MONA Museum of Old and New Art - sea waves crashing on shore during sunset
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MONA Museum of Old and New Art

4.3
·13k reviews·Berriedale, Australia

A provocative, largely underground art museum in Hobart, Tasmania, known for its unconventional exhibits and unique visitor experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds and enjoy quiet contemplation.

CrowdLow
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MONA Museum of Old and New Art - sea waves crashing on shore during sunset

MONA Museum of Old and New Art

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds and enjoy quiet contemplation.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A provocative, largely underground art museum in Hobart, Tasmania, known for its unconventional exhibits and unique visitor experience.

4.3
(13k reviews)

"This place is a vibe and you've got to visit it to feel it, see it, hear it and experience it."

Vertical photo
TIP

Download 'the O app' first! :iphone:

Essential for navigating and understanding the art. Don't wait until you're halfway through!

Allow ample time :stopwatch:

You'll need 3-4 hours minimum to explore. Many visitors wish they had more time.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The O App Experience

The O App Experience

Throughout the museum

Your digital guide to MONA. Unlocks artist insights, visitor comments, and a personalized journey through the exhibits.

Subterranean Architecture

Subterranean Architecture

Museum interior

A labyrinthine, mostly underground structure that enhances the immersive and mysterious atmosphere of the art.

Provocative Art Installations

Provocative Art Installations

Various galleries

Bold, often controversial works exploring themes of life, death, and sexuality. Expect the unexpected.

Moorilla Winery & Ferries

Moorilla Winery & Ferries

Museum grounds and Hobart waterfront

Enjoy wine tasting at the on-site winery or take the scenic ferry for a unique arrival experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Unconventional

MONA is not your typical museum. Prepare for thought-provoking, sometimes confronting art. Download 'the O app' for an enhanced, self-guided experience. Allow at least 3-4 hours to truly immerse yourself.

Getting There & Timing

The ferry from Hobart is a popular and scenic way to arrive, offering a unique approach to the museum. Booking ferry tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak times. Consider arriving early to maximize your visit.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the crowds and enjoy quiet contemplation.
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Experience the full buzz of the museum.
Crowd
Medium
When
Rainy days
Why
Perfect indoor escape with captivating art.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐠-𝐝𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧, 𝐀𝐤𝐬𝐢 𝐊𝐞𝐣𝐚𝐫-𝐤𝐞𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐞𝐬𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐭 𝐓𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐫 𝐍𝐲𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬 “𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐞𝐦𝐛𝟒𝐤” 𝐝𝐢 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐬 Perayaan HUT ke-80 TNI berlangsung meriah di Monas, Jakarta, dengan atraksi udara memukau dari TNI AU. Deretan pesawat tempur seperti F-16 Fighting Falcon dan T-50i Golden Eagle menghiasi langit dengan manuver High-G Turn, semburan flare warna-warni, hingga simulasi pertempuran udara yang menggelegar. Ribuan warga t...
@garudatvnews
6.3K likes • 190.4K views

Download 'the O app' first! :iphone:

Essential for navigating and understanding the art. Don't wait until you're halfway through!

Allow ample time :stopwatch:

You'll need 3-4 hours minimum to explore. Many visitors wish they had more time.

🎭MONA museum タスマニア・ホバートにあるMONA(Museum of Old and New Art)の紹介! ホバート観光3本の指に入るほど人気で有名な美術館! 「生と死」「性」「時間」などをテーマにして作らていて、なんとこの美術館、個人の所有物なんです!😳 2011年にオープンした現代アートの聖地で、創設者デヴィッド・ウォルシュはオーストラリアの数学者・ギャンブラー・アートコレクターで、巨大なアートギャラリーを作りたいとこの美術館を作ったそう😂 個性的なコレクションが、地下3階建てのラビリンスのような空間!ぜひ行ってみてね❤️‍🔥 ⸻ 🚢 アクセス方法 •フェリー:ホバート中心部から高速フェリーで約30分。ウォルシュのこだわりで、水上からのアプローチが推奨されています。フェリーはバリアフリー対応で、車椅子やベビーカーも利用可能です。   •車・バス:ホバート市内か...
ayachantasmania
18 likes • 686 views
🐾 📍 MONA - Museum of Old and New Art . Wow, wow, wow!!! If there ever was an eclectic mix of perfectly curated art, then this is it. . It cannot be described in words. This place is a vibe and you've got to visit it to feel it, see it, hear it and experience it. We loved it. The kids loved it. We spent 4 hours here and it wasn't enough. . Just. Wow. . . . . . #MONA #museumofoldandnewart #bucketlis...
vet.in.a.van
55 likes • 963 views

Ferry is a must :ferry:

The ferry ride from Hobart is a scenic and fun way to arrive. Book in advance!

Food is fantastic :pretzel:

Don't miss the delicious food options, from snacks to full meals. Great for kids too!

The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Tasmania is a provocative and unconventional museum known for its bold, immersive exhibitions that blend ancient artifacts with contemporary art. Founded by collector David Walsh, MONA challenges traditional museum norms with its edgy, often controversial works and high-tech, self-guided experience. It’s become a major cultural destination, reshaping Tasmani...
artcollector
282 likes • 6.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Download 'the O app' first! :iphone:

Essential for navigating and understanding the art. Don't wait until you're halfway through!

Allow ample time :stopwatch:

You'll need 3-4 hours minimum to explore. Many visitors wish they had more time.

Ferry is a must :ferry:

The ferry ride from Hobart is a scenic and fun way to arrive. Book in advance!

Food is fantastic :pretzel:

Don't miss the delicious food options, from snacks to full meals. Great for kids too!

Embrace the unconventional :sparkles:

MONA challenges norms. Be open to art that might be confronting or thought-provoking.

What Travellers Say

4.3
(13k reviews)

Reviews Summary

MONA is widely praised as a unique and unforgettable experience, lauded for its provocative art, striking architecture, and excellent on-site amenities like food and the ferry. While some find the art confronting, most agree it's thought-provoking and worth the visit. The 'O app' is considered essential for a full appreciation of the museum.

"Definitely worth a visit. You could spend all day here and the food is fantastic. Remember to download “the O app” on your phone as it has all the information you need. No one told us till half way through. Great thing to do on a rainy day. The food is amazing here. I had a spinach and three cheesy pretzel and an apple cinnamon muffin. Was planning on saving one for later but after the first bite I shared both with my friend as the deliciousness overwhelmed us first thing in the morning. 😆"

Leanne Reid

"Amazing venue, quite an experience I would highly recommend. You will need a few hours up your sleeve to experience this gallery.
The food options they have here are pretty good to be honest. The food area is great for kids as well as there is a kids park, trampoline heaps of area for kids energy to burn off."

Aaron Rapira

"The Mona Gallery is definitely a must see, made even better with a "door to door" Mona Ferry return trip from Hobart. My suggestion catch the 9:15am Ferry to get you there for 10:00am Gallery opening and easily allow 3hrs. Food and drinks available at reasonable cost and time to stroll before catching the return Ferry"

David Johnson

What People Like

Unconventional art
Striking architecture
The O app

What People Dislike

Art can be confronting

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular way is by the MONA Ferry from the Brooke Street Pier in Hobart, taking about 30 minutes.Instagram You can also drive or take a bus. The ferry offers a unique arrival experience, with some recommending it as part of the overall MONA adventure.Reddit

Many visitors find the ferry to be a highlight, offering scenic views and a fun start to the visit.Instagram It's often recommended to catch an early ferry to be there for opening time.Reddit

Yes, driving is an option, and there is parking available. However, the ferry is often cited as a more enjoyable and iconic way to reach the museum.

Ferry schedules vary, but they typically run frequently throughout the day, aligning with museum opening and closing times. It's best to check the official MONA website for the most up-to-date schedule.

While the ferry is the most recommended, other public transport options like buses may be available. Check local Tasmanian transport schedules for routes and times.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to MONA is free for Tasmanians. For visitors from elsewhere, there is an admission fee, but it's often considered well worth the experience.Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking tickets and ferry trips in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your preferred time slot.Reddit

MONA is typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with the last entry usually around 4 pm. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours, as they can change seasonally.

General admission is free for Tasmanian residents. For non-Tasmanian residents, there is an admission fee, and booking in advance is advised.

MONA frequently hosts unique and often provocative exhibitions and events. Checking their official website is the best way to stay updated on what's currently on display or happening.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

'The O app' is MONA's self-guided tour app that provides information about the artworks, artist insights, and visitor comments. It's crucial for understanding and navigating the museum's unconventional displays.Reddit

Most visitors recommend allocating at least 3-4 hours to fully experience MONA, with some suggesting they could easily spend all day.InstagramReddit

Yes, MONA has areas that are great for kids, including a playground and trampoline. However, some art can be confronting, so parental discretion is advised.Instagram

MONA features a diverse collection of old and new art, often described as provocative, unconventional, and thought-provoking. It blends ancient artifacts with contemporary pieces, exploring themes of life, death, and sexuality.Instagram+1

MONA primarily operates on a self-guided experience using 'the O app'. While there aren't traditional guided tours, the app provides extensive information to enhance your visit.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

MONA offers excellent food options, from casual snacks like pretzels and muffins to more substantial meals. The food area is also noted as being great for kids.Reddit

Food and drinks are available at reasonable costs, making it a good value for the quality and experience.Reddit

While specific menus can change, MONA's food offerings are generally diverse. It's advisable to check with the staff on-site for the most current options.

Yes, MONA has a wine bar and offers drinks, including wine from the on-site Moorilla Winery.

MONA has dining facilities, including a cafe and a wine bar, offering a range of food and beverage options.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, personal photography is allowed in most areas, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artworks. Always check for signage.

The unique architecture, the ferry arrival, and many of the art installations themselves offer fantastic photo opportunities. The exterior grounds and the waterfront views are also picturesque.

Drone usage is typically not permitted within museum grounds or airspace to ensure the safety and experience of all visitors and to protect the artworks.

A camera that performs well in low light conditions is ideal, as many of MONA's exhibits are dimly lit to enhance their atmosphere. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also sufficient for most visitors.

Tripods are generally not allowed inside the museum to avoid obstructing other visitors and to prevent accidental damage to exhibits. Check with staff if you have specific professional photography needs.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

MONA offers a surprisingly family-friendly experience, despite its avant-garde reputation. Beyond the thought-provoking art, there's a dedicated kids' park and trampoline area where children can burn off energy.InstagramReddit The food options are also a hit with families, providing delicious and accessible choices for younger palates.Reddit

While some exhibits might be confronting, the overall atmosphere is engaging. The 'O app' can be used by older children to explore the art in a fun, interactive way. The ferry ride to the museum is also an adventure in itself for kids. It’s a destination that can cater to both adult artistic interests and children's need for play and exploration.

🎨 Art Aficionados

For those who appreciate art that pushes boundaries, MONA is a pilgrimage site. Its collection spans ancient to contemporary, with a focus on works that are bold, immersive, and often controversial.Instagram+1 The museum's unique, subterranean architecture enhances the viewing experience, creating an intimate and often surreal encounter with the art.

'The O app' is essential for a deep dive into the collection, offering insights into the artist's intent and the context of each piece. Visitors can spend hours here, engaging with art that explores profound themes of life, death, and sexuality. The unconventional presentation ensures a memorable and stimulating artistic journey.

✈️ Day-Trippers from Hobart

MONA is an ideal day trip from Hobart, easily accessible via a scenic ferry ride.Instagram+1 The ferry itself is part of the experience, offering beautiful river views. You can easily spend 3-4 hours exploring the museum's unique exhibits and architecture.InstagramReddit

Combine your visit with lunch at MONA's acclaimed cafe or enjoy a tasting at the on-site Moorilla Winery. The ferry schedule allows for a flexible day, whether you want a half-day excursion or a full immersion. It's a compact yet incredibly rich experience that fits perfectly into a day's itinerary.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The MONA Experience: Art, Architecture, and App

MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart, Tasmania, is renowned for its unconventional approach to art and its striking, largely subterranean architecture.Instagram+1 Founded by David Walsh, it's described as a playground and megaphone for his eclectic collection, blending ancient artifacts with contemporary, often provocative works.Instagram The museum's design itself is an artwork, with galleries carved into the earth, creating an immersive and mysterious atmosphere that complements the exhibits.Instagram

Central to the MONA experience is 'the O app'. This isn't just an audio guide; it's a sophisticated, self-guided tool that unlocks layers of information, artist insights, and visitor commentary for each piece. Visitors are encouraged to download and use the app to fully engage with the art and personalize their journey through the museum.Reddit This tech-forward approach allows for a deeply individual exploration, moving away from traditional museum formats.Instagram

Prepare for art that challenges and provokes. MONA tackles themes of life, death, sex, and time with bold installations that can be confronting but are always thought-provoking.Instagram From ancient mummies to modern multimedia pieces, the collection is diverse and designed to spark conversation and personal reflection. The museum's unique vibe and immersive nature make it a must-visit for art lovers and curious travelers alike.Instagram

Getting to MONA: The Scenic Ferry Route

The journey to MONA is often as memorable as the destination itself. The most popular and recommended way to arrive is via the MONA Ferry, departing from Hobart's Brooke Street Pier.Instagram+1 This high-speed catamaran offers a swift and scenic 30-minute trip across the Derwent River, providing stunning views of Hobart and its surroundings.

Beyond the practical transport, the ferry ride is an integral part of the MONA experience. Some visitors describe it as a fun and unique way to approach the museum, setting the tone for the unconventional journey ahead.Instagram It's advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during busy periods, to ensure you get your preferred departure time and avoid disappointment. Arriving on an early ferry can help you maximize your time at the museum, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.Reddit

While the ferry is the star, other transport options exist. Visitors can also drive to MONA, with parking available on-site. However, for a truly iconic MONA arrival, the ferry is hard to beat. It’s a seamless connection that adds to the overall adventure and makes the visit feel complete.

Dining Delights at MONA

MONA isn't just about art; it's also a destination for fantastic food and drink. The museum boasts several dining options, including a popular cafe and a wine bar, all situated on the grounds of the Moorilla Winery.Reddit Visitors consistently praise the quality of the food, with mentions of delicious pretzels, muffins, and more substantial meals that satisfy even after hours of exploring art.Reddit

The food area is noted for being family-friendly, with ample space for children to enjoy themselves, including a playground and trampoline.InstagramReddit This makes MONA a great destination for a full day out, catering to both art enthusiasts and families looking for a unique experience. The prices are considered reasonable, offering good value for the quality and the unique setting.Reddit

Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, MONA's culinary offerings complement the artistic experience. Enjoying a glass of wine from the on-site winery while overlooking the river adds another layer to the memorable visit.

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