For almost fifty years until 1971, the Brisbane Powerhouse was an electricity plant that powered the city’s tram system. After twenty years of disuse and dereliction, the city came up with the idea of putting the building to use for the city once again – this time as a multipurpose art centre. The centre opened its doors in 2000 and quickly established itself as one of Brisbane’s most popular arts venues, hosting anything from alternative plays and indie films to photo exhibitions and jam sessions.The Powerhouse retained a lot of the original brickwork and together with exhibition spaces and theatres, these walls now also house two restaurants, bars, an open stage, conference rooms, viewing galleries and riverfront terraces. Join the city’s hip arty crowd at a movie, burlesque show, photography exhibition or jazz concert, or simply take in the laid-back atmosphere along with the joggers and dog-walkers who stop for refreshments at the scenic riverside terraces.One of the reasons for the centre’s popularity is that most of the regular shows and rotating exhibitions are free, with only the more high-profile gigs and concerts charging a fee – check the Powerhouse website for details of what’s on during your visit. Many people also come to see the Powerhouse’s unique architecture, which is best taken in from the top floors where you’ll find original fittings from the power plant alongside graffiti by the squatters who used to live here. The centre is also a popular dining location, and it’s always advisable to book ahead for the popular Watt restaurant upstairs and Alto below, where you can enjoy fine dining as well as coffee or cocktails.The Brisbane Powerhouse is located in the city’s New Farm suburb, 3.2 kilometres from the central Brisbane. A charming ferry ride from the city centre will bring you there, but not in a hurry. There are also a number of buses which stop nearby, and while there’s plenty of free parking, you should get there early on performance evenings as it tends to fill up quickly.
Brisbane Powerhouse Tours and Activities
Visit Brisbane Powerhouse
Plan a trip to see Brisbane Powerhouse
City Star Lodge
Reviewed on 14 May 2024
Morgan Suites
Reviewed on 12 May 2024
Tours & day trips
See all 121 activitiesOpens in new tabBrisbane River Cruise with entry to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 30 activitiesOpens in new tabDeluxe Wine Tour to Tamborine Mountain, includes two course lunch
Water activities
See all 24 activitiesOpens in new tabJet Ski Tours in Brisbane - Doesn't get any better than this.!
Classes & workshops
See all 19 activitiesOpens in new tabMosaic Lamp Workshop in Brisbane
Wildlife & nature
See all 15 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Brisbane: Australia Zoo Ticket and Return Transfer
Popular places to visit
New Farm Park
Whether its high-octane or low-octane pursuits you're after, there is something on offer for everyone at Brisbane's New Farm Park.
Merthyr Village
This convenient shopping center has everything you need to make your stay in the upmarket neighbourhood of New Farm a breeze.
Wilson Outlook Reserve
Explore the great outdoors at Wilson Outlook Reserve, a lovely green space in Brisbane. Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its cafes.
Story Bridge
This bridge attracts visitors not only for its historical significance, but also for its spectacular bridge climb and its colorful nighttime lighting.
Howard Smith Wharves
During your trip to Brisbane, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Howard Smith Wharves. Amble around this culturally rich area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts
If you live and breathe art, don’t miss this modern art space in a former warehouse in the heart of one of Brisbane’s most energetic and creative districts.
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