The 10 Best History Museums in Adelaide, South Australia

Established in 1986 and built on the site of the former Adelaide Destitute Asylum, the Migration Museum was the first museum dedicated to the social history of migration in Australia. The Museum works towards the preservation, understanding and enjoyment of South Australia’s diverse cultures. It is a place to discover the many identities of the people of South Australia through the stories of individuals and communities. Its nine galleries, which include permanent and changing displays, trace the history and culture of Aboriginal peoples in Australia prior to colonisation, the history and impact of immigration from the nineteenth century onward, as well as the history of the site. The Museum is just a short walk down Kintore Avenue from North Terrace and is easily accessible by public transport. All of the Museum's galleries have disabled access. Entry to the Museum is free, with an optional gold coin donation. Tour groups are welcome but must book in advance. Members of the public can book a guided tour of the Migration Museum with a minimum of ten people per booking and a cost of $10 per person, concession rate $5 per person.

The South Australian Museum has been committed to making Australia’s natural and cultural heritage accessible, engaging and fun for over 150 years. It is a place where families can learn and grow together. Today the Museum is one of the most visited museums in Australia and holds collections of national and international significance, including the world's most comprehensive collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural material. It is a leader in remote and regional community engagement, and in Australian Aboriginal heritage and scientific research.

Ayers House Museum is a unique landmark and destination, the last grand mansion from the nineteenth century in the city that is publicly accessible and one which boasts some of the finest architecture and painted decoration in Australia. The museum provides an immersive experience of life in Victorian-era Adelaide with particular reference to the life and times of Sir Henry Ayers, five times Premier of South Australia, who built, furnished and decorated his family home to the highest standard. We present an active program of public events, exhibitions and special interest programming at Ayers House Museum.

Experience what life was like behind bars for the prisoners who once called the Adelaide Gaol their home. Ghost tours can only be booked through one of our private Commercial Tour Operators. Please visit our website for details. Adelaide Gaol was open for business from 1841 to 1988, the Gaol was one of Australia's longest continuously operational prison facilities. Over those gruelling 147 years, the Gaol housed some of the state's most notorious and dangerous criminals. Almost 300,000 prisoners whiled away some time at His (or Her) Majesty's pleasure, and 45 unfortunates were executed within its walls - including the only woman to be executed in South Australia. Step back in time and walk the hallways and cells of South Australia's first inmates.

What does democracy mean to you? How do everyday people shape our world? How can you create the future? Discover the people and ideas that have shaped democracy in South Australia, and the power of your voice in it. Open daily with free admission, the Centre of Democracy’s permanent exhibition gallery is located in the Institute Building, corner of North Terrace and Kintore Avenue. Closed public holidays.