Old Parliament House: A Window into Australian Democracy
Explore the halls where Australian democracy matured, from pivotal debates to nation-shaping decisions, at Canberra's Old Parliament House.
Old Parliament House, now the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD), was the seat of Australian Parliament from 1927 to 1988. Explore the building where pivotal decisions shaped the nation and discover the stories behind Australian democracy.
A brief summary to Old Parliament House
- 18 King George Terrace, Parkes, Australian Capital Territory, 2600, AU
- +61262708222
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibitions.
- Check the MoAD website for special events, exhibitions, and guided tour schedules.
- Take time to wander through the Rose Gardens surrounding the building.
- Consider visiting nearby attractions in the Parliamentary Triangle, such as Parliament House and the National Portrait Gallery.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Canberra City, several bus routes will take you to Old Parliament House. Routes 57 and 58 stop near the Treasury Building on Langton Crescent, a 5-minute walk away. Rapid routes 2 and 6 stop at the John Gorton Building on Parkes Place, about a 6-minute walk. Rapid routes 4, 5, 7, and 10 stop opposite Albert Hall on Commonwealth Avenue, a 12-minute walk. A single bus fare within Canberra costs $2 - $5.
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Walking
From the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre, head south on Commonwealth Avenue. Cross the bridge and take the first left, then turn right at the lights onto Langton Street. Finally, turn left onto King George Terrace, where you'll find Old Parliament House. The walk is approximately 3 kilometers and should take around 35-40 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services like Uber and DiDi can drop you off directly at the front entrance of Old Parliament House on King George Terrace. A typical taxi fare from Canberra City to Old Parliament House ranges from $13 - $17.
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Parking
Paid, short-stay parking is available at the front and on either side of Old Parliament House. Paid, long-stay spaces are located behind Old Parliament House on Queen Victoria Terrace and next to the Treasury and John Gorton Buildings, all within a 5-minute walk. Parking can be paid for via the EasyPark app or credit card. Wilson Parking also offers parking at 1 Queen Victoria Terrace Car Park, with hourly rates starting from $3. Free accessible parking is available at the front of the Museum.
Discover more about Old Parliament House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Parliament House (Back entry)
0.1 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Old Parliament House, a pivotal landmark in Australia's political landscape.
Sovereign Tribal Original Embassy of the land now known as Australia (Aboriginal Tent Embassy)
0.2 km
Explore the Sovereign Tribal Original Embassy, a poignant symbol of Indigenous rights and culture in Australia, located in Parkes, ACT.
Commencement Column
0.5 km
Explore the Commencement Column in Canberra, a memorial park celebrating Australia's capital's rich heritage and tranquil beauty.
Peace Park
0.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Peace Park, a historical landmark in Parkes, ACT, perfect for relaxation and reflection amidst stunning gardens.
Commonwealth Ave
1.0 km
Discover the scenic beauty and cultural significance of Commonwealth Avenue in Canberra, a must-visit destination for every tourist exploring Australia's capital.
Captain James Cook Memorial
1.3 km
Explore the Captain James Cook Memorial in Parkes, a serene tribute to Australia's maritime heritage surrounded by lush parklands.
National Police Memorial Australia
1.3 km
Visit the National Police Memorial Australia in Parkes to honor the courage of fallen police officers in a serene and reflective environment.
Manuka Park
1.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Manuka Park, a picturesque natural retreat in Canberra, perfect for hiking and family picnics amidst stunning mountain views.
Canberra Glassworks
1.6 km
Explore Canberra Glassworks: A vibrant art space showcasing exquisite glass art, immersive workshops, and unique artisan pieces in Kingston, ACT.
Kokoda Memorial Monument
1.7 km
Explore the Kokoda Memorial Monument in Griffith, ACT, a significant historical landmark honoring the bravery of soldiers from World War II.
Manuka Oval
1.8 km
Discover the excitement of sports at Manuka Oval, a premier stadium in Griffith, ACT. Experience live cricket, rugby, and vibrant community spirit.
Scott Leggo Gallery
1.9 km
Explore the beauty of Australia through stunning photography at Scott Leggo Gallery in Kingston - a must-see for art lovers and tourists alike.
Arc de Resilience
1.9 km
Explore the Arc de Resilience in Kingston, ACT - a historical landmark symbolizing strength and community spirit, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Manuka Village
2.0 km
Explore the vibrant Manuka Village, a shopping paradise in Griffith, ACT, where unique boutiques and delightful eateries await every visitor.
Old Canberra House
2.0 km
Explore Old Canberra House, a historical landmark at the Australian National University, and uncover the rich heritage of Australia's past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old Parliament House Gardens
0.1 km
Explore the historical beauty and serene landscapes of Old Parliament House Gardens in the heart of Canberra, a must-visit for every traveler.
King George V Memorial
0.1 km
Discover the King George V Memorial in Parkes, ACT, a historical landmark celebrating Australia's regal heritage amidst beautiful landscapes.
Aboriginal Tent Embassy
0.2 km
Discover the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra, a vital symbol of Indigenous rights and cultural resilience in Australia.
Senate Gardens | Old Parliament House Rose Gardens
0.2 km
Discover the Senate Gardens in Parkes, ACT: a serene escape filled with vibrant blooms and rich history beside the Old Parliament House.
Magna Carta Place
0.3 km
Explore Magna Carta Place, a serene memorial park in Parkes, ACT, celebrating democracy and the historic principles of the Magna Carta.
National Archives of Australia
0.3 km
Explore Australia’s rich heritage at the National Archives of Australia, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and captivating stories.
National Portrait Gallery
0.5 km
Discover the essence of Australia at the National Portrait Gallery, where art, history, and culture converge in a captivating experience.
Questacon - National Science and Technology Centre
0.5 km
Discover the wonders of science and technology at Questacon, Australia's premier interactive science museum in Canberra, perfect for families and curious minds.
Canberra Centenary Trail
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and cultural landmarks along the Canberra Centenary Trail, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Reconciliation Place
0.5 km
Explore Reconciliation Place in Canberra, a memorial park celebrating unity and healing through stunning sculptures and artworks that honor Indigenous culture.
The Big Pears
0.5 km
Explore the whimsical world of The Big Pears in Parkes, a delightful tourist attraction showcasing oversized sculptures and local charm.
James Turrell "Within without" Skyspace
0.6 km
Experience the enchanting interplay of light and sky at James Turrell's 'Within Without', a breathtaking Skyspace in the National Gallery of Australia.
National Library of Australia
0.6 km
Explore the National Library of Australia in Canberra, a cultural hub filled with historical treasures, exhibitions, and stunning architecture.
High Court of Australia
0.7 km
Experience the grandeur of the High Court of Australia, a landmark of justice and culture in the heart of Canberra, showcasing stunning architecture and rich history.
National Gallery of Australia
0.7 km
Explore the National Gallery of Australia, home to an exquisite collection of art, beautiful gardens, and engaging exhibitions in the heart of Canberra.
Essential places to dine
Vincent Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience fine dining at Vincent Restaurant in Barton ACT - where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance.
Water's Edge Fine Dining Restaurant
0.7 km
Discover the culinary artistry at Water's Edge Fine Dining Restaurant in Canberra - where modern Australian flavors meet breathtaking waterfront views.
Chatham House Restaurant at The National Press Club of Australia
1.0 km
Discover exquisite dining at Chatham House Restaurant within The National Press Club of Australia, blending local flavors with elegance.
Chairman & Yip
1.1 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Asia at Chairman & Yip, where culinary artistry meets elegant dining in Barton.
Walt & Burley
1.7 km
Experience Kingston's vibrant culinary scene at Walt & Burley - where gourmet flavors meet lively social gatherings in a stunning lakeside setting.
Pomegranate Restaurant
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Pomegranate Restaurant in Kingston, where every meal is a celebration.
La Rustica
1.8 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at La Rustica in Kingston - where every meal is a delightful journey through Italy's rich flavors.
La Capanna
1.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Capanna in Kingston – where every meal feels like a family gathering.
Queenies
1.8 km
Experience culinary innovation at Queenies in Kingston - where every dish is crafted with passion and creativity.
Black Salt Dining
1.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Black Salt Dining in Kingston - where culinary excellence meets local flavors.
OTIS Dining Hall
1.8 km
Experience fine dining at OTIS Dining Hall in Kingston - where every dish is crafted with seasonal flavors and paired with exquisite wines.
Lanterne Rooms
1.9 km
Experience authentic Asian flavors at Lanterne Rooms in Campbell - where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality.
Wild Duck Fine Asian Cuisine
1.9 km
Experience the pinnacle of Asian fine dining at Wild Duck, where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance in Kingston's culinary scene.
The Boat House
1.9 km
Experience exceptional fine dining at The Boat House in Barton, where culinary artistry meets stunning lakeside views.
peonee restaurant
1.9 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Australia at Peonee Restaurant in Campbell - where culinary excellence meets local hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NGA Shop
0.6 km
Explore the NGA Shop in Parkes for unique art-inspired gifts that celebrate Australia's rich cultural heritage, perfect for every traveler.
Parliament Shop
0.7 km
Explore the Parliament Shop in Canberra for unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate Australia's parliamentary heritage and culture.
The Museum Shop
1.4 km
Explore The Museum Shop for unique Australian gifts and souvenirs; a must-visit destination for tourists wanting to capture their travel memories.
Telopea Park
1.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Telopea Park, an urban oasis perfect for relaxation, picnics, and family fun in the heart of Barton, ACT.
Annette Boyd art + design
1.8 km
Explore Annette Boyd Art + Design in Kingston for unique gifts and local artistry that captures the essence of Australian creativity.
LibrarianChic
1.8 km
Explore LibrarianChic, Kingston's vintage clothing haven, and find unique, sustainable fashion treasures that tell a story.
Drum Effect
1.8 km
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Levi & London
1.8 km
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Eccetera
1.8 km
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Kingston corner
1.8 km
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Honeysuckle and Lace
1.9 km
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Creative Aura
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Blue Hummingbird
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Marilyn on Kennedy
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Home Said
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Jetty
0.7 km
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Leyla Bar
1.1 km
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Foreshore Social
1.8 km
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Caribou Kingston
1.8 km
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The Durham Castle Arms Pub
1.8 km
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Kodiak Bar
1.9 km
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The Dock
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious Australian cuisine at The Dock, a must-visit pub in Kingston.
11e cave
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink selection at the 11e Cave, Kingston's favorite bar for relaxation and socializing.
High Jinks
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Canberra at High Jinks, where expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
Joe's Bar
2.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance and diverse drink selection at Joe's Bar in Griffith, the perfect spot to unwind in the heart of the Australian Capital Territory.
Muse - Food, Wine, Books
2.0 km
Experience a delightful blend of gourmet food, fine wines, and captivating literature at Muse, the perfect cafe in Griffith.
Public
2.0 km
Discover the heart of Griffith at Public, where exceptional cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Cicada Bar
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Canberra at Cicada Bar, known for its creative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
The Shaking Hand
2.3 km
The Shaking Hand: Canberra's Lively Bar for Live Music and Unforgettable Nights Out.
Canberra Centre Pop Up Bar by Contentious Character
2.5 km
Experience the charm of Canberra's vibrant wine scene at the delightful Canberra Centre Pop Up Bar by Contentious Character.
