Visiting with Kids

Photograph of balloon with silhouettes of kids playing

Deflation of Patricia Piccinini's Skywhale, 2013, gift of anonymous donor 2019, donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program © Patricia Piccinini

Photograph of young person sitting on stool wearing virtual reality headset

Before

  • Find out about exhibitions that might interest you and your family
  • Talk to your children about what they might see and involve them in planning their visit to the Gallery.
  • Explain that we don't touch the art because it shows respect for the artist and will help protect the art for centuries to come.
  • Check out the What’s On calendar for more information on our range of free programs for kids of all ages to enjoy with their families.
Photograph of family sitting and weaving materials in the gallery

During

  • Walk slowly and hold hands to stay together
  • Follow your children’s lead and let them guide you to the works of art they are most interested in
  • Break up your visit with some fresh air, a rest or a snack in the Sculpture Garden
  • If you have a question, please ask our friendly Visitor Experience staff on the ground level near the main entrance.
Photograph of a family group crouching in the garden beds of the Sculpture Garden

Tips

  • Ask questions
  • What can you see?
  • What does it make you think about?
  • How does it make you feel?
  • Is there anything here that surprises you?
  • Play ‘I Spy’!

Related

Venue Hire

Group of people sitting at a long table with table decorations, and plates and wine glasses

Our unique venues cater to events of all sizes and styles – weddings, gala dinners, cocktail parties, conferences, workshops, and private functions.

James Turrell's 'Within without'

Large sculptural work, pyramid shaped with greenery on the side of the structure.

Within without is a major Skyspace by American artist James Turrell, one of his largest and most complex to date.

Gallery Changes

The entrance to the national gallery with some sculptures visible
Kids & Families

Family Desk

Past Event
Adult and 2 children visitors

26 Dec 2021 – 30 Jan 2022

Start your visit at the Family Desk on Level 1.

Dining

Large sculptures, trees and people at a cafe are in front of a large concrete Brutalist building

Take in the Gallery’s soaring façade at the Street Café or complement a visit to a major exhibition with lunch in the Dining Room.

Visit

Photograph of woman sitting on black seat looking at artwork

The National Gallery is open from 10am to 5pm daily (closed Christmas Day). Free entry ticket is required.