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Australia/Things to Do in Sydney, solo trip

State Library of New South Wales (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is State Library of New South Wales?

85%Solo-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 85% Solo-Friendly: Quiet reading rooms, free Wi-Fi, self-guided tours and curator talks let a solo visitor explore rare collections for hours without coordination hassles.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 1,289 reviews)
WALKING AROUND SYDNEY AUSTRALIA | State Library of NSW - Central Station | 4K UHD | Binaural Audio
57 min
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WALKING AROUND SYDNEY AUSTRALIA | State Library of NSW - Central Station | 4K UHD | Binaural Audio
6.6K views • 7 months ago

Positives:

  • Free Entry: Most exhibits and spaces are free to access.
  • Central Location: Next to Martin Place Station and Royal Botanic Gardens.

Challenges:

  • Limited Seats: Reading rooms fill up quickly at peak times.
  • Building Works Nearby: Macquarie Street building is under refurbishment until late 2025.
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What is State Library of New South Wales?

  • A public research library and the official state library of New South Wales, founded in 1826 and located on Macquarie Street in Sydney
  • A repository of over six million items, including rare books, historical manuscripts, maps and photographs
  • A heritage site featuring a sandstone neoclassical building with modern extensions housing reading rooms and conservation facilities

What is so special about State Library of New South Wales for solo trip?

  1. Free entry to major galleries and reading rooms.
  2. Quiet study spaces with free Wi-Fi.
  3. Self-guided audio tours and curated talks.
  4. Unique backstage tour of rare collections.
  5. Hidden rooftop bar with city and harbour views.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to tour exhibits, use the reading rooms, and visit the rooftop bar without rushing.

(View State Library of New South Wales on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in State Library of New South Wales

Mitchell Building Reading Room:

Find a quiet seat to read or work with free Wi-Fi.

Tip: Go early to grab a window desk and bring headphones.

Self-guided Audio Tours:

Explore map rooms and galleries at your own pace.

Tip: Download the Bloomberg Connects app before arriving.

Backstage Pass Tour:

Visit underground stacks and view rare manuscripts.

Tip: Book online in advance for the $10 tour slot.

Library Bar Rooftop:

Enjoy sunset views over the Domain with a drink.

Tip: Head up 30 minutes before sunset for best light.

Talks & Ideas Series:

Attend free lectures on literature and history.

Tip: Check the online calendar and reserve your spot.

When is the best time to visit State Library of New South Wales (Sydney, Australia)?

Summer heat makes air-conditioned reading rooms ideal. In May, look for special events tied to the Writers’ Festival.

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

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Reviews of State Library of New South Wales (Sydney)

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Keane Wee

Keane Wee

Jul 2025

The State Library of New South Wales is a gem in the heart of Sydney. The place offers a free exhibition for anyone looking to admire beautiful pieces of art on concrete walls. The interior is really beautiful especially the middle of it, where you can sit and study for hours on end till you don’t want to anymore. Unfortunately, the stairs to head upstairs were closed off for some reason but I rea...

Alice Moon-Star

Alice Moon-Star

Jul 2025

Stunning Library and museum with free entry. The library looked like a place Harry Potter would find his books to cast spells. There were several museum room displays and a map room. Great place for research. The kids playroom was very good and there was an array of modern toys and books including a dolls house.

Map Roy

Map Roy

Jun 2025

I absolutely loved visiting the State Library! I found that there was so much to do there. It is not just a place to study and read books. There are a number of levels and many rooms to explore. One part of the library contains an art gallery, while another has historical Australian and British artefacts. At the time of my visit, the World Press photography competition was showing too. I found it ...

Julio Yanes

Julio Yanes

May 2025

The State Library of New South Wales is an absolute gem in the heart of Sydney. I wasn’t expecting to spend as much time as I did, but this place completely drew me in. The building itself is stunning—especially the historic Mitchell Wing with its grand interiors, classic reading rooms, and beautiful architectural details. It has this quiet, timeless atmosphere that makes you want to sit, read, re...

naveen lobo

naveen lobo

Mar 2025

Amazing place where you can find history The map on the floor of the entry way is a glimpse into the past and the ways that map-making has advanced in the last two centuries Steeped in history and with an ever changing gallery, the library is a great place to go to experience some local flavor. The main library room is absolutely breath taking, especially if you actually manage to make it insid...

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
EntryAUD 0
Coffee at caféAUD 4
Backstage Pass tourAUD 10
Drink at rooftop barAUD 12
Total EstimatedAUD 26

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 Make the Most of Your Visit to State Library of New South Wales

  1. Secure a Desk Early: Arrive at opening time to find a prime spot in the reading room.
  2. Download Guides Offline: Save audio tours to your phone before you visit to avoid Wi-Fi issues.
  3. Use Light Luggage: Lock up large bags at the cloakroom to move freely through galleries.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Sydney attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of State Library of New South Wales

Address: 1 Shakespeare Pl, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

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Looking for other Things to Do besides State Library of New South Wales (Sydney)?

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About State Library of New South Wales

Opening Hours

Monday:9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:10:00 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 9273 1414

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