The Migration Museum is located right by the roadside in the heart of Adelaide. It showcases the history and culture of South Australia to the public. The museum is situated at 82 Kintore Avenue—just a short distance from Rundle Mall and directly opposite the State Library.
Where Adelaide’s Past Finds a Home
This museum is housed within a cluster of historic buildings that once formed the Destitute Asylum. It holds deep historical significance, situated on land that is the ancestral home of the Kaurna people—Australia’s original inhabitants. Over the years, these buildings served various government functions, and consequently, the architecture itself has become a part of history.
The ‘Lying-in Home‘ is one of the most well-known and notable structures within the complex. Built in 1878 as a maternity home for expectant mothers, it witnessed the birth of 1,678 babies over the course of three decades. Today, this historic building showcases various facets of Adelaide’s past through exhibitions and commemorative artworks.
Not Just Objects Behind Glass
In the galleries of the Migration Museum, visitors can explore stories of early settlements, historical artifacts from Adelaide, documents, and interactive displays. Rather than merely showcasing artifacts, the exhibitions analyze history for the public.
Permanent exhibitions include themes such as ‘Migration in the Twentieth Century’, ‘Superdiversity: Migration in the Twenty-First Century’, ‘On the Move: Adelaide and LGBTQ Migration’, ‘Our Stories: A Living Exhibition of Arab Art’, and ‘Impact’. These exhibitions highlight the culture and evolving character of South Australia.
From Personal Journeys to a Bigger Story
By linking personal experiences to broader changes in Australian society, the Migration Museum plays a significant role in understanding the lesser-known history of Adelaide. The museum’s exhibitions highlight themes such as the end of British rule, post-war immigration, and the transition from the assimilation of Indigenous peoples to multiculturalism.
The museum features over 2,000 commemorative plaques in Settlement Square that tell stories of families and migration; these plaques forge a connection between personal heritage and Australia’s multicultural identity.
A Living Chapter of Adelaide
The Migration Museum is not a conventional museum; rather, it is a venue featuring living exhibitions that showcase Australian history, culture, immigration, and the lives of Indigenous peoples. Situated amidst various cultural institutions, it has become a heritage landmark in the city of Adelaide.
Important information for visitors: Due to significant structural renovation and preservation work, the museum will be temporarily closed for approximately two years starting July 3, 2026. Visitors are advised to check the museum’s verified page for information regarding their visit.