Chau Chak Wing Museum Sydney
A free, world-class museum at the University of Sydney, showcasing ancient wonders and Indigenous Australian heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Chau Chak Wing Museum Sydney
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, world-class museum at the University of Sydney, showcasing ancient wonders and Indigenous Australian heritage.
"Free entry to see Egyptian mummies and ancient artifacts at the University of Sydney!"
🎯 Free Admission!
General entry is free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly Sydney attraction.
👟 Explore the Campus
Combine your museum visit with a stroll through the beautiful University of Sydney grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Egyptian Mummies
Egyptian Antiquities Gallery
Come face-to-face with ancient mummies and sarcophagi, offering a fascinating glimpse into Egyptian life and death.
Indigenous Australian Collections
Australian Collections Gallery
Explore rich cultural heritage with artifacts and stories from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The 'Quinkan' Rock Art
Australian Collections Gallery
Marvel at ancient rock art from Queensland, offering insights into Australia's deep past.
Roman and Greek Antiquities
Mediterranean Antiquities Gallery
Discover artifacts from the classical world, including pottery, sculptures, and coins.
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Impact
+1Campus Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
General entry is free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly Sydney attraction.
👟 Explore the Campus
Combine your museum visit with a stroll through the beautiful University of Sydney grounds.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The museum's modern design is as impressive as its collections. Don't miss photo ops!
⏳ Allow ample time
With diverse collections, give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore thoroughly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
General entry is free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly Sydney attraction.
👟 Explore the Campus
Combine your museum visit with a stroll through the beautiful University of Sydney grounds.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The museum's modern design is as impressive as its collections. Don't miss photo ops!
⏳ Allow ample time
With diverse collections, give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore thoroughly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chau Chak Wing Museum for its free admission and impressive collections, particularly the Egyptian mummies and Indigenous Australian artifacts. The museum's modern architecture and its integration within the historic University of Sydney campus are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects. Some visitors note that while the exhibits are excellent, the museum can get busy, especially around popular displays.
"I absolutely loved visiting the Chau Chak Wing Museum! I heard really great things about it, and it definitely did not disappoint.
From the outside, I didn't think the museum was going to be as big as it was yet alone contain so many artefacts. The displays are spread over 4 levels, and each level portrays a very different history. I found it all to be so fascinating! There were some displays dedicated to the history of Sydney University, while others were about Ancient Egypt and Asia.
Entry to the museum is free. I would highly recommend visiting and am keen to go back."
Map Roy
"The university museum is international, encyclopedic and diverse in its scope of time, space, and culture, as richly and beautifully shown in the display. It is beyond my expectation. I learnt so much. Nice coffee shop and stunning view into the Sydney University campus, too."
Shuo Sue Hua
"I visited Chau Chak Wing Museum and really enjoyed it! The museum has a mix of history, art, and ancient artifacts. The design is modern, and everything is well-organized.
My favorite part was the ancient Egypt section, where I saw real mummies and old artifacts. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander exhibits were also very interesting. There were many interactive displays that made learning fun.
The museum is free to enter, which is great. It’s a nice place to explore, especially if you like history and culture. I would definitely visit again!"
Josephine Angelina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located within the University of Sydney campus. You can reach it via public transport, with numerous bus routes stopping nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from Redfern Station.
Limited paid parking is available on the University of Sydney campus. It's often easier and more cost-effective to use public transport.
Yes, several bus routes service the University of Sydney. Check Transport NSW for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.
It's a bit of a walk, but doable if you enjoy exploring on foot. You could also consider a short bus or ferry ride to a closer point.
Taking a bus from the Sydney CBD is a convenient option. Many routes will drop you within walking distance of the museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Chau Chak Wing Museum is free! This makes it a fantastic option for budget travelers and locals alike.
While general entry is free, it's always a good idea to check the official website for any special exhibitions or events that might require pre-booking, especially during peak times.
The museum is typically open seven days a week. However, hours can vary, so it's best to confirm the latest opening times on their official website before your visit.
Yes, the museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collections. Check their website for current and upcoming exhibitions.
Absolutely! The museum has engaging exhibits that can captivate visitors of all ages, including the popular Egyptian collection.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Ancient Egyptian mummies and sarcophagi, the Indigenous Australian collections, and the 'Quinkan' rock art. The Roman and Greek antiquities are also highly recommended.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the main collections. If you plan to delve deeper or attend a talk, allow more time.
Yes, the museum's architecture is stunning, and many exhibits are visually appealing. Be sure to check their photography policy, as flash photography may be restricted.
The museum often offers guided tours or talks related to its collections. Check their schedule upon arrival or on their website for details.
The museum typically offers restrooms, and sometimes a small gift shop. Check their website for specific amenities like cafes or cloakrooms.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself may not have a full-service restaurant, the University of Sydney campus has several cafes and eateries nearby where you can grab a bite.
Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks outside the exhibition galleries. There might be designated areas for picnics on campus.
The areas surrounding the University of Sydney, like Newtown and Glebe, offer a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and pubs to suit various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but flash is usually prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always check for specific signage or ask staff.
The museum's modern architecture, the Egyptian mummy displays, and the Indigenous Australian art are all highly photogenic.
Yes, drone usage is typically restricted in university campuses and public spaces. Always adhere to local regulations regarding drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum's layout is generally spacious, making it easier to navigate with strollers. Look out for any family-specific programs or interactive displays that might be on offer. Beyond the mummies, the Indigenous Australian collections offer opportunities to discuss culture and history in an age-appropriate manner. Encourage kids to look for patterns, symbols, and stories within the artifacts. The museum's free entry makes it an ideal choice for a spontaneous family adventure without breaking the bank.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
+1Combine your visit with a picnic on the University of Sydney grounds or explore the many affordable eateries in nearby suburbs like Newtown. It’s a perfect way to experience culture and history while keeping your travel expenses low.
🎓 Students and Academics
The museum's location on campus also makes it incredibly convenient for university members to access its resources for coursework or personal enrichment. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Egyptian Collection
The museum provides context and information to help visitors understand the significance of these artifacts, making it an educational and awe-inspiring experience. Beyond the mummies, the collection includes a range of funerary objects, amulets, and everyday items that paint a vivid picture of life in ancient Egypt. These pieces offer insights into their religious practices, social structures, and artistic achievements. The way these artifacts are displayed encourages contemplation and learning, making it a standout exhibit for those fascinated by ancient civilizations.
Indigenous Australian Heritage
A particular point of interest is the 'Quinkan' rock art, which offers a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic expressions of ancient peoples from Queensland. These powerful images are not just art; they are a form of communication and record-keeping that has survived through millennia. The museum's presentation of these collections aims to foster respect and appreciation for Indigenous cultures, providing a platform for their stories to be shared and understood.
Architectural Marvel
Visitors often comment on the beautiful interior design, noting how the layout enhances the viewing experience of the collections. The interplay of materials and light creates an atmosphere that is both contemplative and inspiring. It’s a testament to how contemporary design can successfully integrate with and honor historical surroundings.
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