Old Parliament House

The original home of Australian Parliament from 1927 to 1988, now a museum showcasing political history and heritage. The building's fascinating architecture and exhibitions offer insights into Australia's governance and significant political moments.

Things to do

• Chamber of Representatives Tour — Walk through the original debating chamber where Australian parliaments met for 61 years and see the ornate timber furnishings and design that shaped national debates.
• Senate Exhibition — Explore displays documenting the Senate's role in Australian democracy, including artefacts from significant legislative moments and political developments.
• Prime Ministers' Offices Visit — Tour the restored offices of former Prime Ministers to understand their working environment and view period-appropriate furniture and personal memorabilia.
• Heritage Architecture Tour — Examine the Federation style building's distinctive features including its copper dome, sandstone construction, and detailed interior craftsmanship designed by architects Wright and King.
• Political Moments Exhibition — View interactive displays and archival materials highlighting pivotal Australian political events, scandals, and reform movements that occurred within these walls.
• Parliamentary Gardens Stroll — Walk the surrounding heritage gardens featuring native plantings and memorials that provide peaceful reflection on the building's historical significance.

Food to try

• Canberra Barista Culture Coffee — Sample expertly crafted coffee at nearby Parliament House cafés, reflecting Canberra's reputation for quality espresso and specialty brews.
• Australian Lamingtons — Enjoy this iconic sponge cake dipped in chocolate and coconut available at the Old Parliament House café, representing classic Australian afternoon tea culture.
• Bush Tucker Inspired Cuisine — Seek out native Australian ingredients like lemon myrtle and finger limes used in modern interpretations at Parliament House dining venues.
• Devonshire Tea — Experience traditional afternoon tea with scones, jam, and cream served in the heritage setting, maintaining long-standing parliamentary hospitality traditions.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit During Parliamentary Sitting Weeks — Plan your visit when Parliament is in session to feel the building's active political atmosphere, though note that Old Parliament House is now a museum and doesn't host parliament.
• Respect Photography Restrictions — Some exhibition areas prohibit photography to preserve archival materials and respect the dignified nature of political history displays.
• Allow Time for Detailed Exhibits — Budget at least two to three hours to meaningfully explore the collections and understand the complex narratives of Australian political development presented throughout the building.
• Dress Respectfully — As a heritage site with significant political importance, visitors should dress modestly and conduct themselves with appropriate decorum when touring this culturally important institution.