Top Things to do in Brisbane
Top 10 Historic Sites in Brisbane, Queensland
Australia’s third-largest city, Brisbane is the hub of Queensland culture, offering a peek at the past and a glimpse into the future. Visit the historic Windmill and Old Commissariat Store, built by convicts in 1828, or fast-forward to the present (and beyond) with a trip to the new Gallery of Modern Art. Mingle with locals atop Mount Coot-tha, cruise the Brisbane River to South Bank’s sandy beach on the City Cat and make sure to fill the cuteness quota at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, home to koalas and kangaroos.
Restaurants in Brisbane
1. Newstead House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 146 reviews
THE JEWEL IN THE CROWN OF SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND'S HISTORIC HOMES... One of the most prominent homes in our history, the iconic landmark was built in 1846 and has been occupied by some of Brisbane's most influential colonial figures including Patrick Leslie, Captain John Clements Wickham and George Harris. Newstead House, Brisbane's oldest surviving residence is the jewel in the crown of South East Queensland's historic properties. Now operating as a living museum, the grand home is furnished to reflect the occupation of the Harris family, who were in residence between 1862 and 1890. We invite you to take in the magnificent views as you wander the generous verandas & explore the history of our grand home. Discover another world, located minutes from the CBD.
Reviewed By josephpI9RJ - Brisbane, Australia
I've been there many times and it is always a special time when you bring friends over to it for the first time. Lovely views of the river. A wonderful place to come to and soak in the history of Brisbane and relax going through it's gardens and along the river front.
2. Customs House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 102 reviews
Reviewed By tommomelbourne - Melbourne, Australia
Customs House is an example of Victorian style architecture, with portico, and a green dome and is an impressive historical building. It is used as a restaurant and events and has a stunning ballroom. This building was contructed in the nineteenth century and initially used to collect customs and excise duties.
3. Fort Lytton National Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 99 reviews
Fort Lytton is Queensland's foremost military exhibit, with extensive historic fortifications, Queensland's largest military museum and regular military re-enactments. Admission, guided tours and parking are all free on Sundays and most public holidays. It's a great day out for everyone, from families to serious historians.
Reviewed By BrissieB
A night tour of Fort Lytton with interactive theatre that takes you back to the first World War. As you wind your way through the remnants of buildings past, the story unfolds of a local lad and his contribution and experiences in WWI. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to talk with the guides/actors after the show and they were knowledgeable and enthusiastic. A nice evening out under the stars. I would recommend.
4. Boggo Road Gaol (Jail)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 688 reviews
Located in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, Boggo Road was one of the most notorious prisons of the Twentieth century. The former prison has reopened as a cultural-heritage tourist attraction which offer tours and events. Through historical tours, historical re-enactments, educational experiences and functions & events – the drama and stories of human beings, their failings and their achievements, within the walls of Boggo Road Gaol, are brought to life. Enter. Escape the 21st century…
Reviewed By Carm24B - Brisbane, Australia
Excellent tour today of Boggo Road Goal 1-1/2 hours long our guide Kim she was excellent very knowledgeable and happy to answer all our questions. Definitely recommend this tour.
5. Historic Ormiston House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 36 reviews
Historic Ormiston House was built by Captain Louis Hope between 1853 and 1865, and is the birthplace of Australia's commercial sugar industry.
Reviewed By Memento_Mori_55 - Brisbane, Australia
I wasn't born in Brisbane but I have lived here for many years and never visited Ormiston House in the Redland Bay area. We decided today was the day to change that. Ormiston House is open every Sunday a 12 noon. It costs $5 to enter which includes parking and a guided tour of the house. You can also visit the church / chapel of the Carmelite sisters just next door which has some lovely stained glass windows. The house is maintained by the historical association and staffed mainly by volunteers who provided and interesting and entertaining tour of the house. They also tell you the story of the "Father of the Sugar Industry" in Australia Capt Hon. Louis Hope who built the house in 1862. He moved his wife here from Kilcoy and all told they had 8 children. So the house continued to expand to accommodate the increasing size of his family. It could be a little bit difficult to get here by public transport if you were visiting without a car but train / taxi or uber would still work
6. Miegunyah House Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
Built in the 1880's when local tradition was at its most opulent, Miegunyah is one of Brisbane's most accessible Heritage Homes. Richly decorated with iron-lace balustrades, filigree columns and friezes, and furnished in the style of the late 19th century, Miegunyah is a living example of Victorian elegance and charm. Step through the wide cedar door way into the House Museum, be fascinated by exotic collectables from travels afar, learn about the people who lived at Miegunyah and ghosts that never left. Even glimpse the labours of 19th century housekeeping! Miegunyah is open to the public for tours and morning / afternoon teas. Miegunyah is also available for group visits, special interest groups, corporate and private functions.
Reviewed By treasurechild
Miegunyah House Museum Open House at Miegunyah what a lovely visit to this exquisite house maintained by the Queensland women’s historical association. My fav item was of course the Wine Chest and I loved playing with Hagrid who entertained the children for a touch of fantasy. Otherwise it was a lovely step back into what brisbane was like at the turn of the century. Volunteers were amazingly friendly and informative. Tea and scones were delicious. I’m going back ????????????
7. Brisbane Arcade
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 139 reviews
Reviewed By tonyhD7149PU
This beautiful old building graces the 21st century with its look of agelessness. Colonial facade mixed with modern shopping experience.
8. Victoria Bridge Abutment
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 25 reviews
Reviewed By 286AndrewM - Melbourne, Australia
Just a small remnant of a past bridge across the Brisbane River. There is a plaque attached to the abutment, which makes for a sad but special piece of history.
9. General Post Office (GPO)
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By uptonuponsevern - Smithfield, Australia
Our accommodation was directly next-door to the General Post Office, the old solid designed building is beautiful & really stands out along Queen Street & opposite Post Office Square. A very modern updated interior inside the post office. A relaxing small park area to relax opposite this beautiful old building.
