Science Gallery Melbourne, Melbourne - San Francisco - Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
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Science Gallery Melbourne

4.5
·180 reviews·Parkville, Australia

A dynamic gallery where art and science collide, offering interactive and thought-provoking exhibitions for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed-Sat, 11am-5pm

Regular exhibition hours

CrowdMedium
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Science Gallery Melbourne, Melbourne - San Francisco - Yerba Buena Center for the Arts

Science Gallery Melbourne

Best Time

Wed-Sat, 11am-5pm

Regular exhibition hours

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dynamic gallery where art and science collide, offering interactive and thought-provoking exhibitions for all ages.

4.5
(180 reviews)

"An awesome collection of incredibly thought-provoking pieces, art, installations and concepts."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry for All!

Most exhibitions are completely free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.

📅 Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary, especially during exhibition changes. Always check the website before you go!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Distraction Exhibition

Distraction Exhibition

Explore thought-provoking art on the impact of the information age on our brains and behavior. Interactive and engaging for all ages.

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Sci-Fi: Mythologies Transformed

Sci-Fi: Mythologies Transformed

Ancient myths meet futuristic art in immersive light shows and interactive displays that spark imagination.

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Interactive Installations

Interactive Installations

Experience glowing digital worlds, play arcade games, and engage with art and science in hands-on ways.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, But Plan Your Visit

Most exhibitions at Science Gallery Melbourne are free to enter, a huge plus! However, opening hours can vary, especially around exhibition changes. Check their website for current times and any special event bookings to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

Engaging for All Ages

While it's a 'science gallery,' many visitors highlight its appeal to a broad audience, including families. Interactive displays and thought-provoking art installations make it a hit for curious minds of all ages. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Wed-Sat, 11am-5pm
Why
Regular exhibition hours
Crowd
Medium
When
Special Event Evenings
Why
Unique social & art experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Go go gooo!!! 😩💛 Adult tickets are $25 btw and Consession $24 👀#thingstodoaloneinmelbourne #thingstodoinmelbourne #acmimelbourne #acmi #melbourneart #melbourneartgallery #melbourneactivities @ACMI
@wiltyplant
36.6K likes • 215.1K views

🎯 Free Entry for All!

Most exhibitions are completely free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. Instagram+1

📅 Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary, especially during exhibition changes. Always check the website before you go! Instagram+1

A new FREE exhibition has just landed in Melbourne 😮 Head to ‘Distraction’ at @scigallerymel and check out glowing interactive installations 💓 Then play with arcade games, explore mysterious digital worlds and more 🎥 @rayofmelbourne for #WhatsOnMelbourne #Melbourne 📍Distraction, Science Gallery Melbourne, 114 Grattan St ⏰ 26 Jul-20 Dec, Wed-Sat, 11am-5pm 🎟️ FREE! 📝 Check the @scigallerymel webs...
whatsonmelb
2.3K likes • 157.7K views
Science Gallery Melbourne has reopened! @scigallerymel is open Thursday to Saturday, 11am-5pm until 22 February when the gallery resumes regular opening hours of Tuesday to Saturday, 11am-5pm. Come see MENTAL, an exhibition on mental health created by young people with experts and academics across the sciences and creative arts.
scimelb
132 likes • 3.7K views

💬 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff

Staff are happy to chat about the exhibits and enhance your understanding. Reddit

☕ Affordable Cafe Options

Grab a coffee for around $3, a great deal for a gallery cafe. Reddit

Science Gallery is open! The gallery will operate on reduced hours, Thursday to Saturday 11 am - 5 pm, until 22 February and then it's back to normal hours, Tuesday to Saturday 11 am- 5 pm. Tap the link in our bio to read more about MENTAL and get your free tickets. #melbourne #science #gallery
unimelb
2.3K likes • 43.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry for All!

Most exhibitions are completely free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. Instagram+1

📅 Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary, especially during exhibition changes. Always check the website before you go! Instagram+1

💬 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff

Staff are happy to chat about the exhibits and enhance your understanding. Reddit

☕ Affordable Cafe Options

Grab a coffee for around $3, a great deal for a gallery cafe. Reddit

✨ Special Event Nights

Look out for unique parties and social events that blend art, science, and performance. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(180 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Science Gallery Melbourne for its thought-provoking and interactive exhibitions, with many highlighting the 'Distraction' and 'Sci-Fi' shows. The free entry is a significant draw, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff enhance the experience. While the space can feel condensed, the innovative blend of art and science leaves a lasting impression.

"Interactive gallery that inspires thought. The current exhibit is DISTRACTION. I really enjoyed the variety of exhibited artworks. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable about each piece and were open for a chat. Everything was clean and functioning. An overall excellent experience."

Rachel Greenwood

"Came to the Distraction Exhibition here and it was fantastic, the staff are all so friendly and engaging especially with kids. Some really thoughtful art pieces on what the information age is doing to our brains and behaviour. It’s also free so everyone should come visit. I highly recommend."

Benjamin Clay

"Decided to forgo the actual Museum for the Science Gallery and it was such a good choice. What an awesome collection of incredibly thought-provoking pieces, art, installations and concepts. I really enjoyed it here and the selection of things they had were so gorgeous and it was a really good time."

Harry Chiem

What People Like

Thought-provoking exhibitions
Interactive displays
Free entry

What People Dislike

Condensed exhibition space

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Science Gallery Melbourne is located at 114 Grattan St, Melbourne VIC 3000, and also has a presence at Melbourne Connect, 700 Swanston St, Carlton 3053. It's easily accessible by public transport, with trams running frequently along Swanston Street. Instagram+1

While there isn't dedicated visitor parking, there are several paid parking stations in the vicinity of the Melbourne CBD and Carlton. Public transport is generally the most convenient option. Instagram

Yes, the gallery is very well-served by trams. Tram routes along Swanston Street stop very close to both the Grattan Street and Melbourne Connect locations. Instagram+1

Taking a tram along Swanston Street is the quickest and easiest way to reach the gallery from the Melbourne CBD. Look for trams heading towards Melbourne University. Instagram+1

If you're in the CBD or nearby areas like Carlton, it's a pleasant walk to the Science Gallery. The Melbourne Connect location is particularly easy to access on foot from the university campus. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, most exhibitions at Science Gallery Melbourne are free to enter, making it a fantastic and accessible attraction for everyone. Instagram+1

While entry is often free, it's recommended to check the Science Gallery Melbourne website for any specific exhibitions or events that might require advance booking or RSVP, especially for special events. Instagram

Opening hours can vary, but generally, the gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm. It's always best to confirm current hours on their official website. Instagram+2

While entry is free for most exhibitions, it's worth checking if any special ticketed events or specific exhibitions have concession rates available. Students often find it a great free resource. TikTokReddit

For most general exhibitions, no ticket is required as entry is free. However, for special ticketed events or parties, booking in advance is usually necessary. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Science Gallery Melbourne features a dynamic mix of art and science exhibitions, often exploring contemporary issues through interactive installations, digital art, and thought-provoking concepts. Recent exhibitions include 'Distraction' and 'Sci-Fi: Mythologies Transformed'. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The interactive nature of many exhibits makes it highly engaging for children and families. It's a great place for kids to explore and learn in a fun, hands-on environment. InstagramReddit

Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibitions. However, if you're particularly interested in the themes or attending a special event, you might want to allocate more time. Instagram

Yes, interactivity is a core feature! Expect to find glowing installations, arcade games, and hands-on displays that encourage participation and exploration. Instagram+1

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always a good idea to check for specific signage or ask staff if flash photography or tripods are permitted, especially during busy periods. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe at Science Gallery Melbourne that offers coffee and other refreshments. It's noted for its affordable prices, with coffee around $3. Reddit

Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition spaces to protect the artworks. It's best to consume them outside or at designated areas if available. Reddit

The gallery is located in a vibrant area with many dining options nearby, especially around the University of Melbourne and the Melbourne CBD. You'll find a wide range of cafes and restaurants to choose from. Instagram

The cafe primarily serves coffee and light refreshments. For full meals, you'll find more extensive options in the surrounding university and city precincts. Reddit

The cafe is known for its affordability, particularly for coffee, making it a budget-friendly option for a quick break. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Personal photography is generally permitted, but always check for specific signage regarding flash or tripod use. Some installations might have restrictions. Instagram

The interactive and visually striking installations, especially those with light and digital elements, offer fantastic photo opportunities. The 'Sci-Fi: Mythologies Transformed' exhibition is particularly photogenic. Instagram

Yes, phone cameras are widely used and accepted for capturing your experience. The gallery's exhibits are designed to be visually engaging. Instagram

While personal use is fine, commercial photography or professional shoots usually require prior permission. Tagging the gallery on social media is encouraged! Instagram

Given the focus on light and digital art, photos that capture movement, color, and interactive elements tend to be most striking. Experiment with different angles and lighting. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Science Gallery Melbourne is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive nature of the exhibits means kids can actively participate and learn, rather than just observe. Exhibitions like 'Distraction' and 'Sci-Fi: Mythologies Transformed' offer visually stimulating content that captures young imaginations. Instagram

Parents will appreciate the free entry, making it an affordable outing. The staff are also noted for being friendly and engaging, especially with children, enhancing the overall family experience. Reddit

🧑‍🎓 Students and Young Adults

For students and young adults, Science Gallery Melbourne is a hub for engaging cultural experiences and social events. The free admission is a major draw, and the gallery's focus on contemporary art and science themes often resonates with a younger demographic. InstagramReddit

Don't miss out on their special event nights, such as Friday Night Socials, which offer a unique opportunity to socialize, enjoy performances, and experience the gallery in a lively atmosphere. It's a great place to meet people with similar interests. InstagramReddit

🎨 Art and Science Enthusiasts

If you have a passion for the intersection of art and science, Science Gallery Melbourne is a must-visit. The exhibitions are curated to be thought-provoking and innovative, showcasing how these two disciplines can inform and inspire each other. InstagramReddit

Expect to see cutting-edge installations and concepts that challenge your perspective. The gallery's dynamic exhibition schedule means there's always something new and exciting to discover, making it a regular haunt for those seeking intellectual stimulation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Exhibitions

Science Gallery Melbourne is renowned for its ever-changing exhibitions that bridge the gap between science and art. These aren't your typical museum displays; they are often highly interactive, thought-provoking, and designed to spark conversation about contemporary issues. Recent popular exhibitions include 'Distraction,' which delves into the impact of the information age on our minds and behavior, and 'Sci-Fi: Mythologies Transformed,' a captivating exploration of how ancient myths intersect with futuristic concepts. Instagram+1

What sets these exhibitions apart is their immersive quality. Visitors can expect to encounter glowing interactive installations, digital art, and even arcade-style games that encourage hands-on engagement. The gallery prides itself on presenting complex scientific and social themes in accessible and visually stunning ways, making it a unique experience for all ages. Instagram

Key takeaway: Always check the Science Gallery Melbourne website for current exhibition details, as they rotate frequently. This ensures you don't miss out on their latest captivating displays. Instagram

Community and Events

Beyond its regular exhibitions, Science Gallery Melbourne actively fosters a sense of community through various events and programs. These often include Friday Night Socials, which are popular for their blend of art, science, and social interaction, attracting a younger, university-aged crowd. InstagramReddit

These events can feature live performances, DJ sets, and opportunities to engage with the current exhibitions in a more relaxed, social atmosphere. They are a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals interested in culture and innovation. Instagram

Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements about these special gatherings, as they often require RSVPs and can be a highlight of the Melbourne cultural calendar. Instagram

Accessibility and Affordability

One of the most celebrated aspects of Science Gallery Melbourne is its commitment to accessibility, particularly its free general admission. This makes it a valuable resource for students, locals, and tourists alike, removing financial barriers to experiencing cutting-edge art and science. Instagram+1

In addition to free entry, the gallery offers affordable refreshments at its cafe, with coffee priced around $3, which is a significant plus in Melbourne's often pricey cafe scene. Reddit The location is also easily reachable via public transport, further enhancing its accessibility. Instagram+1

This focus on affordability and ease of access ensures that the gallery remains a welcoming space for everyone to explore, learn, and be inspired. Reddit

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