Old Government House (QUT) Brisbane
Step back in time at Old Government House, Brisbane's 1860s colonial gem, now a museum showcasing art and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tours
Old Government House (QUT) Brisbane
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Old Government House, Brisbane's 1860s colonial gem, now a museum showcasing art and history.
"A beautifully preserved piece of history, seamlessly blending the past with the present."
🎯 Don't Miss the Tour!
The free guided tours are a highlight, offering fascinating stories from knowledgeable guides .
☕ Cafe Break
Enjoy a coffee or light meal at the chic cafe located within the historic grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Exterior and interior
Admire the beautifully preserved 1860s colonial architecture, a testament to Queensland's early governance.
Guided House Tours
Throughout the house
Engage with passionate historians like Katie who bring the building's stories and its former residents to life.
William Robinson Art Collection
Gallery spaces
Explore a curated collection of art by renowned Queensland artist William Robinson.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Tours
Location & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Don't Miss the Tour!
The free guided tours are a highlight, offering fascinating stories from knowledgeable guides.
☕ Cafe Break
Enjoy a coffee or light meal at the chic cafe located within the historic grounds.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The exterior architecture and gardens offer beautiful backdrops for photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with the City Botanic Gardens and QUT's Cube.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Don't Miss the Tour!
The free guided tours are a highlight, offering fascinating stories from knowledgeable guides.
☕ Cafe Break
Enjoy a coffee or light meal at the chic cafe located within the historic grounds.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The exterior architecture and gardens offer beautiful backdrops for photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with the City Botanic Gardens and QUT's Cube.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Old Government House for its free entry, engaging guided tours led by knowledgeable staff, and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. The integration of the William Robinson art collection and the charming on-site cafe add to the experience. Some minor drawbacks include occasional uncoordinated security and potentially closed-off areas.
"The staff here are all very friendly. The first time I visited, I missed the tour time, but the guard kindly explained the schedule to me. Amazingly, he still remembered me a few days later, which made me really happy! He also speaks great Chinese—thank you!
A big thank you to Stephen for patiently guiding me through the tour. English is not my native language, but Stephen was patient and made the tour interesting. I really appreciate it! The glass from Queen Victoria, transported from the UK, was truly impressive. This experience will always be a cherished memory for me."
Litchi Headman
"Lucked out & arrived just in time for a tour. By the super enthusiastic & very knowledgeable house historian Katie. Was a real treat. The front of house team were fantastic also.
Definitely worth spending some time here (esp on tour) even if your time in Brisbane is limited.
Entry + tour both free!
I cannot believe the quality and quality of free museums across Queensland generally."
Sam M
"Did the Brisbane open House and did a full tour of this building with the curator Katie. How fabulous is this lady she knows the full history and almost every brick in this building bringing the building to life. Great building thank goodness we saved it from demolition. Thank you Brisbane open house for the opportunity."
Ludmilla Stepanow
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Government House is centrally located in Brisbane, making it accessible by public transport. You can take a bus or train to the city center and it's a short walk from Queen Street Mall or Roma Street Station. The free City Hopper ferry also offers scenic views along the Brisbane River, with stops near the Botanic Gardens.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at Old Government House, several public car parks are available in the Brisbane CBD. Consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, Brisbane's city center is quite walkable. A helpful tip for navigating is that female street names (like Charlotte, Queen, Adelaide) run north-south, while male street names (like Edward, Albert) run east-west.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Old Government House and its grounds is completely free. This makes it an excellent budget-friendly attraction in Brisbane.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during weekdays. It's best to check the official QUT Old Government House website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially if you want to join a specific guided tour. Arriving a little early for tours is also a good idea.
Yes, Old Government House sometimes hosts special events, such as during Brisbane Open House, offering unique access and tours. Keep an eye on their website for announcements.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully preserved rooms showcasing the history of Queensland's governance, along with the William Robinson art collection. The decor, carpets, and lighting in the entrance hallway are particularly noteworthy.
The tours are consistently praised for being engaging and informative, led by enthusiastic and knowledgeable historians who bring the building to life.
While efforts are made for accessibility, some older buildings may have limitations. It's advisable to contact the venue directly to inquire about specific accessibility features.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions within certain exhibition areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a chic cafe located on the grounds of Old Government House, offering a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy refreshments.
Old Government House is situated in Brisbane's CBD, which is packed with dining options. You'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars along Queen Street Mall and in the surrounding areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, especially the grand facade and surrounding gardens, provides excellent photo opportunities.
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods or within specific exhibition areas. It's best to inquire with staff on-site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical content might be more suited for older children, the sheer grandeur of the building and the chance to see where a governor once lived can be fascinating. Pack some snacks and combine the visit with a picnic in the gardens for a full, budget-friendly family day out.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the architectural details, the preserved interiors, and the stories of the people who lived and worked here. The connection to figures like Sir George and Lady Diamantina Bowen adds layers to the historical narrative.
Don't miss the chance to learn about the building's preservation and its significance in saving it from demolition.🎨 Art Lovers
Beyond the dedicated art collection, the building itself is a work of art. Admire the colonial architecture, the preserved decorative elements like carpets and lighting, and imagine the historical figures who once graced these spaces.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Queensland's Past
The building's impressive colonial architecture reflects the era's style and aspirations.Thanks to an extensive restoration project, the house has been meticulously preserved, appearing almost brand new despite its age. This dedication ensures that visitors can experience a beautifully preserved piece of history, seamlessly blending the past with the present. The information inside details the formation and flags of Queensland, offering a rich historical context.
Beyond its governmental role, the house also has connections to figures like Diamantina Bowen, Lady Bowen, who was born a countess in Greece. This adds another layer to the historical narrative, highlighting the international connections of early Queensland society.
The house stands as a significant landmark, reminding visitors of Brisbane's colonial roots and its evolution into a modern city.The Art and Atmosphere
The atmosphere inside is often described as both beautiful and lovely, with particular attention paid to the interior design elements. The carpets and lighting in the entrance hallway are frequently highlighted as stunning examples of the house's preserved elegance.
Reviewers often mention the friendly volunteers and staff who contribute to a welcoming experience. Their knowledge and enthusiasm, like that of historian Katie, truly bring the building to life, making the visit memorable even for those with limited time in Brisbane.
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