Brisbane Powerhouse

Brisbane Powerhouse occupies the former New Farm Power Station on a bend of the Brisbane River. The first stage was built in 1927 and 1928 to help supply electricity for the city's trams, and it began operating in 1928 as Brisbane's first council-run power station. It was decommissioned in 1971 and stood derelict for years before being renovated and reopened as an arts and entertainment venue in May 2000.

The conversion kept much of the industrial character. The building still has its boiler house, switch house and turbine room, and features such as a gantry crane, an old switch and graffiti from its derelict years have been left in place. Performances take place in the 536-seat Powerhouse Theatre, the 200-seat Visy Theatre and the large Turbine Hall, and there are outdoor spaces including a plaza and a rooftop terrace.

The Powerhouse describes itself as Queensland's home for contemporary culture, and its programme spans performance, music and visual art, along with festivals such as MELT and the OHM Festival of Other Music. Some exhibitions are free to visit, so it is worth calling in even if you do not have a show ticket. The Powerhouse Farmers Markets run on the site for much of the year and are free to enter; check the website for current dates and times.

Eating and drinking are part of the experience. Mary Mae's offers all-day dining with river views, Bar Alto is also part of the venue, and Vertigo is a restaurant with city views. The building is open from 9am until late every day, and the reception desk operates on weekdays from 9am to 5pm. Note that the venue is cashless, so bring a card or phone.

The Powerhouse suits culture lovers, couples looking for a night out combining dinner and a performance, and families visiting the markets. It sits next to New Farm Park, which makes it easy to pair with a riverside walk or a picnic. The New Farm Park ferry terminal, at the end of Brunswick Street, is about 440 metres away through the park, so arriving by CityCat from South Bank or the CBD is a pleasant option. Bus routes 196 and 199 stop within walking distance, the New Farm Park car park has 200 free spaces, and the venue's own car park on Lamington Street is paid. Parking is limited, so arrive early before a performance or dinner booking.