QUEENSLAND MUSEUM (KURILPA)

Where Queensland’s History Comes To Life 

A visit to Queensland Museum Kurilpa is an enthralling adventure back in time that ignites your curiosity and leaves you in awe, as you explore the past and imagine the future.

Here history comes to life through cutting-edge technology, interactive displays, and a carefully curated selection of permanent and changing exhibitions that evoke a sense of wow and wonder with every visit. 

Embark on a fascinating journey through history, as you are introduced to fearsome prehistoric predators, rich ancient cultures and the breathtaking biodiversity that has shaped the evolution of the great state of Queensland. There’s so much to discover! Explore the astounding array of collections and exhibitions with the museum’s curated program of talks, workshops and events, or unearth wonders of the past at your own pace through self-guided discovery. 

Whatever your age or ability, you’re sure to find something here to ignite your interest! Learn about Queensland’s prehistoric past and supersized megafauna at the Dinosaurs Unearthed exhibit; be moved by tales of heroism and courage at the ANZAC Legacy Gallery; or come face to face with some of the state’s most unusual creepy-crawlies in Wild State and Discovery Centre. Young and inquisitive minds will delight in their newfound knowledge at SparkLab – an interactive STEM space, featuring brain-bending interactive exhibits and a dedicated Maker Space to unleash their creativity and put learning into action. No wonder Queensland Museum Kurilpa is one of Australia’s most visited museums, with over 2 million visitors flocking here each year.

Queensland Museum Kurilpa is open daily from 9:30am to 5pm with free entry. Please note that SparkLab, some exhibitions and events have an entry fee and tickets can be purchased online.

Stay curious and make learning fun at the ever-evolving Queensland Museum Kurilpa.

Orientation to the Museum 

Before you head out to explore the museum’s many treasures, here’s a quick orientation to help you get your bearings. 

The museum’s galleries are spread over four levels, from Level 1 to Level 4 inclusive. Those entering off Grey Street will enter on Level 0 via automated sliding glass doors. On this level you’ll discover an information desk directly ahead on entry, and the Dinosaur Garden breakout area to your left– the perfect place for kids to run off excess energy during their museum visit. 

The main museum entrance and ticketing area is located on Level 2. This is an ideal place to begin your exploration, with free entry to all exhibitions on this level. Here you’ll find the ever-popular Dinosaurs Unearthed permanent exhibition, along with Café Muse, the gift shop and an exciting mix of temporary exhibitions that change at least once a year. 

Level 1 invites you to ignite your curiosity by purchasing a ticket to the much-loved SparkLab, where you can explore more than 40 hands-on exhibits curated for young and inquisitive minds. This level is also home to the ANZAC Legacy Gallery – a moving testament to Queensland troops involvement and sacrifice during World War I. 

Level 3 features an ever-evolving schedule of temporary, ticketed exhibitions, while Level 4 is home to two more permanent galleries of Queensland’s extraordinary biodiversity – including Wild State and the Discovery Centre perched side-by-side.

Queensland Museum Kurilpa features three main entrances – one off Grey Street on Level 0, one on Level 1 (from the Cultural Centre Bus Station and South Brisbane Railway Station) and the main one on Level 2 (accessed via the lift from the car park and the pedestrian overpass). There is also an entrance from the Café on Level 2.

For the purposes of this audio guide, we will be focusing on the museum’s permanent exhibitions, starting at the main foyer entrance on Level 2.

Making An Entrance – Level 2 

As you arrive on Level 2, you will enter an expansive foyer with high ceilings and an impressive floor-to-ceiling glass frontage that filters in natural light. The entrance exudes a bright, contemporary feel that beckons you beyond the ticket desk, to a wonderous world of discovery.

In this main foyer area, you’ll find the ticketing desk, where you can purchase admission to paid exhibitions, SparkLab and events, if you’ve not already done so online. Here you’ll also find the cloakroom, visitor information desk and the gift shop. 

All galleries on Level 2 are free to explore at your leisure. As you enter the main corridor, you’ll come to two exhibition spaces containing changing exhibitions expertly curated by Queensland Museum staff. These galleries are refreshed every 6 to 9 months, making every visit brim with new and exciting discoveries.

On the left-hand side of the corridor, you’ll find some intriguing permanent displays. The first is a replica of a mound of termites. Interpretive signage describes how termites find safety in numbers, and how their mounds provide protection and ideal living conditions for the colony. Much like in any family or community, each termite has an important role to play – from the queen and king to the soldier and worker.

A little further along on the left, housed within a massive glass cabinet, is a giant squid at least five metres in length. Did you know that Giant Squid can grow up to 14 to 15 metres long, and weigh up to 400 kilograms? While there’s still much to learn about these deepwater dwellers, you may be interested to know that giant squid have the largest eyes of any animal species, with a diameter of up to 30 centimetres. 

Dinosaurs Unearthed – Level 2 

At the end of the corridor, you’ll arrive at Dinosaurs Unearthed. Get set for a roaring adventure as you discover Queensland’s own dinosaurs, giant marine reptiles, and supersized megafauna that once inhabited this ancient land and inland sea. This rich fossil record dates back some 250 million years, spanning the prehistoric Jurassic, Cretaceous and Triassic periods. 

As you enter, you may notice the prehistoric sounds of ancient animals, and the commanding presence of a replica Muttaburrasaurus standing in the centre of the room. This very large herbivore was one of Queensland’s first dinosaur discoveries and is now the official fossil emblem of the state. This enormous model ‘Mutt’ (as it’s affectionately known) measures over five metres in length. It stands on two sturdy hind legs, with slender arms extending from its body. It’s long neck and tail add to its streamlined appearance.

You’ll also have the opportunity to come face to face with Queensland’s own ‘velociraptor’ Australovenator and to measure up against mighty Megalania, the world’s largest lizard. Dig a little deeper into Queensland’s prehistoric wonders through audio-visual touch screen presentations, cutting-edge palaeo technology and ground-breaking research from the museum’s very own scientists. 

At the back right corner of the exhibition, next to the Café Muse entrance, you’ll enter a replica of an ancient rainforest habitat. Dappled light filters through an artificial leaf canopy, and the space is filled with the sounds of ancient rainforest inhabitants. Some of these sounds, particularly those of our avian (bird) friends, sound surprisingly familiar. Further along, you’ll encounter some jaw-dropping native Aussie megafauna, such as enormous tree-dwelling marsupials, towering kangaroos and giant wombats. 

As you exit, take a moment to absorb the stories of the traditional custodians who lived on the lands where these fossils were found. 

This immersive, multi-sensory exploration of our ancient past is sure to leave you in awe!

SparkLab – Level 1 

If you’re visiting the museum in the company of young explorers, you won’t want to miss paying a visit to SparkLab on Level 1. In this state-of-the-art and highly interactive STEM space, curious minds are invited to make their own incredible discoveries as they ponder, wonder and play their way through over 40 hands-on exhibits exploring science, technology, engineering and maths. 

This multi-sensory space will ignite imagination and fuel curiosity and creativity, as the next generation of scientists explore the wonder of our everyday world – from how it works, to how we perceive it, and ultimately, how we can create change within it. Get hands-on as you design, build and create solutions to solve challenges in the Maker Space, and witness live experiments in the Science Bar. 

The SparkLab is a truly immersive space where you can explore and discover with all your senses. Be sure to check out the ‘thong-a-phone’ room, where you can experiment with pitch production and create your own tunes using a humble Aussie thong and a series of rainbow-coloured pipes. Unleash your inner ‘superpowers’ as you attract energy using the plasma ball, or discover how the moon orbits the earth. 

You are welcome to explore this space in any way you choose and at your own leisure. Please note that lighting varies significantly throughout this exhibit, with a lot of sensory stimuli providing an immersive and engaging experience. Staff are on-hand at the SparkLab entrance to provide additional information if required. The Maker Space is overseen by museum staff who can assist children in their creative problem-solving projects. Seating is available within the Maker Space for the comfort of parents and caregivers. 

SparkLab is designed to be a fun and engaging learning experience ideal for 6- to 13-year-olds. 

ANZAC Legacy Gallery – Level 1 

Also on Level 1 you’ll find the ANZAC Legacy Gallery, where you’ll uncover the stories, objects and journeys that trace how the First World War changed the face of Queensland. 

Be moved by the heart-wrenching tales of Queensland’s brave troops who fought on the front line during this global conflict, in which nearly 58,000 Queenslanders enlisted and more than ten times as many civilians supported their war efforts back home. This exhibition is a fitting testament to the courage and bravery of these men and women, whose sacrifice will not be forgotten.

A central feature of the ANZAC Legacy Gallery is the hulking mass of ‘Mephisto’, a German army tank that was engaged in active combat on the battlefields of France in World War I, before being recovered and brought back to Australia as a war trophy. With a length of eight metres, a carrying capacity of 18 crew and a weight of 33.4 tonnes, ‘Mephisto’ was a menacing weapon of war in its time. This tank is believed to be the sole survivor of its kind in the world and has a longstanding association with Brisbane and Queensland Museum. Legend has it that getting ‘Mephisto’ inside this gallery involved an extremely tight, middle-of-the-night manoeuvring, with the space of just five ANZAC biscuits on either side on entry. 

Within the gallery, you can uncover the hidden details of the tank, take a virtual tour inside, and explore a range of interactive displays that reveal the combat history and technology that powered its operation. You’ll also have the opportunity to peruse other objects of war and unearth the stories of families and loved ones that highlight the human cost of conflict, through a mix of written materials and audio-visual displays.

Lest we forget.

Wild State and Discovery Centre – Level 4 

Up on Level 4 you’ll discover two permanent galleries that are sure to educate and enlighten visitors of all ages.

Wild State, located almost adjacent to the lifts on Level 4, showcases Queensland’s vast array of unique animals and habitats, appealing to the animal enthusiast in all of us. Queensland boasts astounding biodiversity, with more animal species than anywhere else in Australia. It is also one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth! From our rugged outback to our pristine coastline and the oceans beyond, Queensland is defined by its distinctive environments and animals that are as rare and unusual as they are captivating. Wild State invites you to explore five of our state’s beautiful yet fragile environments including the arid outback, open forests, tropical rainforests, sundrenched coastal zones and marine habitats. As you explore, you’ll learn fascinating facts about the diverse fauna that call each habitat home. Even a quick tour of this enchanting exhibition will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the beauty of diversity – in all its slithery, slimy, furred or feathered forms.

A little further along the corridor on your right is the Discovery Centre, where you can chat with some very knowledgeable staff, explore more than 1,300 objects from Queensland Museum’s collection and check out some live specimens.

Get up close to our resident live snakes, stick insects and giant cockroaches – they’re sure to provoke a reaction! The staff behind the desk cover many areas of expertise and are the heart of the museum’s inquiry service. One of their main jobs is to answer any questions you may have about objects in the collection, or things you have found in Queensland and would like identified.

Learning is a life-long pursuit at the interactive Discovery Centre. 

Café Muse and Gift Shop – Level 2 

If all this exploring has left you with a dinosaur-sized appetite (or the need for refreshment and a rest) head on down to Café Muse at the rear of the Dinosaurs Unearthed exhibition on Level 2. 

As the automatic sliding doors glide open, you will be greeted by the (usually) quieter ambience of the café, a pleasant reprieve from the noisy excitement outside. The heavenly scent of invigorating coffee wafts in the air, as you peruse the menu of light snacks, casual meals and take-away options. The café features both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to find your own space to recharge. Café Muse is open for breakfast, lunch and throughout the day seven days a week for your convenience. 

Before you leave Queensland Museum Kurilpa, be sure to pop by the gift shop near the exit on Level 2 to check out the incredible range of unique products on offer. The shop features gifts and mementos for all ages, from dino-themed toys to hand-crafted jewellery. They stock an extensive collection of books, educational games and unique homewares, including Australian brands and beautiful products crafted by First Nation makers.  

Accessibility 

Queensland Museum Kurilpa is located at the Queensland Cultural Centre, in the heart of the South Bank precinct, on the corner of Grey and Melbourne Streets. It is easily accessed via public transport, with South Brisbane Railway Station, the Cultural Centre Busway Station and South Bank CityCat and ferry terminals all within walking distance. 

Alternatively, parking (including accessible parking) is available on the lower level of the Queensland Cultural Centre car park (P2) underneath the museum. Lifts are available from the car park to the main museum entrance on Level 2. A temporary set-down area is available on Grey Street, offering convenient and level access to the Level 0 museum entry.  

Queensland Museum Kurilpa recognises the Queensland Government’s Companion Card program, offering free entry to carers assisting registered cardholders. Museum staff have received disability awareness training, and warmly welcome all visitors. 

The museum is wheelchair accessible, with wide corridors and plenty of space to manoeuvre. You can borrow a wheelchair for use within the museum from the Cloakroom on Level 2. They are free of charge and subject to availability. There are accessible bathroom facilities on Level 0 and Level 2 of the museum, as well as in Café Muse and SparkLab. A fold-down change table is available in the toilets on Level 1 and in SparkLab. Seating is provided throughout the museum for the comfort of visitors.

Two lifts service all floors within the museum. These lifts feature buttons with braille and audible announcements. Please note that elevator doors open on alternating sides. 

Queensland Museum Kurilpa welcomes service dogs, however in the interest of a safe and healthy visit for all guests and the protection of our state’s historical collection, please leave all other animals at home. Grassy areas suitable for the toileting of service dogs are available at Sisters Green, accessible via the Level 1 entry doors. You can request large print guides and a map for exhibitions from the Cloakroom, or download from the museum’s website. Café Muse offers larger print menus for your convenience

Please note that lighting varies significantly throughout the exhibition spaces, especially within SparkLab. SparkLab also contains exhibits that have high voltage causing a strong electromagnetic field and flashing lights that may affect some medical conditions. If you have a pacemaker, or sensory sensitivities, it is recommended that you talk with a staff member. 

The Cloakroom desk and Theatre on Level 2, and Entry Desk on Level 0 are equipped with induction loops that transmit directly to hearing aids with T-coils. Noise cancelling headphones and sensory kits are also available at the Cloakroom on Level 2 and SparkLab entry on Level 1. Most audio-visual displays and touch screens include both audio narration and closed captioning. Museum Highlights Tours have headsets and hearing loops available, and Auslan interpreted Museum Highlights Tours and sensory sessions are regularly programmed. Please visit the ‘What’s On’ tab of the museum’s website for the latest offerings. Please note that Queensland Museum Kurilpa is usually quieter between 2pm and 4pm on school days.

For a comprehensive summary of all accessibility features please visit Queensland Museum Kurilpa’s website and navigate to the accessibility page under the ‘Plan Your Visit’ tab. 

We look forward to welcoming you soon.