Find a new side to the Gold Coast at HOTA

WORDS: Georgia Inwood PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied - HOTA

Between the beaches of Surfers Paradise and picturesque mountains of the hinterland, HOTA (short for Home of the Arts, pronounced hot-a) is your key to taking in the Gold Coast from a different perspective.

The bustling, ever-growing cultural hub has become a beacon for visitors and locals looking to take a break from the surf and spend the day taking in the work of Australia’s best artists, finding some belly laughs with up-and-coming comedians, or hearing the big names live and loud on the outdoor stage. A surprising buffet of cultural experience, HOTA will be the highlight to your next day out.

WHAT TO DO

HOTA Gallery

Opened in May 2021, HOTA Gallery is the first to catch your eye when you visit the precinct. Spanning six levels, the building is dipped in a vivid design highlighted by the Surfers Paradise skyline. Housing a dedicated children’s gallery showcasing hands-on fun for little ones, four galleries featuring permeant and rotating exhibitions, a rooftop cocktail bar and innovative casual fine dining restaurant – you could easily spend the whole day in this one spot.

See Something Live and Loud

A host of all genres, you can always find something happening at HOTA. Matching the eclectic appeal of the Gold Coast, there’s never a dull day. With two theatres, an award-winning outdoor stage, a basement space with attitude, HOTA is unmatched with choice. From the biggest names taking over the stage, premiere shows transforming the theatres, and comedians ready to make you laugh. Experience is always on-tap at HOTA.

Save a Dance

A newly minted partnership with Queensland Ballet has made HOTA the home of ballet on the Gold Coast. Performing two exclusive shows in 2022, with more to come in the years that follow, there is never a better time to see the classics on stage. Plan your visit and see the best of Australian ballet performed next door to Surfers Paradise

Looking for a different sort of performance? HOTA is also home to two cinemas. Find the latest releases, indie darlings, and fresh popcorn every day.

Take a Break

Evandale Lake is your oasis free from the busyness of Gold Coast beaches. Hidden behind HOTA, the lake is yours to swim, walk and explore. With artworks breaking beyond the bounds of the Gallery, bring the experience outdoors with sculptures dotting the pathways and an Adventure Trail taking you above the Outdoor Stage. A long-time favourite of locals, this hidden gem can’t stay hidden for long.

WHAT TO EAT

Casual Bites

Looking for something low-key to enjoy during a day out or before your next must-do activity? HOTA Café is perfect for families and visitors who want classic crowd pleasers and a coffee on the side. A friendly venue with menu beyond expectations, it’s an easy choice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Finer Bites

Casual fine dining has arrived at HOTA in the form of Palette Restaurant. Located on the ground floor of HOTA Gallery, Palette is changing the way the Gold Coast does fine dining and is one of just 4 restaurants on the coast to be awarded Two Hats by The Australian Good Food Guide. Embracing the laidback appeal of the city, while still providing mind-blowing menus of fresh Australian produce, Palette must be experienced to be understood.

Liquid Courage

Find the best cocktails on the rooftop of HOTA Gallery and breathe in a view to die for. Handcrafted and made with the utmost passion, The Exhibitionist Bar continues to delight visitors with innovative creations and perfected classics. Including a tapas style menu, take a drink among the stars and find a new side to your gallery experience.

Start planning your visit now: www.hota.com.au