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Plan Your Visit to the Melbourne Museum

Melbourne Museum | Visitor information at a glance

Melbourne Museum entrance with modern architecture and glass facade.
  • Opening hours: 9am – 5pm daily; closed Good Friday and Christmas Day.
  • Location: 11 Nicholson St, Carlton, VIC 3053. Opposite Royal Exhibition Building. Get directions.
  • Entrances: Main entrance on ground floor, access via Nicholson or Rathdowne Streets.
  • Annual visitors: Over 1 million reported in recent years.

Melbourne Museum opening hours

  • Main museum: 9am – 5pm daily.
  • IMAX: Timings depend on film schedule; tickets sold separately.
  • Seasonal closures: Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day.

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Best time to visit Melbourne Museum

If you’re visiting Melbourne Museum on a weekday morning, you’ll find fewer crowds and more space to explore highlights like the Triceratops fossil and Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

Weekends and afternoons tend to be busier, especially during school holidays and temporary blockbuster exhibitions. For the most relaxed experience, go during the school term and avoid public holidays when school groups and tourists pack the galleries.

Where is Melbourne Museum located?

Address: 11 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053.

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Nestled in Carlton Gardens, next to the Royal Exhibition Building (just 100m away).

How to get to Melbourne Museum

Melbourne tram passing historic buildings near Skydeck.

By public transport

  • By tram: Tram 86 or 96 to Stop 11 “Melbourne Museum” (corner Nicholson & Gertrude Streets). You can also take the Free City Circle Tram to Victoria Parade.
  • By train: Parliament Station (City Loop) is about an 8-minute walk.
  • By bus: Routes 250, 251, and 402 stop nearby on Rathdowne Street.
  • By taxi: Drop-off zones are available at Nicholson Street.
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Cars parked in a row under a clear sky in Langkawi.

By car

  • On-site parking: Underground car park, entry via Rathdowne or Nicholson St. $25 day rate (from July 2025), discounted for IMAX patrons and museum members. Card-only payment.
  • Nearby car parks: Alternatives include “Immigration Museum parking,” and multiple “car parking near Melbourne Museum” facilities within a 5–10 min walk.
  • Cycling: Secure bike racks are available at the entrance, with dedicated bike lanes on Rathdowne, Canning, and Nicholson Streets.
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Know before you visit Melbourne Museum

Man placing bag in locker at tourist attraction.
  • Clean toilets, lockers, and cloakrooms are available throughout the museum.
  • Baby change stations and parent rooms make visiting with little ones easier.
  • The museum shop and café offer convenient shopping and dining options.
  • Families can enjoy the children’s gallery, free entry for kids under 16, pram parking, and dedicated parent facilities.
  • Audio guides are available for select exhibitions to enhance your visit. Check the museum’s website for languages, pricing, and pick-up locations.
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Wheelchair accessible ramp with handrails in a public building.
  • All galleries are fully wheelchair accessible for a smooth visit.
  • Accessible parking is available in the basement (P2 level).
  • Companion cards are accepted to support visitors who need assistance.
No-flash photography sign at SEA Life London.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the museum without discomfort.
  • Food and drinks are not allowed inside the galleries.
  • Photography is mostly allowed, but avoid using flash to protect exhibits.
Train arriving at a suburban station en route to Peninsula Hot Springs.
  • Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more relaxed experience.
  • Allow 3–4 hours to fully enjoy the museum and its exhibitions.
  • Bring water, especially in summer when the galleries can feel warm.
  • Children under 16 enter free, and concessions are available for eligible visitors.
  • Parking is cheaper for IMAX or museum members, so scan your card.
  • Public transport is convenient and recommended on busy weekends.
  • Temporary exhibitions may need separate tickets, so book in advance.
  • Check the website for gallery closures or renovations before visiting.
Gift shop entrance at Shibuya Sky, Tokyo.
  • The gift shop in the main foyer sells First Peoples art and locally made products.
  • Many items are also available to purchase online if you prefer.
Cappuccino with pastries and orange juice at a cafe table.
Visitors entering Immigration Museum for guided highlights tour.
  • The Royal Exhibition Building is right next door and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Carlton Gardens surrounds the museum and is perfect for a stroll.
  • The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is just a short walk away and houses Australia’s premier art collection.
  • The Immigration Museum nearby offers fascinating insights into Australia’s migration history.
  • The Melbourne Skydeck is just a 10-minute drive away, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck.
  • The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is a 15-minute walk through the gardens, perfect for sports fans looking to explore Australia’s most iconic stadium.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Melbourne Museum

Where is Melbourne Museum?

Melbourne Museum is located at 11 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053, right next to the Royal Exhibition Building.

Can I visit the museum?

Yes! The museum is open daily, except on Good Friday and Christmas Day.

Why should I visit Melbourne Museum?

Explore everything from natural history and Indigenous culture to world-class temporary exhibitions—there’s something for everyone.

How do I book tickets?

You can book online or purchase at the entrance. Pre-booking is recommended during busy times or for popular exhibitions.

When is the best time to visit Melbourne Museum?

Weekday mornings are ideal to avoid crowds. Afternoons and weekends tend to be busier.

Can I visit in a group or with kids?

Yes, the museum welcomes group visits and school bookings. The museum is family-friendly with a dedicated kids’ gallery and free entry for children under 16.

Is Melbourne Museum wheelchair-friendly?

Yes, the museum is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible parking available.

Can I buy food and drinks?

Yes, there’s a main café inside the museum, and plenty of nearby restaurants for a quick bite.

How long does it take to explore Melbourne Museum?

Plan for 3–4 hours for a full experience. For temporary exhibitions, you may want to spend a full day.

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Melbourne Museum exterior with Royal Exhibition Building dome in view.

About

Melbourne Museum entrance illuminated at dusk, showcasing modern architecture.

Timings

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Getting there