Canberra Museum and Gallery CMAG
Discover Canberra's heart through art and history, from Indigenous stories to modern creations. A welcoming, accessible gallery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Canberra Museum and Gallery CMAG
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Canberra's heart through art and history, from Indigenous stories to modern creations. A welcoming, accessible gallery.
"A fabulous outing with the little ones to share in a dramatics and imaginative storytelling time."
Friendly & Helpful Staff
Staff are noted for being welcoming, making the visit more enjoyable. :smiley:
Wheelchair Accessible
The entire gallery is designed for easy navigation for wheelchair users. :wheelchair:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kamberri People and Places
Main Exhibition Space
An engaging timeline exploring Canberra's history and its Indigenous roots, often with a touch of humor.
Enrico Taglietti Exhibition
Temporary Exhibition Space
A fascinating look into Canberra's architectural past through the works of Enrico Taglietti.
Diverse Art Collections
Various Galleries
From Nolan's art to unique glass sculptures and modern works, discover a wide range of artistic expressions.
Interactive Kids' Programs
Children's Activity Area
Imaginative storytelling and 'instrument petting' sessions make art accessible and fun for little ones.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Focus on Canberra's Story
Family Fun & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Friendly & Helpful Staff
Staff are noted for being welcoming, making the visit more enjoyable. :smiley:
Wheelchair Accessible
The entire gallery is designed for easy navigation for wheelchair users. :wheelchair:
Compact & Manageable
Smaller than national galleries, making it quicker to explore. :stopwatch:
Engaging for Kids
Look out for interactive storytelling and music sessions for children. :musical_score:
Tips
from all over the internet
Friendly & Helpful Staff
Staff are noted for being welcoming, making the visit more enjoyable. :smiley:
Wheelchair Accessible
The entire gallery is designed for easy navigation for wheelchair users. :wheelchair:
Compact & Manageable
Smaller than national galleries, making it quicker to explore. :stopwatch:
Engaging for Kids
Look out for interactive storytelling and music sessions for children. :musical_score:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Canberra Museum and Gallery to be an excellent, manageable-sized institution showcasing Canberra's unique history and art, particularly its Indigenous collections. The interactive family programs and high level of wheelchair accessibility are frequently highlighted as major positives, making it a worthwhile stop for diverse visitors.
"Excellent small museum/gallery showcasing mainly collections relating to Canberra. We saw the Enrico Taglietti exhibition in July. Fascinating insight into part of Canberra’s architectural history."
Julianne Stewart
"Beautiful staircase in the middle and a lovely planetory observatory. Found some interesting paintings and a huge lyrebird !"
Ishpreet Kaur
"Loved the Canberra/kamberri people and places exhibit. The timeline layout was engaging and the story was quite funny at times."
Shirley Wang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
CMAG is centrally located in Canberra's Civic precinct. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public buses also service the Civic area frequently. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the city center on foot.
Yes, there are several parking stations and street parking options in the Civic area surrounding the Canberra Museum and Gallery. Some may have time limits or fees.
Absolutely! CMAG is within walking distance of many other key Canberra attractions in the Civic area, making it easy to combine with visits to other galleries or the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Canberra Museum and Gallery is free. Special exhibitions may have a separate charge, but the core collections are accessible without cost.
CMAG is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around public holidays.
For general entry, booking in advance is usually not required as admission is free. However, for specific workshops or special ticketed exhibitions, it's advisable to check the CMAG website for booking information.
Yes, CMAG is a smaller gallery compared to national institutions, making it perfect for a focused visit or a quick stop. You can see a lot in an hour or two.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
CMAG features a diverse range of art, including works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, contemporary art, historical pieces related to Canberra, and often rotating special exhibitions.
Information on guided tours can vary. It's best to check the CMAG website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for any available tour schedules or options.
Yes, CMAG is very family-friendly! They often have interactive storytelling sessions and 'instrument petting' events designed to engage young visitors.
CMAG is highly praised for its excellent wheelchair accessibility, ensuring all visitors can comfortably navigate the galleries.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in permanent collection areas, but it's always best to check signage or ask staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While CMAG itself may not have a full-service cafe, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding Civic precinct, offering a wide variety of cuisines and price points.
Typically, food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition spaces to protect the artworks. There are usually designated areas where you can consume them.
📸 📸 Photography
Non-flash photography for personal use is generally allowed in permanent collection areas. However, special exhibitions may have different restrictions, so always look for signage or ask staff.
The central staircase is often noted as a beautiful architectural feature. The diverse art pieces themselves, from large sculptures to intricate paintings, also make for great photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Its smaller size compared to national institutions means kids are less likely to get tired or bored. It's a great way to introduce children to art and local history in a fun, engaging way.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there's no cafe on-site, the surrounding Civic area offers numerous affordable dining options, so you can easily pack a lunch or grab a budget-friendly meal nearby.
♿ Visitors with Mobility Needs
This commitment to accessibility means you can freely explore all the exhibitions and enjoy the art without concern for physical barriers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Canberra's Identity
Beyond its historical narratives, CMAG is a vibrant hub for contemporary art. It showcases works by local and national artists, with a significant emphasis on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. This commitment provides a crucial platform for diverse voices and perspectives. The gallery's layout is designed to be accessible and easy to navigate, making it a pleasant experience for all visitors, including those with mobility aids.
CMAG also plays a vital role in community engagement, often hosting workshops and events. These programs, particularly those aimed at families, are a testament to the gallery's mission to make art and history accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The friendly staff and manageable size contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging repeat visits and deeper exploration of Canberra's cultural landscape.
A Family-Friendly Art Experience
This focus on hands-on learning makes art and music accessible and fun for younger visitors, transforming a gallery visit into an adventure. The gallery's wheelchair accessibility further enhances its appeal, ensuring that families with diverse needs can enjoy their visit without barriers.
While smaller than some of the larger national museums, CMAG's manageable size means children are less likely to get overwhelmed. The engaging exhibits, combined with the welcoming environment, make it an ideal destination for a family outing in Canberra, offering both educational value and pure enjoyment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit