National Museum of Australia

Admission is free. Lots of parking available. I visited on a weekend and did not pay for parking. You can spend a few hours here and there is also a cafe where you can have lunch - you can also sit outside to get a view of the river. The kids discovery centre is outside and is a must for parents. They also have space for kids to run up and down outside.

The National Museum of Australia is a must-see for anyone wanting to understand the complex and colorful history of this country. The location on the Acton Peninsula is beautiful, especially if you take a moment to walk along the lake before heading inside. • Incredible Collection: Seeing Phar Lap’s heart and the old Holden prototype in person is a real treat. The way the museum mixes these popular icons with deep social histories makes the experience feel very personal. • Indigenous History: The "First Australians" gallery is exceptional. It is one of the most comprehensive displays I have seen, focusing on both ancient traditions and modern stories with great care. • Architectural Design: The building is a work of art. The Gandel Atrium with its sweeping curves is stunning, and the "Garden of Australian Dreams" in the center is a very cool, surreal space to walk through. • Great for Kids: We spent a lot of time in the Discovery Centre. It is a high-quality play space that actually teaches kids about the land while they play. • Cafe with a View: We finished the day with coffee on the deck overlooking the water. The views of the lake and the city are some of the best in Canberra. Even if you aren't a "museum person," the architecture and the lakefront setting make it worth a visit. Just be sure to grab a map at the entrance, as the winding halls are part of the fun but can be a little disorienting! Note: Paid parking onsite.

A favourite museum for us to visit when in Canberra! We have been here many times and this excellent museum never disappoints :-) The permanent displays (particularly the 'Landmarks' exhibition) feature important items from Australian culture. Whether you are interested in the arts, popular culture, politics or sport, there is something for everyone. You can see some of these items in the photos provided here. The museum also hosts regular special exhibitions such as the Captain James Cook exhibition and one on the Mr Squiggle television program. There is also a new special exhibition to enjoy when we visit :-) I have had the pleasure of dealing directly with some of the museum curators and other staff. They are highly professional and absolutely wonderful to know. You will need a few hours here to fully appreciate all that is on offer - both inside and building and outside. Take the time to enjoy Australia's premier museum!

Had a wonderful experience visiting the National Museum of Australia with my students. The First Australians Gallery was especially meaningful and engaging, offering powerful stories and insights that sparked thoughtful discussions among the students. One of the highlights was seeing the landmark steam-powered ship showcased beautifully at the back of the museum — such an impressive display of history and engineering. The museum itself is surrounded by water, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere. We also enjoyed spending time at the café with its lovely views, making the whole visit both educational and enjoyable. A fantastic place for school excursions and anyone interested in Australian history and culture!