Located on Farquhar Street within George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Penang State Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history, culture and multicultural heritage of Penang. Housed in a historic building originally associated with Penang Free School and later Hutchings School, the museum reopened in July 2026 following an extensive restoration, unveiling 15 galleries featuring nearly 1,200 artefacts, alongside interactive displays and multimedia exhibits.
Visitors can discover stories about Penang’s development, its diverse communities and the people and events that shaped the state over the centuries. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a traveller hoping to understand Penang beyond its famous food and street art, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past and cultural identity. It is an excellent stop to include in a heritage walk around central George Town.
Visitor information: The museum is at No. 1, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, and is open from 9am to 5pm daily except Fridays and specified public holiday.
