
ACMI Melbourne
ACMI celebrates film, TV, and gaming with interactive exhibits, screenings, and events in Federation Square.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interactive fun

ACMI Melbourne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interactive fun

Highlights
Must-see attractions
ACMI celebrates film, TV, and gaming with interactive exhibits, screenings, and events in Federation Square.
"An amazing free experience with friendly, knowledgeable staff and heaps of fun for all ages!"

✨ Free Entry for Main Exhibits
Most permanent exhibitions are free! Book paid temporary exhibits online to guarantee entry.
📱 Use the ACMI Disc
Collect your favorite exhibits on a disc to revisit later online. A fun way to learn more!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Story of the Moving Image
Permanent Exhibition
Journey through the evolution of film, TV, and digital media with interactive displays and iconic artifacts.

Game Worlds
Temporary Exhibition (check dates)
Explore 30 iconic video games, from World of Warcraft to Neopets, and discover the art of game design.

Goddess: Power, Glamour, Rebellion
Temporary Exhibition (check dates)
An immersive exhibition celebrating female artists and their impact on screen culture.

Marshmallow Laser Feast: Works of Nature
Temporary Exhibition (check dates)
Experience four large-scale digital artworks that connect you with the natural world through interactive technology.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, But Book Ahead!
Interactive Fun for All Ages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Free Entry for Main Exhibits
Most permanent exhibitions are free! Book paid temporary exhibits online to guarantee entry.
📱 Use the ACMI Disc
Collect your favorite exhibits on a disc to revisit later online. A fun way to learn more!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of exploring and interacting, so wear comfy shoes!
📸 Capture Your Memories
Create your own flipbook for a unique souvenir (small fee applies).
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Free Entry for Main Exhibits
Most permanent exhibitions are free! Book paid temporary exhibits online to guarantee entry.
📱 Use the ACMI Disc
Collect your favorite exhibits on a disc to revisit later online. A fun way to learn more!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of exploring and interacting, so wear comfy shoes!
📸 Capture Your Memories
Create your own flipbook for a unique souvenir (small fee applies).
🎮 Game Worlds Tickets
Book 'Game Worlds' tickets in advance, especially for the highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise ACMI for its engaging, interactive, and often free exhibitions that appeal to all ages. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, making it a highly recommended destination for both locals and tourists seeking a fun and educational outing in Melbourne.
"Can't believe this is free. Really good exhibition with so many interesting and interactive displays. We thoroughly enjoyed the one where you can create your own sentence with lines from a movie and it would then be played out by those movie snippets. Heaps of fun for adults or kids. Very friendly, helpful staff too. Will visit again next time we are in Melbourne."
Carrie Tier
"It's very hands on and kids shoukd love it. Parents a able to say "I has one of those when I was your age". Lots of memories for all ages and plenty of things that are interactive and moving. So not all static items like the art gallery. Everyone should find something that's a memory from their childhood."
Robert DS
"What an amazing free experience to spend with friends, the staff where absolutely fantastic and welcoming with so much knowledge and humour. Amazing take home experiences like the famous flip book for only $15! A 10/10 experience, which I would visit again next time I am in the city"
Coby Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
ACMI is located in Federation Square, easily accessible by public transport. Take a tram to the Federation Square stop or walk from Flinders Street Station. Parking is available nearby, but can be expensive.
Yes, ACMI is fully accessible for wheelchairs and prams, with lifts and ramps available throughout the building.
ACMI is typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours for special events and screenings. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date ACMI Melbourne opening hours.
Yes, there are several paid parking stations near ACMI in Federation Square and surrounding areas. Consider public transport to avoid parking fees and traffic.
Yes, you can bring bags, but large backpacks may need to be checked in the cloakroom for certain exhibitions. Check ACMI's policy for specific event requirements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
ACMI's permanent exhibitions, like 'The Story of the Moving Image,' are free to enter. Paid tickets are required for temporary exhibitions such as 'Goddess' and 'Game Worlds.'
While free exhibitions don't require booking, it's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance for paid temporary exhibitions to secure your preferred time slot.
Yes, ACMI offers concession tickets for students, seniors, and children. Check their website for specific eligibility and pricing for ACMI Melbourne tickets.
For paid exhibitions, tickets may be available at the door, but booking online is strongly advised to avoid disappointment, especially during peak times.
Refund policies vary depending on the ticket type and event. It's best to review ACMI's terms and conditions on their website before purchasing.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
Don't miss 'The Story of the Moving Image' for a comprehensive look at media history. Temporary exhibitions like 'Game Worlds' and 'Goddess' are also highly recommended.
Absolutely! ACMI is very hands-on and interactive, making it a fantastic experience for children and families. Many exhibits are designed to be engaging for all ages.
To fully enjoy the exhibits, especially the interactive ones, plan for at least 2-3 hours. You could easily spend half a day if you're attending a screening or exploring multiple exhibitions.
ACMI occasionally offers guided tours for specific exhibitions. Check their 'What's On' section for any scheduled tours or special talks.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use in most areas, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Some temporary exhibitions may have specific restrictions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, ACMI has a cafe and bar located within the venue, offering a range of food and beverages. It's a convenient spot to refuel during your visit.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the exhibition spaces. There are seating areas in Federation Square where you can consume your own refreshments.
Federation Square and the surrounding CBD area offer a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, catering to all tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The architecture of Federation Square itself is very photogenic. Inside, look for visually striking exhibits and interactive displays that make for unique shots.
Yes, phone cameras are generally allowed for personal use, but always be mindful of other visitors and any posted signage regarding photography.
Flash photography is usually not allowed to protect the exhibits. Some special exhibitions might have complete no-photography policies, so check the rules for each exhibit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Look out for special family-friendly events and workshops. The interactive nature of the exhibits means kids can easily spend hours exploring without getting bored. Consider purchasing a fun, personalized flipbook as a unique souvenir from your visit.
🎬 Cinephiles and Film Buffs
ACMI's exhibitions provide deep dives into the craft of filmmaking, exploring everything from visual effects to narrative techniques. The Goddess exhibition, for example, offers a unique perspective on female contributions to screen culture. Engaging with these exhibits can offer new insights and appreciation for the art form.
🎮 Gamers and Tech Enthusiasts
Beyond specific gaming exhibitions, ACMI's focus on the 'moving image' encompasses digital art and interactive technologies. Exhibitions like Marshmallow Laser Feast: Works of Nature showcase cutting-edge digital art that blends technology with sensory experiences. This makes ACMI a great place to explore the intersection of art, technology, and interactive entertainment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring ACMI's Exhibitions
Beyond its permanent collection, ACMI hosts a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions that delve into specific themes, artists, and genres. Recent highlights have included Goddess: Power, Glamour, Rebellion, celebrating female creatives in screen culture, and Game Worlds, a deep dive into the evolution and artistry of video games, featuring titles like World of Warcraft and Hollow Knight: Silksong. These temporary exhibits often require paid admission and are a major draw for visitors seeking cutting-edge cultural experiences.
ACMI also serves as a vital cultural venue, hosting film screenings, talks, workshops, and special events. Its commitment to showcasing diverse voices, from independent filmmakers to groundbreaking game developers, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the power and artistry of the moving image.
Interactive Experiences and Engagement
This interactive approach extends to temporary exhibitions as well. 'Game Worlds' offers opportunities to play iconic games, while 'Marshmallow Laser Feast: Works of Nature' uses digital art and technology to create immersive, sensory experiences that respond to visitor presence. This focus on participation makes ACMI a particularly engaging destination for families and those who enjoy a more dynamic museum experience.
ACMI also offers unique ways to extend the experience beyond your visit. The 'ACMI Disc' allows you to collect your favorite exhibits and revisit them online later, fostering continued learning and connection with the content. This thoughtful integration of digital tools enhances the overall visitor journey and reinforces ACMI's role as a forward-thinking institution.
ACMI and Gaming Culture
Beyond dedicated gaming exhibitions, ACMI also integrates gaming into its broader programming. The Games Lab, presented by Big Ant Studios, features a selection of curated videogames, including titles developed by women, challenging traditional notions of gaming. This demonstrates ACMI's commitment to exploring the diverse landscape of interactive entertainment and its place within the moving image.
For gamers and enthusiasts, ACMI offers a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of their passion, from early arcade classics to modern digital masterpieces. The exhibitions often provide insights into the design process, storytelling techniques, and the social impact of video games, making them appealing to both casual players and dedicated fans.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit