Museum of Contemporary Art

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Facade of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, located at Circular Quay, Sydney.

Looking like it has been beamed in from Batman's Gotham City, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA; mca.com.au; adult/child $35/free) occupies a prime slice of Circular Quay waterfront. Combined with the Opera House, just across the water, it provides a sophisticated riposte to Crocodile Dundee clichés of Australian life. The art deco original building has had a modern space grafted on to it, the highlight of which is the rooftop cafe with stunning views.

The gallery of over 4700 items features Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander works prominently, both in the permanent and temporary exhibitions.

There are free guided tours daily, in several languages.

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