What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can join short or long guided tours, explore exhibitions at own pace, use audio guides, and easily navigate the accessible building, so time alone is engaging and safe.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time for key exhibitions, a guided tour, and a garden stroll at a relaxed pace.
Democracy DNA exhibition:
Walk through interactive displays tracing Australia’s political debates.
Tip: Start here to set context for the rest of your visit.
Midday Mystery Tour:
Join the 20-minute daily tour at 12 pm for hidden building stories.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to grab a front-row spot.
Senate Chamber:
Stand where landmark moments like the first Aboriginal parliamentarian took place.
Tip: Visit between tours for quieter exploration.
Discovery Trail:
Pick up a free map and complete seven challenges around the building.
Tip: Stamp your map in King’s Hall to record your progress.
Chifley’s Tour:
Take the 45-minute morning tour of Ben Chifley’s 1940s office for A$10.
Tip: Book online in advance and join the 10:15 am session.

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...
Canberra summers can be hot in the gardens—wear a hat and bring water. Winters are chilly—focus on indoor exhibits and guided tours to stay warm.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry to Museum | AUD 0 |
| Audio guide | AUD 0 |
| Chifley’s Tour | AUD 10 |
| Coffee at Courtyard Café | AUD 5 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 15 |
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: 18 King George Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
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