Museum of Sydney (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Museum of Sydney?
What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can join holiday craft workshops, peek at ruins through glass panels, and see interactive touring shows; lifts, toilets and staff help, yet displays are text-heavy and visit is brief.
Positives:
- Free admission: Permanent exhibits, tours and kids’ activities are free, easing budget planning.
- Central location: Near Circular Quay, it’s easy to combine with ferry rides or outdoor play at The Rocks.
Challenges:
- Limited interactive exhibits: Permanent galleries are mostly display-only; children may prefer more hands-on play.
- Small spaces: Some galleries and the theatre fill quickly; avoid peak times to reduce crowding.
What is Museum of Sydney?
- A museum built on the ruins of Australia’s first Government House, preserving 18th-century foundations beneath its forecourt
- A museum that traces Sydney’s development from its Gadigal origins and First Fleet settlement through to its modern multicultural identity
- A building that integrates a contemporary steel-and-glass pavilion with exposed colonial-era archaeological remains
What is so special about Museum of Sydney for with kids?
- Explore the first Government House ruins through forecourt glass panels
- Join a free 15-minute guided tour and meet the city’s early history
- Kids enjoy hands-on craft workshops and short film screenings
- Yana Nura Garden offers a shaded outdoor break with native plants
- Central Circular Quay location lets you mix museum time with ferries or park visits
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 2-3 hours is enough time to join a guided tour, explore the forecourt and enjoy craft activities at a family pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Museum of Sydney
Edge of the Trees Forecourt:
29 sandstone and steel pillars tell the Gadigal story with carved texts.
Tip: Kids can spot animal forms and peek through glass panels at colonial ruins below.
Free 15-Min Guided Tour:
Daily tours introduce the First Government House ruins.
Tip: Join at 11 am or 3 pm; no booking needed and tours are stroller-friendly.
Hands-On Craft Workshops:
Daily drop-in art sessions inspired by current exhibitions.
Tip: Check the board on arrival for workshop themes; materials are provided free.
Short Films in Warrane Theatre:
8–15 minute archival films on Sydney’s history.
Tip: Arrive 5 minutes early to find seats; films run every 30 minutes.
Yana Nura Garden:
Outdoor mezzanine garden with native plants.
Tip: Let kids explore plant signs; seating areas let parents rest nearby.
When is the best time to visit Museum of Sydney (Sydney, Australia)?
During NSW school holidays, drop-in craft sessions offer extra themed activities free for kids.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Museum of Sydney (Sydney)
Amanda Woodard
A small window into the colonial past with paintings and models of the first fleet and who was on board. Paintings need to be hung better as some are too high to view. Currently showing, too, is a truly great 8 minute digital artwork by Joan Ross that is a beautiful but poignant critique of the legacy of colonialism. Worth a visit fir this alone.
Julio Yanes
The Museum of Sydney is a fascinating and beautifully curated space that offers a unique perspective on the city’s layered history. Nestled right in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, it’s an easy and rewarding stop if you’re exploring the city on foot. From the moment you walk in, there’s a calm, reflective atmosphere that invites you to slow down and really take in the stories being told. What I loved ...
Chang Guan
Great place to get to know the history of Sydney and the early days of the colonial period. It’s heavy and sad to be honest. There are very few physical artifacts in it. Most of the materials they have is digital. But it is still a good way to show the history though. If you have got 2-hour free time, have a look.
Carli McKinney
We had a great visit before our flights out of Sydney. The volunteers were really helpful and we checked out several of the exhibits. Love the old building and the history there. To our surprise they had a Flores Hobbit skeleton which was a highlight for us since we didn’t get to make it to the cave when we visited Flores a few months back. Such a treat!
fly onn
It's not as big as I thought it should be. One hour is enough to walk around the museum. It's good to visit the museum to gain knowledge on Sydney and Australia history. Opposite the museum used to be the old government house. There is a gift shop and a cafe in the building.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Museum entry | AUD 0 |
| Craft workshops | AUD 0 |
| Guided tour | AUD 0 |
| Short film screenings | AUD 0 |
| Café snacks & drinks | AUD 50 |
| Souvenir purchase | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 70 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Museum of Sydney
- Visit before midday: Arrive by 10 am to join the first guided tour and enjoy quieter galleries.
- Combine with nearby parks: Plan a picnic at the Royal Botanic Garden afterward for free outdoor fun.
Map of Museum of Sydney
Address: Cnr Bridge Street &, Phillip St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Museum of Sydney (Sydney)?
About Museum of Sydney
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 9251 598810 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities