There are so many fascinating and unique museums around Australia that give you an insight into our past, the special customs and traditions of a region and the world around us.
We have rounded up some of our favourite ‘must visit’ museums for you to check out on your next holiday.
Tjapukai Cultural Park
Discover the world’s oldest living culture at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, 15 minutes from Cairns. Enjoy live performances of music, dance and storytelling, see authentic artefacts once used by the Tjapukai people and murals created by Tjapukai artists. Soak up the sounds of the didgeridoo in the Nature’s Voice Theatre or enjoy a meal in the restaurant.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut
Queensland Air Museum
Take a look back in history at the Queensland Air Museum. The museum charts the aviation history of Australia with a particular focus on Queensland aviation, and has over 75 aircraft in their collection along with a range of displays. There is even an interactive ‘Herby the helicopter’ display and children’s area to keep the little ones entertained.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Noosa
Fraser Coast Discovery Sphere
You will be greeted by the impressive twelve metre whale sculpture as you arrive at the Sphere. Learn about the fascinating biodiversity of the region through interactive displays and activities at the Fraser Coast Discovery Sphere. See marine life up-close in the aquarium and get hands on with star fish and sea cucumbers in the Touch Tank. You can also soak up some culture with a stroll through the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery which displays a range of local and touring exhibitions.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Hervey Bay
Tweed Regional Museum
The Tweed Regional Museum is a unique attraction spread across three locations, Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah and Uki, and was formed with the uniting of three local historical societies. The museums showcase displays that give visitors an insight into the settlement and development of the region. The Tweed branch is particularly worth a visit with its charming historic buildings that have been relocated to the current peaceful riverside location.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Kingscliff
The Slim Dusty Centre
Country music fans will love exploring The Slim Dusty Centre, which pays tribute to this iconic Australian musician. The museum ‘An Australian Life in Song’ charts the life and musical legacy of Slim Dusty. The centre also houses a Visitor Information Centre, exhibition space, café and a shop where you can pick up some unique Slim Dusty souvenirs, along with products from the local area.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays South West Rocks
Headland Historical Museum
Explore the region’s colourful history at the Headland Historical Museum. The beachside museum houses a collection of historical photographs, documents and artefacts, china and ceramics including the “Boulton Collection”, needlework and garment displays plus memorabilia from early Australian households.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays White Albatross
Timbertown Heritage Park
Walk in the footsteps of Australia’s pioneers at the Timbertown Heritage Village. As you stroll around the village you will be transported back to the turn of the century, see the blacksmith working at the forge, take a ride on a traditional steam train and learn to crack a whip.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Bonny Hills
Fighter World
Fighter World is a hands on, family friendly attraction that charts the history of fighter aircraft operations in the Royal Australian Air Force. Stroll through the displays, look into the cockpits of iconic aircraft such as the mighty F-111 and Mirage III or climb into the cockpit of a Macchi jet trainer. The museum also has a spectacular collection of model aircraft in the main hanger, you might even be lucky enough to see the RAAF squadrons take-off and land from the observation deck.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Soldiers Point or Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach
Lake Macquarie and District Museum
The Lake Macquarie and District Museum is located on the picturesque shores of Lake Macquarie in the restored Toronto Railway Station. Discover the history and development of the region through the impressive photographic collection and displays. The museum also includes an archive room and research library making it a valuable source for information on the local area.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Lake Macquarie
Australian Army Infantry Museum
This hidden gem of a museum charts over a hundred years of Australian Army infantry history, customs and traditions from colonial times to modern warfare. The Australian Army Infantry Museum houses impressive tanks, helicopter and vehicles, fascinating displays, uniforms, arms and artefacts. This is an absolute must visit for those with an interest in military history.
Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley