Permanent collection completely free including exceptional Australian, Aboriginal, and Asian galleries. The 1871 neoclassical building itself is architectural heritage — Sandstone facade and grand halls worth admiring beyond the artworks.

Location: Art Gallery Road, The Domain (5-minute walk from St James Station on City Circle line). Open 10am-5pm Thursday-Monday, extended 10am-9pm Wednesdays. Special exhibitions typically $25-30, usually worth the investment for international touring shows.

Must-see: Level 2 Aboriginal galleries are genuinely exceptional — Bark painting collection dating back centuries, contemporary Indigenous artists, plus didactic displays explaining cultural context. Don't rush through this section.

Insider tip: Free guided tours run weekends, but Wednesday evening often features free artist talks and gallery conversations. Check their events calendar before visiting — You'll get much more from the collection with expert commentary. Much better use of time than another harbour cruise honestly.