If you haven't been to HOTA you’re missing out! HOTA (Home of the Arts) is the Gold Coast’s cultural hub - a buzzing precinct where the arts are celebrated in every form. The world-class HOTA Gallery is the bold centerpiece, but there’s so much more to discover, experience and enjoy. And the best bit - a lot of it is completely free!
Whether you want to enjoy a day in nature, visit the farmers market, catch a comedy show or see a gig at the incredible outdoor stage, HOTA has some surprises in store.
If you love live music…
If you live music then you’re going to love the huge variety of gigs that happen at HOTA. From local artists performing at Fridays on the Lawn and intimate gigs in the Lakeside Room and jazz bands, to symphony orchestras and international acts on the Outdoor Stage HOTA has it all. A live gig at the Outdoor Stage is a spectacular Gold Coast experience with a stunning view of the Surfers skyline as backdrop and the joy of dancing under the stars.
If you like being on (or in!) the water…
HOTA sits on the banks of the Nerang River one of the most scenic and hassle free ways to access the precinct is via the HOPO Ferry. With stops at Sea World, Broadwater Parklands, Marina Mirage, Surfers Paradise and HOTA, it’s not only a great way to travel but an excellent way to sightsee on a leisurely river cruise.
Evandale Lake is the centre-piece of the surrounding parklands. The calm swimming spot is a great place to stand up paddle board, kayak or splash around with inflatable toys. It’s a welcome way to cool off on hot days, there are showers and bathrooms conveniently close by.
If you have kids…
The next generation of creatives is in safe hands at HOTA. The Children’s Gallery on Level 1 has a rotating roster of interactive exhibitions where kids can get hands on with culture. From storytelling to fairy tales, arts and crafts, little ones can explore the world of art in a safe, inclusive space.
HOTA’s holiday programs like Artcation and Kids Take over are always popular with free and ticketed workshops and awesome activities to keep kids engaged and inspired. At the HOTA theatre, children will be thrilled by incredible family friendly productions encompassing comedy, circus, dance and drama.
If you love spending time in nature…
The HOTA precinct is nestled with the shady, green surrounds of Evandale Parklands with a serene lake in the middle. It’s a relaxing natural oasis where you can lay out a picnic for a lazy afternoon, make use of the BBQ facilities, go for swim, or take a stroll around the grounds. A fun way to explore is to follow the Sculpture Walk which weaves through the park and along the banks of the river. Download the free map here.
If you're a foodie…
There’s a wonderland of food, flavours, fresh produce and fine dining found within the HOTA precinct, and whether you prefer a five-course gourmet with wine pairings or a haul of fresh local produce, your tastes are catered for.
Found on the Ground Floor of the Gallery, Palette is HOTA’s fine dining restaurant where you’ll find masterpieces of the culinary kind. Boasting three Chefs hats, Palette delivers a unique foodie experience where dishes take inspiration from current exhibitions in the gallery. Treat yourself to a tasting menu with wine pairings (vegetarian options available) or dine a la carte and savour the incredible flavours, creative flair and artistic presentation that Execute Chef, Dayan Hartill-Law, and his team whip up in the kitchen. Visit on Sundays for an exquisite high tea.
The HOTA Farmers and Artisan Markets are held every Sunday beside Evandale Lakes from 6 - 11.30am. Browse stalls of in-season, fresh produce from local farmers, makers, bakers and growers. Fill your basket, then fill your belly as you relax in the shade, listening to live tunes and munching on delicious breakfast fare from a variety of food vendors.
Raising the rooftop with a specialty cocktail and champagne menu and fabulous food designed to share, The Exhibitionist bar is perched atop the Gallery on Level 5 with stunning views in every direction. Snack on share plates and sip creatively cocktails inspired by the artworks and themes of exhibitions on display in the Gallery below.
For casual dining, morning coffee, a lazy lunch or drinks at sunset, HOTA Cafe serves up a selection of salads, sandwiches, pastries, bowls, burgers and more. With alfresco seating it’s the perfect spot for a cheeky vino before a performance or movie.
If you love culture and the arts…
You can experience arts and culture in every imaginable way at this creative place, from visual art exhibitions spanning the classics to pop culture, world-class theatre productions and musicals, ballet, contemporary dance, circus, comedy, festivals, comedy, movies, immersive installations, artist talks and more.
If you love the movies and TV…
The ACCTA Festival is an annual event celebrating Australian film, television, and pop culture. A major event for the screen industry and fans of the big and small screen, the five-day program is packed with interactive workshops, meet-and-greets, music showcases, masterclasses with renowned filmmakers, outdoor screenings (including short film festival SIPfest) and a variety of family-friendly activities. In 2025 the ACCTA Festival takes place from February 5 - 9. Don’t miss it!
If you like getting active…
For fitness enthusiasts, the Evandale Parklands is a picturesque place for a run or a walk - to increase your distance, head over the Green Bridge which connects the HOTA precinct to Chevron Island for pedestrians and cyclists. There are a number of free exercise equipment stations along the route too.
Climb the sandstone stairs at the back of the Outdoor Stage to discover the Adventure Trail to a hidden oasis with a stunning outlook. You’ll be rewarded with a birds eye view of the precinct, river, Surfers skyline and the ocean in the distance. It’s well worth the climb!
If you have a disability…
HOTA is an inclusive space for all to enjoy and many measures have been put in place to make it accessible for people with disabilities. For neurodiverse visitors, HOTA Gallery hosts Quiet Hour on the first Saturday of every month from 9 - 10am ensuring a quiet, calm environment. On the first Wednesday of each month, HOTA holds a and ADHD Expert Panel Discussion and Q&A session.
Some exhibitions and programs have audio described tours for visual impairment and Auslan interpreted tours for those with hearing impairment. The grounds and Gallery at HOTA have wheelchair accessible parking, lifts and entrances. There are accessible toilets and a Changing Places facility, and designated spots at the Outdoor Stage for wheelchair users and their companions that provide a good view of the stage. This blog provides more detailed information about HOTA’s access and inclusion information.
THE LATEST
News
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.