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.
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.
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.
Visit in spring (Sep–Nov) for garden blooms. In Canberra’s winter, indoor tours stay warm—wear layers.
Explore These Activities
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...
Item | Cost (Approx.) |
---|---|
Entry fee | AUD 0 |
Audio guide rental | AUD 0 |
Chifley’s Tour | AUD 10 |
Lunch at Courtyard Café | AUD 15 |
Souvenir | AUD 10 |
Total Estimated | AUD 35 |
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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