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National Museum of Australia: A Tapestry of Australian Stories

Explore Australia's rich history and culture at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra; discover stories of the land and its people.

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The National Museum of Australia, located in Canberra, is dedicated to preserving and interpreting Australia's social history. Opened in 2001, its unique architecture houses a vast collection exploring Indigenous heritage, European settlement, and the relationship between people and the environment.

A brief summary to National Museum of Australia

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • General admission is free, but some special exhibitions, programs, and tours may have a fee.
  • Check the museum's website for current exhibitions and events before your visit.
  • Consider joining the 'Friends' program for discounts at the Museum Shop and Cafe, and access to exclusive tours and events.
  • Allow 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibitions.
  • Take advantage of the Museum Cafe, offering views of Lake Burley Griffin.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Canberra city center, take bus route 53 to the National Museum of Australia. The bus stop is located on Lennox Crossing, approximately 200 meters from the museum entrance. Check the Transport Canberra website for the most up-to-date timetable information. A single bus fare costs around $3.20.

  • Walking

    From the city center or other lakeside attractions, follow the shared path along Lake Burley Griffin to the National Museum of Australia. The scenic walk offers views of the lake and surrounding landmarks. The path connects with the City Loop and other shared paths throughout Canberra. There is no cost for walking.

  • Taxi/Ride Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off at the designated taxi zone near the museum's main entrance, under the large orange loop. A short taxi ride from the city center will cost approximately $15-$25. Check local taxi or ride-share apps for current fares.

  • Driving

    Drive to Lawson Crescent, Acton, where the National Museum of Australia is located. Weekday parking costs $4.20 per hour or $17.50 per day between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm. Parking is free on weekends and public holidays. Accessible parking is available near the entrance free of charge for those with the required permit.

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Discover more about National Museum of Australia

The National Museum of Australia, situated on Acton Peninsula in Canberra, offers an immersive journey through the country's diverse history and culture. Officially established in 1980, the museum found its permanent home in 2001, becoming a key cultural institution. The museum stands on Ngunnawal, Ngunawal and Ngambri land, beside Lake Burley Griffin. The museum's architecture, designed by Ashton Raggatt McDougall and Robert Peck von Hartel Trethowan, is a postmodern structure meant to reflect the interwoven nature of Australian history. The building's design incorporates the idea of a 'Boolean string' and a jigsaw puzzle, symbolizing the tangled and incomplete aspects of the Australian experience. The striking Uluru Line, a giant sculptural loop at the entrance, connects the museum to the spiritual heart of Indigenous Australia. The interior spaces, including the Gandel Atrium, evoke a sense of interconnectedness, representing the stories that bind Australians together. The National Historical Collection comprises over 210,000 objects, focusing on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture, Australian history since 1788, and the interaction between people and the environment. Highlights include the world's largest collection of Aboriginal bark paintings and stone tools, the heart of champion racehorse Phar Lap, and the Holden prototype No. 1 car. The museum also addresses the sensitive issue of repatriation, working to return ancestral remains to Indigenous communities. Visitors can explore a range of exhibitions and programs, some of which may have an entry fee. Guided tours offer insights into the museum's architecture, design, and collection highlights. The Museum Shop provides a range of souvenirs, including First Nations products.

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