The Artistic Side of Brisbane: Discover Street Art and Galleries

Nestled along the winding Brisbane River and beneath a bright Queensland sky, Brisbane is a city with a beating creative heart. While it may be famous for its laid-back atmosphere and subtropical climate, Brisbane’s streets tell a visual story—one painted in vibrant murals, pop-up installations, and contemporary art galleries.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a casual admirer, or simply in search of something different, Brisbane’s artistic side offers a memorable, immersive experience. This guide covers where to find the best street art, the most inspiring galleries, how to travel around the city, food and accommodation options, and what to budget for your visit.

By Air:
Brisbane Airport (BNE) is the main gateway, with regular domestic and international flights. It’s about 20 minutes from the CBD by Airtrain (AUD $21 one-way) or a rideshare/taxi (AUD $45-55).

By Train or Bus:
If you’re arriving from within Queensland or from interstate, Queensland Rail and major coach lines like Greyhound serve the Roma Street Transit Centre, right in the city centre.

Public Transport in Brisbane:
Brisbane has an efficient public transport network (TransLink), covering trains, buses, and ferries. Purchase a prepaid go card (AUD $10 deposit, plus top-up) for easy, cashless travel. Most city journeys are AUD $3-5.

On Foot and Bike:
Many of the best street art locations and galleries are within easy walking or cycling distance in and around the CBD, South Bank, Fortitude Valley, and West End. CityCycle public bikes (now replaced by Beam and Neuron e-scooters) are available to hire, with rates starting at AUD $1-2 per trip.

Where to Find the Best Street Art

Fortitude Valley:
This inner-city hub is Brisbane’s street art epicentre. Wander down Winn Lane, Bakery Lane, and California Lane to discover a kaleidoscope of murals, stencils, and installations by local and international artists. The nearby Brunswick Street walls feature ever-changing works.

South Brisbane and Fish Lane:
Fish Lane, running beneath the railway line between South Brisbane and West End, is home to large-scale murals, light installations, and sculptures. Nearby, the walls surrounding the Queensland Museum and the Queensland Art Gallery are often decorated with eye-catching street art.

West End:
Known for its bohemian vibes, West End is filled with art-covered alleys, quirky paste-ups, and painted shopfronts. Boundary Street and Russell Street are particularly rich with public art and colorful facades.

Spring Hill and the CBD:
Even in the heart of Brisbane’s business district, keep an eye out for hidden laneways (like Burnett Lane) and building walls featuring vibrant, Instagram-worthy murals.

Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)

About:
Located in the South Bank precinct, QAGOMA is Australia’s leading contemporary art institution. The two galleries, connected by a pedestrian bridge, house a vast collection of Australian, Asian, and Pacific art. Expect regular blockbuster exhibitions alongside permanent works.

Entry:
General admission is free. Special exhibitions range from AUD $15-30.

Opening Hours:
10am – 5pm daily.

Institute of Modern Art (IMA)

About:
Tucked away in Fortitude Valley’s Judith Wright Arts Centre, IMA presents cutting-edge exhibitions and experimental projects from emerging and established artists.

Entry:
Free.

Opening Hours:
Tuesday–Saturday, 10am – 5pm.

Museum of Brisbane

About:
Set in the iconic City Hall, the Museum of Brisbane focuses on local artists and the city’s cultural history, featuring contemporary art, design, and fascinating exhibitions about Brisbane’s evolution.

Entry:
Free.

Opening Hours:
10am – 5pm daily.

Jan Murphy Gallery & Edwina Corlette Gallery

About:
Located along Brunswick Street in Fortitude Valley, both these private galleries showcase contemporary Australian art. Expect rotating exhibitions and the chance to meet local artists at opening nights.

Entry:
Free.

Opening Hours:
Tuesday–Saturday, 10am – 5pm.

Morning:

• Start at South Bank. Visit QAGOMA, stroll along the river, and photograph the Wheel of Brisbane.
• Head to Fish Lane for coffee (AUD $5-7) at a hip café and admire the street art.

Lunch:

• Walk or take a bus to West End. Try the Davies Park Market (weekends) for local food (AUD $10-15 per meal) or stop at one of Boundary Street’s multicultural restaurants.

Afternoon:

• Explore Fortitude Valley’s laneways and art galleries. Browse Jan Murphy Gallery and IMA.
• Snap photos of murals and installations in the area.

Evening:

• Head back to the CBD, stroll through Burnett Lane, and enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of Brisbane’s trendy bistros (AUD $20-35 per main).

Accommodation:

• Budget: Selina Brisbane Hostel or Summer House Backpackers (AUD $35-55 per night, dorm bed)
• Mid-range: Ibis Styles Brisbane or The Inchcolm by Ovolo (AUD $120-180 per night, private room)
• Boutique: The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley or W Brisbane (AUD $250-400+ per night, luxury)

Book well in advance for weekends or major events, as art festivals and exhibitions can draw crowds.

Food:

• Coffee & Breakfast: John Mills Himself, Coffee Anthology, or Veneziano Coffee West End (AUD $5-15 for a coffee and pastry)
• Lunch: Asian fusion at Chop Chop Chang’s, vegan eats at The Green Edge, or pizza at Julius Pizzeria (AUD $10-20)
• Dinner: Modern Australian at Gerard’s Bistro, seafood at Jellyfish, or riverside dining at Stokehouse Q (AUD $20-45 per main)

Estimated Daily Expenses (Per Person):

• Accommodation: AUD $55 (hostel) – $400 (luxury)
• Meals: AUD $30–70 (three meals, casual to mid-range)
• Transport: AUD $10–20 (go card top-up, e-scooters, rideshare)
• Gallery admissions: Free – AUD $30 (special exhibitions)
• Coffee/snacks: AUD $10–20
• Total per day: AUD $105–540 (depends on travel style and accommodation choice)

Weather:
Brisbane is warm and sunny most of the year. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and reusable water bottle.

Safety:
The city is generally safe. Still, keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas and use common sense at night, especially in party districts.

COVID-19 Considerations:
Check local guidelines for gallery bookings or event restrictions.

Accessibility:
Most major galleries and public spaces are wheelchair accessible, but some street art sites may be in narrow or uneven laneways.

Best Time to Visit:
Autumn (March–May) and spring (September–November) offer pleasant weather and numerous arts events.

Cash or Card:
Cards are widely accepted. Keep a small amount of cash for markets or independent shops.

Final Thoughts: Brisbane as an Artistic Destination

Brisbane’s creative scene is open, welcoming, and ever-changing—perfect for travelers seeking a unique cultural experience beyond the usual tourist trail. Between the buzzing energy of Fortitude Valley, the riverside elegance of South Bank, and the quirky corners of West End, you’ll discover a city that truly wears its art on its sleeve.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, Brisbane’s street art and galleries will leave you inspired and wanting more. Take your time, keep your eyes open, and let the city’s artistry lead you through its colourful streets and into its creative soul.