The Immigration Museum in Melbourne, Victoria, offers a powerful exploration of Australia’s history of migration, identity and belonging. Housed in a striking 19th-century building on the Yarra River, it’s a thoughtful and accessible attraction for families, solo visitors and history lovers alike. This guide covers everything you need to know before you go: opening hours, ticket prices, parking and other practical details.
History and overview of the Immigration Museum, Melbourne
The Immigration Museum opened in 1998 in the heritage-listed Old Customs House at 400 Flinders Street, Melbourne. The building itself dates back to the gold-rush era and originally served as a centre for customs and immigration control in the late 1800s. Its grand architecture and riverside location reflect the significance of Melbourne as a port city of arrival.
The museum focuses on the experiences of migrants to Victoria, featuring personal stories, artefacts, photographs and immersive exhibitions. Highlights include the “Getting In” gallery, where visitors engage with migration decisions, and the “Ordinary People/Extraordinary Lives” sections exploring settlement and identity across generations.
On its three levels you’ll find changing temporary exhibitions, a family-friendly “Discovery Centre” for children and a thoughtful tribute garden. The galleries invite curiosity and reflection, offering a mix of interactive displays and quiet contemplation.
Managed by Museums Victoria, the museum emphasises accessibility, inclusion and public programs such as community festivals, talks and children’s activities. But, like the Bonegilla Migrant Experience in Wodonga, it’s mainly about the stories of the people who ended up making Australia what it is.
How to get to the Immigration Museum and parking
The museum is located at 400 Flinders Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, in the heart of Melbourne’s central business district. It is just a short walk from Flinders Street Station and the Federation Square plaza, making public transport the best option for getting there.
For drivers, while the museum does not have its own car park, several public parking garages lie within a short walk. Examples include:
- Secure Parking: 376 Flinders Street
- Wilson Parking: 15 William Street
Access for drop-off and pick-up is available on Market Street near the museum entrance. Please allow extra time during peak traffic in the city.
Five great things to do while you’re in Melbourne
- 🏙️ Get to know the city’s history and culture on a laneways walking tour.
- 🍷 Take a Yarra Valley day tour with indulgent wine-tasting.
- 🚴 Cover far more of Melbourne’s highlights on an electric bike tour.
- 🛶 Kayak along the Yarra River at sunset.
- 🍽️ Discover Melbourne’s multicultural dining scene on a top-rated food tour.
Opening hours and ticket prices at the Immigration Museum
The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. It is closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Ticket prices are as follows (standard general admission unless a special exhibition surcharge applies):
- Adult: AU$15.00
- Senior: AU$12.00
- Concession: Free with eligible cards
- Child (up to 16 years): Free
Accessibility and visitor facilities
The Immigration Museum is committed to accessibility. There are step-free access points (via the Market Street ramp and the Festival Courtyard), lifts to all public floors, accessible toilets and sensory bags available for visitors with additional needs.
The building houses a small café, a museum store, baby-change facilities and free WiFi in the public courtyard. The surrounding area is flat and well-signposted, and the museum is a short walk from major tram and train lines.
Best times to visit and how long your visit takes
Weekday mornings just after opening (around 10 am) are quieter and recommended if you prefer a more relaxed visit. Peak periods include school holidays and weekends. Planning for about 1.5 to 2 hours is realistic for the main galleries; allow up to 3 hours if you include a special exhibition, café stop or visit with children.
What else to do nearby
- Walk across to Federation Square and enjoy the riverside views, cafés and cultural venues.
- Visit the nearby National Gallery of Victoria or ACMI.
- Take a stroll along the Yarra River through the Birrarung Marr park.
Tips for a smoother visit to the Immigration Museum
- Buy tickets online in advance to secure entry and avoid queues on busy days.
- Arrive early if you plan to include the café or visit during a special exhibition.
- Ask about free sensory bags if you or someone in your group may benefit from one.
- If driving, allow extra time to find nearby parking and factor in city traffic.
Frequently asked questions about the Immigration Museum
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need to book ahead? | Booking is not always mandatory, but for special exhibitions or weekend visits it is strongly recommended. |
| What are the opening hours? | Daily 10 am to 5 pm; closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day. |
| How much is adult entry? | AU$15.00 for general admission. |
| Are children free? | Yes, children up to 16 years are free. |
| Is parking available on-site? | No dedicated parking on-site; public car parks nearby. |
| Is the museum accessible? | Yes—step-free access, lifts, accessible toilets and support equipment are available. |
More Victoria travel
Other Victoria travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- What it’s like to visit the Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
- Going underground at Bendigo’s Central Deborah Gold Mine.
- On the Ned Kelly Trail in Victoria’s High Country.
- A series of wildlife encounters on the Great Ocean Road.
- Planning a visit to the Healesville Sanctuary.
