Top Things to do in Sydney
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What to do and see in Sydney, New South Wales: The Best History Museums
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.
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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. Sydney Jewish Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 567 reviews
Reviewed By WandererAZ
Thoroughly enjoyed this museum. Timed my arrival to be there for the included tour and so glad I did. Ended up staying almost two hours after the tour because there's so much to see and read about. What happened during the years of the Holocaust is an interest area for me and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to visit this museum and learn the Australian story. Thank you.
4. Elizabeth Farm
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 64 reviews
This restful homestead hides a dark and stormy past. Built for the young military couple John and Elizabeth Macarthur and their growing family, Elizabeth Farm has witnessed major events in the growth of the colony, from the toppling of governors and convict rebellion to the birth of the Australian wool industry. As the original cottage was transformed into a fine colonial bungalow, the family’s life was equally gripped with turmoil and drama. Today, set within a re-created 1830s garden, Elizabeth Farm is an ‘access all areas’ museum. There are no barriers, locked doors or delicate furnishings. Australia’s oldest homestead is now our most immersive ‘living’ house museum.
Reviewed By Evsydney - Carlingford, Australia
Actually, a lot of the European history of Sydney and Australia is located in the Parramatta area, and if you are visiting it is worth the easy trip out of the CBD, eg on the train or better the ferry. And this historic house is worth the visit. Best to come when the tour is on, and you can sit in the lounge room and listen to tales of old told with passion. The furniture is all replica, so the ubiquitous "do not touch" does not apply here. Even n winter you might be able to sit in front of the fire and hear those tales. Consider with a visit to Old Government House and the Dairy in Parramatta park. And to compliment your visit, there are great restaurants and cafe's in Parramatta, which is a bit of a hidden gem for most visitors who only see central Sydney.
5. The Rocks Discovery Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 504 reviews
The Rocks Discovery Museum is a free, family friendly museum which tells the story of The Rocks area of Sydney from pre-European days to the present. Housed in a restored 1850s sandstone warehouse, The Rocks Discovery Museum is home to a unique collection of images and archaeological artefacts found in The Rocks. The exhibits are filled with interactive fun, using touch screens, audio and visual elements to bring the history of the area alive.Learn about the area's traditional custodians, the establishment of the English colony and the time when sailors, whalers and traders made The Rocks their home; through to the 1970s union-led protests which preserved this unique part of Sydney for future generations to explore and enjoy.
Reviewed By K1153GWnicoled
Had this on my list for my first solo trip to Sydney. Well worth a visit in the stunning Rocks area of Sydney. Gives a good display and information of the history of Sydney from the indigenous culture through to current times, and all for free !
6. 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.
7. 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!
8. 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.
9. Macleay Museum
10. RPA Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 2 reviews
RPA Museum showcases hospital cultural heritage and medical history since opening in 1882. Over 6000 objects are stored and showcased in the museum which is situated within the heritage listed King George the Fifth Memorial Hospital for Mothers and Babies. The museum contains two heritage listed 1941 operating theaters.
