Explore Australia’s Most Celebrated Art Precinct by the Brisbane River

Queensland Art Gallery GOMA Tickets Brisbane

Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art tickets open the door to world class exhibitions, Australian masterpieces, and global contemporary art in one of Brisbane’s most inspiring cultural destinations.

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Highlights
  • Two iconic galleries in one riverside cultural precinct
  • Home to Australian, Asia Pacific, and international artworks
  • Free permanent collections with ticketed special exhibitions
  • Striking modern architecture beside the Brisbane River
  • Family friendly spaces, cinema, cafes, and outdoor areas

Description

Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art together form one of the most respected art destinations in Australia. Located at South Bank on the Brisbane River, the twin galleries combine heritage elegance with bold contemporary design.

Queensland Art Gallery focuses on historical, modern, and Australian art, while the Gallery of Modern Art known as GOMA showcases cutting edge contemporary works from around the world. Moving between the two spaces feels seamless, connected by courtyards, river views, and shared public areas.

With rotating exhibitions, film programs, interactive installations, and thoughtfully curated collections, the precinct invites visitors to slow down, explore ideas, and experience art as part of everyday life rather than a formal ritual.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Queensland Art Gallery and GOMA is during the late morning or early afternoon on weekdays, when galleries are quieter and exhibitions can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace.

Autumn and winter offer comfortable weather for walking along South Bank before or after your visit. Weekends are lively and social, ideal for visitors who enjoy a vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Fun Facts
  • GOMA opened in 2006 and quickly became one of Australia’s most visited galleries
  • The precinct sits on former industrial land transformed for World Expo 88
  • Many exhibitions here premiere in Australia before touring internationally
  • The galleries include a cinema dedicated to artist films
  • River views are intentionally framed as part of the gallery experience

Itinerary

Half Day Ideal Visit

Morning:
Start at Queensland Art Gallery to explore Australian and historical collections.
Spend time with the permanent galleries before moving toward temporary exhibitions.

Midday:
Walk across to GOMA.
Enjoy contemporary installations, large scale exhibitions, and the cinema spaces.
Take a break at the cafe overlooking the river.

Afternoon:
Stroll through the Watermall and outdoor courtyards.
Finish with a relaxed walk along South Bank or a visit to the gallery shop.

Full Day Art Lover Option

Divide the day between both galleries with time for exhibitions, film screenings, lunch, and riverfront walks for a complete cultural immersion.

Photo Spots
  • GOMA exterior with the Brisbane River in view
  • Queensland Art Gallery entrance and water features
  • Interior staircases and open gallery spaces
  • Riverfront walkways between the two buildings
  • Outdoor courtyards framed by modern architecture

Pro Tips
  • Check exhibition schedules before booking tickets
  • Allow extra time for major international exhibitions
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking between galleries
  • Photography rules vary by exhibition so observe signage
  • Combine your visit with South Bank dining or river walks

History

Queensland Art Gallery traces its origins to the late nineteenth century, when a growing cultural identity in Queensland called for a public art collection. The gallery formally opened in its South Bank location in 1982, establishing a permanent home for Australian and international artworks and setting a new standard for public cultural spaces in Brisbane.

As contemporary art expanded in scale and ambition, the need for a new venue became clear. This led to the opening of the Gallery of Modern Art in 2006, designed to accommodate large installations, moving image works, and global exhibitions that could not be housed in traditional galleries.

Together, the two institutions evolved into a single cultural precinct that reflects Queensland’s openness to innovation, regional storytelling, and international dialogue. Today, the galleries stand as symbols of Brisbane’s transformation into a confident, globally connected cultural city.

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Most visitors book tickets in advance to avoid queues and sold-out days.

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