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The 5 Best History Museums in Central Business District, New South Wales
Sydney offers plenty of historical and contemporary Australian flavor. The marvelous Sydney Opera House looks like a great origami sailboat, floating peacefully in a harbor. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets of The Rocks and then take in a street performance on the Circular Quay before heading into the Museum of Contemporary Art. The views from the Sydney Tower Eye observatory are epic – use this chance to get to know the layout of the city from high above.
Restaurants in Sydney
1. Museum of Freemasonry
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
2. Hyde Park Barracks
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,112 reviews
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site in the heart of Sydney, the Hyde Park Barracks is an extraordinary living record of early colonial Australia. Originally built to house convicts, the barracks has also served as an immigration depot, asylum, law courts and government offices. Today, you can discover the stories of the Hyde Park Barracks through a self-guided immersive experience that will feel like stepping back in time. Using our groundbreaking interactive audio technology, you’ll follow in the footsteps of real people whose lives were touched by this place – male convicts, immigrants and women in need, as well as the Aboriginal nations that were impacted by colonial Australia.
Reviewed By 338siddharthb - Seattle, United States
I came here last year in November, when it wasn't closed. I didn't pay the 12$ admission regardless, as it was very high but there is a lot to see in the grounds itself without entering the museum. This is the site where the "undesirables" were kept in prison camps in the famed "Australia as a prison convict colony" after Sydney stopped being an open air prison, people complained and put them in these barracks. Look in the original prison, see the crumbled rooms and stop by at least once to see this relic from Sydney's old colonial past.
3. Reserve Bank of Australia Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 42 reviews
Banknotes are an important representation of a nation's cultural identity, values and history. Illustrated with a selection of historical objects and digital interactives, the Reserve Bank of Australia Museum tells the story of Australia’s banknotes in the context of Australia's economic and social history from the colonial period to the present day.
4. Customs House
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 208 reviews
Reviewed By faithandhope2live - Coquitlam, Canada
When we stroll around Circular Quay harbour, we bump into this over 100 old fill with character old building, the sign at the front said visitor services with an arrow pointed up "Custom House". We went in to check it out. Now the building use it as a Public Library, very quiet and cool, we saw one area with comfortable sofa to sit on and there were few gentlemen made good use of this opportunity to had a quick nap to refill their energy, my husband went over there to join them. This building attracted to me the most is the miniature model of Sydney set up under a see through glass on the ground floor for people to enjoy! Happy Travelling!
5. Justice & Police Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 248 reviews
These historic police buildings once hosted infamous criminals like bushranger Captain Moonlight and sly-grog queen Kate Leigh, as Sydney's police and magistrates kept law and order. Walk through the corridor of cells, check out the chilling collection of criminal weapons and hundreds of photos from forensic archives. Open Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm.
Reviewed By newyork64 - Carlisle, United Kingdom
I have been here before 4 years ago. The displays change. This is a must see. The displays are fascinating. The photographs are the best criminal mugshots I have ever seen. The quality of the photograph and detail are remarkable given the time period. This Museum has an impressive and totally unique archive. I love the low key commentary that portrays a fearsome time for cops and crim's alike. The death masks are also interesting. The scary items of weaponry are a sight to behold. A well though out and fabulous display. The re enactment of a court case where you can dress up and participate is very special and gives everyone an insight into the macabre world. I recommend this to every one that visits. The limited opening days are a problem though. You need a mid week day or two. I rank this alongside Fremantle Gaol in W.A and Port Arthur in Tasmania as one of the premier convict destinations.
