The Rocks Discovery Museum Verified listing

The Rocks Discovery Museum is a free, family‑friendly museum located at Kendall Lane, in the historic heart of The Rocks, Sydney. Housed in restored sandstone buildings dating to the mid‑19th century—including Samson’s Cottage, Raphael’s Store, and Mackellar’s Store—it was established in 2005 to showcase archaeological artefacts and tell the layered history of the precinct.

Over three floors, the museum presents four permanent exhibitions developed in close consultation with the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council. These trace the evolution of The Rocks from the Warrane era (pre‑1788) and early colonial settlement (1788–1820), through its time as a bustling port (1820–1900), to the Transformations period reflecting 20th-century activism that preserved the neighbourhood. Exhibits include interactive screens, audiovisual installations, rare photographs, and genuine artefacts unearthed during redevelopment projects—making history tangible and engaging for visitors of all ages.

Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, the museum is closed only on Good Friday and Christmas Day, and entry is free—though donations are welcomed. Group visits, especially for schools, require bookings, and the venue hosts special school holiday programs focused on First Nations culture and archaeology Whether you're a local, a family traveller, or a history enthusiast, The Rocks Discovery Museum offers a rich, immersive introduction to Sydney's foundational stories.