The Rocks Discovery Museum
10am – 5pm, daily
Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day
A free, family friendly museum which tells the story of The Rocks from pre-European days to the present.
Discover thousands of years of rich history at The Rocks Discovery Museum, one of Sydney’s most engaging and family-friendly cultural experiences. Located in a beautifully restored 1850s sandstone warehouse, this free museum brings the fascinating story of The Rocks to life through immersive exhibits and rare artefacts.
The museum is home to a unique collection of images and archaeological discoveries—many found right beneath the streets of The Rocks. With interactive displays, hands-on objects, and audio-visual installations, history here is more than something you observe—it's something you experience.
Developed in close consultation with the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council, the museum’s four permanent exhibitions take you on a journey through time:
- Warrane (pre-1788) – Discover the traditional life of the Gadigal people.
- Colony (1788–1820) – Learn about the early years of European settlement.
- Port (1820–1900) – Explore the maritime history of this once-bustling harbour port.
- Transformations (1900–present) – Understand the modern evolution and the activism that saved The Rocks.
From Aboriginal heritage to convict stories, colonial expansion to urban renewal, the museum paints a vivid picture of Sydney’s past. Whether you're a curious tourist, history enthusiast, or local student, The Rocks Discovery Museum offers a memorable and educational experience for all ages.
Entry is free, and bookings are essential for school groups. Come explore the layers of history hidden in The Rocks—you might even get to hold a piece of it in your hands.
Acknowledgements
FAQS
School excursions
School / Group bookings
View The Rocks Discovery Museum Covid Safety Plan
