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Exhibitions

Explore the past, connect with the present

Galway: Stories That Shaped Us

From ancient artefacts to contemporary collaborations, each exhibition at Galway City Museum reveals a different side of the city’s story. Explore the people, places, and ideas that have shaped Galway, and see history come to life through objects, art, and storytelling.

Survivor Stories

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Faces of Galway, 1988-89 by Suzanne Ahearne

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Earth Action

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An Tír Faoi Thoinn – The Land Beneath the Waves (Online)

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An tUachtarán Micheál D. Ó hUigínn – Tríd an Lionsa (Online)

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Surrounded by Stone

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SUPERHUMAN

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Línte na Farraige

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The Corrib: Myth, Legend and Folklore (Online)

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What our Visitors Say

My adult son (20) and I visited the museum and enjoyed it very much. It is very orientated to give you clear information through a good mixture of expiation material. The views from the museum out over the bay are a good reminder as you make your way around of the geography of the area. The staff are friendly and helpful. I was also impressed that they had a sensory room for children which is a nice touch and makes the museum inclusive.
DublinIrelandPeter TripAdvisor
The museum was way more comprehensive than I expected. It covered so many areas of local history with wonderful displays and multimedia presentations. It was not at all crowded, but very well situated. I would recommend the museum to anyone visiting Galway who has an interest in Irish history.
stevefS6058RN TripAdvisor
Really great way to learn about the history of Galway -- as with most places the staff were incredibly friendly and walking around and seeing how the city developed was great. A large part is set aside to cover the rising against the British and some of the atrocities committed by the British --- videos play with expert historians recounting what happened in an objective way -- it tears at your heart when you hear how a young mother was killed. Going to Galway, this is a must.
NC-GBTripAdvisor
We were visiting the Spanish Arch area and decided to visit the Museum nearby. The feature were the Aran Islands and I wish we had visited the Museum before we visited the Islands. It was very informative. If you plan a trip to the Islands, visit here first. It will make your trip that much better.
Butch OTripAdvisor
Wonderful museum that really connects you to the history of Galway and Ireland. A mix of historical artifacts and crafts a well as traditional art. The layout and displays are varied and creative, and there are videos, 3D maps, and an underwater submarine area that children and adults will find delightful. The delivery of information has purpose and imagination, and it makes learning about history absolutely fascinating.
Sarah BlumGoogle Review
This was a super interesting and diverse museum. It covers the history of the region (including the islands), Irish independence and there is also an expo on the sea. I spent at least an hour and a half here, the information displayed is so rich and detailed. There is a small viewing deck on the last floor which is wonderful. I learned a lot and would recommend it to everyone that visits Galway.
Natalia N - Local GuideGoogle Review
A museum that’s modern, informative and celebrates the culture and history of Galway and the rest of Ireland. It’s free to enter and is a good place to see. There’s quite a lot on display here ranging from samples dating from Ireland’s ancient past to materials dating to the last century. Absolutely brilliant!
Jordan Kevin MagtaanGoogle Review
A really lovely museum - it's small, but that doesn't detract from it at all. There's a lot of thought put into the displays and it gives both a good overview broad Irish/atlantic history and more specifically local history. Kudos to the curators for a fantastic experience.
Emily KGoogle Review
Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know before you arrive

Find opening hours, directions, and accessibility details to help you make the most of your time at Galway City Museum. Admission is always FREE — so come explore at your own pace, right beside the historic Spanish Arch.

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Galway City Museum
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Easter Hours

 Galway City Museum will open Sundays, 12pm – 5pm commencing Easter Sunday 5 April 2026.