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Customs House: A Riverside Landmark

4.6 (991)

Experience Brisbane's history and elegance at Customs House, a beautifully restored Victorian landmark offering cultural events and riverside dining.

Brisbane's Customs House, a heritage-listed building on Queen Street, is a stunning example of Victorian Free Classical architecture. Built in the late 1880s, it once served as the center for customs and excise duties and now functions as a cultural and event space for the University of Queensland, hosting exhibitions, performances, and dining experiences.

A brief summary to Customs House

  • Tuesday 10:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-9 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Customs House website for upcoming events, exhibitions, and performances.
  • Enjoy a meal at Patina at Customs House for a dining experience with river views.
  • Take a stroll along the Brisbane Riverwalk and admire Customs House from the river.
  • Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, especially if attending an event.
  • Consider using public transport or discounted parking at Wilson's Parking Riverside to avoid high parking costs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Queen Street Mall, walk north along Queen Street towards the Brisbane River. Customs House is located at the end of Queen Street, on the left before reaching the river. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Take a CityCat ferry to the Riverside Centre Ferry Terminal. From the terminal, walk north along the river boardwalk or Queen Street to Customs House, approximately a 5-minute walk. A single CityCat fare costs around $5-$7. Alternatively, several bus lines stop near Customs House, including routes 196, 210, 310, 390, and 430. Check Translink for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a taxi or ride-share service to 399 Queen Street, Brisbane City. The drop-off point is directly in front of Customs House. Expect to pay around $10-$20 for a short trip within the CBD.

  • Parking

    Limited metered street parking is available on surrounding streets. Alternatively, discounted parking is available at Wilson's Parking Riverside (123 Eagle Street). Prepurchase parking online using promo code CUSTHOUSE to access discounted rates. Weekday rates from $28.00 between 5am & 5pm, Weeknights enter after 5pm - $9.80 flat rate, Weekends flat rate of $9.80 per day. Cathedral Square Car Park (corner of Ann Street and Raff Street) is also nearby. Secure Parking at 169 Eagle Street offers night and weekend parking.

Discover more about Customs House

Brisbane's Customs House, located at 399 Queen Street, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural grandeur. Constructed between 1886 and 1889, this heritage-listed building was designed by Charles H McLay of the Queensland Colonial Architect's Office. It replaced a smaller customs house that previously stood on the site, reflecting Brisbane's growing importance as a port city.The building's Victorian Free Classical style is evident in its grand colonnades, portico, and the prominent copper dome that crowns its structure. The dome remains a focal point on the city's landscape, even amidst the surrounding high-rise buildings. Inside, the Customs House boasts elegant rooms, including the magnificent Long Room, which now serve as venues for cultural, community, and business functions. The building's design also incorporated a curved iron balustrade featuring the royal cypher of Queen Victoria. Red cedar was used extensively for the staircase, desks and counters.Originally, Customs House was the center for collecting customs and excise duties, crucial revenue sources for Queensland. Following Federation in 1901, the building was acquired by the Commonwealth government. In 1988, customs operations moved to a more modern office block. Today, the Customs House is leased to the University of Queensland and serves as a cultural hub, hosting events, exhibitions, and performances. Patina at Customs House, its restaurant, offers dining with views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge.Visitors can explore the building's history through its architecture and ongoing exhibitions. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a notable landmark in Brisbane's CBD.

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