As the oldest city in Australia, Sydney has some fascinating tales to tell from its convict days to the roaring ‘20s and beyond.
This colonial structure is Sydney’s oldest public building and boasts a rich history. Originally built in 1816 as a hospital for 200 convict patients – and financed with 45,000 gallons of rum – the ‘rum’ hospital had its Southern Wing converted into a branch of the British Royal Mint during the NSW gold rush in … Read more
This UNESCO World Heritage-listed museum tells the story of Australia’s convict beginnings and its powerful imprint on Indigenous Australia. Cutting-edge visual and audio technology allows visitors to follow in the footsteps of some of the 500,000 British convicts who were held here. The innovative methods of telling their tales are almost as incredible as the … Read more
With a harbourside location and impressive Art Deco exterior, this is a must-see. Filled with eye-catching modern art, there are more than 4,000 artworks by Aussie artists and an extensive collection of Indigenous art. The rooftop cafe has sweeping views of Sydney Harbour and the gallery shop is brimming with take-home treasures.
This magnificent heritage-listed sandstone museum, circa 1858, is perched atop the highest point of Sydney Cove, offering incredible star-gazing opportunities. Step inside the astronomy dome to see telescopes in action on a family-friendly tour designed for small groups including children six years and over.
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.
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.
