What makes it 79% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy summit views, picnic BBQs and romantic stargazing sessions; shared experiences are strong, yet there is no café or restroom on site, so food, water and timing must be planned.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to complete the heritage trail, enjoy the scenic lookout and join a Public Astronomy Night.
Scenic Lookout and Picnic:
Drive or walk up to the summit for wide views over Canberra and the Brindabellas.
Tip: Bring your own food and use the free BBQ benches at the lookout area.
Heritage Trail:
Follow the self-guided 11-sign trail to learn the observatory’s 100-year history.
Tip: Start at the Director’s Residence and allow 30 minutes for the full loop.
Public Astronomy Night:
Attend the April–September monthly sky tour with telescope viewing.
Tip: Book online early, dress warmly and bring a torch for walk back.
Private Stargazing Night:
Book an exclusive after-hours session with telescopes and an astronomer.
Tip: Reserve at least two weeks in advance and confirm meeting point before sunset.
Milky Way Photography Workshop:
Learn night-sky photography from a professional astrophotographer.
Tip: Bring your own camera and tripod; check workshop dates on Wildbark.

Jessie Wibowo
Nice view on a very serene area. We were very blessed with the appearance of a lot of kangaroos too. The view over the valley at almost sunset this Autumn is simply breath taking.
Zahra Zafira
We went here for the Enlighten event at Stomlo and the Public Astronomy Nights at Stromlo. The drive up was always at night so it’s very dark, there’s no lighting at all in the car park area, but there’s always an officer to direct the parking. We always had a pleasant time here, the people who work and volunteer here are very enthusiastic.
Nic Q
Feels isolated in a good way. Beautiful view. Lots of birds and especially kangaroos. Definitely worth going. Just bring appropriate shoes because there isn't a spot on grass/soil that isn't covered in roo poop. Or just stay on cement. Surprisingly not too smelly. Also quite windy.
Andrew McLaren
Got there late in the evening so limited to site seeing only. Kangaroos everywhere, quiet and beautiful space. Older observatory closed due to renovations, seems to have started a long time ago and never completed. So much of the original observatories lost to bush fires. Would be great to see them restored and accessible as a southern sky planetarium.
Kerbray
This was a fascinating place to explore, with both new observatories and older buildings around the site, all within walking distance from each other. Tours are available on certain days but not necessarily needed. At the top there's a breathtaking views, a few biking tracks too and lots of kangaroos in the area.
Plan visits between April and September for monthly Public Astronomy Nights under clear winter skies. For a free laser and dome-light show, attend the “Enlighten the Skies” event in late February or early March.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic and BBQ | AUD 0 |
| Public Astronomy Night donation | AUD 10 |
| Private Stargazing Night | AUD 250 |
| Photography Workshop (2 people) | AUD 300 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 560 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: 233 Mount Stromlo Rd, Australian Capital Territory 2611, Australia
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Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+61 2 6125 023010 BEST nearby Activities
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