The MAC Belfast
Belfast's vibrant contemporary arts centre blending theatre, galleries, and café culture in a welcoming modern space.
The MAC is a vibrant contemporary arts centre in Belfast's city centre, housed in a striking modern building on Exchange Street. It combines a cutting-edge performance venue with gallery spaces, a welcoming café, and a bar, creating a dynamic cultural hub. The theatre hosts innovative productions ranging from experimental drama to family shows, while the galleries showcase contemporary visual art. The friendly staff, clean facilities, and quality food offerings make it equally appealing as a cultural destination or casual meeting spot.
A brief summary to The MAC
- 10 Exchange St, Belfast, West, Belfast, BT1 2NJ, GB
- +442890235053
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- 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
- Arrive early for performances to enjoy the café and soak in the foyer atmosphere before the show begins. The café's breakfast and brunch menus are excellent and worth trying even if you're not attending a performance.
- Check the gallery exhibitions when you visit—they rotate regularly and are free to explore, offering a quick cultural experience even if you're short on time.
- Book theatre tickets in advance, especially for popular productions and family shows, as performances can sell out. The theatre's sightlines are excellent throughout, so don't worry about seat location.
- The venue is particularly family-friendly with regular children's programming and a welcoming atmosphere for younger visitors. Staff are helpful in directing families to age-appropriate events.
- Visit during off-peak hours (mid-morning or early afternoon on weekdays) if you prefer a quieter experience for browsing galleries or enjoying the café without crowds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport - Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the city centre near Exchange Street. Journey times from most parts of Belfast range from 10–25 minutes depending on your starting point. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with reduced service on Sundays. Single fares typically cost £1.50–£2.50 depending on distance. The MAC is a 2–3 minute walk from the main bus station area.
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Walking
The MAC is centrally located on Exchange Street in Belfast's West Quarter, within easy walking distance of the city centre. From the Cathedral Quarter, it's approximately 10–15 minutes on foot via pedestrian-friendly streets. From the Botanic Avenue area, allow 15–20 minutes. The route is flat and well-lit, with clear signage throughout the city centre.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis are readily available throughout Belfast and can reach the MAC from most city locations within 5–15 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. Ride-share services operate in the city. Typical fares from the city centre range from £5–£12. The venue has nearby street parking, though it can be limited during peak times.
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Car Parking
Street parking is available on and around Exchange Street, though spaces can be limited during busy periods. Several multi-storey car parks operate within a 5–10 minute walk of the MAC, including facilities on nearby streets. Parking charges typically range from £1–£3 per hour depending on the facility and time of day.
The MAC location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The MAC
A Modern Cultural Landmark in Belfast's Heart
The MAC stands as one of Belfast's most significant contemporary arts venues, located on Exchange Street in the city's vibrant West Quarter. Opened as a purpose-built arts centre, it represents a major investment in Northern Ireland's cultural infrastructure. The building itself is architecturally striking—a modern structure designed to be welcoming and accessible, with clean lines and bright interiors that reflect its forward-thinking approach to arts programming. Its central location makes it easily reachable from across the city, and it has quickly become a focal point for both locals and visitors seeking quality cultural experiences.Theatre and Performance Programming
The MAC's primary draw is its state-of-the-art theatre, which hosts a diverse range of performances throughout the year. The venue presents everything from cutting-edge contemporary drama and experimental theatre to family-friendly productions and musical performances. The theatre's design ensures excellent sightlines from all seats, creating an intimate connection between performers and audience regardless of where you sit. The programming reflects both local talent and visiting companies, making it a platform for emerging artists and established practitioners alike. Recent productions have included inventive adaptations of classic stories, original comedies, and thought-provoking political dramas that engage with contemporary issues.Gallery Spaces and Visual Arts
Beyond theatre, the MAC operates dedicated gallery spaces that showcase contemporary visual art, photography, and installations. These exhibitions rotate regularly, offering visitors fresh perspectives on current artistic practice. The galleries maintain high curatorial standards and often feature work by both established and emerging artists. The spaces are free to explore, making them accessible to anyone passing through the building, whether or not they're attending a performance.Café Culture and Social Spaces
The MAC's café has become a destination in its own right, serving as a meeting place for the creative community and casual visitors alike. The breakfast and brunch menus are particularly popular, offering quality food made with care. The café sources locally where possible, and the menu caters to various dietary preferences including vegetarian and vegan options. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with friendly staff who create an inviting environment. The café's success reflects the MAC's philosophy of being a genuine community space rather than simply a performance venue.Inclusive Programming and Community Engagement
The MAC demonstrates a strong commitment to accessibility and community engagement. The venue actively programmes work for children and families, recognising the importance of introducing younger audiences to the arts. Beyond traditional performances, the MAC creates unique spaces and programming for underrepresented communities, including women with refugee and asylum seeker status. This inclusive approach extends to the physical accessibility of the building and the welcoming attitude of staff throughout the venue.Atmosphere and Experience
Visitors consistently note the vibrant, energetic atmosphere that permeates the MAC. The building buzzes with activity—performers mingling in the foyer before shows, children moving through spaces during family events, and the general sense of creative energy that comes from a venue genuinely engaged with its community. The modern facilities, including well-maintained restrooms and comfortable seating areas, contribute to a positive visitor experience. Whether you're attending a theatrical performance, viewing an exhibition, or simply enjoying coffee and conversation, the MAC offers a distinctly contemporary cultural experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2-6 Waring St
0.3 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.4 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.4 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Castle Buildings
0.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.6 km
A 1960s road bridge over the River Lagan, connecting central Belfast with the Titanic Quarter and offering quiet riverside views from its pedestrian walkways.
Beacon of Hope
0.6 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Belfastlad Tours
0.7 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with personalized tours led by passionate locals at Belfastlad Tours.
Treasure Trails
0.7 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
The Back Of Boots
0.7 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.7 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
Carlisle Circus
0.7 km
A historic North Belfast traffic circus with Victorian roots and a legacy shaped by war, industry, and community life.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.7 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Clifton Street Graveyard
0.7 km
Two centuries of Belfast's history etched in stone—where Republicans, Unionists, and ordinary citizens rest side by side.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
0.1 km
A soaring 40-metre steel beacon of hope atop Belfast’s historic St Anne’s Cathedral, shining brightly across the city skyline.
Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
0.1 km
Discover Belfast Cathedral’s Romanesque beauty, historic mosaics, and the soaring Spire of Hope in the heart of the city’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter.
Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
0.1 km
Explore Northern Ireland’s WWII history through immersive exhibits, family activities, and heartfelt remembrance in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Harp Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.2 km
Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
Trade union mural
0.2 km
A vibrant mural in Belfast celebrating the city’s proud labor history and the enduring spirit of trade union solidarity.
Duke of York
0.2 km
Experience the heart of Belfast's pub culture at Duke of York, a vibrant spot with rich history, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.
Commercial Court
0.2 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.2 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
0.2 km
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
Cathedral Quarter Moural
0.2 km
Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter blends historic charm with vibrant street art, world-class culture, and lively nightlife in a uniquely creative urban district.
Belfast Central Library
0.3 km
Discover Belfast’s Victorian architectural gem and cultural heart, where history, heritage, and community converge in a stunning public library.
The Cloth Ear
0.3 km
A cosy, unpretentious hotel pub inside The Merchant Hotel, offering classic pub dishes, local beers and a snug atmosphere in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Mural
0.3 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant mural at 1 Church St, a vivid testament to the city’s history, culture, and dynamic street art tradition.
St Patrick's Church
0.3 km
A majestic Romanesque Catholic church in Belfast, famed for its soaring spire, sacred relics, and the celebrated artwork of Sir John Lavery.
Essential places to dine
Coppi Restaurant
0.0 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Dumpling Library
0.0 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Buba
0.1 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Mumbai 27
0.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Academy Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Waterman Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.2 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.3 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.3 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.3 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
The Northern Whig
0.3 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
Novelli at City Quays
0.4 km
Stylish Mediterranean brasserie on Belfast’s waterfront with stunning harbor views and all-day dining.
Taylor & Clay
0.5 km
Award-winning Belfast steakhouse with a bespoke wood-fired Asador grill, serving premium local meats and seasonal dishes in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Bootleggers
0.5 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Bank Square Brasserie
0.5 km
French bistro elegance meets Northern Irish ingredients in Belfast's most welcoming modern European brasserie.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.3 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Forsight Belfast
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
0.4 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Fuzz Vintage
0.4 km
Unearth timeless retro treasures at Fuzz Vintage, where Belfast's Rosemary Street hides eclectic clothing from decades past in a shopper's paradise of sustainable style.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Top Gift
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.5 km
Discover authentic Irish treasures at Carrolls Irish Gifts in Belfast's bustling Castle Place—a shopper's haven for Claddagh rings, Aran knits, Guinness gear, and gourmet hampers evoking the Emerald Isle's timeless charm.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
The Name Shops - Belfast
0.5 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Born and Bred
0.5 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Søstrene Grene
0.5 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
White Stuff Belfast
0.5 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
FatFace
0.6 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
The Holy Shop
0.6 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.6 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
39 Gordon Street
0.2 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Dark Horse
0.2 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The Black Box
0.2 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
The Reporter. Bar
0.3 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Spaniard
0.3 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Sunflower Public House
0.3 km
Belfast's authentic corner pub with Troubles-era charm, live music nightly, wood-fired pizzas, and a buzzing garden—where history meets hearty ales and eclectic vibes.
Ulster Sports Club
0.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
The National
0.4 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Monico Bars
0.4 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Henry's
0.5 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.5 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
The Tipsy Bird
0.5 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Maddens
0.6 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
Bittles Bar
0.6 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Craics Ninety
0.1 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Club Lux
0.2 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Kremlin
0.2 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Boombox Belfast
0.3 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
0.3 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Shoe Factory
0.3 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Ollie's Belfast
0.3 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
The Art Department
0.3 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Voodoo
0.6 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Alibi
1.7 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.8 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.4 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.1 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
