After a long time in isolation, many of us are looking forward to being able to visit all manner of places unavailable in lockdown, including Sydney libraries and museums. Whether you’ve been missing your favourite novels, study time in libraries or experiencing culture in some of the best museums in Sydney, soon you’ll be able to do it all again. Only this time you’ll appreciate it all the more.
We’ve carefully curated our pick of the seven best Sydney museums and libraries you’ll be able to visit this weekend, and hopefully for many more weekends to come!
Museum of Contemporary Art
The MCA is arguably one of Australia’s best contemporary art museums and occupies valuable real estate. Situated right on Sydney harbour near The Rocks, this museum enjoys stunning harbour views and features a café where you can relax and enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch or just a casual drink.
Discover the Museum of Contemporary Art here. Re-opening on 16th June 2020.
Art Gallery of NSW
The Art Gallery of NSW was established way back in 1871. Situated in the leafy Domain, this Sydney museum is home to an enormous collection of both local and international artists. Some parts of the museum can be explored at no charge and there are also regular seasonal exhibitions running at certain times throughout the year that charge a small fee.
Discover the Art Gallery of NSW here. Re-opening on 1st June 2020.
Powerhouse Museum
We couldn’t write a list of the best Sydney museums without including the Powerhouse Museum. This is one of the most expansive and impressive spaces in Sydney, filled with interactive exhibits covering an array of subject matter. Explore exhibits about art, design, technology and culture.
Discover the Powerhouse Museum here and check opening dates.
Sydney Observatory
This heritage-listed site includes telescope domes, a 3D Space Theatre and the Sydney Planetarium. Explore the depths of the universe or watch films in the Planetarium about everything from space flight to Aboriginal stories about our skies.
Discover the Sydney Observatory here and check opening dates.
White Rabbit Gallery
If you’re a contemporary art fan then you’ll find this is one of Sydney’s best museums to visit. This compact gallery features a variety of striking Chinese contemporary art, as well as a delightful tea house serving Chinese teas, delicious dumplings and scones.
Discover the White Rabbit Gallery. Re-opening on 6th June 2020.
State Library of NSW
If you’re looking for a quiet place to reflect, read and explore an enormous range of literature, this is one Sydney library you can’t miss visiting. The State Library of NSW is the oldest library in the country, and without doubt, one of the grandest. From rotating exhibitions to the light-filled Mitchell reading room, to specific areas dedicated to kids’ storytelling and role-plays, this library really has it all.
Discover the State Library of NSW. Re-opening on 1st June 2020.
Green Square Library
The award-winning Green Square library opened in September 2018 and is located in the plaza in the heart of Green Square, right next to the train station. It features a stunning subterranean garden, an open-air amphitheatre and a 6-storey glass tower; the perfect space for study, work, discovery and reflection.
Discover Green Square Library and check opening dates.
So, if you’re ready to experience a world of art, culture and history, pick one of the best Sydney museums and libraries for your next visit and start exploring. Do note that as of June 1st, 2020, all Sydney museums and libraries are allowed to reopen in NSW, but opening times may be staggered. We recommend contacting individual venues before visiting.
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