An art lover’s guide to Sydney

Being Australia's biggest city, it's no surprise that Sydney is bursting at the seams with classic and contemporary art. From museums to galleries, outdoor projections to the biggest installation in the city – the Opera House – Sydney has something for every preference.

Discover where to find the city's best art with the help of The Macleay Hotel.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales (NSW)

Opening in the late 19th century, the Art Gallery of NSW is one of the city's oldest and leading art spaces. Here you'll find four levels of permanent Australian, Aboriginal and international art collections, along with more than 30 rotating exhibitions each year.

The gallery attracts more than one million visitors every year. Guests can enjoy a great range of collections, including the current Rembrandt and the Dutch Golden Age exhibition, as well as performances and lectures. Entry to the Art Gallery of NSW is free and is just a 20-minute walk away from your Potts Point hotel – a complete win-win!

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA)

Located across the water from the Sydney Opera House is another impressive art deco building – The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA). Inside this modernised building you'll discover a great collection of Australian and international contemporary art across three floors. The MCA isn't your average art gallery, instead they focus on showcasing unique exhibitions, including light installations, performance, photography and sculpture.

They also house ARTBAR – a drinking space with a difference. On the last Friday of every month, visitors of the MCA can partake in music, art and performance, all while enjoying drinks on the rooftop bar. 

Outdoor art of Sydney

Art doesn't just have to stay indoors – there's plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city's great creative scene outside too. Here are some of The Macleay Hotel's favourite pieces:

Jenny Munro mural – On Harbour Street in Chinatown, you'll find a large painted mural of Jenny Munro – an elder Aboriginal rights pioneer. The painting spans an impressive 10-storeys high and is a great way to show off a true Australian figure. 

Bondi sea wall – Before heading off on your Bondi to Cogee walk, be sure to check out the incredible local art displayed on the beachfront walls. Each is bright and colourful and is the perfect backdrop for a souvenir shot. 

Wimbo Paddock mural – South of your Sydney city hotel lies Wimbo Park – home to a magnificent mosaic mural. The piece is made up of hundreds of tiny, opaque glass tile and depicts the history of Wimbo Park and a fun-filled recreational scene.

Discover what else Sydney has to offer with the help of The Macleay Hotel.