The Iglu Guide | Blog
6 cool study spaces to check out in Brisbane
When you’re mid-assignment, prepping for exams or joining an online lecture, sometimes all it takes is a little change of scenery to get your study mojo firmly back on track. The best news is that Brisbane is jam-packed with student-friendly spaces, so whether you’re after riverside libraries, leafy parks or buzzy cafés there’s definitely something to suit every style. And for students living at Iglu Brisbane City or Iglu Kelvin Grove, you’re never far from a great study option with some of the very best just a short walk, bus, or train ride away. Wherever you call home, here’s a guide to some of the coolest spots that Brisbane has to offer.
1. State Library of Queensland
Located in the heart of the South Bank area, the State Library is one of the most popular study destinations for students around the city and it’s not hard to see why. Think easy-access, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi and riverside views, what’s not to like? You can even reserve computers and secure your window spot with an advance booking. And if you need to step out for a breath of fresh air, you’re right in the middle of South Bank’s cafés and parklands. Perfect for nearby QUT Garden’s Point Campus and Griffth University, it doesn’t get any better.
Students love: Quiet zones, dedicated study spaces and riverside views
Travel time:
- Iglu Brisbane City: 20 min walk/7 min bike
- Iglu Kelvin Grove: 18 min bus
2. The Edge, South Bank
If traditional libraries aren’t really your thing, The Edge could be just the alternative you’re looking for. Located within the State Library precinct at South Bank, this contemporary creative space that’s free to the public features floor-to-ceiling windows, river views and a mix of individual and collaborative work areas. The bright, open design makes it an inspiring place to tackle assignments, brainstorm ideas or work on creative projects, while free Wi-Fi and plenty of seating make it easy to settle in for a productive study session. Popular with students from a range of unis, it’s a short walk from Griffth University and 20 mins by bus from UQ.
Students love: Café-style study, collaboration and group work opportunities
Travel time:
- Iglu Brisbane City: 20 min walk/10 min bike
- Iglu Kelvin Grove: 18 min bus
3. Felons Barrel Hall
Set beneath the iconic Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves and a short 15-min walk from QUT, Felons Barrel Hall combines an industrial-style interior with incredible river views. Although known primarily for dining and entertainment, the weekday mornings and afternoons can offer a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere for students looking for an alternative study location. Laid out like a Munich beer hall, the rows of picnic-like seating options are perfect for collaboration and nailing those group assignments, and if the noise levels rise, simply plug in your headphones and lock into your to-do list. Grab a coffee, find a table and enjoy the change of scene.
Students love: Casual study vibes, lively atmosphere, collaboration
Travel time:
4. Customs House
Offering grand architecture and a prime riverside location, the Customs House is undoubtedly one of the coolest places in Brisbane to set up your study camp. Just a short walk from QUT Garden’s Point Campus, the riverside seating and outdoor terrace offer a relaxing and peaceful environment that’s within easy reach of the CBD. Settle in with a coffee, work through assignments or revise between classes, this view is pretty hard to beat.
Students love: Heritage atmosphere, views and outdoor café
Travel time:
- Iglu Brisbane City: 10 min bus/13 min walk
- Iglu Kelvin Grove: 20 min bus
5. The Menagerie, Kelvin Grove
Just moments from QUT Kelvin Grove, The Menagerie is a popular student café that’s located in the heart of Kelvin Grove Urban Village. Offering plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, students can catch up on coursework, work on group assignments or settle into study-mode in between lectures. Relaxed, welcoming, and laptop-friendly, The Menagerie caters to a large student crowd making it a popular spot to catch up on work at any time of day.
Students love: Everyday study, great coffee and food options
Travel time:
- Iglu Brisbane City: 20 min bus
- Iglu Kelvin Grove: 3 min walk
6. Brisbane Botanic Gardens
When you’ve had enough of studying inside and are craving some Vitamin D, the Botanic Gardens are the perfect alternative. Located beside QUT Garden’s Point Campus and just a hop away from the CBD, you can find peaceful shade under the trees, or settle in by the river and tackle some reading. There’s free Wi-Fi available throughout the gardens, plenty of open spaces and café options to recharge your energy levels. Or simply take the opportunity to unwind in the sun before starting all over again.
Students love: Free Wi-Fi, shady lawns, relaxing change of scene
Travel time:
- Iglu Brisbane City: 7 min walk/2 min bike
- Iglu Kelvin Grove: 25 min bus/15 min bike
Frequently asked questions
Some of the best study spots in Brisbane include the State Library of Queensland, The Edge at South Bank, Customs House, and the Brisbane Botanic Gardens. These locations offer free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and easy access to major universities like QUT, Griffith University, and the University of Queensland, making them popular choices for students who want a change of scenery from their accommodation.
Yes, several free study spaces are located close to QUT Gardens Point Campus, including Customs House and the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, both within a short walk. The State Library of Queensland and The Edge at South Bank are also nearby and offer free Wi-Fi and air conditioned indoor seating for students who prefer a quieter environment.
The Brisbane Botanic Gardens is a popular outdoor study option, offering shaded lawns, riverside seating, and free Wi-Fi throughout the grounds. Customs House also provides an outdoor terrace with river views, giving students a relaxed setting to read or revise between classes while enjoying some fresh air and sunshine.
Students living at Iglu Brisbane City and Iglu Kelvin Grove have a wide range of study spaces within easy reach, including the State Library of Queensland, The Edge, Felons Barrel Hall, and Customs House. The Menagerie in Kelvin Grove Urban Village is especially convenient for those based at Iglu Kelvin Grove, sitting just a few minutes away on foot.
Brisbane has plenty of laptop friendly cafés suited to studying, including The Menagerie in Kelvin Grove and Felons Barrel Hall beneath the Story Bridge. Both spots offer a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, making them ideal for group assignments or casual study sessions away from the books.
