Photo of Brisbane Powerhouse in Queensland1 / 3
Cinemas

Brisbane Powerhouse

πŸ“ New Farm, QLD

β˜…4.6(5,332 Google reviews)πŸ’°$79.90πŸ‘ΆAll ages

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.

βœ“ Unique architectureβœ“ Riverside locationβœ“ Cultural eventsβœ“ Outdoor cinemaβœ“ Art installationsβœ“ Vibrant atmosphere
β€œ
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by Rei Lin

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: It’s 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!

πŸ† 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.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘Check the events calendar before visiting β€” the venue is most engaging during festival periods
⏰Free parking is available at New Farm Park next door
🎟️Combine with New Farm Park for younger children who need open space to run
πŸš—The outdoor cinema uses Adirondack chairs β€” arrive early for good seating

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
4.6
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

5,332 Google reviews

Distinctive industrial architecture40%
Riverside atmosphere and setting30%
Art installations and cultural events20%
Food and bar options10%
R

Rei Lin

a month ago

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

β€œLocated 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: It’s 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!”

L

Lesley Johnson

2 months ago

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β€œBrisbane Powerhouse is a fantastic place to visit. The old industrial building has been beautifully transformed into a lively, creative space with a great atmosphere. There’s 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.”

S

S Choi

5 months ago

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β€œAn 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).”

C

C K

4 months ago

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β€œI 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.”

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.

πŸ• Opening Hours

Monday09:00 – 18:00
Tuesday09:00 – 17:00
Wednesday09:00 – 17:00
Thursday09:00 – 21:30
Friday09:00 – 21:30
Saturday09:00 – 21:30
Sunday09:00 – 21:30

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