Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art is the only museum of its kind in Australia

Museum of Contemporary Art overlooking Sydney Cove by Circular Quay
Museum of Contemporary Art overlooking Sydney Cove by Circular Quay cc licensed photo by jstuppy

At the Museum of Contemporary Art, which opened in 1991 in the The Rocks, you can explore a wide variety of contemporary art work. Contemporary art is, generally speaking, any art that is modern in theme or created within the last 40 or so years. It uses a wide variety of mediums, some even hi-tech, which means you will discover some truly unique and interesting forms of art here.

The museum was made possible by a bequest to the University of Sydney by the late John Power for the purpose of informing and educating Australians about the contemporary and visual arts. Subsequently, when the Maritime Services Board vacated their building in the Rocks for larger premises, the government of New South Wales donated the building which, after renovations, became the home of the Museum. It is also the only Museum of Contemporary Arts in all of Australia.

Between 2011 and 2012 the museum shut down for extensive renovations, which are now complete and make the museum better than ever. Admission to the museum is free with the exception of the occasional special exhibit.

Nearby attractions include: The Rocks, Sydney Observatory, Customs House, Justice and Police Museum, and Museum of Sydney.

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: No, except for some special exhibitions.

Museum of Contemporary Art Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • 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: 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia

Phone: (02) 9245 2400

Official Website: Museum of Contemporary Art

Museum of Contemporary Art Reviews

Rated 4.4 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating free entry for multiple exhibitions! it’s gorgeous. just go even if you’ll only be in sydney for a few days. the museum is close by the rocks, a great spot for brunch and dinner. they have a really nice gift store with nice stuff for art lovers. highly recommended
deevya tay - 2 months ago

Show More
Show Less

3 Star Rating Great building, I think the collection is a lot smaller that I expected. It’s a big building but not heaps to see. Still interesting and worth a visit but you don’t need to spend long here. The cafe at the top is gorgeous and has a stunning view.
Skye Shepherd - 2 months ago

Show More
Show Less

4 Star Rating Pros : - Great indoor destination mids the outdoor focus in the area. - Interesting artist being shown and one of the fun way to get to know local artist. - Unique goodies at the gift shop. - Easy to spot building. - Good photos for your camera roll - Free admission Cons : - Exhibition can be limited. Check their website for schedules. - Can get hot and stuffy when it’s crowded. - No audio guide / pamphlet for exhibitions.
MB H. - 2 months ago

Show More
Show Less

4 Star Rating Our group had a nice lunch on the Cafe. We able to find seating for 10. Please note they don't take bookings. Even though the menu isn't extensive, the food is good and plentiful and not too expensive. The views are wonderful, despite the cruise ship moared at the Quay. I would recommend visiting the galleries and having a meal
Shauna Miller - 3 months ago

Show More
Show Less

3 Star Rating It is difficult to evaluate art, always on the average;)))I can only share the impression that one or another art object makes. Only 2 authors liked it, the rest is complete nonsense, the idea was poorly conveyed or the execution was as non-catchy as possible. Forgive me and do not judge strictly for such a harsh statement ... I will leave the photos of those who liked both the idea and the execution
Тая Тен - 3 months ago

Show More
Show Less

Directions

Line Nearest Station Walking Time
L2, T2, T3, T8 or FerryCircular Quay 3 minutes

How to get to Museum of Contemporary Art by

By Train or Ferry: exit at Circular Quay Station and proceed west. The Museum of Contemporary Art is located in the park at the western edge of the Quay adjacent to the end of Wharf #6.

Map & Instant Route Finder

Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.

Finding Your Route - Please Wait

Accommodations near Museum of Contemporary Art:

Photo Gallery

Video

Please provide consent and/or disable ad blocker to view the video.


Sydney Hotel Deals


Book Now, Pay Later
Price Matching
2,563,000+ Properties Worldwide
24/7 Support
booking.com logo
Booking.com sale banner link

Visiting Sydney?
Here's why we use Booking.com for our hotel bookings.
Best Selection
Daily Deals
Price Matching
Pay at the Hotel
24/7 Support
Share on Pinterest
Share on Pinterest
Help us grow! Please Share
Thanks for Visiting!