The Royal Australian Mint
If you’re looking for an exciting family day out in Canberra, the Royal Australian Mint is the perfect destination. Not only is it a fascinating place to learn about how Australia’s coins are made, but it also offers a fun and interactive experience for kids of all ages. The Mint, located in Deakin just a short drive from Canberra CBD, is open 7 days a week and gives visitors a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the coin-making process.
One of the highlights of visiting the Mint is getting to watch the coin presses in action. Kids will be amazed as they see how blank metal discs are transformed into shiny new coins. Live coin-striking demonstrations offer a unique opportunity to see this process up close, showing how technology plays a key role in everyday life. Titan the robot helps out with the heavy lifting by effortlessly carrying new coins that are being produced. There’s also plenty of interactive displays where kids can design their own virtual coins and even take part in a fun, educational digital treasure hunt that guides them through the Mint while teaching them cool facts about currency. These hands-on activities make learning about money and its history feel like an adventure, keeping children engaged and curious.
As you explore the coin museum, you’ll take a journey through the history of Australian currency. Kids will learn about the first coins used in Australia, which were imported from other countries, and how these early forms of currency evolved over time. The exhibits highlight key moments such as the introduction and transition to decimal currency.
The Royal Australian Mint is incredibly family-friendly, offering free entry, free tours, and even free parking, making it an affordable and convenient outing for families. The Mint’s guided tours are all led by friendly staff and give you a deeper understanding of the coin-making process and the role of money in Australia’s history (prior bookings are recommended for the tours as spots are limited). For families looking for a sensory friendly time to visit, the Mint opens early the first Saturday of every month with less crowds and reduced noise between 9.00am and 10.00am (prior bookings are required).
With its mix of live demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and educational tours, the Royal Australian Mint is an ideal spot for a family day out. Whether you’re watching a coin being minted, solving puzzles, or learning about Australia’s coin history, it’s an adventure that will both entertain and educate your kids. Best of all, it’s free to visit, and the entire family can enjoy a memorable day while discovering how Australia’s coins come to life.
