Email: visitor@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
Website: www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
Address: Customs House, 31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay, Sydney, NSW 2000
Location Map:
Featured Events
Customs House was built on the territory of the Eora people, the traditional Indigenous owners, and served as the landing place for the First Fleet. It is one of the most important structures in the history of European settlement in Australia.
The historically and architecturally significant structure has been completely refurbished and now houses a selection of unusual exhibits.
Customs Square, located near the entrance to Customs House, is a piece of Australian history. Paving in the square depicts the original tidal zone as it existed at the time of the First Fleet landing.
The extensive renovation has transformed all five storeys of one of Sydney’s most beautiful colonial buildings into a vibrant public facility and meeting area. It features the Customs House Library, which houses more than 400,000 items.
Visitors to the library can experience a combination of both contemporary and traditional library spaces spanning over three floors.
Café Sydney, on the rooftop of Customs House, is Sydney’s quintessential “room with a view” where you can enjoy fine dining, either indoors or on the terrace. Admire Circular Quay and the sparkling harbour with impressive views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Heritage, Culture, Exhibitions & Events at a Sydney Icon
Customs House at Circular Quay is one of Sydney’s most historic and recognisable landmarks, offering a rich blend of heritage architecture, cultural attractions, world-class exhibitions, community events, and engaging public spaces. With its prime waterfront location overlooking Sydney Harbour, it remains a vibrant hub for locals, tourists, families, and culture-seekers.
About Customs House
Built in 1845, Customs House served as the administrative centre for Sydney’s shipping and trade activities. Today, it has been transformed into a modern cultural venue featuring public exhibitions, library services, dining experiences, and interactive art installations—all set within beautifully restored sandstone architecture.
Top Reasons to Visit Customs House
- Heritage Architecture: Explore one of Australia’s finest examples of 19th-century civic architecture.
- Free Public Exhibitions & Cultural Programs: Enjoy rotating art shows, photography galleries, design installations, and interactive displays.
- Public Library & Creative Spaces: Access reading rooms, digital resources, study spaces, and community workshops.
- Events & Community Gatherings: Attend talks, panel discussions, cultural festivals, book launches, and family-friendly programs.
- Dining at Customs House: Enjoy premium Australian cuisine with harbour views at the rooftop Café Sydney.
Things to Do at Customs House
1. Visit the Customs House Library
The lower levels of the building house a contemporary public library offering reading lounges, digital media stations, free Wi-Fi, study areas, local history archives, and regular educational workshops.
2. Explore Free Exhibitions
Customs House hosts a rotating calendar of exhibitions showcasing Australian and international artists, photography collections, multimedia installations, and heritage displays. Most exhibitions are free to enter.
3. Walk Over the Sydney City Model
One of the building’s most iconic features is the giant 3D scale model of Sydney, located beneath a glass floor. Visitors can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city’s buildings, streets, and landmarks.
4. Attend Talks, Workshops & Community Events
The venue regularly hosts public talks, author sessions, cultural festivals, creative workshops, and family programs. These events encourage community engagement and cultural exploration.
5. Enjoy Rooftop Dining at Café Sydney
Located on the rooftop, Café Sydney offers stunning harbour views paired with premium Australian cuisine. It is a popular destination for romantic dinners, business lunches, and special celebrations.
Customs House for Families
Customs House is a family-friendly destination featuring free entry, hands-on exhibitions, kids’ storytelling sessions, school holiday workshops, and interactive digital displays. It is an ideal stop for families exploring the Circular Quay area.
Events & Festivals at Customs House
Customs House plays a major role in some of Sydney’s biggest annual events, including Vivid Sydney, Sydney Festival, NAIDOC Week programs, Heritage Week tours, and various cultural exhibitions. The building often comes alive with light shows, art installations, and public gatherings.
Location & Visitor Information
Address: 31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay, Sydney NSW
Opening Hours: Vary by exhibition, library, and dining venue (generally open from morning until late).
Admission: Free entry for most exhibitions and public spaces.
Why Visit Customs House?
Customs House is more than a historic landmark—it is a vibrant cultural destination in the heart of Sydney Harbour. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, community events, history, or dining with waterfront views, this iconic venue offers something for everyone.
