In short
- Transport Canberra buses stop on Parkes Place.
- Bus stops are a 5 to 10-minute walk from the museum.
- Pay the bus fare with a MyWay+ card or contactless bank card.
In this article
Getting to Old Parliament House is straightforward. The building sits in the flat, pedestrian-friendly Parliamentary Triangle. This makes it highly accessible by bus, on foot, or by car. Knowing your transit options saves time so you can focus on the exhibits.
Which bus routes go to Old Parliament House?
Transport Canberra buses stop near the museum.
These buses service the National Triangle regularly. They drop passengers near the Treasury Building or the John Gorton Building on Parkes Place. Use the Transport Canberra Journey Planner to check the latest schedules before you travel.
How much does the bus cost?
Pay with a MyWay+ card or a contactless bank card; check transport.act.gov.au for current fares.
You must tap your MyWay card on the reader when boarding and exiting the bus.
How far is the walk from the bus stop?
The walk from the Parkes Place bus stops takes 5 to 10 minutes.
The paths from the Treasury and John Gorton buildings are fully paved and flat. You will easily spot the large white facade of Old Parliament House as you approach 18 King George Terrace.
Can I walk from other nearby attractions?
Yes, walking from nearby National Triangle sites takes 5 to 15 minutes.
You can easily walk from the National Gallery, Questacon, or the National Library. The area is highly pedestrian-friendly. If you prefer to cycle, bike racks are available right at the museum entrance.
Is there parking at Old Parliament House?
Yes, paid short-stay parking surrounds the front and sides of the building.
Driving from the Canberra CBD takes just 5 to 10 minutes. Parking costs vary based on how long you stay. You can seamlessly pay for your spot using the EasyPark app on your smartphone.
Where is the accessible drop-off point?
Free accessible drop-off and parking bays are located directly at the front entrance.
These designated bays provide immediate access to the building. This setup ensures simple, step-free entry for visitors with limited mobility.
Questions travellers ask
Is entry to the Museum of Australian Democracy free?
Yes, general admission to the museum is completely free. You can walk in and explore the historic rooms without purchasing a ticket.
Where is the best place to park for Old Parliament House?
The best parking is the paid short-stay area at the front and sides of the building. You can manage your parking session easily via the EasyPark app.
What is the difference between Old Parliament House and New Parliament House?
Old Parliament House was the seat of government from 1927 to 1988 and is now a museum. New Parliament House is the current, active home of the Australian federal government.
