Adelaide, a city renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, offers an array of captivating museums and art galleries that beckon both locals and visitors alike. Nestled within the bustling heart of the city, these cultural institutions serve as gateways to a world of knowledge, creativity, and history. Adelaide’s museums and art galleries provide an enriching experience for those seeking to delve into the city’s rich tapestry of art and culture.
We’ve listed our top museums and art galleries in the city of Adelaide.
South Australian Museum
The South Australian Museum has five floors and endless wonders to discover. From the first signs of early complex life to the most comprehensive collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural material in the world, there is something for everyone at the Museum.
The Museum is open daily 10am – 5pm. General admission is free, although costs apply for some exhibitions and events.
North Terrace, Adelaide
Art Gallery of South Australia
The Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) houses a rich collection spanning various eras and cultures, from Indigenous Australian art to cutting-edge contemporary pieces. With dynamic exhibitions and accessible programming, AGSA offers a compelling exploration of art’s diverse narratives. Dive into centuries of creativity and find inspiration in every corner.
AGSA is open daily from 10am-5pm and on the First Friday of every month until 9pm.
North Terrace, Adelaide
Migration Museum
The Migration 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.
The Migration Museum is open daily 10am – 5pm.
82 Kintore Avenue, Adelaide
Adelaide Holocaust Museum
The Adelaide Holocaust Museum is a museum dedicated to telling the stories of the Holocaust to create a fairer and more compassionate world. The permanent exhibition traces the history of the Holocaust and South Australia’s connection to it.
The exhibition aims to encourage critical thinking around themes that remain relevant to issues in contemporary society such as positive citizenship, hate-speak, antisemitism, racism, and acts of terror.
The Adelaide Holocaust Museum is open Sundays, and Tuesday – Thursday by appointments only.
33 Wakefield Street, Adelaide
The Centre of Democracy
The Centre of Democracy showcases the people, ideas and movements that have shaped, and continue to shape, democracy in South Australia. Featuring treasures from the state’s collections, the gallery contents challenge visitors to think again about people and power.
Located at the Institute Building, the Centre of Democracy offers vibrant public, online and education programs that engage and inform visitors about the ideas behind democratic participation and citizenship.
The Centre of Democracy is open 10am – 5pm every day except public holidays.
Corner of North Terrace and Kintore Avenue, Adelaide
State Library of South Australia
Although not technically a museum, the State Library of South Australia stands as a cultural landmark in Adelaide. Beyond its role as a library, it transforms into a hub of cultural and artistic exploration through its diverse exhibitions.
From historical treasures to contemporary installations, visitors are invited to delve into the state’s rich heritage and culture. With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to education, the State Library offers a unique blend of enlightenment and artistic discovery for all who walk through its doors.
The State Library of South Australia is open daily 10am – 5pm.
North Terrace, Adelaide
Santos Museum of Economic Botany
Step back in time to 1881 and discover the importance of plants in our lives; past, present and future.
The last of its kind in the world the Santos Museum of Economic Botany is home to an amazing permanent collection, much of which dates back to the original museum display 130 years ago. Also on show are intriguing, beautiful and immersive touring exhibitions which are sure to inspire.
The museum showcases plant families and the historic use of plants in human society from food to fuel, oils, dyes, fibres and forestry.
The Santos Museum of Economic Botany is open every day of the week from 10am – 4pm.
Adelaide Botanic Garden, Adelaide
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