Parliament House Adelaide
Stately Greek Revival Parliament House, offering historical tours and a glimpse into South Australian politics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Access for tours
Parliament House Adelaide
Best Time
Access for tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stately Greek Revival Parliament House, offering historical tours and a glimpse into South Australian politics.
"Rhys was an excellent parliament house guide. This tour was one of the highlights of my first visit to Adelaide."
🏛️ Check Sitting Schedule
Tours are limited on sitting days. Verify the schedule online before your visit to ensure access.
📅 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for history and politics buffs! Book ahead, especially during peak times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the imposing Greek Revival architecture and stately columns, a blend of nature and stone.
Insightful Guided Tours
Various Chambers
Learn about SA's political history and the fascinating stories behind parliamentary traditions.
Question Time Experience
Public Galleries
Witness the lively debates and political discussions during a sitting day's question time.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Sitting Days
Book Your Tour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏛️ Check Sitting Schedule
Tours are limited on sitting days. Verify the schedule online before your visit to ensure access.
📅 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for history and politics buffs! Book ahead, especially during peak times.
🚶♂️ Admire from Outside
Even if you can't tour, the building's grandeur and columns are impressive from the street.
🗣️ Listen to the Guide
Guides offer fascinating historical tidbits, like the Speaker's mace story!
Tips
from all over the internet
🏛️ Check Sitting Schedule
Tours are limited on sitting days. Verify the schedule online before your visit to ensure access.
📅 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for history and politics buffs! Book ahead, especially during peak times.
🚶♂️ Admire from Outside
Even if you can't tour, the building's grandeur and columns are impressive from the street.
🗣️ Listen to the Guide
Guides offer fascinating historical tidbits, like the Speaker's mace story!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Parliament House Adelaide for its stunning architecture and the informative guided tours. Many highlight the engaging nature of the guides and the historical insights provided, making it a worthwhile experience for history and politics enthusiasts. Some note the building's grandeur and well-maintained appearance, visible even from the street.
"Was invited for a tour during the school holidays. The tour guide was very informative and gave a good insight into this beautiful building's history."
Tania
"Rhys was an excellent parliament house guide. This tour was one of the highlights of my first visit to Adelaide. Well worth the effort if you enjoy history and politics of SA. *"
Sandy Walker
"This is a very beautiful building and very we maintained. The columns are very tall. The building is easily visible from any view point in the street. The trees at the front give it a very special aspect that blends with nature and stone. Full of history. Worth walking last when you're in the vicinity."
Sophie de Peretti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parliament House is centrally located in Adelaide. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are parking stations in the vicinity, though they may incur fees. Walking from the city center is also a pleasant option.
Yes, Parliament House is well-served by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop along North Terrace and King William Street, making it convenient to reach. Check Adelaide Metro for specific route information.
Several paid parking stations are located within a short walking distance of Parliament House, including those in the city center and near Victoria Square. Street parking may be limited.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Guided tours of Parliament House are generally free, but booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during school holidays or for group visits. Check the official website for booking procedures.
Tours are typically offered on non-sitting days. It's crucial to check the official Parliament of South Australia website for the most up-to-date tour schedule and availability, as hours can vary.
While you can often view the exterior and sometimes access public galleries to observe proceedings on sitting days, guided tours are usually restricted. It's best to plan your visit for a non-sitting day for a comprehensive tour experience.
As a working government building, there may be security checks. Visitors are expected to behave respectfully. Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Check the official website for specific guidelines.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Tours offer a glimpse into the Legislative Council and House of Assembly chambers, historical rooms, and provide insights into South Australia's political history and parliamentary processes.
Yes, children can enjoy the tours, especially learning about historical anecdotes like the Speaker's mace. The architecture and the concept of parliament can be engaging for younger visitors.
Yes, the public galleries are usually open for visitors to observe Question Time, which can be a fascinating and lively experience. Arrive early as seating can be limited.
Parliament House features impressive Greek Revival architecture with grand columns and a stately presence. The interior also boasts significant historical and architectural elements.
Parliament House often serves as a backdrop for public demonstrations and rallies on various social and political issues. You might witness such events if visiting on certain days. 
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. Generally, photography is permitted in public areas for personal use, but it may be restricted in certain chambers or during official proceedings. It's best to ask your guide.
The grand exterior with its columns and the entrance steps are popular for photos. Inside, the chambers and historical rooms offer unique photographic opportunities, subject to restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Sitting in on Question Time can also be an exciting experience, offering a glimpse into the debates that shape the state. The impressive architecture itself can be a visual treat for younger visitors. Consider booking a tour during school holidays for a family-friendly experience.
🏛️ History & Politics Enthusiasts
Attending a sitting day to observe Question Time offers a firsthand look at the legislative process. Comparing the experience to other parliamentary buildings, like the one in Melbourne, can also add another layer to your appreciation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Architecture
Inside, the architecture continues to impress. Visitors on tours often marvel at the design of the Legislative Council and House of Assembly chambers. The historical rooms within the building also hold architectural significance, reflecting the era in which they were constructed and used. The overall aesthetic contributes to the building's gravitas as a center of government.
The Role of Guided Tours
These tours are not just about facts and figures; they offer a narrative that brings the building and its history to life. They are particularly recommended for those interested in history and politics, offering a deeper understanding than simply viewing the building from the outside. The experience is often compared favorably to other parliamentary tours, such as the one in Melbourne.
Parliament House as a Public Space
+5These events highlight Parliament House's role not just as a seat of power, but also as a symbol of democracy and a place where citizens can voice their concerns directly to the government. While these gatherings can be passionate, they are a testament to the active civic engagement that takes place in Adelaide.
+5
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