Perth Observatory
Perth Observatory
5
10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Sunday
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
About
Western Australia's oldest observatory is in Perth Hills located in Bickley. The Observatory has served the state of WA for over 125 years and remains actively involved in the service of public education. The Observatory is open for group day tours and night sky tours throughout the year. Visit our website for information about our night sky viewing and group day tours.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Susan H2 contributionsGreat night looking at the stars and planets.The staff were amazing and very knowledgeable. We were not rushed and got to look as many times as we needed to get one or two looks. The drive was a bit hairy for a 73 year old in the dark but well worth the trip. We saw Saturn and then Jupiter with some of its moons. Very spectacular. Worth the money and effort.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 16 October 2023
- Jen FCounty Durham, United Kingdom3 contributionsOriginal and awesome wedding venue!We had our wedding here and it was such an amazing space to have an event. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, and were really communicative and well organised. They put telescope tours on for us in the evening and we saw Jupiter, Saturn and the moon! Definitely visit this place if you're in town, and it's well worth considering for an event space.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 28 November 2023
- Isabella DSydney, Australia11 contributionsAmazing tour experience, very special place!This is a truly special Observatory, and the visibility of stars from the site, even without telescopes, is superb. I did a night skies tour, loved looking through the telescopes, and learnt so much from the warm and knowledgeable volunteers. I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in astronomy. Supporting the Observatory by attending a tour will also help to keep it running, as it is funded poorly by the state and relies on the free labour of very good human beings.Visited February 2024Travelled soloWritten 5 February 2024
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5.0
167 reviews
Excellent
144
Very good
14
Average
5
Poor
1
Terrible
3
Ambassador458909
Perth, Australia3 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
After booking this tour 4 months in advance, we were really looking forward to seeing some fascinating sights through telescopes that can't be seen from the naked eye.
What we ended up getting was a completely disorganised tour that was very underwhelming.
We arrived 30 minutes early however our group ended up getting split up after all the other groups had already left the starting point so by the time we were taken to our first "station" we had missed a few mins and were uncomfortable as it felt like we had come late, despite being 30 mins early! I don't understand how they couldn't get the groups right with numbers when you book so far in advance.
It seemed like none of the tour guides knew where we were meant to go next, I thought there would be a set route. (from station a move the guests to station b etc) but it was so disorganised. We left one station to be told we were now going up 69 steps to the telescope in the tall dome. This never eventuated at all in the tour.
As for what we saw through the telescopes, it was pretty boring. Honestly, looking up into the milky way up with the naked eye there was more exciting than what we saw through the telescopes.
Even small details such as having the car park gate open for guests to leave at the end of the tour were neglected. I would have thought this would be a standard procedure. Ie. One person is nominated to open the gate 10 mins prior to the tour ending.
It wasn't explained to us at the start what to expect in regards to how many stations we would be going around to, how long we would be at each station, the fact that as a group you don't get to every station, it's pot luck what you end up doing.
We were asked several times by the guides what we had seen already, what our group name was etc.
For $45 a head we really expected something exciting and to be really impressed by the tour. What we got was far from that.
10/10 would NOT recommend.
What we ended up getting was a completely disorganised tour that was very underwhelming.
We arrived 30 minutes early however our group ended up getting split up after all the other groups had already left the starting point so by the time we were taken to our first "station" we had missed a few mins and were uncomfortable as it felt like we had come late, despite being 30 mins early! I don't understand how they couldn't get the groups right with numbers when you book so far in advance.
It seemed like none of the tour guides knew where we were meant to go next, I thought there would be a set route. (from station a move the guests to station b etc) but it was so disorganised. We left one station to be told we were now going up 69 steps to the telescope in the tall dome. This never eventuated at all in the tour.
As for what we saw through the telescopes, it was pretty boring. Honestly, looking up into the milky way up with the naked eye there was more exciting than what we saw through the telescopes.
Even small details such as having the car park gate open for guests to leave at the end of the tour were neglected. I would have thought this would be a standard procedure. Ie. One person is nominated to open the gate 10 mins prior to the tour ending.
It wasn't explained to us at the start what to expect in regards to how many stations we would be going around to, how long we would be at each station, the fact that as a group you don't get to every station, it's pot luck what you end up doing.
We were asked several times by the guides what we had seen already, what our group name was etc.
For $45 a head we really expected something exciting and to be really impressed by the tour. What we got was far from that.
10/10 would NOT recommend.
Written 17 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Ambassador458909
Thanks for taking the time to review us and I'm very sorry you had a bad experience on one of our night tours.
From the sounds of your experience in your review, we didn't follow standard procedures on the night which does include making sure everyone is in the main building before the tour and that they all make it to the viewing area safely and that the gates are open at the end of the tour for the customers before they come back from the telescopes. It also sounds like we may have had some cloud that interrupted the night tour and there was some confusion on how to proceed during that interruption on our part that led to this bad experience.
You would mind contacting me on 08 92932 8255 or emailing me at mattw@perthobservatory.com.au so I can get some more information on what night you were on and your experience, that way we can make sure this doesn't happen again.
Written 19 April 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mat L
1 contribution
Jan 2020
Amazed that this is in our backyard and I hadn't been before. Enjoyed the experience of looking thru the different telescopes and the explanations from the various volunteers. Astounded that this place lost government funding and is run entirely by volunteers.
Written 5 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Azarul F
Shah Alam, Malaysia137 contributions
Sept 2024 • Family
Went on the Night Sky Tour, man it was a great experience! I had a few "night observatory tour" but this was truly amazing and fitting the Night Sky Tour term. First of all, I would highly recommend booking your tickets early to avoid disappointment. Secondly, you'll spent a big amount of time outdoor and walking between the telescopes. It can get very cold at Perth Hills!
Now to the tour itself. Do come early so you can spend time walking around the main building where there is an exhibition/museum on various astronomy matters, and there is also a large asteroid on display. After the briefing, the volunteers will then bring you to the telescopes at the back and you'll be divided into small groups and goes around looking at each telescope (yes, there are more than one!) . Each telescope are pointed are different things and the volunteers passionately describe them and giving you time to view the telescopes. We did not expect it'll take this long and this many telescopes. Truly a great experience for anyone, and well worth the drive up Perth Hills!
Now to the tour itself. Do come early so you can spend time walking around the main building where there is an exhibition/museum on various astronomy matters, and there is also a large asteroid on display. After the briefing, the volunteers will then bring you to the telescopes at the back and you'll be divided into small groups and goes around looking at each telescope (yes, there are more than one!) . Each telescope are pointed are different things and the volunteers passionately describe them and giving you time to view the telescopes. We did not expect it'll take this long and this many telescopes. Truly a great experience for anyone, and well worth the drive up Perth Hills!
Written 10 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter
1 contribution
Feb 2023 • Family
Great night out for both children & adult's we went on the Moon tour, it was a very clear night perfect for viewing a full Moon, I had my grand children with me they both enjoyed the night all the volunteer staff are knowledgeable and are keen to answer any questions you may have, there's a small shop to purchase a gift and also a museum with beautiful pictures of Nebulas and Star systems, Meteorites ect. Viewing the moon through powerful telescope's is magic!
This is a very worthwhile place to visit as they rely on visitors to fund the Observatory, the night night finishes with tea, coffee and biscuits, WELL DONE TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS!
This is a very worthwhile place to visit as they rely on visitors to fund the Observatory, the night night finishes with tea, coffee and biscuits, WELL DONE TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS!
Written 7 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mary O C
Perth, Australia11 contributions
Jan 2022 • Friends
Such a great night, would highly recommend!
We did the night tour which lasted approx. 2 hours. It was excellently organised as we were divided into smaller groups. We then rotated around each of the telescopes so that everyone got a chance to view what was on show, and an opportunity to ask questions in those smaller groups.
Very informative, the volunteers are all lovely and make it such an enjoyable experience for everyone. They were delighted to answer everyones questions and are clearly so passionate about what they do!
10/10, would recommend. Definitely going back during the winter months for more!!
We did the night tour which lasted approx. 2 hours. It was excellently organised as we were divided into smaller groups. We then rotated around each of the telescopes so that everyone got a chance to view what was on show, and an opportunity to ask questions in those smaller groups.
Very informative, the volunteers are all lovely and make it such an enjoyable experience for everyone. They were delighted to answer everyones questions and are clearly so passionate about what they do!
10/10, would recommend. Definitely going back during the winter months for more!!
Written 31 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Natashadaniel247
21 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
A Big Thank you to Ed, for being an amazing guide and educator at the Perth Observatory last night. The contributions of Perth Observatory to Astronomy is world class and the museum was very insightful and great contributions made by the Perth Astronomers and NASA collaboration. It has truly been a magical evening, from being able to view Jupiter, Venus and Saturn 🪐 to watching new stars being born; it’s been a night to remember. I got to share this special night with my daughter Arya, the Light of my Life and my Soul Sister and Niece; Vanishree and Kivi. So grateful to you. May you keep shining enjoy the beauty we Blessed and surrounded with. Perth Observatory I will be back!
Written 30 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shauna McGee K
1 contribution
Dec 2024 • Family
Well organised tours of historic telescopes. Working telescopes are as old as 1912! Fun to look at stars, planets, moons, and constellations with friendly volunteers. On a cloudy night you still get a great tour of the inside of the domes, the clocks in the museum, and the amazing history.
Written 30 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TRCanning
Wangaratta, Australia3 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
Mother Nature had different plans the night we went up. Instead of seeing the stars Paul, Beryl and the team of volunteers gave us a mind blowing journey around the galaxy. Their passion and knowledge shone though the cloudy night. Was an extremely enjoyable evening!
Written 17 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arnold S
Singapore, Singapore11 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
My family of 8 and I had a great experience with Matt and his team at the Perth Observatory. The night sky tour was informative, interesting and fun. The tour was done at a very good pace and was never rushed. The adults and kids enjoyed the tour and we hope to come back again in the future.
Written 22 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jen F
County Durham, UK3 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
We had our wedding here and it was such an amazing space to have an event. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, and were really communicative and well organised. They put telescope tours on for us in the evening and we saw Jupiter, Saturn and the moon! Definitely visit this place if you're in town, and it's well worth considering for an event space.
Written 28 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello, what are the options for transport to the site? I don't drive. Is taxi the only option? Thanks
Written 26 November 2023
Hi,
Thanks for the message and sorry for the very late response, public transport is really bad in the Perth Hills.
If you do use a Taxi and Uber services, I would recommend booking in a scheduled return ride back from the night. Taxis and Ubers can be unreliable in servicing the Perth hills. You could also take the train to High Wycombe station on the Perth Airport Link to make the taxi or Uber charge cheaper.
Written 20 June 2024
Jing
Singapore, Singapore
I have 3 children ages 8,3 and 1. Would the night tour be too much for the 3 and 1 year old and are there restrictions on ages?
Written 8 April 2023
Izumi N
Can I see Astronomical telescope freely in tour day without book the tour??
thank you
Written 23 May 2018
Hi Izumi
We’re running Winter Night Tours from June to August where you get to look through the telescopes and if there are clouds or even rain on the night we'll then provide you with an amazing guided tour of the Observatory. You can book on the Perth Observatory website
You need to enter the number of people coming in the adult, concession, and child form fields and then click the date in the booking calendar. A green background that denotes a night sky tour on that night with spots still available, a red background is a night sky tour that is fully book and yellow is today's date.
Once you’ve done that, click on the Book Now button and that will take you to the checkout section where you can pay for your tour.
You’ll get a confirmation email and on the night the host will ask you for the name the booking was under and then mark you off on the booking sheet.
Written 24 May 2018
Hi there, as it will be my first time to the Observatory, are we allowed to stay on (outside the compound) after the tour has ended? This is because i would like to do some astrophotography. Or will time already be allocated during the tour itself? Thanks!
Written 6 May 2018
We took some photos, but as there are several telescopes to be visited time was a bit tight. They were pretty keen to be sure all visitors were ready to leave after visiting the shop (which has a variety of excellent books amongst other things) though they didn't pressure anyone. I'm sure this is mainly because they're unpaid - but highly motivated and friendly - volunteers. Also as it's also a wildlife reserve, too many cars around later in the evening are a danger to the animals. I dare say if you visit on a less busy night you'll get some photos!
Written 7 May 2018
Hi, we would like self drive to Perth Observatory from Perth City, is it advisable drive back to Perth City around 10.30pm? How's the road and road lights conditions?
Regards,
Esther, Kuching.
Written 13 October 2016
Hi Esther, the road is in good condition but does not have many street lights as it is in the hills. Be very aware and drive carefully till you get back to the main road as there were lots of kangaroos out and about in the area. But an easy drive to and from the city.
Written 13 October 2016
Hi, my friends and i are planning on joining one of the dark sky nights tour.
We are thinking of taking a taxi from Pan Pacific Perth Hotel to Perth's Observatory, since non of us are able to drive.
Could someone kindly advise whether its easy to get a Taxi late in the night, from Perth's Observatory back to our hotel? Or is there a tour bus that picks us up to and fro from the Hotel?
Written 28 September 2016
Hi Lois
We have had people come up and go home via taxi. You can book a taxi to pick you and it's best if you book them to pick you up from the observatory about 2 hours after the tour start (if tour starts at 7:30pm then book the taxi to pick you up at 9:30pm). I've also listed below Uber estimated prices:
Uber X $39 - $52
Uber Black $87 - $113
uber XL $66 - $88
Written 29 September 2016
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