Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art is the only museum of its kind in Australia
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 out of 5
Fantastic museum that showcases a diverse range of art from the recent years. There is a lot of First Nations artists being showcased in a variety of ways from physical sculptures to movies. Joined a tour at 11AM and had a fantastic tour guide that went in-depth to quite a few highlight pieces. Very knowledgeable about the artists and even took us to see an art piece behind closed doors as it was still under construction.
Victor Wang - a month ago
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 - 4 months ago
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 - 4 months ago
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 - 5 months ago
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. - 4 months ago
Directions
| Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| L2, T2, T3, T8 or Ferry | Circular 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.
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Accommodations near Museum of Contemporary Art:
Photo Gallery
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A colorful piece created from inflating a structure made of textiles cc licensed photo by Newtown grafitti -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: ahisgett - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: ahisgett - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ross Fowler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ross Fowler - cc license via Flickr
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