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

Official Website: Museum of Contemporary Art

Fee: No, except for some special exhibitions.

Closed Now

Regular Hours:
Hours may be subject to change. Please verify on the official website.

  • Monday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 10:00 am - 9:00 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

Category: Museums

Address: 140 George St
The Rocks New South Wales 2000
Australia

Phone: +61 2 9245 2400

Reviews

Yelp Rating:
4 out of 5 4 Star Rating
Based on 56 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

5 Star Rating The first two floors are free which I have not heard of before in an art museum and was quite excited about. Lots of different artists and styles to be... Read More

Alexandra M. Dec-11-2016

3 Star Rating They are changing exhibits so we couldn't go inside nor view the sculptures on the terrace along the waterfront. The large sculptures were imposing and... Read More

Andrea U. Nov-18-2022

4 Star Rating Loved the exhibit we saw. The staff were friendly and helpful. We enjoyed the cafe. The gift shop is ridiculously expensive. Read More

Carol K. Dec-17-2022

Accommodations near Museum of Contemporary Art:

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.

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Photo Gallery

Video


Slideshow tour of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney

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