Australian Museum: founded in 1827, the Australian Museum is the oldest museum in the country, and has a good reputation around the world. Located in College street, the museum has an excellent collection of plant and animal specimens as well as a mix of artefacts from Australian Aboriginal history and an impressive collection of minerals and gems. It’s an interesting place to spend some time and there is also a good shop and pleasant cafe.
6 College street. Open: 09:30 to 17:00, daily

Museum of Contemporary Art: located in an imposing Art Deco style building, which was once the Maritime Services Board building, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) houses Australia’s most important collection of modern art. The museum was opened in 1991 and quickly gained a large following. The MCA has an impressive display of Aboriginal Art, as well as many internationally respected artists in its ever changing exhibitions.
Circular Quay. Open: 10:00 to 17:00, daily.

The walls feature views of Sydney from 1788 until the present day. One of the most interesting exhibits here is the Edge of the Trees sculpture, located outside the museum, which is the first public collaboration between an Aboriginal and European artist.
Corner of Bridge and Phillip street. Open: 09:30 to 17:00, daily.

Australian National Maritime Museum: located in Darling Harbour, the Australian National Maritime Museum focuses on all aspects of Australian maritime history with galleries about Navigators, Passengers and commerce, among others. The museum includes an interesting number of ships and boats including replicas of Bounty and Endeavour, as well as the Spirit of Australia (world water speed record) and the double scull that won gold at the Barcelona Olympics.
Murray street. Open: 09:30 to 17:30, daily.

The gallery also hosts regular temporary exhibitions. There is an excellent art bookshop as well as restaurants and cafes.
Art Gallery road. Open: 10:00 to 17:00, Thursday to Tuesday; 10:00 to 21:00, Wednesday.

Powerhouse Museum: the Powerhouse Museum in Darling Harbour is one of Australia’s most popular museums with a vast collection focusing on science and technology. The museum’s exhibitions change regularly and the huge 22,000 square metre site makes it the largest museum in the country.