National Museum of Australia

The National Museum of Australia sits on the Acton Peninsula on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra. The country's flagship social-history museum, it explores the land, nation and people of Australia — from First Australians and the deep Indigenous history to the stories, objects and events that have shaped the nation — within a striking, distinctive building.

The appeal is that combination of fascinating, wide-ranging exhibitions and an engaging, accessible approach: the renowned First Australians gallery, the social-history collections, interactive displays and a beautiful lakeside setting. It's a genuinely absorbing destination for families, the curious and anyone wanting to understand the Australian story, and general entry is free.

With a 4.5 rating from more than 8,500 reviews, it's a much-loved national institution. General admission is free, but special exhibitions, tours and any events have their own ticketing and hours, and popular shows can be busy, so it's worth checking current details before you visit — and allowing a good few hours to take in the galleries and the lovely lakeside surrounds.