Top 5 Interesting Museums to Visit in Penang
Published May 20, 2025
Penang is a cultural gem filled with vibrant street art, delicious local food, and a deep-rooted history that beckons travellers from all over the world. Beyond its bustling streets and heritage buildings, Penang is home to several unique museums that offer engaging and immersive experiences.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just looking for something fun to do, these top 5 best museums to visit in Penang should definitely be on your itinerary!
1. Ghost Museum Penang
Dare to explore Malaysia’s first-ever ghost-themed museum? At Ghost Museum Penang, you’ll come face-to-face with legendary spirits like the Pontianak, Orang Minyak, Toyol and many more. This eerie yet thrilling attraction immerses you in ghostly folklore from various cultures, all set in a flashing light, spine-chilling atmosphere.
Feeling brave? Try on spooky costumes, pose with haunted props, and get creative with your photos – just beware of what might be lurking in the shadows!
Address: 57, Lebuh Melayu, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang.
Opening Hours: 10:00am – 7:00pm (Daily)
Contact: +604-261 2352
2. Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Step into the world of Peranakan culture at the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, a historical site that beautifully showcases the opulent lifestyle of the Straits Chinese community. This mansion is a blend of eclectic design, featuring Chinese carved wood panels, English floor tiles, and Scottish ironworks, creating a unique fusion typical of the Peranakan’s grand homes.
Built at the end of the 19th century, this mansion was once the residence and office of Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwee, a prominent figure in Penang’s history. Today, it houses over 1,000 pieces of antiques and collectables that offer insight into the Peranakan’s rich legacy, including their cuisine, language, and customs, which still influence Penang today.
Address: 29, Church St, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang.
Opening Hours: 9:30am – 5:00pm (Daily)
Contact: +604-264 2929
3. Upside Down Museum
Ever wondered what it’s like to walk on the ceiling? At the Upside Down Museum, you can do just that–well, almost! This quirky attraction flips reality on its head with gravity-defying rooms designed to make visitors look like they are standing on walls and ceilings.
Every room is a perfectly recreated everyday space, from a café, and shops to individual rooms in Malaysian homes, but with an upside-down twist. To ensure an enjoyable visit, museum staff manage the crowd flow and assist with creative angles giving everyone a chance to explore, and to ensure you get the best optical illusion photos!
Address: 45, Lebuh Kimberley, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang.
Opening Hours: 9:30am – 6:30pm (Daily)
Contact: +604-264 2660
4. Penang War Museum
History lovers, this one’s for you. Built on a former British military fortress, the Penang War Museum tells the gripping stories of World War II. Once a strategic base that later became a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp, it is now an open-air museum filled with underground tunnels, war relics, and abandoned bunkers.
Wander through the eerie barracks where British, Indian, and Malay soldiers once lived and have an authentic glimpse into the past. The eerie ambience and historical significance make this museum a must-visit for those intrigued by wartime history.
Address: Jalan Batu Maung, 11960 Batu Maung, Pulau Pinang.
Opening Hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm (Daily)
Contact: +6016-421 3606
5. Wonderfood Museum
Calling all food lovers! The Wonderfood Museum offers a quirky, fun, and interactive introduction to Penang’s rich and diverse food scene, using dioramas, the museum features life-sized replicas of Malaysia’s famous street foods and traditional dishes, making it a foodie’s dream come true.
With over 100 life-sized replicas, this museum showcases Malaysia’s multicultural food heritage, including popular dishes like Nasi Kandar, Assam Laksa, Char Koay Teow, and Hokkien Mee. The museum features a mix of static and interactive displays, allowing visitors to engage with Penang’s food culture in an immersive way—though some exhibits may feel a bit quirky or random at times.
The “Wow Zone” is especially popular, featuring oversized models that make for amazing photos while celebrating the unique and delicious food culture of Malaysia.
Address: 49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang.
Opening Hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm (Daily)
Contact: +604-251 9095
Discover More of Penang with Lexis Suites Penang!
For generations, museums have played a crucial role in preserving history, culture and creativity, and these five unique attractions offer an unforgettable experience in Penang. Whether you’re in search of spine-tingling thrills, interactive art, or wartime tales, these museums in Penang offer something for everyone.
We hope that this list of the best museums to visit in Penang helps you understand the culture of Penang better and connects you to the city and its people. Make the most of your visit by booking a stay in our rooms & suites, where comfort meets luxury.
Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the wonders of this vibrant island!