Quick Picks for Your Ushuaia Museum Tour

Ushuaia offers diverse cultural sites for every traveler. If your time is short, prioritize the Prison Museum for its iconic history. For something free and photogenic, the local city houses are perfect. Most visitors find that 2 or 3 days is enough to see the main highlights. Consider your interests before buying a combined ticket for the multiple locations. Here are our top recommendations for a quick visit.

• Best Overall: Maritime and Prison Museum.
• Best for Families: Galería Temática Pequeña Historia Fueguina.
• Best for Nature History: Museo del Fin del Mundo.
• Best Free Activity: Casa Beban.

Top 10 Museums in Ushuaia Guide

This detailed Museums in Ushuaia guide covers the must-visit cultural hubs in town. Each venue tells a different part of the local survival story. Most are located on or near San Martín street, the city's main artery. Many of these sites remain open during the colder months, making them great Ushuaia winter activities for tourists. Plan for roughly two hours per major site to fully enjoy the exhibits. Here is our vetted list of the city's top cultural attractions.

1. Name: Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia
   Type: Sight/Museum
   Why go: It is housed in the famous former prison where Argentina's most dangerous criminals lived. The art gallery and maritime history exhibits are also located here.
   Best for: History buffs and photographers.
   Where: Yaganes and Gobernador Paz.
   Time: 2–3 hours.
   Cost: High (covers 4 museums in one).
   Getting there: Walkable from the port or downtown.
   Tip: Visit the "unrestored" wing to feel the true cold of the old prison cells.
2. Name: Museo del Fin del Mundo (Sede Maipú 173)
   Type: Museum
   Why go: This is the main branch of the End of the World museum. It focuses on local fauna, indigenous artifacts, and natural history.
   Best for: Nature lovers and hikers.
   Where: Maipú 173.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Easy walk along the waterfront.
   Tip: Look for the massive bowsprit of the Duchess of Albany shipwreck.
3. Name: Museo del Fin del Mundo (Antigua Casa de Gobierno)
   Type: History seat
   Why go: This beautiful historic building served as the seat of local government. It showcases political history and elegant period furniture.
   Best for: Architecture fans.
   Where: Maipú 465.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Included with the first branch ticket.
   Getting there: A short walk from the dock.
   Tip: The gardens are among the best photo spots in Ushuaia when flowers bloom.
4. Name: Museo Yámana
   Type: Cultural museum
   Why go: Learn about the original inhabitants of the region who lived here for thousands of years. The exhibits explain their survival techniques in the extreme climate.
   Best for: Anthropology enthusiasts.
   Where: Rivadavia 56.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Low to Moderate.
   Getting there: Located right in the city center.
   Tip: Read the descriptions of the nomadic sea-faring lifestyle to understand local resilience.
5. Name: Galería Temática Pequeña Historia Fueguina
   Type: Visual experience
   Why go: This museum uses wax figures and audio guides to tell 36 stories of Ushuaia's past. It is very interactive and covers everything from explorers to indigenous myths.
   Best for: Families and children.
   Where: San Martín 152.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: On the main shopping street.
   Tip: The shop inside has some of the highest-quality souvenirs in town.
6. Name: Casa Beban
   Type: Historic house
   Why go: Built with materials brought from Sweden, this house represents early 20th-century life. It often hosts local art exhibits and cultural events.
   Best for: Quick cultural stops.
   Where: Maipú and Pluschow (Paseo de las Rosas).
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Usually free.
   Getting there: Walk along the coast to the west side of town.
   Tip: Check the local schedule for evening music performances.
7. Name: Museo de la Ciudad de Ushuaia
   Type: City history
   Why go: This site focuses on the people who built the city after the prison era. It features everyday objects and old photographs from local families.
   Best for: Travelers who like personal stories.
   Where: Located within the Paseo de las Rosas.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Variable/Low.
   Getting there: Walking distance from the port.
   Tip: Ask the staff about the history of the house itself.
8. Name: Museo del Pensamiento Fueguino
   Type: Philosophy museum
   Why go: It offers a reflective look at the ideas and identities that shape the region. It is a more modern, conceptual space than the others.
   Best for: Deep thinkers.
   Where: San Martín and Onas.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Walkable from the main plaza.
   Tip: Take a moment to sit and read the philosophical quotes on the walls.
9. Name: Mundomundo (Antarctic Exhibit)
   Type: Multimedia experience
   Why go: This center provides context for those heading to Antarctica. It explains the ecosystem and the scientific work being done at the poles.
   Best for: Expedition travelers.
   Where: Near the Tourist Port.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Low.
   Getting there: Located directly across from the port entrance.
   Tip: It is a great place to spend time while waiting for your boat boarding.
10. Name: Ancient Maritime Signals (Lighthouse Heritage)
    Type: Heritage experience
    Why go: While not a single building, the heritage markers focused on lighthouses tell the maritime story. Many artifacts are curated at the port area.
    Best for: Sailors and maritime fans.
    Where: Port area and Maipú.
    Time: 30 minutes.
    Cost: Free.
    Getting there: Waterfront area.
    Tip: Use this as a prelude to booking Beagle Channel lighthouse tours for the full experience.

Easy Day Trips and Nearby Exhibits

Some of the best history lies just beyond the city limits. You can combine a museum visit with a scenic drive or boat ride. These excursions offer a deeper look into the ranching history of Tierra del Fuego. We recommend dedicating a full day to these locations to enjoy the natural beauty. You can find many of these options on our list of top attractions near Ushuaia for 2026 travel.

• Estancia Harberton & Museo Acatushún: This is the oldest ranch in the region. It features the Acatushún Museum of marine mammals and birds. It is a must-see for anyone interested in marine biology. Check out our Estancia Harberton day trip guide for more details.
• Tierra del Fuego National Park Exhibits: The park center has a small exhibit on indigenous history and local flora. It is located at the end of the world. You can find more info in our Tierra del Fuego National Park guide.

Practical Tips for Exploring Ushuaia Museums

Museum hours in Ushuaia can vary by season, especially in the winter. Most sites open mid-morning and close by late afternoon or early evening. It is wise to carry some cash as not all smaller sites accept credit cards. Many museums offer guided tours in Spanish and English at specific times. You should check the Ushuaia official site for updated holiday closures. Always bring a jacket as the wind can be biting even for short walks between buildings.

Photography is generally allowed, but flash is often prohibited to protect old artifacts. If you plan to visit multiple sites, look for the "Combined Ticket" for the Museo del Fin del Mundo. This ticket is valid for two days and covers both city branches. For the Prison Museum, your ticket is valid for 48 hours. This allows you to split your visit and avoid museum fatigue. Remember that Ushuaia is very walkable, so sturdy shoes are essential for a day of culture.