My 3-Day Trip to Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

introduction

Art has always fascinated me—not just for its beauty, but for its power to provoke thought and emotion. I’m Luna, an American traveller with a curious soul and a deep love for creative spaces that challenge conventional ideas. That’s why the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Tasmania has been sitting on my travel bucket list for years.

After reading and hearing so much about its bold architecture, controversial exhibitions, and the mysterious aura surrounding the museum, I finally decided to take a 3-day solo trip from the U.S. to Hobart, Tasmania. And let me tell you—nothing could have prepared me for what I experienced.

In this story, I’ve detailed everything from my flight and accommodation to the delicious local cuisine I tried, the art I saw, the guides I followed, and the hidden treasures I discovered. Whether you’re planning to visit Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) or just want to live the experience through my eyes, this journey promises to be bold, honest, and unforgettable.

My Experience—The Journey to Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

The Beginning—Dreamlike Plan

My name is Luna. I live in America, but my heart wanders to different corners of the world. One day, while randomly browsing YouTube, I stumbled upon a video about the Museum of Old and New Art MONA. A unique blend of ancient and modern art—it instantly caught my attention. I told myself, “I have to go!” I had to witness this intriguing place for myself.

So, I planned a 3-day solo trip, packed my bags, and booked the flights. With an explorer’s heart, I set off to Hobart, Tasmania—the home of Museum of Old and New Art (MONA).

The Journey and Flights

From New York, I flew to Hobart via Melbourne. The total travel time was around 22 hours. I travelled with Emirates Airlines to Melbourne, then took a Jetstar flight to Hobart. The Emirates experience was lovely—smooth and comfortable. The total airfare cost around $1600.

After landing at Hobart Airport, I booked an Uber to my hotel. I stayed at the MACQ 01 Hotel—a luxury hotel by the Hobart harbour. It was stunning! Each night cost me $270, and I stayed there for three nights.

Day One—ploring Hobart and Getting Ready

I spent the first day exploring Hobart city. I visited the Salamanca Market—vibrant place full of handmade crafts and local artwork. For lunch, I went to Frank Restaurant, an Argentinian place. Their juicy steak was absolutely perfect.

In the eveninExploringyed the sunset from my hotel balcony—aceful surroundings, distant mountains, and the soft sound of waves— felt like I was in a dream.

Day Two—e Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) Adventure Begins

I woke up early the next morning, excited for the highlight of my trip—NA! From Hobart, I took the MONA ROMA ferry——uirky, art-themed ferry with artwork even inside the boat. The round-und-trip fare was $25, and the ride took around 30 minutes. The museum’s architecture stood out from afar—ke a modern fortress carved out of the cliffs.

Guided Tour and Experience

I downloaded the official guiding app—O-Device—Device—me access to details about each artwork and even allowed me to rate them. I also hired a special guide—m, a museum staff member member with 10 years of experience. Sam took me on a detailed tour through different galleries and even showed me some hidden corners—ke a secret underwater installation that many visitors miss.

What I Saw at Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

Entering MONA felt like stepping into another dimension. A dark tunnel leads you inside, and every corner holds something unexpected.

1. “Cloaca Professional”—a “—a “bizarre machine that replicates the human digestive system and even produces waste! It was both hilarious and disgusting.
2. “Fat Car” by Erwin Wurm—a funny-looking car sculpture that appears bloated, as if it has overeaten.
3. “Bit.fall”—a —a “water installation that creates words using droplets of water. It felt magical.
4. Ancient Egyptian tomb exhibits—se showcased preserved artefacts from ancient times.
5. A hidden bar——y accessible by scanning a QR code. Inside, they served drinks favouredd by artists.

Food and Drinks

I had lunch at The Source Restaurant,, located inside the museum. The Tasmanian cheese, wine, and seafood were absolutely divine. My meal cost around $65.

Weather and Environment

The weather in May was mildly chilly—ound 14–16°C. The air was crisp and clean. Surrounded by hills and water, MONA offers an almost meditative silence—e perfect backdrop for a world full of art and emotion.

Day Three—nal Stroll and Shopping

On the final day, I returned to Salamanca Market to pick up some local artwork. A local painter even sketched me a quick drawing of the “Fat Car” from Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). For breakfast, I visited Pigeon Hole Café——osy little spot.

The Return Journey

Later that afternoon, I flew back to New York via Melbourne. It felt like waking up from a surreal dream. But my mind was still filled with the vivid memories—m’s passionate guiding, the eccentric artworks, and the peaceful Tasmanian ambience.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Booking tickets online in advance made everything smooth.
• The ferry ride was a unique experience.
• The guide, Sam, was knowledgeable and friendly.

Cons:

• Poor mobile signal inside the museum.
• Some artworks might feel upsetting or uncomfortable.

History, Present, and Key Information About Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

Introduction to MONA The full name of Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), located near Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, Australia, on the banks of the River Derwent. It is Australia’s largest privately owned art gallery, which opened to the public in January 2011.

Founder and History Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) was founded by Tasmanian millionaire David Walsh, a professional gambler and math enthusiast. With the fortune he made through mathematical betting, he built this unique museum. Walsh often describes MONA as “a subversive adult Disneyland.”

Exhibitions and Collections Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) has three large underground galleries, one of which is called The Void. Inside, you’ll find everything from ancient Egyptian coffins to provocative modern art installations.

Famous Artworks

• Cloaca Machine by Wim Delvoye (a working replica of the human digestive system)
• Snake by Sidney Nolan
• The Holy Virgin Mary by Chris Ofili
• Bit.Fall by Julius Popp

The O Device Every visitor receives a special iPod-like device called the O, which you can point at any artwork to receive its name, history, interpretation, and audio guide. You can also “love” or “hate” the artwork, adding a personal touch to your visit.

Weather and Environment In June, Tasmania has cool weather, with temperatures ranging from 3–12°C. Despite the chill, the weather was clear and pleasant. The riverside location adds to the calm and beauty of the MONA experience.

How to Get There You can reach Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) from Hobart city by ferry, bus, or car. The most popular choice is the ferry. MONA operates its own service called “Mona Roma,” which takes about 25 minutes along the River Derwent.

Tickets and Opening Hours

• Adults: AUD $35 (about USD $25)
• Discounts available for Australian residents
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

Food and Dining There are several restaurants and cafes inside MONA:

• The Source Restaurant——e dining
• Faro——temporary menu
• MONA Wine Bar——Wine and snacks

Hidden Installations and Surprises

• Some installations are hidden behind gallery walls, inside tunnels, or near restrooms.
• There’s a secret bar that you can only enter by giving a special code at a specific spot.
• Some rooms are pitch dark, and you discover the artworks by your own movement and interaction.

Pros and Cons Pros:

• Advanced, interactive audio guide system (O Device)
• Highly engaging, immersive art experiences
• Easy transportation from Hobart

Cons:

• Visitors unfamiliar with modern or abstract art may find some pieces confusing.
• Some exhibitions are provocative or intense, which may not suit everyone.

 Tips and Budget Plan for Visiting Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

Traveller Tips:

1. Book Tickets in Advance: It’s best to reserve online to avoid missing out.
2. Take the Ferry: The ferry itself is part of the art experience, with quirky seating and sculptures.
3. Use the O Device: Makes it easier to understand the artworks and deepens your connection.
4. Allow Enough Time: Allocate at least 4–5 hours to explore the museum thoroughly.
5. Wear Comfortable Shoes: There’s a lot of walking; sneakers are ideal.
6. Hire a Guide: Consider hiring a local guide to show you hidden installations and provide insights.
7. Make Restaurant Reservations: Especially if you plan to dine at The Source.

Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) Trip Budget Plan (Estimated, in USD)

Conclusion

Visiting MONA wasn’t just a museum tour—it was an emotional, intellectual, and even spiritual adventure. From immersive exhibits that played with time, death, and the senses to the breathtaking location by the Derwent River, every part of this trip made me feel more alive and more in touch with the meaning of art and existence.

This place challenges you. It dares you to think differently. And that’s what makes it so unforgettable. Whether you’re an art connoisseur or a curious traveller like me, Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) will speak to a part of you that is rarely touched by traditional museums.

I returned to the U.S. changed in a small but important way. I saw how bold imagination can reshape not just space, but our minds. If you’re looking for a destination that is wildly different from the ordinary and rich with stories that linger long after you’ve left—Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is your place.

And who knows? Maybe one day you’ll go there and write your version of this story.

Elijah Lascelles

Hi, I’m Elijah Lascelles from the east coast of Tasmania. I studied tourism and started a small tour agency with my friends. We love traveling around Australia. On HaleBoop.com, I share my simple travel stories and experiences from all over the country.