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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
View Map

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.

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

Positives:

  • Free admission: Most exhibits and self-guided trails are free for all visitors.
  • Interactive displays: Touchscreens and audio pods make solo exploration engaging.

Challenges:

  • Limited seating: Some guided tours fill quickly—arrive early to secure a spot.
  • Outdoor paths: Gardens have no shade—check the weather and dress accordingly.
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🏖️ Explore Old Parliament House with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Old Parliament House. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

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. Explore the Democracy DNA exhibition at your own pace
  2. Join the free Midday Mystery Tour for daily hidden stories
  3. Stand in the historic Senate Chamber to see landmark seats
  4. Complete the Discovery Trail map for a self-guided adventure
  5. Enjoy free entry, interactive displays, and audio pods

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

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.

(View Old Parliament House on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Old Parliament House

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.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Old Parliament House

  1. Book tours early: Reserve spots for paid tours like Chifley’s Tour online before you arrive.
  2. Download the app: Install the museum’s mobile app for on-demand audio guides and maps.
🏖️ Tour Old Parliament House like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Old Parliament House. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Old Parliament House

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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...

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

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.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Canberra on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Entry to MuseumAUD 0
Audio guideAUD 0
Chifley’s TourAUD 10
Coffee at Courtyard CaféAUD 5
Total EstimatedAUD 15

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

Map of Old Parliament House

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

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Old Parliament House (Canberra)?

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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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