Coming from a long line of wandering Scottish sailors, the Australian National Maritime Museum Sydney was always going to be a hit for me.
All my four are Maritime Museum kids too, they love visiting. Mine especially love running around the bigger ships and checking out the submarine. None of us could ever believe how small everything is, how cramped is the life of the submariner.
Here’s all you need to know to enjoy a visit to the ANMM at Darling Harbour with the kids.
Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM)
2 Murray Street ,Darling Harbour 2000
Phone: 9298 3777
Website: www.anmm.gov.au
Open: Daily 9.30am–5pm, except Christmas Day.
Under fives free.
Boats, yachts, submarines, tankers, destroyers and helicopters—what more could your children desire?
All these and many more nautical delights are displayed inside the Maritime Museum or berthed on the wharf just outside it.
The maritime history of Australia is explained and explored from its Aboriginal beginnings right up to the present day.
‘Mini Mariners’ is an interactive tour of the Museum for children under five and their carers. This happens every Tuesday, it’s an exciting and easy introduction to the world of the Museum for the very young.
Great fun also are the special activities during the school holidays.
In addition, some exhibits have elements designed for children and occasionally there will be activities and performances suitable for young children.
It is always worth reading up in advance to find out what is on and whether there might be something special for junior jolly sailor boys and girls.
Note that children under 90 centimetres are not allowed to visit the submarine.
Cafe: There is a cafe and also a kiosk on the quayside.
Baby change: Baby change room on the lower level has change mats, a rocking chair and a sink
Strollers: Strollers can be borrowed at no cost. There are a few steps inside the museum but there is a lift. Strollers are not allowed inside the ships and submarine berthed at the wharf.
Shop: Yes
Guided tours: Yes
Mum’s report: This is great when the kids are in the middle of a boat and helicopter phase.
Extra: All the delights of Darling Harbour! Try the great playground after you’ve been to the Museum.
Parking: Harbourside Secure Parking gives discount to museum visitors. Get the ticket stamped at the ticket desk, entrance at 100 Murray Street.
Nearest station: Pyrmont Bay on Metro Light Rail, Harbourside on Metro Monorail
Nearest ferry: Pyrmont Bay Wharf is beside the Maritime Museum
Bus stop nearby: Yes
We’ll be there for a day in the next school holidays?
Will we see you there?
