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Sydney Observatory, Sydney

4.5

#1 of 18 in Childrens Museums in New South Wales

Observatory · Hidden Gem · Museum

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Gaze at two spectacular sights from the Sydney Observatory: outer space and Sydney Harbour. The stately stone building with copper domes houses two telescopes, providing views of constellations, the Moon, planets, and nebulae on clear nights. Take an interactive astronomy lesson in the 3-D space theater and enter the planetarium for interstellar entertainment. Of course, take earthly pleasure in the vista you'll have over the harbor too. To visit Sydney Observatory on your trip to Sydney, use our Sydney route planning site.

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Sydney Observatory reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating

1,774 reviews

Google

4.6

By grant1952

Six of us did the night tour which we all enjoyed. We had a good look around all the displays and exhibits on display which was very interesting before we did the tour with guide. The guide was very..... more

Six of us did the night tour which we all enjoyed. We had a good look around all the displays and exhibits on display which was very interesting before we did the tour with guide. The guide was very..... more »
By vinasojung

The weather was nice and I could see entire city from Sydney observatory. Everything was so so perfect

The weather was nice and I could see entire city from Sydney observatory. Everything was so so perfect more »
By harrisju

Such an interesting place to visit in Sydney. Great location near the Rocks with a fabulous view of the harbour. It’s free to visit and full of interesting artefacts in a magnificent historic...

Such an interesting place to visit in Sydney. Great location near the Rocks with a fabulous view of the harbour. It’s free to visit and full of interesting artefacts in a magnificent historic... more »

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Google

By Redd Lightyear

Visited a while ago. Very well preserved. Facilities and information provided. Great lookout of the Barbour views. Nice walk and fresh air that is just in the city. Definitely recommend a visit.

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By SARGES’ Family

A great experience for the whole family. Plenty to see and very informative. Lots from a historical and scientific point of view. Incredible views of the harbour and it wasn’t too busy when we went on the weekend and the staff are great. Free entry and open from 10am to 5pm

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By Ralph Mayhew

We went during the day and it was lovely. Heaps to look at including a Astro photographic competition. The grounds are well kept and our young kids were well entertained for a long while. It’s a bit of a walk from The rocks but honestly not too far. The staff were really friendly and helpful also.

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By Debi Taylor

We had the good fortune to visit the Sydney Observatory during a quiet time midweek. Normally it’s so busy and crowded that you don’t get the opportunity to look at everything. But because of COVID-19 it was almost deserted, so we ended up spending almost 2 hours exploring the wonderful exhibits across the 3 levels, as well as the lovely gardens which have views of the city, the harbour and the bridge. The staff were wonderful. Very knowledgeable and helpful.

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By Martin Jackson

A hidden gem - the observatory has been there for over 160 years but before that there was a windmill and other structures dating all the way back to the start of the colony of NSW. Free entry and lots to see in the museum and grounds, including spectacular views from the upper floors. The volunteers on-site were really great, happy to answer questions and provide information.

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