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Canberra, solo trip, Things to Do
Australia/Things to Do in Canberra, solo trip

Old Parliament House (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is Old Parliament House?

90%Solo-Friendly
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Interactive democracy exhibitions, free audio guides and frequent 20-45 min tours let a solo visitor roam independently for hours; lifts and seating make the historic building comfortable to explore alone.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 5,083 reviews)

Positives:

  • Interactive learning: Audio pods and exhibits let you explore democracy stories solo.
  • Small-group tours: Join free tours like Midday Mystery to meet fellow history buffs.

Challenges:

  • Limited seating: Most guided tours require standing; wear comfortable shoes.
  • Audio device availability: Popular times may run out of devices—collect yours early.
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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 solo trip?

  1. Experience democracy history through interactive exhibits and audio pods
  2. Join complimentary small-group tours for hidden stories around the building
  3. Explore the Senate Chamber where landmark moments unfolded
  4. Complete the self-guided Discovery Trail for a fun challenge
  5. Relax in formal gardens between indoor activities

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for main exhibitions, a guided tour, audio pods and a café break without rushing.

(View Old Parliament House on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Old Parliament House

Self-guided Democracy DNA exhibition:

Explore interactive displays tracing Australia’s political debates.

Tip: Allow 30–45 minutes to experience all touchscreens at your own pace.

Midday Mystery Tour:

Discover a new hidden story each day on a 20-minute guided tour.

Tip: Arrive 5 minutes early to get a front-row spot for photo opportunities.

Senate Chamber visit:

Stand in the room of landmark firsts: first woman senator and Queen’s opening address.

Tip: Visit mid-day on weekdays for smaller crowds and better photos.

Changemakers listening pods:

Hear activist stories through personal audio recordings.

Tip: Pick up your pod at reception before exploring the main hall.

Discovery Trail:

Complete seven challenges around the building with a free map.

Tip: Stamp your map in King’s Hall to collect a completion token.

Chifley’s Tour:

Step into Ben Chifley’s 1940s office on a 45-minute paid tour.

Tip: Book in advance online to secure your spot; wheelchair accessible.

When is the best time to visit Old Parliament House (Canberra, Australia)?

Visit in spring (Sep–Nov) for garden blooms. In Canberra’s winter, indoor tours stay warm—wear layers.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Canberra on Trip.com. New app users enjoy exclusive deals.

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Reviews of Old Parliament House (Canberra)

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Warren Baird

Warren Baird

Sep 2025

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

Gail Joordens

Aug 2025

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

Evalyn Venture

Jul 2025

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

Malcolm Snelgrove

May 2025

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)

Sara Gradwohl (Saranger)

Mar 2025

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...

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Entry feeAUD 0
Audio guide rentalAUD 0
Chifley’s TourAUD 10
Lunch at Courtyard CaféAUD 15
SouvenirAUD 10
Total EstimatedAUD 35

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

How to Maximize Your Visit to Old Parliament House

  1. Book tours online: Reserve Chifley’s and Top Secret tours in advance to guarantee entry.
  2. Arrive before peak: Visit opening hour to avoid crowds and secure audio guides.
  3. Download the map: Get the building map on your phone before arrival for quick navigation.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Canberra attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF and enjoy the freedom to travel on your schedule.

Map of Old Parliament House

Address: 18 King George Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia

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About Old Parliament House

Opening Hours

Monday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+61 2 6270 8222

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