Brisbetter Days Out: Brisbane Powerhouse #BrisbetterHead to a power station fuelled by culture and spend a day at Brisbane Powerhouse. This is Brisbetter – and it’s right here, right now.
Posted by Brisbane City Council on Thursday, November 26, 2020
Central
Brisbane Powerhouse: a power station fuelled by culture
Nestled on the riverbank, Brisbane Powerhouse is one of Brisbane’s distinct landmarks. A cultural icon, it’s both a stunning industrial creation and a dynamic space for exhibitions, contemporary performances and live music for all ages.
Maybe you’ve been to Brisbane Powerhouse and think you’ve seen everything there is to see. Impossible! Brisbane’s celebrated cultural precinct has a packed year-round program of shows and events – and there’s more to this historic building than its industrial red-brick facade.
1. Book your next night out
A hub for theatre, music, comedy, film, and visual arts, there’s always something to see at Brisbane Powerhouse. Planning a night out, date night, or just craving some live entertainment? Choose from a yearly program full of comedy, theatre, cabaret and live music events. View the current what's on program.
2. Eat, drink and be Mary
Looking for a place for a special celebration, a lazy long lunch or sunset drinks? Escape the noise and hustle of the city and dine riverside at Brisbane Powerhouse. Begin with drinks at Bar Alto, overlooking the Brisbane River, then move into Mary Mae’s Bar & Kitchen - cue uninterrupted river views, sun-drenched terraces, and an all-day dining menu!
3. Find things to do with kids
Brisbane Powerhouse doesn’t just cater to grown-ups — it’s also a hub of entertainment for kids. If your little one has a love for dance then Storytime Ballet (19-22 January 2023) is the show for them. This event includes a one-hour narration of The Sleeping Beauty that will have kids dancing in their seats.
4. Walk in the steps of history
Brisbane Powerhouse was constructed in stages between 1928 and 1940 and once supported the largest tram network in the southern hemisphere. After its decommission in 1971, the building became a haven for the homeless, performers, and graffiti artists, whose artwork is now known as heritage-listed aerosol art.
Join a behind-the-scenes guided tour to trace the building’s unique history and venture backstage – an area normally reserved for performers and staff.
5. Shop 'til you drop at the markets
Every Saturday morning, from 6am to 12 noon, the Jan Powers Farmers Markets brings the freshest produce to the Brisbane Powerhouse forecourt. Kickstart your weekend with a quality coffee or fruity smoothie and a loaded bagel or gluten-free treat. Wander the 100-plus stalls and stock up on fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and more bought straight from the growers and makers. Can’t wait to get home to eat? Head over to New Farm Park for a picnic!
If you're more of a night owl, get ready for the month-long Hap Wah Night Market in the Powerhouse's forecourt in March and October 2023. The market will be the ultimate destination for foodies.
More Brisbetter day out inspiration
Check out our other Brisbetter Days Out articles, videos and itineraries for more fabulous ideas.
If you've liked this article, you might also like:
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- Queen Street Mall | Brisbane's iconic shopping strip
** This article was updated in November 2022.**
Editor's note: The featured content in Brisbane Explore is created to inspire residents and visitors to plan a day out exploring Brisbane and to buy local as part of the city's Economic Recovery Plan. Brisbane City Council disclaims any relationship with, or endorsement of, businesses featured in this video.
We will continue to add more places that make Brisbane great as we grow our Brisbane Explore experience. Come back regularly to check for new and updated content and don't forget to share your favourite places on Instagram using #Brisbetter!
Nearby events
Fri 24 Mar 2023, 4:30pm
Free
Staged at the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse, Night Feast is a month-long sensory celebration of feasting and art. Set within a temporary village of Queensland...
Sat 25 Mar 2023, 4:30pm
Free
Staged at the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse, Night Feast is a month-long sensory celebration of feasting and art. Set within a temporary village of Queensland...
Sun 26 Mar 2023, 4:30pm
Free
Staged at the iconic Brisbane Powerhouse, Night Feast is a month-long sensory celebration of feasting and art. Set within a temporary village of Queensland...
Sat 25 Mar 2023, 6:00am
A melting pot of farmers and foodies, stallholders and shoppers all with a deep love for fresh, seasonal and locally-sourced food. Jan Powers Farmers Markets...