Museum of Contemporary Art Tours

Museum of Contemporary Art which includes signage and street scenes as well as a couple
The MCA proudly displays the work of living artists and this grand building on the edge of Sydney Harbour is the pride and joy of Sydney’s art community.

Sydney’s eye-catching Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) in The Rocks collects, exhibits, and interprets the works of today’s Australian artists. The exhibits attract over a million visitors each year and with more than 4,000 works in MCA’s collection, there is always something new to discover.

Housed in the former Maritime Services Board building from the 1940s, the MCA is massive. The University of Sydney first moved the MCA collection to this heritage-listed sandstone building in 1989. A five-story wing in black-and-white cladding was added in 2005. The contrast with the original art deco-style design of the maritime building is striking.

There are enough paintings, photos, digital collections, art installations and sculptures inside to keep you there for the day. Take some time to enjoy the uninterrupted views of Sydney Harbour from the foyer as well or head straight up to the rooftop to gaze out over the harbor and see the famous Sydney Opera House from above.

Local Aboriginal art plays a major role in MCA, and you’ll find various tributes to the traditional owners of the land, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. Torres Strait Islander artists from Australia’s northern region regularly exhibit here too. Other emerging artists from all corners of Australia find a podium in this sprawling art museum too.

The on-site National Centre for Creative Learning includes a cultural library, multimedia studios, a lecture theater and seminar room. There is a café on site if you want to make it a full day out.

Take a guided tour for a more in-depth experience. Themed tours are offered throughout the week and most are free to join. The main parts of the not-for-profit museum are free to access, but charges may apply for the special summer exhibitions of the Sydney International Art Series.

The Museum of Contemporary Art in the Central Business District (CBD) is open daily during office hours and stays open on Wednesday nights. Since the MCA is located in central George Street, right in the heart of the CBD’s vibrant Circular Quay district, it’s easy to get there on foot or by public transportation.

Plan a trip to see Museum of Contemporary Art

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YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites

YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites

4 out of 5
Sydney Central Business District
Price was $1,451, price is now $1,241 per person
$1,241
per person
Oct 27 - Oct 30
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to Sydney (SYD)
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,280 reviews)
The room was very well set up and it was nice to have kitchen facilities. Staff were excellent on check-in and throughout our stay, very welcoming and made us feel relaxed. Easy walk from Town Hall station and the cafe next door was great. Only reason I gave 4 stars and not 5 is the bed was very very hard. Not what we’re used to normally. Would highly recommend to anyone that doesn’t mind a really firm bed.

Reviewed on Sep 18, 2025

Furama Darling Harbour

Furama Darling Harbour

4 out of 5
Haymarket
Price was $1,999, price is now $1,671 per person
$1,671
per person
Nov 11 - Nov 16
found 2 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to Sydney (SYD)
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
We enjoyed our stay there

Reviewed on Sep 18, 2025

The Ultimo

The Ultimo

4 out of 5
Haymarket
Price was $1,697, price is now $1,455 per person
$1,455
per person
Nov 11 - Nov 16
found 2 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to Sydney (SYD)
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
Great Hotel and staff - but lots of noisy building work going on while we were there and the lifts were out of order. Also had to request the air conditioning to our room was turned on each day.

Reviewed on Sep 3, 2025

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Popular places to visit

Circular Quay featuring general coastal views, modern architecture and a city

Circular Quay

Flanked by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney’s transportation hub is one of the prettiest terminals in the world.

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Cadman’s Cottage

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Cadman’s Cottage in Sydney. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the shops in the area.

Cadman’s Cottage
#VIVIDSydney. Sydney's wintery light festival. This is an interactive display and people cue for hours to have their chance to create their own images and art through movement. Crowds of people come to Circular Quay to see this event. The VIVID event is getting bigger and bigger each year and more and more places around town are joining in the event. Don't miss VIVID from late May to June long weekend.

Cadmans Cottage Historic Site

Explore the great outdoors at Cadmans Cottage Historic Site, a lovely green space in Sydney. Stroll along the waterfront in this romantic area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

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#VIVIDSydney. Sydney's wintery light festival. This is not to be missed if you visit the Vivid Festival. *Helpful hint - take a picnic rug to lay on the road to watch the light and sound show. Crowds of people come to Circular Quay to see this event. The VIVID event is getting bigger and bigger each year and more and more places around town are joining in the event. Don't miss VIVID from late May to June long weekend.

Argyle Cut

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Customs House

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Nurses Walk

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Best Lodging Options Near Museum of Contemporary Art

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

5 out of 5
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Shangri-La Sydney

Shangri-La Sydney

5 out of 5
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Hyatt Regency Sydney

Hyatt Regency Sydney

5 out of 5
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Sydney Harbour Hotel

Sydney Harbour Hotel

4 out of 5
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Paradox Sydney

Paradox Sydney

5 out of 5
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The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, where you can immerse yourself in contemporary art through its diverse exhibits and collections. The museum is not only a hub for art enthusiasts but also offers opportunities for shopping and entertainment nearby. Make sure to visit the various arts centers and enjoy the lively cultural scene that enhances your museum experience.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is at The Rocks Markets, only 0.2 miles away, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. Martin Place, 0.5 miles away, offers a variety of shops. If you're up for a drive, check out World Square Shopping Centre, located 1 mile away, for more entertainment and family-friendly options.

Recreation

Enjoy a match at the Sydney Cricket Ground for an exhilarating sports experience, just 2 miles from the museum. For a lively night out, head to the Metro Theatre, 1 mile away, for engaging music concerts. Don’t miss the Bondi Icebergs Pool, 4 miles away, for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Adventure

Embark on the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, a picturesque hiking trail located 5 miles from the Museum of Contemporary Art, offering stunning ocean views. For a fun family outing, navigate the McElhone Stairs, situated 1 mile away. If you're feeling adventurous, explore underwater sports at Ben Buckler Point, also 5 miles away.

Nightlife

After visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art, stroll to the Sydney Observatory, just 0.2 miles away, for stunning night sky views. For a touch of romance and culture, catch a show at Theatre Royal or State Theatre, both within walking distance, offering vibrant entertainment for all ages.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Museum of Contemporary Art

During your visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, explore nearby urban parks, historic civic government buildings, and vibrant streets that offer a rich cultural experience. Don't miss the Sydney Museum and the Museum of Sydney for more insights into local history, or take a stroll along Sydney Harbour to enjoy stunning views. These attractions provide a perfect blend of culture and outdoor enjoyment for your vacation.

  • Circular Quay: Explore the vibrant heart of Sydney at Circular Quay, where you can enjoy stunning waterfront views, dine at cafes, and soak in the lively atmosphere. This bustling harbor is the perfect spot to relax and appreciate the scenic beauty of the nearby landmarks.
  • Sydney Opera House: A masterpiece of modern architecture, the Sydney Opera House is renowned for its unique design and cultural significance. Attend a performance or take a guided tour to discover its fascinating history and artistic offerings.
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge: Experience the grandeur of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, an engineering marvel. Enjoy a guided climb for breathtaking views or stroll across this iconic structure, steeped in history and offering a unique perspective of the harbor.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Museum of Contemporary Art

For a budget-friendly visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, consider traveling between May and July for lower hotel rates. Book your accommodations about a month in advance or check last-minute deals on Expedia. Mondays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to filter by price and customize your preferences. Don’t forget to explore free activities in Sydney and consider public transport options, which are economical for getting around the city. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and cash back on future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Museum of Contemporary Art are May to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Museum of Contemporary Art is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Museum of Contemporary Art is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Museum of Contemporary Art is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at the Museum of Contemporary Art with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.