Bairnsdale, Victoria, and its surroundings boast a range of museums and galleries that highlight the area's rich cultural heritage. One of the top venues is the Bairnsdale and District Historical Museum, which delves into the diverse cultural history of the region, from the ancient Aboriginal peoples to the early European settlers. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and displays covering significant events like the forestry industry and the gold rush era.
Another notable location is the East Gippsland Historical Society Historical Museum & Resource Centre, situated in the historic former Bairnsdale College building from 1892. The Society showcases the unique history of Bairnsdale and its environs through a vast collection of archival photographs and memorabilia. The museum's seven rooms feature items focusing on various themes such as music, kitchenalia, wars, medical practice, fashion, and communication.
The Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre in the neighboring town offers a different experience, housed in a former bank building. This art gallery presents works by local and regional artists alongside traveling exhibitions, adding a contemporary flair to the cultural scene of the area. These venues collectively provide a captivating look into the history, art, and culture of Bairnsdale and its surroundings, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate the region's past and present.