First time visiting the Migration Museum in Adelaide, South Australia? This guide covers opening hours, ticket prices, parking, accessibility, and how to get there.
History and overview of the Migration Museum
The Migration Museum is located at 82 Kintore Avenue, Adelaide SA 5000 in a historic bluestone building that was formerly the Adelaide Destitute Asylum.
It was founded in 1986 and is one of Australia’s earliest museums dedicated to exploring immigration and settlement.
The museum’s galleries trace stories of First Nations people, early settlers, and recent migrants.
Today it is operated by the History Trust of South Australia and offers free general admission with special exhibitions and tours sometimes charged.
How to get to the Migration Museum
The museum is in Adelaide’s city centre, a short walk from Rundle Mall and the State Library.
Transport options:
- Walking: If you are staying in the CBD it is within easy walking distance along Kintore Avenue.
- Bus/tram: Several bus stops and the North Terrace tram line lie within minutes of the museum entrance.
- Driving: Metered street parking is available on Kintore Avenue or Victoria Drive. Disabled bays are located nearby.
Since admission is free, you can drop in flexibly, but it’s worth checking for any special exhibition booking requirements.
Five great things to do while you’re in Adelaide
- Kayak with dolphins – at the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary.
- Take wildlife-packed day tour to Kangaroo Island.
- Combine an Adelaide Hills tour with a lunch cruise on the Murray River.
- Enjoy a tasting tour of four Barossa Valley wineries – with a gourmet lunch.
- See incredible sunsets on a twilight cruise from Glenelg.
Opening hours and ticket prices for the Migration Museum
Opening hours: Daily from 10am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day).
Ticket prices: Entry to the general museum is free; donations are encouraged. Some special exhibitions, tours or events may carry a fee.
While general entry doesn’t require booking, if you plan to join a tour or a special program you may wish to reserve in advance.
Parking and accessibility at the Migration Museum
Parking: There is no dedicated on-site parking for the museum. Metered street parking is on Kintore Avenue and Victoria Drive. Accessible parking bays are available nearby.
Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair- and scooter-friendly through most galleries. Guide dogs and assistance animals are welcome.
If using a mobility aid you may wish to check with museum staff about the routes and accessible toilets before your visit.
Best times to visit the Migration Museum
For smaller crowds, pick weekday mornings soon after the museum opens. Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier.
Most visitors spend around 1-2 hours exploring the main galleries. If you plan to join a tour or take your time reading displays allow up to 2-3 hours.
Nearby attractions you can combine with the Migration Museum
Being in the heart of Adelaide you can easily add these to your day:
- The Adelaide Botanic Gardens: A short walk away and ideal for a green break after your museum visit. Adelaide Zoo is also here.
- The South Australian Museum: Located on North Terrace, you can combine natural history and social history in one outing.
- Rundle Mall shopping precinct: Steps away for restaurants, cafés and retail if you wish to pause for a bite or browse.
FAQ: Practical visitor information for the Migration Museum
Are the paths wheelchair-friendly?
Yes. The museum is mostly accessible with ramps and lifts; some older building architecture may present minor differences — check with staff if concerned.
Is there accessible parking close to the entrance?
Yes. Accessible parking is available in adjacent public car parks near the museum.
How do I book tickets?
General entry is free and doesn’t require booking. If you wish to join a guided tour or special event you should reserve ahead via the museum website or phone.
When are the smallest-crowd hours?
Early weekday mornings are best for smaller crowds. Weekends and during school holidays tend to attract more visitors.
Are there cafés or restaurants on-site?
The museum itself does not feature a full café; however, there are many nearby cafés in the CBD within walking distance.
Are strollers or baby carriers recommended?
Strollers are acceptable, though due to some narrow passageways a baby carrier may provide greater flexibility for families with young children.
How long do most people stay?
Typically 1-2 hours is sufficient to browse the galleries. If you join a tour or engage more deeply allow up to 3 hours.
Book any special tour or exhibition in advance although general entry is free.
More Adelaide travel
Other Adelaide travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- All you need to know about the Popeye Cruise on the Torrens River.
- 7 fantastic Adelaide attractions that many visitors miss.
- What you need to know before visiting Cleland Wildlife Park.
- Why visit the Bay Discovery Centre in Glenelg?
- Plan your visit to Adelaide Gaol.
