Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Old Parliament House is centrally located in Canberra. Plan your arrival by bus, car, or on foot from nearby attractions.
Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House
18 King George Terrace, Parkes, ACT 2600
GPS -35.3023, 149.1296
Open directionsGetting there
Options for reaching the museum.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk: Walking from nearby National Triangle attractions like the National Gallery, Questacon, or the National Library via paved pathways. | 5-15 minutes from nearby sites | Free | The Parliamentary Triangle is flat and pedestrian-friendly. Bike racks are available at the museum entrance. |
| Bus: Transport Canberra buses stop near the Treasury Building or John Gorton Building on Parkes Place. | 5-10 minute walk from the bus stop | MyWay+ fare | Use Transport Canberra's Journey Planner to check the latest schedules and routes. |
| Car: Driving to 18 King George Terrace in Parkes. Paid short-stay parking is located at the front and sides of the building. | 5-10 minutes from Canberra CBD | Varies by duration | Parking can be paid via the EasyPark app. Free accessible drop-off and parking bays are available right at the front. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and closed only on Christmas Day. Some rooms may be closed for building works, so check moadoph.gov.au before you go. The best times to visit are during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). The weather is mild, and the National Rose Gardens are in full bloom.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Bring a reusable water bottle, but keep it in your bag inside heritage rooms.
Food and drink are strictly prohibited in the exhibition spaces.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to spend your time.
Focus on the core heritage spaces and nearby gardens.
- Arrive
Enter through the front doors and explore King's Hall.
- Chambers
Visit the green House of Representatives and red Senate chambers.
- Prime Minister's Suite
Walk through the authentic office spaces used until 1988.
- Exhibitions
View the Behind the Lines cartoon exhibition.
- Gardens
Walk through the National Rose Gardens outside.
A balanced mix of history and interactive kid-friendly activities.
- King's Hall
Show the kids the historic paintings and King George V statue.
- Chambers
Let them sit on the original leather benches in the debating rooms.
- PlayUP
Spend 30-45 minutes in the Hands on Democracy interactive space.
- Courtyards
Rest in the peaceful internal courtyards before leaving.
Practical Advice
Wear comfortable walking shoes. The building is expansive, and you will likely walk to other National Triangle attractions. Bring a small daypack; oversized bags may not be permitted in narrow heritage spaces.
If you drive, download the EasyPark app in advance. Paid short-stay parking is located at the front and sides of the building. Free accessible drop-off bays are available right at the front.
Easiest way to do it
Highlights of Canberra Full Day Tour
8 h 4.9 (481)
- Transport in comfortable tour vehicle
- Pickup at major hotel & motel chains
- Expert Local Tour Guide
From$133per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Where is the best place to park?
Paid short-stay parking is available at the front and sides of the building. You can pay using the EasyPark app.
How much time do you need?
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours. This gives you enough time to see the parliamentary chambers, the Prime Minister's Suite, and key exhibitions.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes. The museum features PlayUP, an interactive space offering crafts and games designed to teach children about democracy.