13 Art Galleries Melbourne Visitors Must See
Whether you’re an art connoisseur, a cultural enthusiast, or a curious wanderer, Melbourne art galleries are captivating spaces of history, contemporary expression, and diverse perspectives.
Art helps us to expand our minds and explore different ways of thinking, not to mention interesting ideas to spark conversation at a dinner party. Melbourne’s art scene promises a dynamic fusion of tradition and innovation.
For those looking to delve into the museums and galleries of Melbourne without breaking the bank, there’s good news – the city boasts a variety of world-class art galleries and cultural venues that offer free entry.
Read on for some of the most accessible and engaging cultural activities, as well as the best art galleries Melbourne offers within easy reach of public transport.
Art Galleries Melbourne
1. National Gallery of Victoria (NGV International)
The National Gallery of Victoria is a must-visit Melbourne art gallery boasting an extensive collection that spans centuries and cultures. What’s more, the NGV provides an inclusive environment with wheelchair access and spacious galleries.
Entry to the NGV’s permanent collections is free, allowing visitors to explore masterpieces from renowned artists without spending a dime. Free guided tours also run daily.
Read about our recent visit to NGV International here.
Open daily, 10 am – 5 pm.
Getting there:
Train: Flinders Street Station is less than 500 metres away
Tram: 3-3A, 6, 67 or 70
Bus: 207, 220, 246, 251, 302
NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3000, www.ngv.vic.gov.au
2. The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
A sister venue to the NGV International, The Ian Potter Centre at Federation Square is dedicated exclusively to Australian art. Visitors can explore the diverse and evolving narratives of Australian art, from indigenous works to contemporary masterpieces.
Entry to NGV Australia is free, and a seniors card discount is available at the concession rate for ticketed exhibitions. Open daily, 10 am–5 pm.
Getting there:
Train: Flinders Street Station is across the road from Federation Square
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Federation Square, Flinders St &, Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000, www.ngv.vic.gov.au
3. Koorie Heritage Trust
The recent expansion of Koorie Heritage Trust has established a unique and autonomous First Peoples arts and cultural centre. Marking a pioneering initiative as the first of its kind in an Australian Capital City, this is an incredibly moving art gallery Melbourne visitors must see.
Open daily, 10am – 5pm, free entry.
Read about our recent visit to the Josh Muir Exhibition here.
Getting there:
Train: Flinders Street Station is across the road from Federation Square
Koorie Heritage Trust, Yarra Building, Federation Square, Cnr Swanston & Flinders Streets, Melbourne VIC 3000, koorieheritagetrust.com.au
4. Monash University Museum of Art
Recognised as one of Australia’s leading public galleries, Monash University Museum of Art (MUMA) is a contemporary art museum located at Monash University’s Caulfield campus in Melbourne.
MUMA primarily focuses on contemporary art, showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions and projects that reflect current artistic practices and critical discourse within the art world.
Getting there:
Train: Caulfield Railway Station is located next to the campus.
Monash University Museum of Art, Building F, Monash University, Caulfield campus, 900 Princes Hwy Service Rd, Caulfield East VIC 3145, 03 8544 0500, www.monash.edu/muma
5. APY Gallery
For lovers of indigenous art, head to the social enterprise APY Gallery in Docklands. This boutique art gallery is dedicated to showcasing and honouring the artistic expressions of emerging talents from the APY Lands, regional South Australia, and Adelaide.
It’s a small space but worth a visit if you enjoy vibrant colours and indigenous art.
Getting there:
Buses: 220, 232, 234, 304 or 606
Trams: 11 or 48
Train: 2.6km walk from Flinders Street Station
APY Gallery, 34 Tom Thumb Lane, Docklands Victoria 3008
6. Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA)
For those interested in cutting-edge art, the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA) is a must-visit. Situated in the vibrant Southbank arts precinct, ACCA is known for its thought-provoking exhibitions and commitment to accessibility.
Visitors can enjoy free entry to the majority of ACCA’s displays, making it an ideal destination for a cultural outing.
Getting there:
Tram: 1
Buses: 234, 250, 251, 302 and 604
Train: 1.2km walk from Flinders St Station
Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, 111 Sturt St, Southbank VIC 3006, acca.melbourne/
7. The SUBSTATION
For a truly avant-garde experience, head to The SUBSTATION in Newport. Nestled within the historic substation building and located directly across from the Newport Railway Station, this gallery seamlessly blends contemporary art with the charm of its industrial setting.
Explore various artworks, ranging from visual arts to performances, for an engaging and thought-provoking experience. The gallery’s inclusive approach and community-focused initiatives make it an ideal destination to appreciate art.
Getting there:
Train: Newport Station is located opposite the SUBSTATION
The SUBSTATION, 1 Market Street, Newport, 3015, https://thesubstation.org.au/
8. Shrine of Remembrance
Nestled in the picturesque Kings Domain, the Shrine of Remembrance not only offers a tranquil setting for reflection but also provides engaging galleries and exhibitions that narrate the nation’s military history. Visitors can explore the sanctity of the Shrine, adorned with classical architectural elements, and visit the Galleries of Remembrance to delve into the stories and artefacts from various conflicts. The serene gardens surrounding the Shrine offer a peaceful space for contemplation.
With its accessibility features and regular commemorative events, the Shrine of Remembrance ensures a moving and educational experience, fostering a deeper connection with Australia’s wartime legacy.
Read about our recent visit to the Shrine here.
Open daily 10 am – 5 pm, entry is free and donations are welcome.
Getting there:
Buses: 216, 220 or 246
Trams: 3, 6, 72, 64 or 67
Train: 1.3km from Flinders Street Railway Station
Shrine of Remembrance, Birdwood Ave, Melbourne VIC 3001, https://www.shrine.org.au
9. Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
While not a traditional art gallery, the Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens is a living canvas that showcases the beauty of nature.
The gardens frequently host free outdoor exhibitions and installations, allowing visitors to combine their love for art with a leisurely stroll through lush landscapes. With wheelchair-friendly paths and seating areas, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer a delightful escape into creativity and tranquillity.
Read about our recent visit here.
The Gardens are open daily from 7.30 am – 7.30 pm, entry is free.
Getting there:
Buses: 605
Trams: 3, 5, 8, 16, 64 or 67
Train: 1.5km from Flinders Street Railway Station
Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, Birdwood Ave, Melbourne VIC 3001, https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au
10. Cowen Gallery, State Library Victoria
The Cowen Gallery at State Library Victoria is a cultural gem, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the library’s extensive visual arts collection.
Named after Sir Edward “Ned” Cowen, a renowned Australian painter, the gallery offers a rich display of historical artworks, including paintings, prints, and photographs.
Nestled within the library, the Cowen Gallery serves as a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, providing insight into Australia’s cultural and artistic heritage.
Open daily from 10.00 am – 6.00 pm, entry is free.
Related reading: Unexpected Finds on a State Library Victoria Free Walking Tour
Getting there:
Train: Melbourne Central Station is directly opposite the Library
Cowen Gallery, State Library Victoria, 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, www.slv.vic.gov.au
11. In.cube8r Gallery and Emporium
Functioning as both a gallery and a retail emporium, In.cube8r provides a platform for emerging artists and designers to showcase and sell their handmade creations. Boasting a diverse range of artworks, crafts, and bespoke items, the gallery embodies the spirit of collaboration and community.
Visitors can explore an ever-changing collection of locally crafted goods, making In.cube8r a vibrant hub that supports independent creatives and connects art enthusiasts with one-of-a-kind treasures. Open daily.
Getting there:
Train: Melbourne Central Station
In.cube8r Gallery and Emporium, Ground Floor / Shop 12, Melbourne Central Shopping CentreCorner Elizabeth & Little Lonsdale Streets, Melbourne VIC 3000, www.incube8r.com.au
12. Buxton Contemporary
Located on the Southbank campus of the University of Melbourne, Buxton Contemporary boasts a cutting-edge collection of contemporary Australian and international art.
Designed by renowned architects Fender Katsalidis, the gallery itself is a work of art, with its sleek and innovative architecture. Visitors can meander through thought-provoking exhibitions, featuring works by both established and emerging artists, and bask in the dynamic atmosphere of this cultural gem.
Open Wednesday to Sunday, entry is free.
Getting there:
Trams: 1, 6, 67
Buses: 605
Train: 750 metres from Flinders Street Station
Buxton Contemporary, Corner Southbank Boulevard &, Dodds St, Southbank VIC 3006, https://buxtoncontemporary.com
13. RMIT Gallery
Renowned for its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation, RMIT Gallery showcases a diverse range of exhibitions that push the boundaries of contemporary artistic expression.
Visitors exploring this cultural gem will discover thought-provoking installations, engaging artworks, and a space that encourages dialogue and reflection. For mobility needs, a lift can be accessed via Rodda Lane opposite RMIT Building 8.
Open Tuesday to Saturday, entry is free.
Getting there:
Tram: 1-6, 16, 30, 64, 72
Train: Melbourne Central Station is 300 metres away.
RMIT Gallery, RMIT University, 344 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, https://rmitgallery.com/
