Top 5 Museums to see in Canberra
Canberra plays host to a number of museums with an ever-changing line-up of international and Australian blockbuster exhibits. Explore the country’s national collections, discover national treasures as well as many archives that document the ancient indigenous past and colonial history. Read on to discover our top 5 museums which are definitely worth paying a visit to learn more about Australia’s rich and vibrant history.
1. The National Museum of Australia
Images via National Museum of Australia
The vibrant and animated architectural space alone provides the perfect excuse to visit the National Museum of Australia. Overlooking the shores of the stunning Lake Burley Griffin, this museum explores the rich and diverse cultural history of Australia and its people. Book your tickets to their latest exhibition ‘Endeavour Voyage’, which tells the untold stories of Cook and the First Australians.
Located at Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula ACT 2601
Open from 9am-5pm everyday
General admission and Endeavour Voyage Exhibition are free
More info here
2. Australian War Memorial
Images via Australian War Memorial
The Australian War Memorial is rated one of the top landmarks in Australia and for a good reason too. With several exhibitions and galleries providing both a highly emotional and educational experience for all ages. Roam the First and Second World War exhibitions which will take on a journey through Australia’s historical conflicts. Relax and unwind at Poppy’s Cafe which overlooks the stunning memorial grounds or book a ticket to attend the daily Last Post Ceremonies to commemorate the soldiers who served and sacrificed. Make sure you register your tickets online before you go.
Located at Treloar Crescent, Campbell ACT 2612
Open Monday-Sunday from 10am-5pm
General admission tickets and to attend Last Post Ceremonies are free
More info at here
3. Questacon
Images via Questacon
Questacon is welcoming visitors to a new experience of interactive exhibits, science shows and other activities. Introducing a new immersive guided-tour ‘Mission to Mars’ as a fun and different way to explore Questacon like never before. Get ready to blast off into space as you join the Questanauts on a range of immersive experiences so you can get an in-depth insight into the skills and knowledge needed to be the first human on Mars. Make sure to pre-book your tickets online!
Located at King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600
Open only for visitors who pre-booked the Mission to Mars Exhibition.
Cost: Adult $15 / Child $10 / Members $10
More info here
4. National Dinosaur Museum
Image via VisitCanberra
Enter Jurassic World at Australia's largest permanent collection of interactive dinosaurs. A visit to the National Dinosaur Museum will prove both thrilling and educational, with over 23 complete skeletons as well as over 300 displays of skulls, murals and fossils of prehistoric life. Check out the re-developed Dinosaur Garden with new interactive zones and replica animatronic dinosaurs that move, roar, blink and breathe. Don’t forget to check out Canberra’s 20-metre long dinosaur, Stan the T-Rex! Be sure to pre-book your tickets online.
Located 6 Gold Creek Road, Nicholls ACT 2913
Open 10am-5pm everyday
Cost: Adult $18 / Child $11 / Concession $13 / Family $50
More info here
5. Royal Australian Mint
Image via Penny Bradfield for VisitCanberra
The Royal Australian Mint is a cultural attraction well worth the visit to take a free guided tour to discover the extraordinary world of coins. Kids will enjoy many videos that guide you through the coin-making process and the dancing robot called Titan who is capable of lifting up to 1000 kilograms. You can even mint a legal $1 coin to commemorate the beginning of your very own coin collection. Explore the ongoing exhibition ‘Treasures of the National Coin Collection’ which showcases the rarest and most valuable coins in Australian history. You may across the Holey Dollar and Dump - Australia’s first-ever minted coins!
Located at Denison Street, Deakin ACT 2600
Open Monday-Friday from 8:30am-5pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-4pm
General admission and ongoing exhibition is free
More info here
If you’re looking for a place to stay whilst staying in Canberra, book a stay with Pavilion on Northbourne in the heart of Dickson. Enjoy the close proximity to the Canberra CBD with a LightRail stop right outside your doorstep so you can experience the best of Canberra with ease.
