16 of the Best Kids❜ Museums in Sydney & Beyond

By: The ellaslist Team, 22 September 2024

Whether you’re sheltering from the rain, escaping the stinking heat or just want to help kids get creative and use their imaginations, a family trip to one of the best kids' museums in Sydney will do the trick!

Little ones are never too young to be introduced to a bit of art, culture and history, and Sydney is alive with unique and exciting places to explore. Every day is a good day to make a date to discover something new and exciting at Sydney's best kids' museums. Enjoy!

16 of the Best Kids' Museums in Sydney & Beyond

1. Museums of History New South Wales

Museums of History New South Wales
Museums of History New South Wales.


Families are always welcome to explore the gorgeous heritage properties under the Museums of History New South Wales umbrella. 

Elizabeth Farm, Vaucluse HouseRouse Hill House & Farm and Elizabeth Bay House each boast beautiful grounds and a story from Australia’s past at every turn.

Hyde Park Barracks is another highlight in the roster of kids' museums in Sydney with a popular audio trail, while the Museum of Sydney promises engaging stories from the site of the first Government House.

Location: Visit Museums of History New South Wales for the full collection of houses and museums.

RELATED:
Sydney's Most Kid-Friendly Libraries

2. Australian National Maritime Museum

Australian National Maritime Museum
Become a mini mariner at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

 

It's Australia’s national centre for maritime collections, exhibitions, research, and Archeology, but you might know it as the museum with the Endeavour replica out the front!

At Sea Museum (commonly known as the Australian National Maritime Museum), your kids can get hands-on with Captain Cook's ship and relive his voyage to Australia. Earn your sea legs as you climb and play on board real-life tall shipswarships and a even a submarine, the HMAS Onslow.

The museum down at Darling Harbour presents a changing schedule of stimulating exhibitions including the annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year photography exhibit, plus a host of family-friendly events like Seaside Stroller ToursMini Mariners and Kids on Deck.

Location: 2 Murray St, Sydney

3. Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.

 

One of the ultimate kids' museums in Sydney, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia is just so good at creating events and experiences for children!

While we love their ever-changing schedule of fantastic, cutting-edge exhibitions, they also run family tours and kids' activities to introduce mini creatives to a love of art and artistic expression.

We recommend Artplay for a perfect family day at the MCA with little ones and the Bella Family program for families with special needs. They also have a great waterside cafe on the ground floor with an incredible harbour view.

Location: 140 George St, The Rocks

4. Australian Museum 

Burra Playspace
Australian Museum.


The heritage-listed museum is the oldest museum in Australia and has hosted some of the most incredible exhibitions for families. From dinosaurs to ancient explorers, the deepest darkest Africa, and even the famous Pharaohs, the Australian Museum plays host to some of the most exhilarating displays for Sydney families.

This one is a complete and utter winner for kids—complete with the awesome Burra playspace and an ever-changing rotation of exhibits for families to enjoy, including the super-popular Dinosaurs exhibition.

Location: 1 William St, Darlinghurst

5. Art Gallery of New South Wales

AGNSW Kids' Trail
Discover a whole new world at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.


Providing a vibrant and enriching environment where children and families can explore the world of art together, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of Australia's leading art museums, housing an extensive collection of traditional and contemporary art from across the globe.

The gallery hosts regular family-friendly events, including art-making workshops, storytelling sessions, and guided tours tailored to younger audiences. Drop by the welcome hub to learn about their free family-focused activities including children’s trails and activity sheets and check out the Ashley Dawson-Damer Children’s Art Library while you're here too. During the school holidays you'll find drop-in workshops and roving art-making tours. The Art Gallery is free to enter and has amenities that make it easy for families to visit.

Location: Art Gallery Rd, Sydney

6. Powerhouse Museum

Powerhouse Museum
Visit one of the Powerhouse Museum's sister attractions.



*Please note that the Powerhouse Museum (Ultimo) will be closed for up to three years from February 2024 for building and conservation work.* 

Powerhouse will continue to present programs at Powerhouse Castle Hill and Sydney Observatory during the construction of Powerhouse Parramatta and the revitalisation of Powerhouse Ultimo.

The Powerhouse Museum is the perfect place for inquisitive kids to have a hands-on, interactive experience. This kids' museum in Sydney boasts a unique and diverse collection of objects that spans history, science, technology, and design with exhibitions and programs designed to engage children and young people. Plus, it's FREE.

Train buffs will love getting up close to Locomotive No. 1 and learning about New South Wales’ first train, while The Lab is a brilliant immersive multimedia space to expand your imagination and explore digital technologies. 

Location: 500 Harris St, Ultimo

7. Justice And Police Museum

Justice and Police Museum
Justice and Police Museum.


The fascinating Justice and Police Museum is one you may not have considered but is definitely worth a visit!

Kids and parents will be truly fascinated learning about Sydney's past and sometimes seedy underbelly - schemes devised, tempers lost, deals done...and laws broken! The interactive elements of the museum make it one of the most kid-friendly museums in Sydney in our book!

Location: Corner Albert and Phillip Streets, Circular Quay, Sydney.

8. Museums Discovery Centre

Museums Discovery Centre
Museums Discovery Centre.


The Museums Discovery Centre is a collaboration between the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, the Australian Museum and Museums of History New South Wales.

Inside the Museums Discovery Centre, you will find millions of treasures, with hundreds on display for you to explore, and thousands more waiting to be discovered through booked tours of the deep collection stores. There are amazing permanent exhibitions as well as programs targeted at babies up to two years old, or kids aged between three and five. This is the perfect spot for any family with kids who ask 'why' one too many times!

Location: 172 Showground Rd, Castle Hill

9. The Rocks Discovery Museum

The Rocks Discovery Museum
The Rocks Discovery Museum.

 

How about one of the best FREE kids' museums in Sydney?

If you find yourself around Circular Quay with the family, don’t forget to check out the FREE Discovery Museum at the Rocks, set in a gorgeous restored sandstone warehouse.

The Discovery Corner is also a great quiet place to rest little legs, colour in, browse the kids' fact sheets and describe what artifacts you'd put in your own museum! Our verdict? This kids' museum in Sydney sparks questioning, conversation and imagination for curious little minds.

There are four fascinating permanent exhibitions, a unique collection of images and archaeological artifacts, plus fun, interactive audio and visual elements that bring the history of the area to life. Join a free daily guided tour of the museum and learn about the area's rich history.

Location: Kendall Lane, The Rocks

10. The Campbelltown Steam & Machinery Museum

Campbelltown Steam Machinery Museum
The Campbelltown Steam & Machinery Museum.


Nestled in the heart of Campbelltown, The Campbelltown Steam & Machinery Museum showcases a diverse collection of steam-powered machinery and antique engines, providing all train enthusiasts with a fascinating glimpse into the bygone era of steam power.

As you explore the museum's spacious halls, you'll encounter beautifully restored locomotives, mighty steam engines, and a remarkable array of machinery that once powered industries and revolutionized transportation. The museum's knowledgeable staff eagerly (all volunteers!) share stories and insights, offering visitors a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and craftsmanship of these historical marvels. 

Location: 86 Menangle Rd, Menangle Park

11. Sydney Tramway Museum

Kids museums in Sydney
Sydney Tramway Museum.

 

An awesome museum for train enthusiasts, the Sydney Tramway Museum stands as a cherished homage to the city's iconic tram network.

From the elegant wooden carriages of the early 20th century to the sleek and modern designs of later years, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through the evolution of tram transport. The Sydney Tramway Museum is Australia's oldest tramway museum and the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, but that's not even the best part... you'll even have a chance to ride on one of the historic trams during your visit!

Location: 2 Pitt St, Loftus 

Further Afield

12. NSW Rail Museum

NSW Rail Museum
Hop aboard real-life steam trains at the NSW Rail Museum.

 

For all Thomas-loving and train-loving fans, a visit to the NSW Rail Museum is a must!

Located in Thirlmere just over an hour south of the Sydney CBD, the NSW Rail Museum houses real-life steam trains from bygone eras.

Along with housing one of the largest collections of rail heritage in NSW, the NSW Rail Museum runs real-life steam train rides every weekend for the whole family to hear the toot-tooting of a vintage steam train. Plus, Thomas fans will get a kick out of their annual Day Out With Thomas and the Thirlmere Festival of Steam is a family favourite every year.  

Location: 10 Barbour Rd, Thirlmere

13. Bundanon

Bundanon Museum
Bundanon's Art Museum and Bridge.


If you're passing through the Shoalhaven region, we highly recommend stopping off at NSW's subterranean Art Museum offering at Bundanon. 

Bundanon's new Art Museum and Bridge for Creative Learning opened in 2022 and offers a world-class creative learning centre with guest accommodation, dining facilities and sweeping views over the Shoalhaven River. The new 500m2 Bundanon Art Museum has been designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects (KTA) and is a destination in itself. The exquisite bridge structure has been embedded into the landscape to make the most of its lush natural surroundings while housing Bundanon’s extensive $46.5-million collection of viewable items.

Contemporary exhibitions, unique cultural experiences, events, animal encounters, concerts, and learning programs are on offer at Bundanon, along with contemporary accommodation and on-site dining at the Ramox Cafe

Location: 170 Riversdale Rd, Illaroo

14. Newcastle Museum

Newcastle Museum
Newcastle Museum.


Located just 2 hours from Sydney, the Newcastle Museum provides a fascinating insight into the region's history, culture, and industry.

Engage with interactive displays, learn about the city's coal mining heritage, and discover exhibitions that highlight the diverse stories of its people. Newcastle Museum has an exciting calendar of events that change regularly and include free exhibitions and kids' activities. 

Location: 6 Workshop Way, Newcastle

15. Early Start Discovery Space

Early Start Discovery Space
Early Start Discovery Space.


Early Start Discovery Space is a vibrant and dynamic destination for children and families.

This unique museum in Wollongong is specifically designed to engage young minds and ignite their curiosity through interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences. From the moment you step foot inside, you'll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colours, playful installations, and a sense of wonderment.

The Early Start Discovery Space offers a diverse range of themed zones, each carefully crafted to encourage exploration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Children can embark on imaginative adventures in the Discovery Garden, unleash their inner scientists in the Experimentarium, or indulge in artistic expression in the Creative Studios.

Location: Building 21, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave, Wollongong

16. National Museum of Australia

National Museum of Australia
National Museum of Australia.


If you've visited all the best kids' museums in Sydney many times over, it might be time to head to the nation's capital for something new!

The National Museum of Australia, nestled in the heart of Canberra, serves as a captivating gateway into the nation's rich history and cultural identity. With its striking architecture and thoughtfully curated exhibits, the museum invites visitors on a journey of exploration and understanding.

Step into its halls and immerse yourself in the stories of Australia, from the ancient Aboriginal cultures to the early European settlers and the diverse tapestry of the nation's present. Through interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and a vast collection of artifacts, the museum brings to life the triumphs, struggles, and moments that have shaped Australia's past and present. 

Location: Lawson Cres, Acton ACT

More Fun Things to Do in Sydney

100 Rainy Day Ideas in Sydney
30 Free Things to Do in Sydney
Roarsome Dinosaur Activities in Sydney


Have you signed up for our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!

Reviews