Art Gallery of New South Wales
The Art Gallery of New South Wales can easily captivate museum lovers for an entire day
Established in 1874, the Art Gallery of New South Wales offers presentations of fine international and Australian art in a beautiful setting, with the grand architectural features of the gallery being a work of art themselves.
Well worth the trip, visitors will find it difficult to see all the Gallery has to offer in one day. Be sure to stop by the modern and contemporary works displayed in vast, well-lit spaces that offer great views of Sydney and its beautiful harbour. Don’t miss out on the Grand Courts, which host a distinguished collection of colonial and 19th-century Australian works, as well as European old masters. Also, check out galleries dedicated to the celebration of Asian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artworks.
Be sure to check out their regularly changing temporary exhibitions that are a major attraction for the Gallery's 1.3 million annual visitors. You can also relax over a coffee or enjoy a meal in the Gallery cafe or restaurant.
Nearby attractions: Royal Botanic Gardens
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesArt Gallery of New South Wales Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: 1800 679 278
Official Website: Art Gallery of New South Wales
Art Gallery of New South Wales Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
This is definitely a must-visit museum and a perfect spot to check in when you’re in the area. The art exhibitions are beautiful, inspiring, and truly impressive. There’s also a great sense of history throughout the place, which makes the experience even more meaningful.
It’s also an Instagram-worthy destination — the architecture, lighting, and layout all make for cool photo opportunities. The best part is that entry is completely free! The building itself is stunning from the outside, and everything inside is well-maintained. The air-conditioning is cool and comfortable, and the restrooms are clean and convenient.
To get there, you’ll walk through a lovely park, full of greenery and peaceful vibes. The whole area feels calm and elegant — it almost made me feel like I was somewhere in England!
Overall, it was such a wonderful experience — relaxing, inspiring, and absolutely worth a visit. Whether you love art, history, or just want a beautiful place to wander and take photos, this museum is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss. 🎨✨
Island Girl - 3 months ago
Its one of my favourite date spots, with new art coming in all the time! I did one of the interactive zones where you sewed on a square for a big dolls dress, it was lots of fun. So calming and theres so much you can do without paying a thing. Will always come back even as a Sydney local
Casper J C - 4 weeks ago
Beautiful art and most of the museum is free, except for the special exhibitions like currently Ron Mueck (which is worth seeing). Great place to go to with kids as well, especially the current ‘keys under the mat’, which is basically a huge playground where art and fun come together. I came here two times in four days! One time with wife and kids (4 yrs and 9 months), and one time on my own. Huge collection of Australian art, but also Asian art. Mostly 20th century and contemporary.
Ferdinand Vroon - a month ago
One can spend a whole day here. There are artifacts there which are probably 200 years old. Great paintings that can give us so much information about the history. Must visit. Can’t believe that this is all free.
N N - 3 weeks ago
One of the best Gallery in Australia. The collections are beautiful. The staff is kind and helpful. And it's free for us. Thank you for the splendid service!
Nguyen Dang Tue - a week ago
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Directions
| Train Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| T4 | Martin Place | 8 minutes |
| T2 or T3 | St. James | 8 minutes |
How to get to Art Gallery of New South Wales by Train
By Train: exit at St. James Station and walk east on Prince Albert staying left at the 'Y' and continue where it becomes Art Gallery Road, or at Martin Place Station and proceed east crossing Macquarie Street continuing through the passageway by the north block of the Hospital and across the Domain (green space) (both are about an 8 minutes walk).
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Accommodations near Art Gallery of New South Wales:
Photo Gallery
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Expansive view of Sydney from inside the Art Gallery of New South Wales cc licensed photo by salisasaki -
Classic paintings are overshadowed by live human statues during this exhibit at the Art Gallery NSW cc licensed photo by Eva Rinaldi -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stephen Kelly Photography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: charcoal soul - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sydney Heritage - cc license via Flickr

