First Impressions

The Queensland Museum Kurilpa sits proudly in Brisbane’s Cultural Centre, just a short walk from South Bank. From the outside, it’s modern and understated—but inside, it’s full of surprises: towering dinosaur skeletons, glittering marine life, and stories that bring Queensland’s natural and cultural history to life.

It’s the kind of place where science meets storytelling, and you’ll leave with a head full of wonder.

Getting There

I strolled over from South Bank Parklands—it’s just across the street, beside GOMA and QPAC. Super walkable from CityCat ferry, South Brisbane Station, or any bus headed to the Cultural Centre.

Tip: Pair it with lunch at South Bank for a full, relaxed day of exploring.

My Experience

I started in the Dinosaur Garden, where a towering Tyrannosaurus rex greeted me in the atrium. Kids were gasping, adults were snapping photos—it was adorable. Then I wandered through exhibits on Indigenous culture, Queensland wildlife, and the Great Barrier Reef (the glowing coral display is stunning).

There’s something deeply grounding about seeing ancient fossils one minute and walking through a replica rainforest the next. I even caught a temporary exhibition on space exploration—so well done, and super interactive.

Best part? It’s not overwhelming. You can take your time, learn, and still leave feeling light.

Good to Know

• Open: Daily from 9:30 AM – 5 PM

• Entry: Free (some special exhibits may have a fee)

• Visit Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours

• Facilities: Gift shop, café, restrooms, accessible pathways, lockers

Snack Break

I stopped by the Museum Café—modern, chill, and overlooking the river. A cappuccino and a warm muffin gave me the perfect break before heading back out to the sunshine.

Personal Tips

• If you love photography, go in the morning for soft indoor lighting

• Check out the SparkLab if you’re with kids—or if you’re a curious adult

• Temporary exhibitions rotate often—check the website before you go

• Visit mid-week for a quieter, more reflective experience

Why I Loved It

⭐ 4.9/5 — “Queensland Museum made me feel like a kid again—inspired, curious, and in awe of the world. It’s a thoughtful blend of science, history, and heart.”

What You’ll Want to Capture

• The giant dinosaur skeleton in the central hall

• Colorful coral displays and preserved marine life

• Close-ups of ancient fossils and glowing exhibition spaces

• You by a T. rex, wide-eyed and smiling like a true explorer