Getting to and from the Ekka!
Getting to the Ekka should be part of the fun, not a hassle! Whether you're travelling by train, car, rideshare or foot, there are now more ways than ever to make your journey smooth, safe, and seamless. With the return of train services directly into the Showgrounds and upgraded accessibility options, planning your trip to Queensland’s biggest celebration just got a whole lot easier. Here's everything you need to know to get to and from the Ekka in 2025!
Where Is the Ekka Held?
The Royal Queensland Show (Ekka), presented by BOQ, is held at the iconic Brisbane Showgrounds. The main entrance at Gate 1 is located at 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills. There are a number of entry gates around the grounds during Ekka to ensure easy access for all our patrons. With changes to public transport options and the opening of Exhibition Station, getting to Ekka has never been easier!
Public Transport Options
Jump onboard and ride into this year's Ekka! For the first time since 2022, Ekka go-ers will be able to arrive and depart by train from inside the Show, thanks to the all-new Exhibition Station.
This brand-new station puts you right in the heart of the action, and with Translink fares just 50 cents, getting to the Ekka has never been easier or cheaper.
The new station features improved access with new lifts, a new entry plaza and pedestrian access to Bowen Bridge Road, as well as first-class accessibility features including wayfinding signage, hearing aid loops, and step-free access.
Public transport is one of the cheapest, easiest and most efficient ways to get to Ekka. Find out more about your public transport options for this year's Ekka by visiting Translink here.
Driving and Parking
There are various car parks within walking distance to the Brisbane Showgrounds, including:
Cornerstone Parking - Royal Brisbane Hospital
Secure Parking - Valley Metro Car Park
Secure Parking - McWhirters Car Park
Drop-Off and Accessibility Options
There is a dedicated rideshare and taxi zone located outside Gate 1, at the corner of Gregory Terrace and Costin Street. There is also a dedicated drop off / pick up zones with disability access for cars and taxis on Costin Street. For more information about accessibility at the Show, click here.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival
The key tip for a smooth arrival to Ekka is ensuring you have pre-purchased your Ekka ticket at www.ekka.com.au.
Gates open at 9am each day and there can be some lines as the excitement builds to enter the gates, especially Gate 1 on Gregory Terrace. Be prepared for a small line during peak times (and People's Day), or plan your entry at a slightly later time, or another gate around the grounds.
If you're catching public transport, plan ahead and check real-time Translink updates.
Travel FAQ's
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Is train travel to the Ekka free? All Translink fares are 50 cents
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Which train station is closest to Ekka? The new Exhibition Station, arriving and departing in the heart of the Show, will be open for Ekka 2025.
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What station do I get off for Brisbane Showgrounds? The new Exhibition Station, arriving and departing in the heart of the Show, will be open for Ekka 2025. For other nearby stations, visit Translink.
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What is the quietest day to go to the Ekka? Check out our guide here.
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Where is the best place to park for the Ekka? You can find more information about parking here.
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Where to park when going to the Ekka? You can find the top tips on where to park here.
