Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art is the only museum of its kind in Australia
At the Museum of Contemporary Art, which opened in 1991 in the The Rocks, you can explore a wide variety of contemporary art work. Contemporary art is, generally speaking, any art that is modern in theme or created within the last 40 or so years. It uses a wide variety of mediums, some even hi-tech, which means you will discover some truly unique and interesting forms of art here.
The museum was made possible by a bequest to the University of Sydney by the late John Power for the purpose of informing and educating Australians about the contemporary and visual arts. Subsequently, when the Maritime Services Board vacated their building in the Rocks for larger premises, the government of New South Wales donated the building which, after renovations, became the home of the Museum. It is also the only Museum of Contemporary Arts in all of Australia.
Between 2011 and 2012 the museum shut down for extensive renovations, which are now complete and make the museum better than ever. Admission to the museum is free with the exception of the occasional special exhibit.
Nearby attractions include: The Rocks, Sydney Observatory, Customs House, Justice and Police Museum, and Museum of Sydney.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: No, except for some special exhibitions.Museum of Contemporary Art Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: (02) 9245 2400
Official Website: Museum of Contemporary Art
Museum of Contemporary Art Reviews
Rated out of 5
I always found the MCA to be an iconic institution of Sydney. I have visited many times and always really enjoyed it. On this occasion, though, I found the experience to be average. Some of the art displays were amazing and really engaging however, I felt that some weren't child-friendly. I visited during the summer holidays when possibly more families might want to visit the museum. My interaction with staff was also mixed. Some were really warm and welcoming, while others were abrupt and unfriendly.
Map Roy - in the last week
A great collection of contemporary art from a number of international artists. Free admission with the exception of special exhibitions. A wide range of contemporary art that includes photography, video, painting, and sculpture. When I visited in December 2024 I really enjoyed the video installation of Isaac Julien called "Once Again." It was cinematic and had thoughtful dialogue. There was also an impressive exhibit of sculptures made from tiny shells.
Samantha deManbey - a week ago
There is a reason why it’s free. The exhibition are so lala. Or maybe I just don’t get it. According to the motto: is this art or can it be thrown away.
Good view from the rooftop. The small kids around were annoying. It’s not a playground.
Arne Rast - a week ago
Directions
| Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| L2, T2, T3, T8 or Ferry | Circular Quay | 3 minutes |
How to get to Museum of Contemporary Art by
By Train or Ferry: exit at Circular Quay Station and proceed west. The Museum of Contemporary Art is located in the park at the western edge of the Quay adjacent to the end of Wharf #6.
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Accommodations near Museum of Contemporary Art:
Photo Gallery
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A colorful piece created from inflating a structure made of textiles cc licensed photo by Newtown grafitti -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: ahisgett - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: ahisgett - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ross Fowler - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ross Fowler - cc license via Flickr
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