The Hills District in New South Wales is home to a few notable museums that cater to various interests. Two of the most prominent museums in the area are the Museums Discovery Centre and Powerhouse Castle Hill, both located on the same site at 172 Showground Road, Castle Hill. The Museums Discovery Centre is a collaboration between the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (Australian Museum) and Sydney Living Museums. It offers visitors a rare opportunity to learn about museum collecting, conservation, and research practices. The centre features permanent exhibitions that showcase machines, technology, transport, domestic appliances, toys, architecture, design, scientific instruments, and specimens of animals, minerals, and plants.
Powerhouse Castle Hill, part of the Museums Discovery Centre, supports research, conservation, exhibitions, and programs. In 2024, it will expand to hold and consolidate the museum's collection on one site, as well as preparation and exhibition-making functions. The museum is located on Bediagal land and aims to collect materials from all stages of manufacturing, from raw materials to the final product. This museum is home to six generations of Rouse and Terry families and features a restored 1888 schoolhouse and a section of the original Windsor Road. The estate showcases the lives and belongings of the families who lived there, providing a glimpse into the history of the region.
These museums offer a diverse range of exhibits and experiences, making them ideal for a visit while exploring the Hills District in New South Wales.