A Guide to the National Museum of Australia That Showcases Some of the Best in Australian Culture and Art
Over the years, I’ve familiarized myself with Canberra’s museums so I know which ones to recommend to those who want to experience the culture. Although it sounds obvious, I always end up suggesting the National Museum of Australia first.
Of course, it’s educational but I also love the occasional oddity inside that feels so distinctly Australian. I mean, where else would you find the gigantic preserved heart of a champion racehorse?
If that sounds intriguing, this guide lets you know what else you’ll be able to see at the National Museum of Australia.
Where is the National Museum of Australia?
The National Museum of Australia is located at Lawson Crescent in the suburb of Acton. It’s situated on a peninsula on Lake Burley Griffin, right next to the Australian National University.
How to Get to the National Museum of Australia
Via Bus: The closest bus stop to the National Museum of Australia is at Lennox Crossing, which is less than a 10-minute walk away. You can take transport route 53 to get there.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Call a taxi or locate one using your preferred ride-sharing app (such as Uber). Tell your driver that you want to go to the National Museum of Australia and they’ll take you there right away.
Via Private Car: Use your GPS to find the best route going to the National Museum of Australia. On weekdays, the museum’s provided on-site parking has fees, but it’s free on weekends and holidays.
Their accessible parking spaces are always free of charge as long as you have a permit.
What to Do in the National Museum of Australia
Visit the main galleries
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Since it’s the National Museum of Australia, after all, it’s a must to check out the displays they have about the country’s origins. Their key exhibits focus on both the diversity of the people and the land.
The First Australians is perhaps the most popular one as it tells the stories of the First Nations peoples.
It’s an even more enriching experience since you’ll be able to picture how they lived, as you gaze at the largest collection of Aboriginal stone tools and artworks in the world.
On the other hand, the Great Southern Land Gallery is an interactive display that shows how different plant and animal species survive and flourish in this country we call home.
If you’re just as easily entertained as I am, you might end up spending way too much time here interacting with the museum’s 3D animated platypus.
See the temporary exhibitions
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The national museum doesn’t just focus on Australia though. They also showcase interesting finds from all over the world. Since these exhibits are usually special and limited, they may charge extra fees. But trust me, it’s more than worth it.
For example, one of the museum’s most popular offerings by far was their Discovering Ancient Egypt Exhibit.
Most visitors were interested in the rare scrolls and elegant jewelry, but I personally made a beeline for the 10 authentic Egyptian coffins they had on display.
As for their latest exhibition, it revolves around how people used to live in Pompeii. Here, they’ll be showing a glimpse of newly recovered items from that era that have never been seen outside of Europe.
In addition to this, you and other visitors will get to sit through an exciting reenactment of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius every 15 minutes.
Join a tour
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When: Daily
Cost: $10 for children, $20 for adults
For first-time visitors to the museum, it’s highly recommended for you to join a tour. The museum’s knowledgeable guides can impart some information and fun facts that’ll make your time here even more enjoyable.
The museum’s main tour is called the Museum Highlights Tour. It introduces the different areas and galleries of the building, as well as discusses some of the most popular permanent pieces on display.
I’d also suggest joining the Building and Architecture Tour, which goes in-depth with the museum’s unique and award-winning design. It felt like discovering a bunch of easter eggs every time the guide pointed out a symbolic design element of the building.
Just take note that both of these tours need to be booked in advance. Also, learn from my mistakes and remember to wear comfortable footwear meant for walking on the day of your chosen tour.
Where to Eat near the National Museum of Australia
Mocan & Green Grout
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Address: 1/19 Marcus Clarke Street
Phone: +61 2 6162 2909
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Mocan & Green Grout is on its way to becoming the locals’ leading source of caffeine in the area. I’ve tried their coffees and teas to see which beverage I preferred, but I just ended up developing a taste for both.
That’s not all they serve though. Their light brunch meals get a lot of love too. I can never get enough of their smoked trout salad — if no one stopped me, I’d have it every day.
Since the place is quite small, most of their customers go there for takeaway. But if you have the chance, I highly recommend sitting down and enjoying the atmosphere.
Their open kitchen, paired with the staff’s friendly attitude, makes the place feel much more bright and spacious. Plus, watching them meticulously prepare each dish and beverage feels like a free subscription to the best show on the food channel.
Monster Kitchen and Bar
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Address: Ground/25 Edinburgh Avenue
Phone: +61 2 6287 6192
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Monster Kitchen and Bar capitalizes on the finest produce per season and turns them into meals that both taste and look good. The chefs here should be regarded as artists for being able to turn every dish into a masterpiece.
They’ve got an impressive range of vegetarian food that might even convert the most loyal of meat lovers. Their skilled chefs make sure to bring out the best flavors, even from the simplest of ingredients.
Your experience here wouldn’t be complete without trying one of their cocktails. They serve all the classics, but with their own twist, making each drink feel brand new and much more memorable.
Throughout my time here, I was taken care of by an amazing wait staff that could double as mind readers. Every time I asked for recommendations, they always managed to provide the perfect ones, from my food to my wine.
Where to Stay near the National Museum of Australia
QT Canberra
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Address: 1 London Circuit
Phone: +61 2 6247 6244
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
QT Canberra believes in providing their guests with the best possible stay while they’re in the capital. It’s why they offer a ton of packages based on the type of trip you’re on, whether it’s for a fun family getaway or a relaxing retreat.
Prepare to feel like royalty during your stay. Their staff will never miss a chance to give a friendly greeting to brighten up your day.
All their rooms are cleverly designed as well. They may not be the most spacious, but each one has been carefully planned and furnished to ensure that you’ll have everything you need.
But even though you may be tempted to stay in your comfy room the entire time, it’s a must to drop by their on-site restaurant: the Capitol Bar & Grill. They have these excellent wood-grilled steaks that have a smoky flavor that you can’t easily replicate.
Hotel Realm
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Address: 18 National Circuit, Barton
Phone: +61 2 6163 1800
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Hotel Realm can be your home away from home while you explore the best that Canberra has to offer. The hotel is a short walking distance away from landmarks such as the National Library of Australia and the Parliament House.
This luxury hotel has everything you need to unwind after a long day out and about. You can take advantage of their state-of-the-art amenities, such as their gym, spa, and salon, to make you feel pampered and well taken care of.
And the relaxation doesn’t stop there. They’ve got these plush beds that will make you sleep through all of your alarms in the morning.
At night, you can either prepare your dinner in your well-equipped kitchenette or order some room service as you enjoy striking views of the city from your balcony.