Museum of Contemporary Art
140 George Street, Circular Quay West
Open 10:00am-5:00pm daily
www.mca.com.au
Wheelchair accessible

Cost: FREE
Sitablility Rating: So-So
Souvenir Shop: Small postcard selection, but plenty of books and overpriced knickknacks

The MCA has an excellent location in the Rocks. You can grab a bite to eat at a cafe before you go, do a little window shopping when you're done, or on the weekend hit the outdoor market. There's also a great view of the Opera House, with the boats leaving the wharf to your right, so bring your camera along.

Best of all, the MCA is free, so you don't feel pressured to take it all in at once. I stopped in one afternoon for one of the free guided tours, then came back a few days later to see the rest of the exhibits when I wasn't so museumed out. You could even drop in just to use the restroom if necessary. They're accommodating like that.

Currently, the MCA and seven other locations are exhibiting works from the Biennale of Sydney, a collection of art from around the world that follow the theme (The World May Be) Fantastic. Besides traditional works on paper and canvas, there are childrens toys, videos, audio sculptures (the brochure's term for stuff you listen to), and even a statue of Richard Nixon.

Everything is intriguing and many of the items force you to bend your mind around the concepts the artists are presenting. You can easily spend more than one morning or afternoon taking it all in.

Unfortunately, this is one of the less sitable museums, offering only a smattering of benches. There are a few video presentations where you can sit and relax, but you might have to plop down on the floor. There is a lovely green area outside the museum though, so pick a warm day, get some lunch, and picnic before or after your visit.