back in time. Reddit Originally serving various community functions, it has evolved into a vibrant hub for arts and culture, hosting a diverse range of events.

Historically, the site has been associated with significant exhibits. One Reddit user recalls the WWI German A7V tank 'Mephisto' being displayed outside, a relic of a bygone era. Reddit The building's many nooks and crannies were once filled with exhibits, contributing to its magical and haunting atmosphere for visitors. Reddit

Today, The Old Museum continues its legacy by providing a unique venue for contemporary arts. From classical music concerts for young audiences to jazz performances and bustling handmade design markets, the building breathes new life into its historic walls, offering a rich experience for all who visit. Instagram+2

Experiencing the Markets

The Old Museum Brisbane is a popular venue for handmade design markets, drawing crowds eager to discover unique local creations. These markets are a fantastic opportunity to support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind items, from jewelry and ceramics to art and fashion. Instagram+1

Visitors often praise the vibrant atmosphere and the quality of the goods on offer. You can expect a diverse range of stalls, with creators showcasing their passion and craftsmanship. Instagram It's a great place to find gifts or treat yourself to something special. Instagram

When attending, be prepared for a lively environment. While street parking can be difficult, the markets are generally well-organized, with clear signage and often food trucks available, making for a pleasant day out. InstagramReddit

The Magic of Live Music

The Old Museum's Concert Hall is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and atmospheric heritage setting. This makes it an ideal venue for live music performances, offering an intimate and immersive experience for audiences. Reddit

From classical recitals by university students and faculty Instagram to energetic big band jazz performances Instagram and album launch celebrations,Instagram the venue hosts a wide spectrum of musical genres. The combination of the stunning architecture and the live sound creates a truly memorable experience, often described as stepping back in time. Reddit

Attending a concert here is more than just listening to music; it's about soaking in the history and the ambiance of the grand hall. The ticket prices are often considered fair for the quality of the performance and the unique venue. Reddit

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