1 / 3Brisbane Powerhouse
π New Farm, QLD
Heritage industrial building on the Brisbane River transformed into a multi-arts venue with outdoor cinema, theatre, comedy festivals, and changing art installations. The Swingers installation combines interactive art with an activity.
Located right next to New Farm Park, the Brisbane Powerhouse is an absolute must-visit for anyone who appreciates unique architecture and vibrant art. Captivating Heavy Industrial Vibe: The exterior proudly displays its rugged red brick and brutalist concrete origins, beautifully contrasted with modern glass elevator additions. Stepping inside is even more impressive. The massive exposed steel beams, high corrugated iron ceilings, and weathered brick walls perfectly preserve the industrial soul of the former power station. The multi-level catwalks make exploring the interior an absolute joy. Expressive Street Art: The surroundings of the building serve as a fantastic open-air gallery. From the intricate graffiti along the riverside walkway to the massive, striking mural of a deep-sea diver and skeletal fish on the brick facade, the street art injects a raw, energetic subculture vibe into the historic site. Dynamic Entertainment Spaces: Itβs a thriving cultural venue hosting indoor theater performances (spotted a lively poster for Countess Luann!). The outdoor lawn even features a fantastic setup with Adirondack chairs for an open-air cinema. Catching a show in such an atmospheric place would be an unforgettable experience. Combining hardcore industrial aesthetics with forward-thinking art, the Powerhouse is undeniably one of the most distinctive and stylish spots in Brisbane!
π Family Action Verdict
Best for families with older children and teens who appreciate arts, architecture, and cultural events rather than structured kids activities. The riverside setting and industrial aesthetic reward curiosity.
βΉοΈ What to Know Before You Go
π¬ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews β5,332 Google reviews
Rei Lin
a month ago
βLocated right next to New Farm Park, the Brisbane Powerhouse is an absolute must-visit for anyone who appreciates unique architecture and vibrant art. Captivating Heavy Industrial Vibe: The exterior proudly displays its rugged red brick and brutalist concrete origins, beautifully contrasted with modern glass elevator additions. Stepping inside is even more impressive. The massive exposed steel beams, high corrugated iron ceilings, and weathered brick walls perfectly preserve the industrial soul of the former power station. The multi-level catwalks make exploring the interior an absolute joy. Expressive Street Art: The surroundings of the building serve as a fantastic open-air gallery. From the intricate graffiti along the riverside walkway to the massive, striking mural of a deep-sea diver and skeletal fish on the brick facade, the street art injects a raw, energetic subculture vibe into the historic site. Dynamic Entertainment Spaces: Itβs a thriving cultural venue hosting indoor theater performances (spotted a lively poster for Countess Luann!). The outdoor lawn even features a fantastic setup with Adirondack chairs for an open-air cinema. Catching a show in such an atmospheric place would be an unforgettable experience. Combining hardcore industrial aesthetics with forward-thinking art, the Powerhouse is undeniably one of the most distinctive and stylish spots in Brisbane!β
Lesley Johnson
2 months ago
βBrisbane Powerhouse is a fantastic place to visit. The old industrial building has been beautifully transformed into a lively, creative space with a great atmosphere. Thereβs a real buzz about it, and the riverside setting makes it even better. It feels welcoming, inspiring, and full of interesting things to explore. A really enjoyable visit today.β
S Choi
5 months ago
βAn interesting, non-traditional conference venue with stunning river view, well-preserved historic building, catering services, Cafe, bar and plentiful on site paid parking and free parking (at the nearby new farm park).β
C K
4 months ago
βI had a great time visiting the last day of Night Feast. The installations inside Powerhouse are fascinating, and the view of the city at night is simply stunning.β
Reviews from Google
Overview
Brisbane Powerhouse occupies a 1928 power station with exposed red brick, brutalist concrete, and industrial catwalks intact. The venue hosts Dendy outdoor cinema, comedy festivals, theatre productions, and rotating large-scale art installations β the Swingers piece is a recurring highlight. Mary Mae restaurant and bar occupy the riverside terrace. Multiple levels and catwalks make the building itself an attraction. Paid on-site parking plus free parking at adjacent New Farm Park.




