Australian Museum

Visit the Australian Museum (AM), a leading cultural attraction in Sydney with lots to see and do

Floodlit facade of the Australian Museum in Sydney
Floodlit facade of the Australian Museum in Sydney cc licensed photo by Newtown grafitti

Australia’s first ever museum founded in 1827, The Australian Museum offers visitors a great opportunity to explore nature and culture.

"With a mission to ignite wonder, inspire debate and drive change, the Australian Museum (AM) is internationally recognised as a leading voice for the richness of life, the Earth and culture in Australia and the Pacific. From transforming the conversation around climate change, the environment and wildlife conservation; to being a strong advocate for First Nations cultures; and to continuing to develop world-leading science, collections, exhibitions and education programs – the AM’s year-round program of lively events and exhibitions aim to shine a spotlight on issues important in society today."

An impressive 22 million objects and specimens are on exhibit in the museum's vast collection.

Some attractions you will not want to miss include stories of indigenous Australians, skeletons and facts about insects and dinosaurs. Be sure to check out the precious stones, minerals, fossils and meteorites to give you a great geological perspective of our planet. Another great attraction of the museum is the specimens of native Australian mammals, reptiles, birds and fish. There is also a broad spectrum of both land and marine environments about whose stories are worth hearing. Here, you also get to enjoy numerous artefacts from indigenous Australia, as well as the Pacific.

First Nations guides can teach you about the cultures of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. Visitors can also learn from scientists and thought leaders at regularly scheduled talks and performances.

Visitors may take flash and video photography in all the permanent and most temporary exhibitions other than the Westpac Long Gallery and First Australians galleries.

Round out your visit with a meal at the No. 1 William rooftop restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal and panoramic views of Hyde Park, Sydney Harbour and Cathedral Square.

General entry to the Australian Museum is free.

Nearby attractions: Hyde Park, Hyde Park Barracks Museum, Sydney Town Hall, St. Andrew's Cathedral, St. Mary's Cathedral, and Sydney Tower.



Facts For Your Visit

Fee: No

Australian Museum 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 – 5:00 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: 1 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia

Phone: (02) 9320 6000

Official Website: Australian Museum

Australian Museum Reviews

Rated 4.6 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating This museum is absolutely exceptional for children. It’s so good it’s hard to believe it’s free to visit! My kids absolutely love it and so do I - it’s so great for them to get exposure to so many educational and interactive elements. There is a dedicated area for smaller babies to play away from bigger kids. A cafe for a coffee stop is greatly appreciated. The dinosaurs are also a big hit!
Gillian Griffiths - 3 months ago

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4 Star Rating The Australian Museum is a well-maintained and fascinating place to visit. It features an excellent collection of Australian culture, history, and natural wonders. The dinosaur exhibition is especially cool, and the display of preserved exotic animals is also impressive. Entry is free, which makes it even better! The souvenir shop is a nice bonus — well-stocked with unique and quality items. However, the route inside the museum can be a bit confusing at times. Clearer signs or a more intuitive layout would definitely enhance the visitor experience. Overall, a great spot to explore and learn.
Hadi Hendra - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Fantastic experience! The Australian Museum is a treasure trove of natural history and culture. From dinosaurs to Indigenous Australian art, there's something for everyone. The exhibits are engaging, informative, and well-curated. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly. A must-visit for anyone interested in science, history, or culture. Highly recommend!
Mo Alfares - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating Loved this museum. To have such a high-quality museum and pay nothing to get inside was just fabulous! There is so much great history, the good and the bad, to experience their and something for everyone.
Angelina Anello-Dennee - in the last week

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5 Star Rating Genuine great experience! For a museum with such variety of exhibitions and specimens,great to visit. It’s free which is almost hard to believe. Mind you, there are a LOT of specimens, so people who might get squeamish about dead animals might not be comfortable here. It is a bit hot in there especially is you are wearing thick clothes(it IS the middle of winter). There is a place next to the museum with lots of seagulls, you can take good picture there.
lemoncat - in the last week

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Directions

Train Line Nearest Station Walking Time
T2 , T3 or T8St. James or Museum7 minutes
L2, T1, T2, T3 or T4Town Hall7 minutes

How to get to Australian Museum by Train

By Train: exit at St. James Station; and walk south through Hyde Park then left (east) on Park Street, or at Town Hall Station and walk north on George Street and right (east) on Park Street, or at Museum Station and follow the park to Park and College Street (either is about a 7 minute walk).

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