Sydney Observatory Tours

Experience an intimate guided tour of the iconic Sydney Observatory, a heritage-listed site atop the highest natural point in Sydney Cove.

Join a walking tour of the grounds and Observatory building to 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 its bombproof shelter, the flagstaff and the many buildings on site. Guests will be invited inside the Observatory building to explore objects from the Powerhouse collection and examine the site’s role in timekeeping, surveying and astronomy.

Climbing the building’s narrow staircases, guests will step inside the Observatory’s astronomy domes to see historic and modern telescopes in action. From this spectacular location, visitors will look across Sydney Harbour and view terrestrial objects through a telescope.

The tour includes around 125 stairs, including areas with no wheelchair access due to narrow and steep staircases across the heritage-listed site. Visitors using a wheelchair or more comfortable with a no stair journey are invited to book the Sydney Observatory Mobility Access Tour.

Bookings essential. Recommended for ages 9+.