The Best Canberra Museums To Visit | Australian Traveller

Add these landmark Canberra museums to the top of your cultural hit list in the nation’s capital.

Canberra museums are some of the most boundary-pushing in the country. When I lived in the nation’s capital, I spent a lot of time moving through them, sometimes with a plan, but often on impulse. What strikes me every time is how personal they feel. These are not dusty repositories. They’re places where national stories and big ideas collide.

From headline institutions to quieter museums locals return to again and again, Canberra museums offer a depth you don’t always expect from a weekend visit. This guide shares the museums I recommend along with practical tips on when to go, what to prioritise and how to build a day around them.

In short

If you only visit one museum in Canberra, make it the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. This Canberra museum feels like a film set because of the fact it played a leading role in the theatre of Australian politics. Book The Chifley Experience at Hotel Kurrajong, which includes a MoAD tour and is one of the best places to stay in Canberra.

1. National Museum of Australia

the National Museum of Australia on Lake Burley Griffin — NMA forms its own landscape of themes and colours. (Image: Grant O’Loughlan / VisitCanberra)

The National Museum of Australia (NMA) is stitched together into the terrain – all colour, form and symbolism. Set on its own peninsula, it announces itself in its sharp angles and clashing ideas. I keep coming back to the museum to visit the extensive First Australians gallery which lays bare the spectrum of multiple, evolving views about Aboriginal Australia. And I always exit via the gift shop to fossick for idiosyncratic pressies such as a resin vase from Dinosaur Designs and First Nations jewellery.

Address: Lawson Cres, Acton

2. Australian War Memorial

the Australian War Memorial in Canberra — Reflect on Australia’s experience in war. (Image: VisitCanberra)

The Australian War Memorial is a shrine, archive and museum where visitors can reflect on Australia’s experience in war. The poppy-strewn Roll of Honour has a profound effect on me: it bears the names of more than 103,000 fallen members of the Australian armed forces.  The memorial is designed to broaden its impact on visitors keen to learn about Australia’s involvement in conflict and its enduring impact on our society. This blending of military history and personal stories is what the AWM does so well.

Address: Treloar Cres, Campbell, ACT

3. National Library of Australia

the National Library of Australia in Canberra — The National Library of Australia is a book temple and gallery in one. (Image: VisitCanberra)

I visit the National Library of Australia as much for the opportunity to press pause as the material. Part book temple, part gallery, part architectural statement, the library rewards slow wandering. The Treasures Gallery is a highlight, with everything from Olympic torches to ancient maps and Beethoven’s life mask. Even without opening a book, you can easily lose a couple of hours. There is an eclectic range of great cafes for brunch in Canberra. But not all of them have literary leanings. Bookmark Bookplate Cafe for that reason.

Address: Parkes Pl W, Canberra

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4. Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

the House of Representatives Chamber at Old Parliament House in Canberra — The Museum of Australian Democracy now occupies the Old Parliament House. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Old Parliament House is like a film set from the 1980s, which makes sense because it did play a leading role in Australian politics as the home of Federal Parliament between 1927 and 1988. I always recommend taking the guided tour of The Museum of Australian Democracy; it’s the fastest way to understand how much of Australia’s political theatre played out inside these walls.  Expect amusing anecdotes from experienced officers who steer you toward rooms that present like portals into our political past.

Address: 18 King George Terrace, Parkes

5. Canberra Railway Museum

a heritage railway carriage at Canberra Railway Museum — See old locomotives and carriages at the Canberra Railway Museum. (Image: E Rohling)

Canberra Railway Museum celebrates the golden age of rail travel. Learn all about the locomotives and carriages that were the preferred mode of transport for politicians who were toing and froing from parliament. Forget Thomas the Tank Engine. Head here to teach your kids about the passage of time onboard a steam locomotive that brought the first train to Canberra in 1914. Or gauge how the style of the sleeping car evolved from a lavish 1901 Pullman to the stylish Art Deco Southern Aurora.

Address: 2 Geijera Place, Fyshwick, ACT

6. National Film and Sound Archive of Australia

a vintage television at National Film and Sound Archive of Australia — The NFSA is dedicated to the preservation and documentation of motion pictures. (Image: VisitCanberra)

I love to visit Canberra’s lesser-known institutions such as the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia . The NFSA is dedicated to the preservation and documentation of motion pictures and recorded sounds. It contains archival footage, recordings from some of the country’s most prodigious talents as well as memorabilia that celebrates the rich history of Australian cinema. More than 4 million items are indexed within curated collections in the heritage-listed building in Acton.

Address: McCoy Cct, Acton, ACT (just a 10-minute walk from the city)

7. Questacon

a liquid nitrogen show at Questacon — Spark your curiosity at the spectacular liquid nitrogen show. (Image: Questacon)

Questacon is one of Canberra’s No. 1 family attractions. And, when my boys were in primary school, I would bring them to Questacon to engage their young minds to think about science, technology and innovation. There is a special learn and play centre at the national science and technology centre that helps to spark curiosity in kids. Here, children listen to inspired stories about science and innovation, make a stethoscope, put a magnet to the test and learn how Indigenous Australians make fire using friction.

Address: Questacon, Ngunawal Country, King Edward Terrace, Canberra, ACT

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8. The Royal Australian Mint

an interactive exhibition space at the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra — Kids can explore interactive exhibitions inside. (Image: Royal Australian Mint)

The multi-award-winning Royal Australian Mint has reopened after extensive renovations. The cultural attraction is both a working factory and Commonwealth Heritage site. The National Coin Collection is not just for collectors; visitors can mint their own coin and explore interactive exhibitions, too.  A visit to the RAM might just inspire the next generation of numismatists to start squirrelling away their Australian coins. Learn about the history of coin collecting, see commemorative coins made of gold and silver and antique coins that nod to nostalgia.

Address: Denison Street, Deakin

9. National Archives of Australia

Visiting the National Archives of Australia is like flicking through memories banked by the nation over centuries. Highlights within the heritage-listed space include the interactive digital wall and exhibitions that trace decisions that have helped to shape the nation. Don’t miss the large gallery of photos gleaned from the collection of past and present prime ministers. Research geeks can get help with their projects by booking ahead to view archives in the Research Centre. The collection includes information about immigration, the environment and the arts.

Address: Kings Avenue, Parkes

10. National Dinosaur Museum

dinosaur replicas outside The National Dinosaur Museum, Canberra — The National Dinosaur Museum has an enormous collection of interactive dinosaurs. (Image: VisitCanberra)

There are a lot of great reasons to visit the ACT. The National Dinosaur Museum is one of them. The museum has one of the largest permanent collections of interactive dinosaurs in Australia, 23 complete skeletons and more than 300 displays of individual fossils. Yes, you will enhance your children’s appreciation of reptiles from the Mesozoic era. But the museum is not just about dinosaurs: it is aimed at anyone curious about the history of life on Earth. Budding palaeontologists will appreciate the trove of skulls, skeletons, fossils and interactive animatronic dinosaurs on display.

Address: 6 Gold Creek Rd, Nicholls

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty — Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray — Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray — Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria — Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray — Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.

Canberra museums: the best places to explore Australia’s history, culture and ideas