Overview
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) is No. 95 in The Art Newspaper's survey of the world's most visited art museums, with 819,504 visitors in 2025, down 2% on 2024. Opened in 1991, it occupies an art deco building on the western side of Circular Quay, facing the Sydney Opera House.
It is dedicated to contemporary art, with a strong focus on Australian and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Entry to the collection is free.
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings are the quietest. Check the official website for hours and late openings.
Highlights & collections
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1
MCA Collection
Rotating displays of contemporary Australian art.
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2
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art
Works by First Nations artists across the collection.
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3
International exhibitions
Major exhibitions of international artists, some ticketed.
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4
Rooftop café
Views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
Getting there
The MCA is at 140 George Street, The Rocks, a few minutes' walk from Circular Quay station, ferry wharves and light rail stop.
Visiting tips
- Tickets & hours
- Entry is free; some exhibitions charge. Check the official website for hours.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
- Currency
- Australian dollar (AUD). Cards and phone payments are accepted almost everywhere. Tipping is not expected.
- Visa & entry
- Everyone except New Zealand citizens needs a visa or an electronic travel authority before travelling. Citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, Japan and several other countries can apply for an ETA through the official AustralianETA app; EU citizens can apply online for a free eVisitor. Apply only through official Australian government channels (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au).
Official information: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (official website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
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