Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

It’s hard to properly describe the Museum of Old and New Art, or MONA as everyone calls it, but I’ll give it a go! Tucked away just outside of Hobart, you get there by road or, more excitingly, by a high-speed ferry from the city’s waterfront. MONA is basically a giant, mostly underground, private museum filled with the owner's incredible, and sometimes incredibly weird, collection of art. It’s a world away from your typical stuffy museum; think less quiet halls and more of a sensory, thought-provoking adventure. The collection spans everything from ancient artifacts, like Egyptian sarcophagi, to super modern, often confronting, installations. It’s an experience designed to make you think and feel, and it definitely delivers on that promise.

Age Appropriateness

Honestly, this is the million-dollar question. MONA is not specifically designed for children, and a lot of the art openly explores adult themes like sex and death. You’ll definitely encounter nudity and some potentially scary or confusing concepts. For very young kids (toddlers and preschoolers), the appeal is more about the amazing space itself – the tunnels, the strange noises, the outdoor areas with trampolines and green lawns to run on. For primary school-aged kids, it can be a fantastic, weird adventure if you guide them. The key is using the museum-provided iPod, called 'The O,' which has an 'O-rating' feature to help you steer clear of the most confronting stuff. Teenagers, on the other hand, will likely find it fascinating, edgy, and a welcome change from more traditional museums. It’s the kind of place that sparks big conversations, so it’s brilliant for curious, older kids and teens.

The Highlights (Pros)

• The Journey is an Adventure: Taking the ferry is a huge part of the fun. You can opt for the "Posh Pit" for complimentary drinks and canapés, or sit on the sheep-shaped seats in the standard section. It really builds the excitement before you even arrive.
• An Architectural Wow-Factor: The building itself is a work of art. You enter through a futuristic door and descend a long, spiral staircase deep underground. Kids love the slightly spooky, cave-like feel of the galleries.
• Interactive & Engaging: Forget "do not touch" signs everywhere. Many exhibits are interactive and sensory. There are sound installations, light shows, and even a machine that mimics the human digestive system (it gets "fed" and "poos" once a day, which is a guaranteed hit with the kids).
• Fantastic Outdoor Space: When sensory overload hits, you can escape to the beautiful grounds. There are lawns for running, a playground, sculptures, a trampoline, and stunning views over the River Derwent. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or to just let the kids burn off some energy.
• Great Food Options: You won’t be stuck with sad sandwiches. There are multiple eateries on site, from a casual cafe and wine bar to a more high-end restaurant, offering plenty of choices for a family lunch.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

• Confronting Content: This is the big one. You can’t completely shield your kids from everything. Even if you avoid the designated 'adults-only' sections, you will walk past art that is sexual or macabre in nature. You need to be prepared to have some frank conversations.
• It Can Be Overwhelming: The museum is dark, labyrinthine, and can be a real sensory overload for little ones (and adults!). It’s best to tackle it in short bursts and take frequent breaks outside.
• Stroller Friendliness: While there are lifts, the multi-level, sprawling layout can be a bit of a maze to navigate with a stroller. A baby carrier is a much easier option if you have an infant.
• Cost: It’s not a cheap day out. Tickets for adults are required (Tasmanian residents get a discount), and when you add on the ferry tickets and food, the costs can add up quickly for a family.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

1. Book Everything in Advance: Both the ferry and museum entry often sell out, especially during peak season. Book your tickets online well ahead of your visit.
2. Take the Ferry: It’s more expensive than driving, but it’s so much more fun and sets the tone for the day. It departs from the Brooke Street Pier in Hobart.
3. Use 'The O' Wisely: Every visitor gets an iPod-like device called 'The O'. It uses GPS to tell you about the art you're near. Use the 'O-rating' to filter out the really adult-heavy content and find kid-friendly descriptions.
4. Have a Game Plan: Don't try to see everything. Pick a few areas you want to explore and then head outside for a break. Let the kids lead the way to what interests them.
5. Pack Snacks and Water: While there are food options, having your own supplies is always a good idea for keeping meltdowns at bay between gallery explorations.
6. Embrace the Weird: Go in with an open mind. Talk to your kids about what they’re seeing. Ask them what they think the art means. Some of the best family travel moments come from these unexpected conversations.