Melbourne Museum opening hours: Best times to visit, tips & more

Explore the wonders of Melbourne Museum, where history, culture, and science come to life. Planning your visit around the opening hours means you won’t miss highlights like the towering dinosaurs in the Dinosaur Walk, the greenery of the Forest Gallery, or the moving stories in the First Peoples exhibition.

The museum is open daily, but weekends and school holidays can be busy. For a more relaxed experience, try visiting on weekdays or earlier in the day. Whether you’re a family, a history enthusiast, or simply curious, there’s something here for everyone.

Check the opening hours below and start planning your visit to one of Melbourne’s must-see attractions.

How long do I spend at Melbourne Museum?

A visit to the Melbourne Museum can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on your interests and how much you’d like to explore.

Typical visit time: Most visitors spend around 2–3 hours browsing the permanent galleries, including the Dinosaur Walk, Forest Gallery, and First Peoples exhibition.

Extended experience: If you want to dive deeper — such as watching an IMAX film, joining a special exhibition, or taking time in the Children’s Gallery — plan for 3–4 hours or more to fully enjoy the museum without rushing.

• Children’s Gallery: Add 30–45 minutes for kids’ hands-on activities.
  
• Special Exhibitions: Allow 45–60 minutes depending on the show.
  
• IMAX Melbourne: Screenings usually run 45–90 minutes and can extend your visit.
  
• Tips: Visit on weekdays or early mornings for a quieter experience, allow extra time during school holidays, and don’t miss the outdoor Carlton Gardens for a short break between exhibits.

Tips to enjoy Melbourne Museum without the crowds

• Choose weekdays over weekends: Tuesdays to Thursdays are usually the quietest days. Mondays can be busier with school groups.
  
• Arrive early or later in the day: The museum opens at 10 am, and the first hour is often the quietest. Late afternoons (after 3 pm) are also less crowded.
  
• Time your IMAX or special exhibition visit: If you’re adding on an IMAX session or ticketed exhibition, book for off-peak slots to avoid the largest groups.
  
• Start with the busiest galleries: Do the Dinosaur Walk or Children’s Gallery first, then explore quieter spaces like the Forest Gallery or Science & Life Gallery later.
  
• Explore at your own pace: The museum has plenty of hidden gems, take breaks in quieter areas like the Mind and Body Gallery or step outside into the Carlton Gardens to recharge.
  
• Combine with lunch breaks: Visit during lunchtime (12–2 pm) when many families head out to eat, giving you calmer galleries.