Inside this landmark building is Australia’s very first museum, opened in 1857, and celebrating the natural history and culture of Australia and the Pacific. An excellent experience for families, permanent exhibitions include the famed Wild Planet and the thrilling Surviving Australia, with dinosaur skeletons and weird and wonderful creatures from the land down under.
For a snapshot of Sydney’s history, this museum tells stories about the people, places and culture of the city. The building’s architecture draws inspiration from the site’s history, weaving in remains of the inaugural Government House, circa 1788. Don’t miss the intricate model of the 11 ships of the First Fleet.
Sydney’s first European settlers were mainly criminals transported from the UK, so the city has a colourful gangland history. Step back in time at this former police court and holding cells, to learn stories of the guilty and the innocent, and admire intriguing mug shots from the 1920s.
Take a peek into the lives of the working-class families who called these four pocket-sized terrace houses home from 1844 onwards in The Rocks, Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood. See how they lived, worked, and played in tiny backyards, open wash houses, basement kitchens and modest parlour rooms. Guided tours only.
Australia’s most famous beach is accessible via public transport and ideal for a day of fun, sand and surf.
Homebush, Sydney Olympic Park is just 20 minutes from Sydney and offers a fabulous playground for the entire family, featuring walking tracks through wetlands, bike tracks, picnic and BBQ facilities. Make a day of it with 40 hectares of scenic parklands to explore.
Located at The Domain and features collections of Australian, European and Asian art, and presents special exhibitions annually.
Open daily (except Christmas Day) the Maritime Museum offers free admission to the permanent exhibitions, special exhibitions, Maritime Heritage Centre at Wharf 7, the North Wharf and Marina to view the small fleet of historic vessels.
On the top floor of The Queen Victoria Building discover two incredible mechanical clocks. The Royal Clock displays scenes of English royalty on the hour, while The Great Australian Clock features 33 scenes from Australian history.
Tour the historic home of 37 Governors of New South Wales from 1846 to 1996. Located in The Domain alongside the Royal Botanic Gardens. Tour the historic home of 37 Governors of New South Wales from 1846 to 1996. Located in The Domain alongside the Royal Botanic Gardens.
