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Visit the National Museum of Australia in Canberra

The National Museum of Australia is one of Canberra’s most fascinating cultural attractions and an essential place to visit for anyone interested in Australian history, identity and society.

Located on Acton Peninsula beside Lake Burley Griffin, the museum explores the people, places and events that have shaped Australia. Its exhibitions cover tens of thousands of years of First Nations history, European settlement, migration, the Australian environment and the changing lives of Australians.

Whether you are visiting Canberra for a weekend, travelling with children or exploring the national capital’s museums and galleries, the National Museum of Australia deserves a place on your itinerary.

Discover the Stories of Australia​

Rather than presenting Australian history as one simple timeline, the museum brings together many different stories and perspectives.

Its collection includes objects connected with important historical events, famous Australians, everyday family life, sport, transport, agriculture, popular culture and the development of modern Australia.

Interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, photographs and personal stories help make the galleries engaging for visitors of different ages. You can easily spend several hours exploring the museum, particularly when special exhibitions or guided experiences are available.

The museum describes its purpose as bringing Australia’s diverse stories to life through significant objects, ideas and events.

Explore First Nations History and Culture​

One of the most important parts of the museum is its exploration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures.

The First Australians galleries introduce visitors to the world’s oldest continuing cultures through artworks, historical objects, personal accounts and stories of connection to Country.

The exhibitions explore cultural traditions and achievements while also addressing the profound effects of colonisation, frontier conflict, government policies and the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families.

Visitors can learn about the strength, resilience and continuing cultural contributions of First Nations communities throughout Australia.

The museum stands on the lands of the Ngunnawal, Ngunawal and Ngambri peoples and recognises the continuing connection of First Australians to Country, community and culture.

Galleries and Exhibitions​

The National Museum of Australia contains several major galleries exploring different aspects of the Australian experience.

Popular exhibitions and gallery spaces include:

Great Southern Land​

This gallery examines Australia’s natural environment and the complex relationship between people, land, water and wildlife. It explores how the continent has influenced Australian life and how human activity continues to transform the environment.

Landmarks​

The Landmarks gallery tells stories connected with places throughout Australia. It examines how towns, cities, industries, transport networks and communities have developed across the country.

First Australians​

These galleries present Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures through objects, artworks, oral histories and community perspectives.

Talking Blak to History​

This exhibition examines how First Nations people have represented their experiences, challenged historical narratives and contributed to the way Australia understands its past.

The museum also hosts changing temporary exhibitions, travelling displays, talks and special events. Some exhibitions are free, while separate admission charges may apply to selected experiences.

An Architectural Canberra Landmark​

The museum building is an attraction in its own right.

Its bold shapes, unusual angles and colourful design are intended to reflect Australia’s interconnected stories. The looping architectural forms represent the many threads linking people, places and experiences across the country.

Inside, the spacious Gandel Atrium provides a dramatic central meeting point, while large windows and outdoor areas offer views towards Lake Burley Griffin.

The museum’s waterfront location also makes it a pleasant place for a walk before or after exploring the galleries.

A Family-Friendly Canberra Attraction​

The National Museum of Australia is suitable for families, with interactive exhibits and activities designed to encourage children to explore Australian history.

Families may also find workshops, school-holiday programs and sessions at the Discovery Centre. Some organised activities require advance bookings and may involve an additional charge.

Parents’ facilities include toilets, a change table and a microwave, while breastfeeding is welcomed throughout the museum.

Checking the museum’s program before your visit is recommended, especially during school holidays.

Tours and Visitor Experiences​

Visitors who would like to learn more can join a guided tour, attend a gallery talk or take part in one of the museum’s special experiences.

Tours can provide additional background about important objects, the architecture of the building and the stories presented throughout the galleries. Virtual-reality experiences may also be available, although bookings and additional charges can apply.

Information about tours and tickets can be obtained from the visitor information desk near the museum entrance.

Museum Café and Shop​

After exploring the galleries, visitors can stop at the museum café for refreshments while enjoying the surroundings of Acton Peninsula.

The Museum Shop sells books, toys, homewares, jewellery, Australian-made gifts and products created by First Nations artists and art centres. Purchases help support the museum and participating designers and communities.

Planning Your Visit​

The National Museum of Australia is located on Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Canberra.

General admission is free, although charges may apply to certain temporary exhibitions, activities and special events.

The museum is normally open:

Daily: 9 am to 5 pm
Closed: Christmas Day

Opening arrangements and exhibition details can change, so visitors should confirm the latest information with the museum before travelling.

Onsite parking is available, although spaces can fill quickly on weekends and during school holidays. Walking, cycling and public transport are useful alternatives. Accessible parking spaces and facilities are also provided.

How Long Should You Allow?​

Allow at least two to three hours for a general visit.

Travellers with a strong interest in Australian history may wish to spend half a day at the museum, particularly when visiting a major temporary exhibition, joining a tour or stopping at the café.

The museum can also be combined with other Canberra attractions around Lake Burley Griffin, including galleries, memorials, gardens and national institutions.

Why Visit the National Museum of Australia?​

The National Museum of Australia provides an engaging introduction to the country’s history and culture.

It is especially worthwhile for:

• First-time visitors to Australia
• Families visiting Canberra
• Travellers interested in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures
• History and culture enthusiasts
• School groups and educational visitors
• Australians wanting to learn more about their national story

With free general admission, distinctive architecture and exhibitions covering both celebrated and challenging parts of Australian history, it is one of the most rewarding attractions in the Australian Capital Territory.

Share Your National Museum Experiences​

Have you visited the National Museum of Australia?

Which gallery or exhibition did you find most interesting? Do you have recommendations for families, guided tours, parking or other nearby Canberra attractions?

Share your experiences, travel tips and photographs in the Australian Capital Territory Travel Forum and help other travellers plan their visit to Canberra.

Website: https://www.nma.gov.au/