Top Free Museums and Galleries to Visit in Melbourne

NGV International

A stunning blend of tradition and innovation, NGV International is Melbourne’s flagship art gallery, offering a diverse range of exhibitions — all for free. Immerse yourself in bold contemporary art, design, and architecture at the NGV Triennial, or dive into the vibrant world of local art at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV. Don’t miss the current exhibition, Rekospective, which showcases the striking neon installations, oversized sculptures, and street art-inspired pieces by renowned Kamilaroi artist Reko Rennie.

ACMI

Celebrating the rich history of screen culture, ACMI offers an immersive experience from films to video games. Dive into The Story of the Moving Image, a free exhibition that spans over a century of cinematic evolution, from the early days of film to the digital age. With interactive displays on animation and sound effects, this showcase lets you step behind the scenes and explore the magic of cinema firsthand.

The Outsiders Melbourne

Until 25 May
Hidden in one of Melbourne’s iconic laneways, The Outsiders Melbourne offers an exclusive collection of paintings, sculptures, and more. Gain rare access to works by globally renowned street artists, including Banksy, as well as local talents like Rone, Adnate, Vexta, and Tom Gerrard.

Tolarno Galleries

Though small in size, Tolarno Galleries has showcased some of the biggest names in art. Step into this tucked-away gem to explore remarkable exhibitions of contemporary art and design. From the early days featuring icons like Picasso, Bonnard, and Matisse, to more recent displays of work by legendary Australian artist Patricia Piccinini, there’s always something extraordinary on offer.

Art and Heritage Collection Tour

Discover unique treasures from Melbourne’s past, including a vintage Foster’s beer tower, retro Moomba Monarch crowns, and a bottle of spumante with an uncertain history. For the first time, the City of Melbourne’s Art and Heritage Collection is offering free guided tours, giving you exclusive access to some of the city’s most fascinating and quirky artifacts, along with historical archives.

Australian Music Vault

For music enthusiasts, the Australian Music Vault is a must-visit. This exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into Melbourne’s vibrant music scene, featuring rare footage and iconic artifacts like Kylie Minogue’s stage outfits and Nick Cave’s personal notebooks. Best of all, this free exhibition is permanently housed at Arts Centre Melbourne.