The Sydney Observatory is one of the places where you can truly experience the vast sky of Australia. Sydney is a major city, so the idea of enjoying spectacular starry skies there may feel a bit unexpected.
As a tourist spot, it’s relatively less crowded, making it a great place to enjoy quietly.
In this article, we’ll explain the charm and history of the Sydney Observatory, as well as how to get there. Be sure to take a look.
What is the Sydney Observatory?
The Sydney Observatory, built in 1858, is the oldest observatory in Australia. Its telescope dome with a copper-plated round roof and Italian-style stone walls create a charming atmosphere.
Until 1982, it was also a residence for staff working at the observatory and their families. Today, it is beloved by locals as a park with beautiful lawns and gardens.
The Sydney Observatory was built in its current location because it offers a clear view of Sydney Harbour, making it an ideal base for astronomy.
From the 19th century to the early 20th century, it was also used for maritime navigation and weather forecasting. Now that those roles have ended, it functions as a museum. Entry to the building is free, making it a budget-friendly sightseeing spot.
Name: Sydney Observatory
Address: 1003 Upper Fort St, Millers Point NSW 2000
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (excluding night tours)
Closed: None
Official Website: https://maas.museum/sydney-observatory/
What are the Sydney Observatory Tours?
The Sydney Observatory offers tours for tourists, held both during the day and at night. Here’s an overview of both:
The daytime tour allows visitors to observe planets such as the Sun and the Moon through telescopes, using various observation methods.
However, tours are only held on weekends, school holidays, and public holidays, so be sure to check the dates when making a reservation.
Child Discounts Available for Tour Participants
Participation in the tours requires a fee, but there is a discount for children, and children aged 4 and under can join for free. In addition, the 3D theater screenings, which are held several times a day, as well as the exhibits inside the building, can be viewed even without joining a tour.
For the Sydney Observatory’s night tours, weather conditions apply, but you can enjoy the beautiful starry sky. In the quiet atmosphere, you can use a telescope to observe a sky full of stars.
Since the content of the night tours changes every year, be sure to check the official website in advance. As with the daytime tours, reservations are required.
How to Access the Sydney Observatory
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=-33.859978,151.207843&z=16&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&saddr=%E3%82%B5%E3%83%BC%E3%82%AD%E3%83%A5%E3%83%A9%E3%83%BC%E3%82%AD%E3%83%BC%E9%A7%85%20Circular%20Quay%20Railway%20Station%2C%20Alfred%20St%2C%20Sydney%20NSW%202000%20%E3%82%AA%E3%83%BC%E3%82%B9%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%AA%E3%82%A2&daddr=%E3%82%B7%E3%83%89%E3%83%8B%E3%83%BC%E5%A4%A9%E6%96%87%E5%8F%B0%2C%20%E3%82%AA%E3%83%BC%E3%82%B9%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%AA%E3%82%A2%20%E3%80%922000%20New%20South%20Wales%2C%20Millers%20Point%2C%20Upper%20Fort%20St&dirflg=w
The nearest station to the Sydney Observatory is Circular Quay Station. From Sydney’s main station, Central Station, it takes about 8 minutes to get there. Upon exiting Circular Quay Station, walk straight along Alfred Street with the sea on your right. When you reach George Street, turn right.
Then, enter Argyle Street and go through the tunnel on the right. You will find a path through Observatory Park, and directly ahead is the Sydney Observatory. The walk from Circular Quay Station to the observatory takes about 10 minutes.
Famous Sydney attractions such as the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House are also nearby, so it’s a good idea to include the Sydney Observatory in your sightseeing route.
◎ Enjoy One of Sydney’s Best Views at the Observatory
The Sydney Observatory, with its excellent vantage point, offers wonderful scenery at any time of day, but it’s especially recommended at sunset. The breathtaking sight of the sky turning orange as the city lights begin to twinkle continues to captivate many visitors.
The observatory is one of Sydney’s premier scenic spots, attracting not only tourists but also locals who come specifically for the view.
When sightseeing in Sydney, why not take the time to visit the Sydney Observatory to enjoy both the beautiful night sky and the stunning views?