Old Government House

Old Government House, a majestic sandstone building on the edge of the Brisbane River, served as the official residence of Queensland's governors from 1862 to 1910. Today, it's a beautifully restored heritage site that offers a vivid glimpse into the state's colonial past, with elegant rooms, period furnishings, and lush gardens.

Highlights & What to See

• Governor's Study and Drawing Room – Step into impeccably preserved rooms that reflect Victorian-era opulence, with original chandeliers, marble fireplaces, and grand pianos.
• Heritage Gardens – Wander through the surrounding subtropical gardens, which include a historic carriageway, mature fig trees, and a charming fernery.
• Exhibition Spaces – Explore rotating exhibitions that delve into Queensland's political and social history, often featuring artifacts from the house's heyday.
• Guided Tours – Join a free guided tour (offered on select days) to hear stories of the governors and their families, from lavish balls to political intrigue.
• Nearby Queensland University of Technology (QUT) – The house is located on the QUT Gardens Point campus, so combine your visit with a stroll through this vibrant academic precinct.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate 1 to 1.5 hours for a thorough visit, including a guided tour and time in the gardens. If you're short on time, a 30-minute self-guided walk through the main rooms is enough to appreciate the grandeur. The house is easily paired with a morning at the Queensland Museum or a riverside lunch at South Bank.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• South Bank – A short walk across the Kurilpa Bridge, this cultural precinct offers galleries, the Queensland Museum, and the man-made Streets Beach.
• Story Bridge – Walk or cycle across this iconic bridge for sweeping city views, or join a bridge climb for an adrenaline hit.
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary – A 20-minute drive south, this sanctuary lets you cuddle koalas and hand-feed kangaroos in a riverside setting.
• Queen Street Mall – Brisbane's main shopping strip is a 10-minute walk away, perfect for retail therapy and people-watching.

Please check official sources for current details.