Located in the heart of Wollongong, Australia, the Wollongong City Museum is a must-visit for anyone in the area. As one of the oldest museums in the country, it houses a wide variety of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the city’s history and culture. Here are 10 things to do when you visit the Wollongong City Museum.
1. Explore the Permanent Exhibitions: The museum has a number of permanent exhibitions that explore the history of Wollongong, from its Aboriginal heritage to its colonial and industrial past. Highlights include the ‘Wollongong Story’, which tells the story of the city’s development, and the ‘Aboriginal Heritage of Wollongong’, which explores the city’s Aboriginal history.
2. Tour the Special Exhibitions: The museum also hosts a number of special exhibitions throughout the year, featuring both historical and contemporary works. Recent exhibitions have included ‘Wollongong Through the Ages’, which examines the city’s evolution, and ‘Wollongong in the Movies’, which looks at the city’s cinematic history.
3. Get Creative: The museum offers a range of creative activities for visitors, including art classes, craft workshops and storytelling sessions. There’s also a dedicated ‘Kids’ Corner’, where children can explore the museum’s collections and learn about the city’s history.
4. Take a Guided Tour: The museum offers a variety of guided tours, including ‘The Wollongong Story’, which takes visitors on a journey through the city’s past, and ‘Aboriginal Heritage of Wollongong’, which explores the city’s Aboriginal heritage.
5. Visit the Gift Shop: The museum’s gift shop is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or a unique gift. It stocks a range of items, including books, toys, jewellery and art prints.
6. Enjoy a Coffee or a Meal: The museum’s café is the ideal spot for a coffee or a light meal. It offers a range of snacks and drinks, including sandwiches, salads and cakes.
7. Explore the Grounds: The museum is set in a beautiful parkland, which is home to a number of native plants and animals. There are also a number of walking trails, which are perfect for exploring the area’s natural beauty.
8. Learn About the Local Wildlife: The museum’s ‘Wildlife of Wollongong’ exhibition is a great way to learn about the city’s native species. It features a range of interactive displays, including live animals, videos and interactive games.
9. Visit the Library: The museum’s library is a great resource for anyone interested in the city’s history. It houses a range of books, magazines and other materials, as well as a collection of historic photographs.
10. Attend an Event: The museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops and art exhibitions. There’s something for everyone, so be sure to check out the museum’s website for upcoming events.
From exploring the permanent exhibitions to taking a guided tour, there’s plenty to do at the Wollongong City Museum. So next time you’re in the area, be sure to pay a visit to this unique and fascinating museum.