Experience an intimate guided tour of the iconic Sydney Observatory, a heritage-listed site atop the highest natural point in Sydney Cove.
You'll discover the rich history of the site as a place of significance for Indigenous Australians and a centre for scientific activity including milling, defence, signalling, timekeeping, astronomy and meteorology.
The tour will venture through the grounds to uncover the stories behind Fort Phillip and the Signal Station. You'll also be invited into the Observatory building to explore objects from the Powerhouse Collection and examine the site’s role in timekeeping, surveying and astronomy.
After climbing the building’s narrow staircases, you'll step inside the Observatory’s domes to see historic and modern telescopes in action. From this spectacular location, you can get spectacular views across Sydney Harbour and view terrestrial objects through a telescope.
Details
Venue
On Gadigal land
Sydney Observatory
1003 Upper Fort St
Millers Point NSW 2000
Open Hours
Open for pre-booked tours and programs
Entry
Child $24, Adults $36, Concession $32
Groups and Individuals, bookings essential.
Recommended for ages 12+. Groups with younger visitors are encouraged to book the Sydney Observatory Family Tours, designed for ages 6+
Schedule
Tours run Wednesday – Saturday
Times are subject to change.
Running time approximately 1 hour.
View available tours
Note
Viewing of astronomical objects depends on cloud cover, time of day and date. In the event of wet weather, the tour may be cancelled and payment refunded. Guests will be notified of a cancellation via email four hours before the tour. Guests are welcome to rebook for a future date, subject to availability.
Accessibility
Sydney Observatory Tours include more than a hundred stairs and areas inaccessible to wheelchairs.
We encourage visitors with accessibility requirements to contact us via book@powerhouse.com.au or (02) 9217 0222 for help in planning your visit. Sydney Observatory accepts Companion Cards.
Groups and Schools
For groups of 8 or more, please contact us on (02) 9217 0222 or book@powerhouse.com.au