22 April, 2025
There are plenty of things to do in Melbourne, but whenever I have friends visiting from out of town, there’s one place I always make sure to take them: ACMI (the Australian Centre for the Moving Image). Located in Federation Square, right in the heart of Melbourne near Flinders Street Station, this interactive museum has become my go-to recommendation for visitors and locals alike, and for good reason.
FYI: The following blog post may sound like an ad, but I promise it’s not, I just really love ACMI.
What Makes ACMI Special?
ACMI is dedicated to Australia’s film, television, video games, and digital culture. But don’t let that description fool you into thinking it’s just a stuffy collection of old movie posters. This place is alive with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and immersive experiences that capture the imagination of visitors of all ages.
The best part? Going to ACMI is completely FREE.
The Journey of The Moving Image.
Walking through ACMI is like taking a journey through time. The museum beautifully chronicles the evolution of moving images, from the earliest shadow puppets to the cutting-edge digital technologies of today. (I know this sounds super nerdy, and I’ll admit it kind of is – but in the most fun way possible)
What I particularly appreciate is how they highlight Australia’s significant contributions to film and television. You get to discover iconic Australian productions and gain a deeper appreciation for our homegrown talent.
Hands-On Fun
What sets ACMI apart from traditional museums is its high level of interactivity. Rather than just observing, you become part of the experience:
- Try Foley artistry, creating sound effects for film clips. (I’m no good at this, but gosh, it is funny to do with friends)
- Play both classic and contemporary video games in their gaming zones.
- Experience mesmerising light installations and visual effects.
- See cool props and costumes from sets.
- Play around with the exhibits. For example, changing the speed of things, direction, or words they say, etc.
My personal favourite activity? Making my own flip book! There’s something magical about creating a simple animation of yourself and the person you’re visiting with, then taking it home as a unique and small souvenir. This activity has been there ever since I was a kid, and it has never lost its appeal. It’s these little touches that make ACMI so memorable.
Always Something New to See
While the core exhibition is impressive in its own right, ACMI regularly hosts special exhibitions that delve into various aspects of screen culture. These rotating exhibits ensure there’s always something new to discover, even for repeat visitors like me.
In the past, these exhibits have included DreamWorks Animation Studios, Untitled Goose Game, and much more.
These special exhibitions sometimes have an admission fee, but they’re consistently worth the price of entry, featuring exclusive content and unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere.
The Unexpected Treasure: ACMI’s Gift Shop
I need to give a special mention to what might be the best museum gift shop in Melbourne. Far from the typical tourist trap, ACMI’s shop is filled with thoughtfully curated items:
- Beautiful art books and film literature.
- Aboriginal-designed clothing and gifts that support Indigenous artists.
- Creative toys and games related to the moving image.
- Unique Melbourne-themed gifts that are actually cool.
Perfect for All Ages
What makes ACMI particularly special is how it caters to everyone. Children are delighted by the interactive elements and vibrant displays, while adults can appreciate the more profound cultural significance and nostalgic elements. It’s engaging enough for the tech-savvy teenager yet accessible for grandparents who want to understand modern digital culture.
Why I Keep Coming Back
After many visits, I still discover something new each time I walk through ACMI’s doors. It’s a place that celebrates creativity, technology, and storytelling in a way that feels both educational and genuinely fun.
Whether you’re a film buff, a casual gamer, or someone who just enjoys unique experiences, ACMI offers something special. And given that admission is free, there’s really no reason not to add it to your Melbourne itinerary.
I’m willing to bet it might just become your favourite Melbourne destination too.
Katrina’s Compass Rating:
ACMI 10/10