Queensland Art Gallery

QAGOMA works to acknowledge Australia’s vibrant culture with its curation of works from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, and its collection of fiber works and paintings is especially notable. Happily, both galleries offer free entrance to their main collections, while their featured exhibitions are noted for their boldness and diversity.

Make sure to make time for both buildings—grab a flat white at the QAG café before taking a short walk to the GOMA to visit the Children’s Art Centre, which works to make art engaging for kids of all ages.

• Check the website for current exhibitions—QAGOMA almost always has something new.

• Don’t try to do it all at once. Since it’s split between two buildings, there’s a lot of ground to cover.

• Bring your swimsuit; QAGOMA is a 10-minute walk from the South Bank Parklands, offering a free swimming lagoon and waterpark.

It’s a 10-minute walk from downtown Brisbane, which takes you over the Victoria Bridge for glittering city skyline views. Once you’re over the bridge, wander along Grey Street till you reach QAGOMA. Public transit is also available—you can catch a bus from the Queen Street bus station and hop off at the Cultural Centre station.

QAGOMA is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike thanks to its shady courtyards and free entrance. Plan to visit on a weekday morning when the local kids are at school—a riverside walk is also more pleasant before the hot Australian sun is at its peak.

The GOMA is home to the Australian Cinémathèque, which plays recent international films, indie gems, and restored classics. Grab refreshments at the concession stand and marvel at a silent film accompanied by live music—the cinema offers screenings on Wednesday and Friday nights and weekend matinees.