Parliament House, Queensland, Brisbane - Australian Parliament House (at night) - looking from across the lake.
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Parliament House Brisbane

4.4
·169 reviews·Brisbane City, Australia

Brisbane's historic Parliament House, a French Renaissance Revival gem, offers tours, dining, and a glimpse into Queensland's political heart.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

During Sitting Days

More engaging political atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Parliament House, Queensland, Brisbane - Australian Parliament House (at night) - looking from across the lake.

Parliament House Brisbane

Best Time

During Sitting Days

More engaging political atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Brisbane's historic Parliament House, a French Renaissance Revival gem, offers tours, dining, and a glimpse into Queensland's political heart.

4.4
(169 reviews)

"A significant and beautiful part of Brisbane’s history, evident on every floor and in every room."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Navigate with Street Names

Female street names (Charlotte, Queen) run north-south, male names (Edward, Albert) east-west. Easy city navigation!

🎟️ Tours are Free!

General tours are free and don't require booking, but check sitting days for more action.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Question Time Debates

Question Time Debates

Legislative Assembly Chamber

Witness the lively debates between government and opposition parties during Question Time for a glimpse into Queensland's politics.

Instagram
Heritage Architecture

Heritage Architecture

Throughout the building

Marvel at the French Renaissance Revival architecture and beautifully maintained interiors, showcasing decades of history.

Reddit
Strangers' Restaurant

Strangers' Restaurant

Ground Floor

Enjoy a memorable dining experience with delicious food and exceptional service, often praised for special occasions.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Special Events

While general entry is often free, special events like high tea or holiday celebrations at Parliament House Brisbane can book out quickly. Check the official website and book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Reddit

Allow Ample Time for Exploration

This historic building is rich with heritage, culture, and politics. To truly appreciate its significance, allow plenty of time to explore its rooms, read the signage, and soak in the stories. Reddit

Best Times

When
During Sitting Days
Why
More engaging political atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (Open Days)
Why
Access to normally closed areas
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter, focused exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My hot tip on how to navigate brisbane city. North-south are female names and east-weat are male names. Im not sure if its the same for other cities but it works for brisbane!
@thelainey
10.5K likes • 144.6K views

🎯 Navigate with Street Names

Female street names (Charlotte, Queen) run north-south, male names (Edward, Albert) east-west. Easy city navigation! TikTok

🎟️ Tours are Free!

General tours are free and don't require booking, but check sitting days for more action. Reddit

Discover the top things to do in Queensland's capital, Brisbane! 🌆👀⁠ ⁠ Whether you're planning your trip or already know the city, share your recommendations and favourite spots below 🥂🙌⤵️⁠ @VisitBrisbane @Queensland, Australia #happytravelsoz #brisbane #queensland #traveltips ⁠
@happytravelsoz
9.4K likes • 488.9K views
Hari ini diajak untuk melihat langsung bagaimana aktivitas anggota parlemen di Queensland. Ini levelnya masih parlemen negara bagian, tapi saat Question Time (sesi debat antara pemerintah dan oposisi) itu seru banget. Sayang ga bisa bawa hp buat rekam hehe Pemerintah negara bagian ini dipegang oleh partai liberal setelah partai Buruh berkuasa sekian lamanya. Lucunya tiap kali ditanya oleh partai ...
mujabms
1.3K likes • 0 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond Tours

You can often walk into chambers and see parts of the building without a formal tour. Reddit

🍽️ Book Dining in Advance

Strangers Restaurant is popular for anniversaries; book ahead to secure a table. Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting parliament house

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Navigate with Street Names

Female street names (Charlotte, Queen) run north-south, male names (Edward, Albert) east-west. Easy city navigation! TikTok

🎟️ Tours are Free!

General tours are free and don't require booking, but check sitting days for more action. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond Tours

You can often walk into chambers and see parts of the building without a formal tour. Reddit

🍽️ Book Dining in Advance

Strangers Restaurant is popular for anniversaries; book ahead to secure a table. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

Allow ample time to explore and photograph the rich heritage and architecture. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(169 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors highly recommend Parliament House Brisbane for its historical significance, stunning architecture, and the engaging experience of witnessing parliamentary proceedings. The dining at Strangers' Restaurant is particularly praised for special occasions, with exceptional service and food. While some find the political aspects might not appeal to everyone, the overall consensus is a memorable and enriching visit.

"Highly recommend a visit. A special tour was arranged by Kimmy to celebrate my parents Golden Wedding Anniversary. We had the absolute pleasure of being escorted by Kristen M who has a wealth of knowledge of all things Parliament House and no question was too much for her! 😉 🫖.
If you find yourself in Brisbane, this should be on your to-do list, preferably at the top !
Thank you all once again for a most memorable experience. 10/10 🎉🎉"

Steph Rich

"We are from Adelaide and spent the evening at Strangers Restaurant on Friday 13th!! We are pleased to say the evening was perfect. From the delicious food to the amazing staff. We wanted to mention Amerbell, her knowledge of the building from picking us up in the foyer to delivery to the dining room was very informative, she was very proud of the building and its heritage. Her silver service hospitality was 2nd to non. Secondly a big thankyou to Erin for showing us around at the end of the evening. I think she could tell how much we enjoyed the building and all of its heritage and stories. Can't recommend this experience enough. Perfect way to spend our 27th Wedding Anniversary."

sue and richard brewster

"This is such a significant and beautiful part of Brisbane’s history. The heritage, culture and politics that have shaped the city over the decades is evident on every floor, in every room and in the stories on the walls. There is so much to see that you should allow as much time as you can to take it all in. Sign up for the tour, take part in the high tea events as well as the Christmas in July experience."

A Bohemia Life

What People Like

Rich history and heritage
Beautiful architecture
Excellent dining experience

What People Dislike

Political aspects may bore some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Parliament House Brisbane is centrally located. You can reach it by walking from the CBD, taking a bus, or using the free City Hopper ferry service which stops nearby. TikTok

Parking can be challenging and expensive in the CBD. It's recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services. If driving, check for nearby paid parking stations. Reddit

Yes, the area around Parliament House is very walkable. A helpful tip for navigating Brisbane's streets is that female street names run north-south, and male street names run east-west. TikTok

From South Bank, you can take a pleasant walk across the Victoria Bridge or use the free City Hopper ferry service to get closer to Parliament House. TikTok

While there aren't specific discounts for Parliament House, utilizing the free City Hopper ferry or day passes for public transport can be cost-effective ways to explore Brisbane. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General tours of Parliament House Brisbane are typically free and do not require advance booking. However, for special events or group bookings, it's advisable to check the official website. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially between sitting and non-sitting days. It's best to check the official Parliament of Queensland website for the most up-to-date information on hours and tour availability. Reddit

Entry to Parliament House Brisbane for general visits and tours is usually free. Special events or dining experiences may incur separate charges. Reddit

Yes, you can visit on a sitting day, and it's often more interesting as you might be able to observe parliamentary proceedings. Be aware that it can be busier. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to learn about the building's history, heritage, and political significance. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

You can explore the heritage architecture, learn about Queensland's political history, witness Question Time (if sitting), and dine at Strangers' Restaurant. InstagramReddit

Children can find the history and architecture interesting. Special tours or events might be more engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

Photography rules can vary. Generally, personal photography is allowed in public areas, but check specific restrictions, especially within chambers or during events. Instagram

Question Time is a session where government ministers answer questions from opposition members, offering a dynamic view of parliamentary debate. Instagram

Yes, Parliament House hosts various events throughout the year, including high teas, cultural celebrations, and holiday-themed experiences. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Strangers' Restaurant is located within Parliament House and offers a dining experience, often praised for special occasions. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book a table at Strangers' Restaurant in advance, especially for weekend dining or special celebrations, as it is a popular venue. Reddit

Strangers' Restaurant typically offers contemporary Australian cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients, often with a silver service experience. Reddit

While Strangers' Restaurant is the main dining option, check the official website for any information on cafes or lighter refreshment facilities available during public visiting hours. Reddit

Yes, you can attend specific events like dining at Strangers' Restaurant or other hosted functions without necessarily taking a formal tour, but booking is usually required. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The grand architecture, the Legislative Assembly Chamber, and the heritage interiors offer excellent photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

Generally, personal phone cameras are permitted in public areas for non-commercial use. Always check for any specific signage or staff instructions. Instagram

Restrictions may apply in certain areas or during specific events. It's best to be mindful of signage and ask staff if unsure. Instagram

Morning light can be beautiful for exterior shots, while interior lighting is generally good. Consider visiting during an open day for unique access. Reddit

Drone usage is strictly regulated in urban areas and around government buildings. It is highly unlikely to be permitted and would require special authorization. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Parliament House Brisbane can be an engaging visit for families. While the historical and political aspects might appeal more to older children and adults, the grand architecture and the idea of government can spark curiosity. Consider timing your visit for a day when the building is less crowded, allowing children more space to explore. Look out for any specific family-friendly events or tours that might be offered. Reddit

To make the visit more interactive, you could discuss the roles of different people in government beforehand or point out interesting architectural features. The nearby South Bank Parklands also offer plenty of kid-friendly activities, making it a great complement to a visit to Parliament House for a full day out in Brisbane. TikTok

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, Parliament House Brisbane is a must-visit. The building's French Renaissance Revival style, dating back to 1867, is a significant example of heritage architecture. You'll find rich details in every room, with stories etched into the walls that reflect decades of Queensland's political and cultural evolution. Reddit

Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and the historical significance of the spaces. Reading the signage throughout the building will provide context, and if you can arrange a guided tour, you'll gain deeper insights from knowledgeable guides. Consider attending special events like those during Brisbane Open House for even more exclusive access and information. Reddit

🥂 Couples Celebrating Special Occasions

Parliament House Brisbane offers a unique and elegant setting for celebrating special occasions, particularly anniversaries. Strangers' Restaurant is frequently lauded for its perfect ambiance, delicious food, and impeccable service, making it a top choice for romantic dinners or anniversary celebrations. Reddit

Beyond dining, the historical grandeur of the building itself provides a sophisticated backdrop. Arranging a private tour or attending a special event can add an extra layer of memorability to your celebration. The combination of historical significance and refined hospitality makes for an unforgettable experience. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Brisbane's Streets

Brisbane's city grid can be a bit confusing for newcomers, but there's a clever mnemonic to help you find your way. As highlighted by a local TikTok creator, female street names like Charlotte Street, Queen Street, and Adelaide Street run north to south. Conversely, male street names such as Edward Street and Albert Street run east to west. This simple trick can make navigating the central business district much easier, especially when trying to locate landmarks like Parliament House. TikTok

This system is particularly useful when exploring the area around Parliament House, which is situated in the heart of the city. Whether you're walking from a nearby hotel, a bus stop, or even after disembarking from the free City Hopper ferry, understanding this street naming convention will enhance your exploration and reduce any potential for getting lost. TikTok

Experiencing Parliament House: Tours and Dining

Parliament House Brisbane offers a rich experience for visitors interested in history, politics, and heritage. General tours are typically free and a fantastic way to delve into the building's past and its role in Queensland's governance. Redditors often advise that while booking isn't usually necessary for standard tours, it's wise to check the official website for operating hours, especially as they can differ on sitting days versus non-sitting days. Reddit+1

For a truly memorable occasion, Strangers' Restaurant within Parliament House is highly recommended, particularly for anniversaries or special celebrations. Reviewers consistently praise the delicious food and exceptional silver service hospitality, with staff like Amerbell and Erin being singled out for their knowledge and attentiveness. Booking in advance for Strangers' Restaurant is essential due to its popularity. Reddit

Beyond formal tours and dining, Parliament House also hosts various events throughout the year, from multicultural celebrations to festive holiday gatherings. These events offer unique opportunities to experience the grandeur of the building in a different light and connect with the community. Reddit

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