National Museum of Australia
Explore 50,000 years of Australian history and culture in a stunning waterfront building with engaging exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
National Museum of Australia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 50,000 years of Australian history and culture in a stunning waterfront building with engaging exhibits.
"A must-visit for its beautiful displays, stunning architecture, and immersive journey through Australia's past. "
🗺️ Grab a Map!
The museum's layout can be tricky. Grab a map at entry to navigate easily.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Entry is free, but parking costs money. Factor this into your visit budget.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Australian History Galleries
Journey through 50,000 years of Australia's past, from Indigenous heritage to modern times. Informative and engaging displays.
Architecture & Waterfront Views
Admire the striking modern architecture and enjoy the scenic waterfront location. A feast for the eyes, inside and out.
Mr. Squiggle Exhibition
A nostalgic trip down memory lane, exploring the beloved children's show and its creator. Interactive and delightful for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Museum
Free Entry, Paid Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Grab a Map!
The museum's layout can be tricky. Grab a map at entry to navigate easily.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Entry is free, but parking costs money. Factor this into your visit budget.
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
The cafe offers good food and coffee at reasonable prices. A pleasant surprise!
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Exhibits
Many interactive elements make it great for younger visitors. Educational and fun!
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Grab a Map!
The museum's layout can be tricky. Grab a map at entry to navigate easily.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Entry is free, but parking costs money. Factor this into your visit budget.
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
The cafe offers good food and coffee at reasonable prices. A pleasant surprise!
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Exhibits
Many interactive elements make it great for younger visitors. Educational and fun!
💡 Digital Info Boards
Use the helpful digital boards to learn more about exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Museum of Australia for its informative and beautifully presented exhibits, particularly its comprehensive look at Australian history. The stunning architecture and waterfront location are also frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally a positive experience, some find the museum's layout a bit confusing to navigate.
"Great museum, with many informative and historical exhibits. It's time well spent immersing oneself in the exhibits and short films that are played in the screens alongside. There are some interesting automobile exhits too.
We visited on a weekday and the museum was fairly empty. A visit is recommended, especially for the young ones."
Helen Thomas
"Our family had a very positive experience here. The displays were beautiful and the building is stunning and extravagant, no expense spared in any way. Very welcoming environment, we entered without booking and just walked straight in and wandered around admiring the displays. There are many interactive elements to the displays with educational snippets everywhere you look. Many fascinating things, would definitely recommend to any age.
The Cafe was a pleasant suprise also, food and coffee were all good and reasonably priced."
Jordi I
"This is a really nice Mueseum! The exhibits are very professional looking and beautifully presented. A lot to learn and see, with helpful digital information boards to find each item from the display and read about them.
The staff at entry were also very friendly, and the gift shop is nice. Everything is well thought out and I highly recommend a visit! It’s free to visit apart from parking, but it’s worth the cost for the time you spend here."
Sharnie Dwyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Museum of Australia is located on Acton Peninsula in Canberra. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available (fees apply). Public transport options include bus routes that stop nearby.
Yes, there is parking available at the museum. Please note that parking fees apply. The museum also offers two free 7KW EV chargers, but you need to bring your own cable.
The museum is situated on Acton Peninsula, which is accessible by walking and cycling paths. It's a pleasant walk or ride from the city centre, offering scenic views along the way.
Several ACTION bus routes service the area around the National Museum of Australia. Check the Transport Canberra website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules.
Yes, the museum is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and prams, with ramps and lifts available throughout the building.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the National Museum of Australia is free! You can wander through the main galleries and explore many of the exhibits without purchasing a ticket.
For general admission, booking in advance is not usually required, especially on weekdays. However, for special exhibitions or guided tours, it's advisable to check the museum's website for booking information.
The National Museum of Australia is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for any changes to opening hours or public holidays.
Yes, sometimes the museum hosts temporary special exhibitions that may require a separate ticket purchase. Check the museum's 'What's On' section on their website for current exhibition details and pricing.
Group bookings are welcome. It's recommended to contact the museum's group bookings department in advance to arrange your visit and ensure a smooth experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Australian History Galleries for a comprehensive overview of the continent's past. The Mr. Squiggle exhibition is a nostalgic hit, and the architecture itself is a highlight.
Absolutely! The museum features many interactive elements and engaging displays that are perfect for children. The Mr. Squiggle exhibition is particularly popular with younger visitors.
You could easily spend a full day exploring the museum, especially if you want to delve deep into the exhibits and enjoy the cafe and grounds. A minimum of 2-3 hours is recommended for a good overview.
Yes, guided tours are often available, offering deeper insights into the collections and exhibitions. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or their website for tour times and topics.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the museum's public areas, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted in certain galleries. Always check for signage in specific exhibition spaces.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a popular cafe that offers good food and coffee at reasonable prices. It's a pleasant spot to refuel during your visit.
The cafe typically offers a range of light meals, snacks, sandwiches, cakes, and coffee. It's a good option for a casual lunch or a coffee break.
While there are no strict rules against bringing your own food, it's generally expected that you consume it in designated outdoor areas rather than inside the galleries. The cafe is the primary dining facility.
Most museum cafes offer a selection of vegetarian options. Vegan choices may vary, so it's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff about their current menu.
Yes, the cafe is generally family-friendly and a good place to take a break with children. High chairs are usually available.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's modern architecture, especially its waterfront facade, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The interior spaces with unique exhibits also make for great shots.
Tripods are often not permitted inside the museum galleries to avoid obstructing other visitors and damaging exhibits. Always check the museum's photography policy for specific restrictions.
Flash photography is usually prohibited inside the museum galleries to protect the artifacts and artworks from light damage. Look for signage indicating where flash is not allowed.
A versatile camera, whether a DSLR or a good smartphone, will work well. Focus on capturing the details of the exhibits and the unique architectural features.
Commercial photography or videography typically requires prior permission from the museum. Contact their media or marketing department for inquiries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Australian History
Beyond the main historical narratives, the museum also features diverse temporary exhibitions that delve into specific themes, events, or individuals. These rotating displays ensure there's always something new to discover, whether it's a focus on social history, scientific advancements, or artistic movements. The museum's commitment to storytelling is evident in its use of multimedia, artifacts, and personal accounts, creating a deeply immersive and educational experience that resonates with visitors seeking to connect with Australia's multifaceted story.
Architectural Marvel
Visitors often remark on the building's extravagance and the attention to detail, noting that 'no expense has been spared.' The interior spaces are equally impressive, designed to complement the exhibits while providing a comfortable and engaging environment for exploration. The interplay of light, space, and materials throughout the museum contributes to a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're admiring the exterior from afar or exploring its nooks and crannies, the architecture is an integral part of the museum's appeal and a significant draw for visitors.
Family Fun and Nostalgia
A particular highlight for families, and indeed many adults, is the Mr. Squiggle exhibition. This beloved exhibition offers a nostalgic journey into the world of the iconic Australian children's television show and its creator, Norman Hetherington. Visitors can relive childhood memories and discover new insights into the show's history and artistry. The exhibition's interactive elements and the wealth of information provided by knowledgeable guides like Hugo make it a truly delightful and memorable experience for all ages.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit