What to see and do

WHAT TO SEE AND DO AT SYDNEY OBSERVATORY

Sydney Observatory is a magical place to visit. The handsome stone observatory building with its distinctive copper telescope domes is set in gardens on top of Observatory Hill. It overlooks parkland and glorious Sydney Harbour - a natural oasis not far from the centre of the city. It is only a few minutes walk from most of the highlights of the historic and charming Rocks precinct: craft centres, cobbled laneways, stone cottages, cosy cafes and characterful pubs.

Our programs are carefully tailored to be of interest to adults, children, keen amateur astronomers and tourists. Our astronomy educators are knowledgeable and passionate about their subject – and also experienced in making their presentations entertaining and enjoyable. A night telescope viewing session is the quintessential Sydney Observatory experience. But any visit to Sydney Observatory is a visit to remember.



Sydney Observatory

From our beginnings in 1858 as a centre of scientific research for the colony of New South Wales, Sydney Observatory is now a museum and educational centre. Our programs reflect the rich history of the site and of Sydney Observatory as an astronomical observatory, timekeeper, signal station and meteorology centre.