Brisbane CBD Accommodation

Tina -The Tina Turner Musical - QPAC

Experience the inspiring life story of Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, who didn't just break the rules - she rewrote them. 

Featuring more than 20 of her iconic songs, including "Simply the Best", "River Deep - Mountain High" and "Proud Mary", this smash-hit musical is bringing Australian audiences to their feet night after night.

With critics calling it "a rock music spectacular" (Limelight) and "breathtakingly exciting" (ArtsHub), this heart-pumping production is sure to raise the roof off the Lyric Theatre! 

Plan your visit to Brisbane now! 

Queensland Performing Arts Centre from 2nd July 2024

Image -QPAC Tina - The Tina Turner Musical.

Fairy Tales - GOMA

Exclusive to Brisbane, this exhibition brings together exceptional contemporary art, breath-taking costumes, immersive installs and stunning cinema from visual storytellers around the world to untangle themes of bravery and justice, loyalty and humility, cunning and aspiration.

Across a magical threshold and beyond every, 'Fairy Tales' is this summer's enchanting exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in Brisbane with more than 100 works presented across the entire ground floor from 2 December 2023 until 28 April 2024. 'Fairy Tales' will re-tell the enduring folk stories of your childhood through the lends of contemporary artists, designers and filmmakers. A free curated film program screens alongside the exhibition in the Gallery's Australian Cinematheque with ongoing screenings of Jim Henson's The StoryTeller television series throughout the season. 

Step into the enchanting world of once upon a time. From opulent carriages to sumptuous gowns, twisted woodlands to mystical mirrors, 'Fairy Tales' at GOMA explores centuries of beloved folk stories through art, design and film.

Timed tickets are on sale now.

GOMA 2 December 2023 - 28 April 2024

Image -  Timothy Horn / Glass slipper (ugly blister) 2001 / Purchased 2002 / Collection: NGA, Canberra © Timothy Horn

Our Heritage

Our heritage-listed Manor Apartment Hotel (then the Colonial Mutual Life Building), was Brisbane’s first notable high rise, opened by his Excellency the Governor, Sir John Goodwin on 12 November, 1931, as the new Head Office of the Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society. Apart from the City Hall, this multi-storey structure was a familiar landmark and one of the tallest buildings in the city for the next fifty years. Designed by Hennessey, Hennessey & Co, it was acclaimed as a ‘monument of the construction industry’ and presented as a ‘paragon of architecture’.

Utilizing a steel framed construction, the structure features a style of sculptured ornament unique in Brisbane architecture. The Art-Deco detailing is executed in synthetic Benedict stone and based on the Romanesque style. Prominent among the projecting ornamental motifs, commonly referred to as ‘gargoyles’, are the lion, the owl and a stylised eagle. The style of the building reflects a transitional period of architecture between World War I and II when classical forms and detailing were still employed in the multi-story building format.

Later owners Queensland Newspapers (a subsidiary of News Corporation and publisher of The Courier-Mail newspaper) purchased the site in September 1983, cleaned and repaired the exterior and re-opening the building as Newspaper House on 11^th September 1985.

It wasn’t until 1994 the building was converted and fully refurbished to become The Manor Apartment Hotel. The 1930’s origins of the building still evident in the classically spacious and high-ceilinged interiors.

Enjoy Brisbane’s best located hotel, set in a charming, peaceful, heritage listed building.

The Ring Cycle - QPAC

Opera Australia bring a new production of the Ring Cycle to Brisbane in December 2023, exclusive to the Lyric Theatre. Experience an exhilarating adventure with men and maidens, gods and giants, dragons and dwarves. As greed and violence threaten to destroy the heavens and earth, a glimmer of hope rises from an unexpected source. This is Wagner's Ring Cycle - the pinnacle of opera - a 15-hour epic, over four performances. Enjoy a week in sunny Queensland and experience this striking new production featuring the memorable music of the Ring Cycle.

Book your tickets now 

Queensland Performing Arts Centre from 1st - 21st December 2023

Image -The Ring Cycle - Queensland Performing Arts Centre

City Winery Brisbane - Wine Tasting

Experience a cellar door wine experience in the heart of the CBD! Located on Edward Street in Brisbane's CBD nestled amongst international fashion brands, Hermes, Gucci, Cartier and others is City Winery pop-up cellar door. City Winery Brisbane is a working mirco-winery sourcing grapes from across Australia's key growing regions, bringing them to the city where Winemaker Dave Cush creates delicious wine. Join them to learn about how they make the wines and about the growers and vineyards from whence their grapes are sourced. 

City Winery Wine Flight is a self-guided, laid back tasting of six of City Winery's 'Gerler wines'. Their knowledgeable staff will be there to answer any winemaking or wine tasting questions. 

Wine Flight must be pre-booked please call or email hotel reception. 

Image -City Winery Brisbane 

Day Trips from Brisbane

The river city has plenty on offer. It is also the perfect place to stay and explore the stunning regions that surround the city.
Expansive National Parks, rolling countryside and a tranquil island paradise are all just a short 1.5 hour drive from your hotel room.
While you stay in Brisbane mark in a few more stops on your itinerary and set off to one or all of these Queensland gems!

Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm 

Nestled in the Fassifern Valley at Mount Alford near Boonah and only 1 hour and 30 minutes drive from Brisbane you'll find Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm. Wander the stunning lavender fields and six hectare vineyard while taking in views of the Great Dividing Range. The French and Italian Lavender varieties are designed to bloom all year-round, so the view from the cellar door and restaurant is always breathtaking.

Image : Henry Lima

North Stradbroke Island 

Within just 90 minutes (drive or train and ferry) from Brisbane is the island paradise, North Stradbroke Island. A natures lover's dream spend the day bush walking to fresh-water lakes, spotting whales from the headland and enjoying the slower paced island vibe. Known as Minjerribah to the traditional owners (the Quandamooka People), Stradbroke Island is rich with natural beauty. With an abundance of native wildlife don't miss the dolphins at  Amity Point Jetty or the kangaroos on the North Gorge Walk.

Lamington National Park 

Lace up your walking shoes this day trip promises a picture perfect day out. Only 100km from Brisbane visitors to Lamington National Park can expect powerful waterfall, lush forested mountains and walking tracks linking them all. Take the 4.4km return walk to Moran Falls, wander through subtropical rainforest to views over the falls and down to Morans Creek Gorge. Spot the figs, brush box, twisted vines and bird's next ferns along the way.

While visiting Brisbane stay at The Manor Apartment Hotel. Centrally located in Queen Street and offering a selection of room types including Queen Rooms, and self-contained 1 or 2 bedroom apartments. Enjoy a complimentary gourmet breakfast and free WiFi.

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Experience Art and Architecture at The Manor Apartment Hotel

The XXXX Brewery and Ale House

Visit the XXXX Brewery and Alehouse for a relaxed dining experience or learn more about the 140 year old brewery with a guided tour and discover how the biggest selling beer in Australia is made! You can also purchase official XXXX merchandise and brewery memorabilia.

Dining:

The XXXX Brewery Alehouse is open for lunch from 11:30am five days a week from Tuesday to Saturday. Enjoy brewery favourites including tapas, burgers, salads and a selection of mains including steaks, schnitzels, fish and chips or a chunky beef pie, then wash it all down with an icy cold XXXX.

Tours:

Be lead through 140+ years of XXXX history on this insightful tour that will teach you all about the XXXX brewing methods, top quality ingredients and more. The tour takes approximately 90 mins and concludes with a beer tasting session.  Pricing (at time of writing) - adults $32.

XXXX Memorabilia and Merchandise:

Shop for clothing, hats, accessories and of course stubbie coolers at the onsite XXXX shop.

For more information visit XXXX Brewery Alehouse. Corner Black Street and Paten Street, Milton QLD 4064.

The Manor Apartment Hotel is located centrally in Queen Street Brisbane and offers a selection of room types including Queen Rooms, and self-contained 1 or 2 bedroom apartments. Enjoy a complimentary gourmet breakfast and free WiFi.
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Things To Do In Brisbane

Stay a few days or stay a week, you will be excited, rewarded and very satisfied by the Brisbane experience at the Manor Apartment Hotel.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE

• Queen Street Shopping Mall and Edward St. with its would class high end shopping(100m)
• Over 50 outstanding restaurants & bars (100-250m)
• City Botanic Gardens (500m)
• The Brisbane River, free City Hopper ferries (250m)
• River Cat ferries (250m)
• World class events at The Queensland Performing Arts centre (QPAC) (1km)
• Queensland Art Gallery and Library(1km)
• Gallery of Modern Arts (GOMA) (1.5km)
• Southbank Parklands (1.2km)
• Kookaburra Queen paddle steamer lunch/dinner cruises (3oom)
• Outstanding Roma Street Parklands & Gardens (700m)
• Riverside Garden Markets (1km)
• Queensland Museum Southbank (1.2km)
• Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (1.2km)
• Suncorp Stadium (2km)
• The Gabba - Brisbane Cricket Ground (2km)
• XXXX Ale House and Brewery
• Treasury Casino (600m)
• Historic City Hall & Clock Tower (400m)

FOR THOSE STAYING A LITTLE LONGER, POPULAR PLACES A BIT FURTHER AWAY

• Moreton Bay and Moreton Island
• North Stradbroke Island
• Australia Zoo
• Dreamworld
• Seaworld
• Movie World
• Wet 'n' Wild
• The Gold Coast
• The Sunshine Coast

SOME GREAT IDEAS CLOSE TO TOWN

• Take a balloon ride
• Explore the rail museum
• Go sandboarding on South Stradbroke Island
• Feed the dolphins at Tangalooma
• Dine on the top of Mount Coot-tha
• Wine tasting at Sirromet winery
• Whale watching on Moreton Bay- 30 min. from the City (May to November)

For more ideas on what to do or where to go during your stay in Brisbane, please see our helpful reception staff.

WE ALSO RECOMMEND

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

The Australian Wildlife Experience. Wander through the leafy sanctuary on the banks of the Brisbane River. Encounter marsupials including platypus, Tasmanian devils and wombats. See raptors in full flight, reptiles, feed the lorikeets and hand feed a kangaroo. Enjoy daily shows by real Aussie farmers, sheep dogs and sheep shearers. They also offer hands on encounters throughout the day with koalas, snakes, birds and more! Just 12 kilometres from the Manor Apartment Hotel. You can drive, take the bus, or enjoy a boat cruise with Mirimar on the way.

Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo has a team of passionate conservationists working around-the-clock to deliver an animal experience like no other. Cuddle a koala, hand-feed Asian Elephants, walk with a Sumatran Tiger and watch a crocodile launch from the waters edge. Australia Zoo is the ultimate wildlife adventure delivering conservation through exciting education.

Free Brisbane Walking Tours

Why not explore our beautiful city of foot? You can take the time to enjoy the sights at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour with a knowledgeable local and best of all these tours and walks are FREE!

FREE GUIDED WALKS WITH BRISBANE VISITOR INFORMATION & BOOKING CENTRE
This FREE guided walk takes you to some key Brisbane sites such as
*Brisbane Arcade
*City Hall
*Treasury Casino
*Queen's Gardens
*Old State Library
*Botanic Gardens
*Old Government House
The program offers set daily tours departing from the Brisbane Visitor Information and Booking Centre, located at the old Regent Theatre, 167 Queen Street Mall, at 10:00am most days or customised tours can be booked online. It's recommended that you drop by the centre or call 07 3006 6290 to make a booking as places are limited.

Find out more about Free Guided Walks with Brisbane Visitor Centre.

BOTANIC GARDENS FREE WALKING TOUR
Learn about the plants and features of the City Botanic Gardens with this FREE gentle paced walking tour. The walk leaves Monday to Saturday from the Rotunda at 11am and 1pm. Bookings are only required for large groups. The walks are not held on Sundays or on public holidays.

BRISBANE GREETERS
Take a tour with an informed local who is passionate about their city and sharing their knowledge with visitors. There's the option to take a 'Greeters Choice' tour where they'll show you the Brisbane they love and know best. Or if you've already done a little research you can opt for a 'Your Choice' tour where you can nominate an area or up to three interests to explore.  Book your Brisbane Greeter online.

GO YOUR OWN WAY - SOUTH BANK PARKLANDS
Boasting 17 hectares of scenic Riverfront land with walking trails, expansive grassy areas, kids playgrounds, picnic areas and attractions including: the Streets Beach swimming lagoon, The Arbour, Rain Bank and the Napalese Pagoda. South Bank Parklands is the perfect place to explore at your own relaxed pace.

BRISBANE HERITAGE TRAILS
If you're interested in the history of Brisbane, there are 18 suburban heritage walking trails across Brisbane that you can choose from. Visit the Brisbane City Council website and download the trail map/s your interested in. Then you can set off and learn the stories of local suburbs, in addition there's also Aboriginal culture trails, the Reflections of the River Trail and the Kangaroo Point National History Project Trail.

Enjoy the fantastic sights and attractions of Brisbane and with the money you've saved with these Free things to do in Brisbane, you'll have some extra cash to enjoy the amazing restaurants, shopping and entertainment in Brisbane.

Accommodation with a central location is key to exploring by foot. The Manor Apartment Hotel is located in the heart of Brisbane's city centre. Offering self-contained 1 & 2 bedroom apartments or Queen Room accommodation. Your stay includes a complimentary continental breakfast to help you start the day, and FREE WiFi.
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10 Free Things To Do In Brisbane

Stretch your dollar further during your holiday to Brisbane and check out these amazing things to do in Brisbane ... and they’re all for FREE!

1. Cruise Brisbane River on a City Hopper ferry

Cruise Brisbane River for Free!

This service has been offered in Brisbane since 2012 and takes passengers on a free ride along the Brisbane River, stopping at North Quay, South Bank 3, Maritime Museum, Thornton Street, Eagle Street Pier, Holman Street, Dockside and Sydney Street Terminals. The little red boat runs every 30 minutes from 6am to midnight, seven days a week!

2. Discover Days gone by at Museum of Brisbane
Learn about the city's vibrant art, culture and history with an interesting collection of exhibitions, workshops, tours and talks. The Museum of Brisbane is located on level 3 of Brisbane City Hall and offers FREE entry and is open 7 days per week from 10am to 5pm, and 10am to 7pm Fridays. Closed on public holidays including Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day and offers reduced hours on Anzac Day of 1pm to 5pm.
As well as the free attractions, Museum of Brisbane also host special exhibitions that may be ticketed.

3. Hit the pool at Streets Beach
This unique attraction boasts a huge beach-style lagoon, lap swimming at the Boat Pool and the kids Aquativity Water park! Popular with both locals and visitors alike Streets Beach is completely man-made. The pool is supervised by lifeguards, is completely FREE to use, and even has a surf-club that’s perfect for a post swim lunch.

4. Enjoy Green Spaces and Nature in Brisbane
Pack a picnic or just take a stroll through one of Brisbane's many green spaces; Roma Street Parklands, City Botanic Gardens, Brisbane Botanic Gardens and New Farm Park are just a few of the wonderful parks in Brisbane just waiting for you to explore.

5. Walking Tours
Take a tour of the city with either a guided or self-guided Brisbane Walking Tour.  It's a great way to keep active on holiday and it's FREE!  Check out our Brisbane Walking Tours blog for more information.

6. Get Arty at QAGOMA
The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art offer world-class art exhibitions that are usually FREE to enter.  The Galleries are open daily from 10am to 5pm (open from noon on Anzac Day. Closed Christmas, Boxing Day and Good Friday.)
We suggest checking their website prior to your visit to see what’s on.

7. City Hall Tours
Tour the heritage-listed Brisbane City Hall with a FREE tour up the old clock tower! These tours take you up in the original lift of this beautiful building which was built between 1920 and 1930. Tours run every 15 minutes during opening hours. It’s recommended to arrive early to avoid disappointment, particularly during school holidays and public holidays.

8. Watch the Sunrise over the City or River
Get up early can be a struggle. But we think the reward is well worth the effort! Head to one of the great vantage points such as Mt Coot-tha or the Kangaroo Point cliffs for stunning views over the city as the sun comes up ~ or sets if getting up really isn’t your thing.

9. Take a Scenic Drive
From sea to hinterland there's loads to see no matter which direction you take from Brisbane!  Head south to the Gold Coast and check out the beautiful beaches and famous attractions, to the beauty of the Sunshine Coast in the north, or perhaps explore the stunning Scenic Rim. The choices are endless.

10. Local Markets
Brisbane is a great city to visit if you love checking out local markets! From the amazing food at Eat Street Northshore to the iconic Collective Markets in Southbank. You’re sure to find a Brisbane Market you’ll love.

Just a 30 minute drive from your accommodation at The Manor Apartment Hotel you'll find Daisy Hill Koala Centre where you can see Koalas in their natural habitat and enjoy informative talks. Admission is FREE. The Daisy Hill Koala Centre is open daily from 9am to 4pm (closed Christmas, New Years Day and Good Friday). While you are there chec

The Manor Apartment Hotel is located in the heart of Brisbane's city centre. Offering self-contained 1 & 2 bedroom apartments or Queen Room accommodation. Your stay includes a complimentary European style continental breakfast to help you start the day, and FREE wifi.
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*information above correct at time of publication. Check with individual attractions for up to date information and changes.

Brisbane CBD Crime Tour

Behind the modern facade discover the dark heart of the capital of the Sunshine State. Walk three city blocks through two centuries of Brisbane's criminal history on a 1.5 hour guided tour and visit real true crime scenes, including the Mad Butcher of Queen Street....

This is the True Crime Tour to begin with - Brisbane's original and best - operating since 1998.

Adults: $35

Concession $30

*Prices at the time of writing 

The tour is held Wednesday - Sunday. Starting at 7:30pm  For further information visit Crime Tours Australia.

Crime Tours Australia also run several other tours visiting infamous crime scenes as well as cemeteries and Boggo Road Gaol.

Book your Brisbane accommodation staying at the boutique four-star Manor Apartment Hotel, located in the heart of Brisbane.

Howard Smith Wharves

The newly opened lifestyle and entertainment destination at Howard Smith Wharves is now open! Originally built back in the 1930s this historic space, beneath the Story Bridge, has been reinvigorated with a waterfront entertainment and dining area that is the perfect setting to eat, drink and play.

Enjoy a bite to eat or relaxed drink while you take in the beautiful Brisbane river views.

Howard Smith Wharves Dining & Bars:

Mr Percival’s - Overwater Bar where you can unwind on the sun filled deck with a glass of champers in hand and snack of Apertivo-style bar snacks. Open from 11am until late daily.

Greca Restaurant - Experience Mediterranean style hospitality and fare at this contemporary Greek Taverna by Jonathan Barthelmess. Open daily from 12pm until late.

Felons Brewing Co. - Enjoy a freshly brewed beer with a view and fish wholesome, home-style food. Family-friendly, it’s a great place to relax and take in the city views. Open 11am until late daily.

ARC Dining & Wine Bar - if you’re looking for a date night or lunch out with friends, the sophisticated ARC Dining and Wine Bar might be just what you’re looking for.

Fish N Chippery  - Old school never tasted so good. This traditional fish n’ chip shop severs the finest seafood in a relaxed setting located next to the Felons Lawn at the back of the brewery. Bring a picnic rug and enjoy take away fish and chips at their finest.

Planning a function? Howard Smith Wharf is also an event venue catering to weddings, parties, conferences, exhibitions, meetings, cocktails parties, etc.

What’s On? Be sure to check out the upcoming events at Howard Smith Wharf - from yoga, to festivals and family picnics there’s usually something coming up.

Howard Smith Wharves are located just a 15 minute (1km) walk from The Manor Apartment Hotel.

For more information visit Howard Smith Wharves.

The Manor Apartment Hotel is located in the heart of Brisbane's city centre. Offering self-contained 1 & 2 bedroom apartments or Queen Room accommodation. Your stay includes a complimentary continental breakfast to help you start the day, and FREE wifi. It's the perfect option for both families and couples.

Book your Accommodation in Brisbane here.