Now that Gold Coast Open House has wrapped up for the year, the fun doesn’t have to end! The city is bursting with cultural gems and scenic walks that are open year-round. From the coastline to the hinterland, you’ll find vibrant murals, heritage trails, and museums that bring the Gold Coast’s architecture, art, and history to life — all ready to explore at your own pace.
Surface Mural. Artist: Budff Diss
Miam Street Art – A Self Guided Mural Tour
In Miami, creativity spills out onto the streets. Thanks to the SURFACE Festival, more than 50 murals brighten the laneways and walls of this vibrant suburb. With an interactive map available online, you can plan your own route — whether that’s a short wander or a full-day mural hop. The tour typically centres around Miami Marketta, a lively arts and dining hub that makes the perfect stop for a coffee or bite to eat between artworks.
Because it’s self-guided, you can explore at your own pace, return to your favourite pieces, or connect the Miami trail with the broader Art Roll, a coast-wide collection of over 100 murals stretching through several suburbs. The best part? These artworks are outdoors and accessible year-round, making it a perfect open-air gallery for any day of the week.
Gold Coast Heritage Walks & Trails
For those who prefer heritage underfoot, the City of Gold Coast offers an impressive network of self-guided walks and trails that span coastal pathways, suburban streets, and bushland tracks. The heritage walks in particular reveal the region’s architectural and historical gems, from early settler landmarks to mid-century icons.
Each trail is mapped on the council’s website, complete with route guides and background notes. Whether you’re tracing the coastline, cycling through palm-lined paths, or discovering local plaques and preserved buildings, these walks offer a unique way to experience the city’s evolving identity. Most are open year-round, though daylight hours are recommended for the best experience.
Gold Coast Hinterland Heritage Museum
Gold Coast Hinterland Heritage Museum
Tucked away in Mudgeeraba, the Gold Coast Hinterland Heritage Museum offers a tangible connection to the region’s past. Within its grounds stand a collection of authentic buildings, including Okey House, a 1930s farmhouse; Franklin House, a 1950s home; the original Nerang Railway Station, and even a traditional schoolroom and blacksmith’s shop.
Open on Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm, this volunteer-run museum invites visitors to wander between buildings, linger in the gardens, and immerse themselves in stories of rural life and early settlement. Admission is just $5 for adults, with free entry for children — making it a relaxed and affordable half-day outing.
Gold Coast Historical Museum
Gold Coast Historical Museum
In Surfers Paradise, the Gold Coast Historical Museum offers a different slice of history, exploring the people, culture, and natural heritage that shaped the city. Set within lush grounds of remnant rainforest and Wallum heath, the site also features a heritage-listed artist studio — once belonging to Vincent Sheldon — relocated here for preservation.
Visitors can meander through displays at their own pace or simply enjoy the grounds’ tranquil setting. The museum is open Tuesday and Wednesday mornings (9 am – 1 pm) and on Sundays (10 am – 3 pm), with a blend of indoor exhibits and outdoor exploration that makes it ideal for a slow, reflective visit.
Gold Coast Light Horse Museum. Image: Melissa Hoedel.
Gold Coast Light Horse Education Museum
For those intrigued by military history, the Gold Coast Light Horse Education Museum delves into the proud legacy of the Light Horse regiments and local military contributions. Run by dedicated volunteers, this smaller museum offers a focused and personal experience — best enjoyed when you plan ahead.
It’s typically open on Wednesdays (9 am – 12 pm) and Sundays (9 am – 1 pm), though hours may vary during special events. Visitors are encouraged to check in advance to ensure staff are available to share stories and guide the experience.
Southport Military Museum. Image: Melissa Hoedel.
Southport Military Heritage Museum
Finally, in Southport, history takes on a hands-on form at the Southport Military Heritage Museum, housed in a heritage-listed naval drill hall at Owen Park. Inside, you’ll find an array of uniforms, medals, photographs, and interactive exhibits that capture the city’s wartime heritage. The museum opens only on the first Sunday of each month (9 am – 12 pm), so planning ahead is key — but the effort is well worth it. Entry is free, parking is available, and the site pairs perfectly with a stroll through Southport’s nearby heritage walking routes.
Keep Exploring!
From colourful murals to quiet museum halls, the Gold Coast offers endless ways to keep discovering its layered storie. Whether you’re retracing history, chasing street art, or simply wandering new neighbourhoods, every path here leads to a fresh perspective on this ever-evolving coastal city.
