26 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. Open daily, 10 am – 5 pm.
Read about our recent visit to NGV International here.
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.
Related reading: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Ian Potter Centre, NGV Australia
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
3. Koorie Heritage Trust
Now spanning three levels at Federation Square, Koorie Heritage Trust is the first stand-alone First Peoples arts and cultural centre in an Australian capital city. This Melbourne gallery is one of the city’s most cherished cultural experiences. Open daily, 10am – 5pm, free entry.
Read about what’s currently showing at KHT 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
MUMA, located at Monash University’s Caulfield campus, is one of Australia’s leading contemporary art museums. It showcases thought-provoking exhibitions reflecting current artistic practices.
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
A boutique Melbourne gallery celebrating emerging Indigenous artists from the APY Lands, South Australia, and Adelaide. Expect vibrant colours and unique perspectives in this small but impactful space.
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 drawn to cutting-edge art, ACCA is a must-visit. Located in Southbank, 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
Housed in a historic industrial building in Newport, The SUBSTATION presents contemporary art and performance in an avant-garde 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. Heide Museum of Modern Art
Located in Bulleen, Heide Museum of Modern Art is a cultural icon, offering modern and contemporary art exhibitions in a beautiful garden setting.
Read our contributor review of Heide.
Getting there:
Bus: 200, 903
7 Templestowe Rd, Bulleen VIC 3105, heide.com.au
9. Footscray Community Arts
A hub for contemporary arts and community engagement, Footscray Community Arts presents exhibitions, workshops, and performances celebrating diverse cultures.
Getting there:
Train: Footscray Station (1km)
45 Moreland St, Footscray VIC 3011, footscrayarts.com
10. Linden New Art
Located in St Kilda, Linden New Art showcases contemporary visual art in a historic Victorian mansion, with free entry to exhibitions.
Getting there:
Tram: 16, 96
26 Acland St, St Kilda VIC 3182, www.lindenarts.org/
11. VAS Gallery
The Victorian Artists Society (VAS) Gallery in East Melbourne is home to stunning exhibitions celebrating traditional and contemporary art. Established in 1870, the gallery hosts member exhibitions and historical collections.
Rad about our recent visit to VAS Gallery here.
Getting there:
Train: Parliament Station (700m)
Tram: 11, 12, 109
430 Albert St, East Melbourne VIC 3002, vasgallery.org.au
12. City Gallery
Located in Melbourne Town Hall, City Gallery showcases Melbourne’s history and culture through ever-changing exhibitions. A must-visit for those interested in the city’s heritage.
Getting there:
Train: Flinders Street Station (500m)
Tram: Multiple routes via Swanston St & Collins St
Melbourne Town Hall, 110 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000,
13. Royal Historical Society of Victoria Gallery
The RHSV Gallery features exhibitions on Melbourne and Victoria’s rich history, with artefacts, photographs, and documents offering fascinating insights.
Read about our visit to RHSV here.
Getting there:
Train: Flagstaff Station (350m)
Tram: 58, 86, 96
239 A’Beckett St, Melbourne VIC 3000, historyvictoria.org.au
14. Blindside Gallery
An artist-run space in the Nicholas Building, Blindside supports experimental and contemporary art from emerging and established artists.
Getting there:
Train: Flinders Street Station (300m)
Tram: Multiple routes via Swanston St
Nicholas Building, Level 7, Room 14, 37 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
blindside.org.au
15. Counihan Gallery
A contemporary public art gallery in Brunswick, Counihan Gallery showcases thought-provoking exhibitions with a strong social and political focus.
Getting there:
Train: Brunswick Station (500m)
Tram: 1, 6
233 Sydney Rd, Brunswick VIC 3056
merri-bek.vic.gov.au
16. Shrine of Remembrance
A place for reflection and learning, the Shrine features exhibitions on Australia’s military history. The Galleries of Remembrance house artefacts and stories, while the tranquil gardens provide a peaceful escape.
With its accessibility features and regular commemorative events, the Shrine of Remembrance ensures a moving and educational experience.
Open daily 10 am – 5 pm, entry is free and donations are welcome.
Read about our visit to the Shrine here.
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
17. West End Art Space
West End Art Space exhibits contemporary Australian and international artists, with a focus on innovative and thought-provoking works.
Getting there:
Train: Southern Cross Station (700m)
Tram: 86, 96
185 Rosslyn St, West Melbourne VIC 3003
westendartspace.com.au
18. Gertrude Contemporary
One of Australia’s leading contemporary art spaces, Gertrude Contemporary supports experimental and emerging artists in a dynamic exhibition programme.
Getting there:
Train: Collingwood Station (650m)
Tram: 86
21-31 High St, Preston VIC 3072
gertrude.org.au
19. CAVES Gallery
A not-for-profit gallery supporting early-career artists, CAVES presents contemporary exhibitions in a unique, artist-run environment.
Getting there:
Train: Parliament Station (800m)
Tram: 11, 12, 109
Nicholas Building, Level 4, 37 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
cavesgallery.com
20. Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
Not a traditional gallery, but a living canvas! Enjoy free outdoor exhibitions in a stunning natural setting with accessible paths and seating areas. The Gardens are open daily from 7.30 am – 7.30 pm, entry is free.
Read about our visit to the Melbourne Gardens here.
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
21. Cowen Gallery, State Library Victoria
Home to a rich collection of Australian artworks, the Cowen Gallery is a cultural gem inside the iconic State Library.
Named after Sir Edward “Ned” Cowen, a renowned Australian painter, the gallery offers a rich display of historical artworks, including paintings, prints, and photographs.
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
22. In.cube8r Gallery and Emporium
A unique mix of gallery and shop, In.cube8r showcases handcrafted artworks, jewellery, and bespoke pieces from local artists.
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
23. Buxton Contemporary
Buxton Contemporary, at the University of Melbourne’s Southbank campus, showcases contemporary Australian art through a dynamic programme of exhibitions and events.
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.
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
24. 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/
25. The Johnston Collection
A hidden gem in East Melbourne, The Johnston Collection offers a fascinating look at decorative arts, antiques, and fine art in an intimate house-museum setting. Guided tours provide rich historical context and insights into the collection’s European and Australian influences. Advance bookings are essential.
Getting there:
Train: Jolimont Station (800m)
Tram: 48, 75 (Stop 11 – Wellington Parade)
Location provided upon booking, www.johnstoncollection.org
26. Melbourne Museum
Delve into Victoria’s natural and cultural heritage at the permanent collections within Melbourne Museum’s galleries.
Getting there
Train: Parliament Station is approximately 650 metre walking distance
Tram: 96
Bus: 200, 250, 251, 302, 402, 906, 907
Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Melbourne, 3053, museumsvictoria.com.au
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