Australian Museum
Australian Museum
Description
The Australian Museum is the oldest museum in Australia and one of Sydney's best free family days out. Located on the edge of Hyde Park, this world-class natural history museum offers free general admission for everyone, making it an easy and budget-friendly school holiday destination. With exhibitions spanning dinosaurs, wildlife, minerals, and Indigenous cultures, kids can easily spend half a day exploring.
Why We Love It
Dinosaurs gallery: The star attraction on Level 2 features full-size dinosaur models and real fossil bones, making it the museum's most popular exhibition for kids of all ages.
Burra play space: A purpose-built interactive play area on Level 2 that follows the migration of the burra (eel) through estuaries, rivers, rockpools, and out to sea. Sensory walls, play zones, and a blend of Western science and First Nations knowledges make it perfect for younger children. Free entry, open 10am-4:30pm daily.
Free general admission: General entry is free for everyone, adults and children alike, so you can visit as many times as you like across the school holidays without cost.
Pram-friendly throughout: Lifts and ramps to all areas, free cloaking on Lower Ground for prams and bags, plus baby change facilities on Lower Ground and Level 2 (Parents Room next to Burra).
Multiple cafes on site: Billabong Waterhole Cafe on Level 2 (right next to Burra), Hintze Hall Espresso Bar on Upper Ground, and Bistro Gadi on Level 4 with views and a kids menu (Wed-Sun).
School holiday programs: A mix of free drop-in activities and ticketed workshops run throughout the April school holidays, from hands-on STEM challenges to behind-the-scenes science experiences.
Good To Know
Tips
Start on Level 2: This is the ultimate kids floor with the Dinosaurs gallery, Burra play space, Surviving Australia, and the Parents Room all in one spot.
Arrive early: Get there at 10am opening for a quieter experience, especially during school holidays when it gets busy after 11am.
Book ticketed programs in advance: School holiday workshops and special exhibitions fill up fast. Check the website and book online before your visit.
BYO food options: Food is not allowed in the galleries, but you can eat BYO food in Hintze Hall (tables and chairs provided). Hyde Park is directly across the road for picnics.
Allow 2-3 hours: A good visit with kids takes at least 2-3 hours. You could easily spend longer if your children love the Burra play space or dinosaur exhibits.
Changing Places facility: A full-sized change table and hoist are available on Level 2. Request access from staff at the admission desk.
Getting there: Museum Station, St James Station, and Town Hall Station are each about a 7-minute walk. Gadigal Metro Station is a 5-minute walk via Park Street.
Parking Options
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Price (Per Person)
FREE general admission. Special exhibitions and school holiday workshops are ticketed (prices vary).
Opening Hours
- Monday
- 10am - 5pm
- Tuesday
- 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday
- 10am - 5pm
- Thursday
- 10am - 5pm
- Friday
- 10am - 5pm
- Saturday
- 10am - 5pm
- Sunday
- 10am - 5pm