Old Parliament House (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Old Parliament House?
What makes it 88% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can enjoy PlayUP, dress-up zones, code-breaking trails, craft sessions, flat lawns, and many toilets; staff and pram routes make the visit both fun and manageable for parents.
Positives:
- Free entry: General admission and most tours are free, easing your budget.
- Interactive activities: Self-guided trails and crafts engage both younger and older kids.
Challenges:
- Tour schedules: Guided tour times are fixed; check times and plan around them.
- Attention span: Younger children may tire during longer indoor exhibits.
What is Old Parliament House?
- A heritage-listed building that served as the seat of Australia’s federal parliament from 1927 to 1988.
- Home to the Museum of Australian Democracy, charting the nation’s political history and evolution.
- An interwar Stripped Classical structure, distinguished by symmetrical colonnades and formal rose gardens.
What is so special about Old Parliament House for with kids?
- Free self-guided trails with stamps and puzzles.
- Daily PlayUP crafts and role-play for varied ages.
- Formal gardens offer safe lawns for running and picnics.
- Short kid-friendly guided tour seats children.
- DressUP area connects kids with global changemakers.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for self-guided trails, craft activities and a highlights tour at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Old Parliament House
Family Trails self-guided adventure:
Follow themed discovery and code-breaking trails around the building.
Tip: Pick up the free activity board at reception and stamp completed challenges.
PlayUP craft activities:
Join hands-on crafts and role-play games for all ages.
Tip: Arrive by 10:30 am to secure a spot; activities adapt to different ages.
Gardens play and picnic:
Run on flat lawns among rose beds and wisteria walkways.
Tip: Pack a nut-free picnic and bring sun hats for garden play.
Highlights tour:
45-minute guided tour with engaging stories in the old Senate Chamber.
Tip: Book the 10:45 am slot to fit before lunch and keep kids fresh.
DressUP: Change the World:
Kids try on costumes of global changemakers like Malala.
Tip: Visit when craft sessions are quiet, often just after lunch.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Old Parliament House
- Early arrival: Arrive at opening to grab a map, join craft sessions and beat crowds.
- Pack essentials: Bring water, snacks and sun protection for outdoor garden play.
Reviews of Old Parliament House
Warren Baird
the building itself is beautiful and walking the halls you could feel the history of the many policy's and decisions that came out of this place ...very interesting and informative displays and information ..definitely worth a visit and free to enter ..also a cafe on-site
Gail Joordens
Interesting to visit having seen it on the news since I was a child. You can freely move around the building and read signs, visit chambers and offices. I highly recommend a free guilded tour from a volunteer, to bring it to life.
Evalyn Venture
A great trip down memory lane for both kids and adults. The place is essentially a time capsule from the 80’s, and is largely as it was when parliament relocated up the hill. You can access all the chambers, offices, cabinet room, etc. There are specialised display areas focusing on elections, the APS, etc. Entry is free, and there is plenty of information available for self guided tours (I believ...
Malcolm Snelgrove
A lot to see here, I haven't been since the new Parliament opened, but they have done a good job. Offices & time have been restored to how they were in different decades, Lots of exhibitions on, several daily tours, and worth multiple visits. And it is free!
Sara Gradwohl (Saranger)
So glad we visited the Old Parliament House and Museum of Australian Democracy! Greeted at the entrance by Angel who helpfully suggested a pathway through the “rabbit warren” that is the building. Fascinating exhibits on democracy and a kind of “frozen in time” look to the former offices of the House and Senate. It looks like the staff were all just out on lunch break. Nicely done. Combine this v...
When is the best time to visit Old Parliament House (Canberra, Australia)?
During January school holidays, visit Open Air PlayUP for outdoor games. In spring, the rose gardens bloom, ideal for picnics. In summer, go early to avoid midday heat.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Chifley’s Tour tickets (4×$10) | AUD 40 |
| Courtyard Café snacks | AUD 32 |
| Souvenirs | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 82 |
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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Map of Old Parliament House
Address: 18 King George Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
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About Old Parliament House
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 6270 822210 BEST nearby Activities
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