Sydney’s flagship architecture event is back for 2022, unlocking the doors of our historically significant and architecturally inspiring spaces for one weekend, November 5-6. Lovers of design, history, photography and storytelling – plus those who simply enjoy a good stickybeak – should jump at the chance to explore these heritage churches, corporate office towers, luxury hotels and civic buildings. Presented by Sydney Living Museums, Sydney Open offers the rare chance to visit many spaces that are generally off-limits to the public, resulting in incredible photo opportunities to boot.
Phive Parramatta Square | Photograph: Michael Bell
Get the inside story from experts on Saturday’s Focus Tours
If you want to hear the inside scoop on our city’s most interesting buildings, head straight for the 35 expert-led Focus Tours taking place on Saturday November 5. Architects, curators, conservators and building experts will reveal the secrets and stories behind buildings and spaces across the CBD and Greater Sydney, including for the first time in the Western Sydney hub of Parramatta. Highlights include tours of Parramatta’s striking new Phive building, a $136 million community centre that combines hi-tech with history; Manly’s spooky Q Station; the Town Hall clocktower, plus the offices and penthouse of famed modernist architect Harry Seidler. Tickets range from $30-$60. Book now.
Quay Quarter Tower | Photograph: Brett Boardman
Roam free on Sunday with the City Pass
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the City Pass acts as your key to the city on Sunday November 6. A single ticket ($39-$49) grants you access to more than 25 buildings across the CBD, meaning the day can be as packed or as leisurely as you make it. The program spans everything from brand new contemporary buildings to heritage icons – for example, you could wander through both the historic St Stephen's Uniting Church, which holds services to this day, then poke around 80 Albion, a beautiful creative office inside a refurbished former church. The program also includes some of the newest and most innovative buildings in the city, such as Quay Quarter Tower and 50 Martin Place, plus places normally closed to the public, including the five star Fullerton Hotel and Sydney Masonic Centre. Book a City Pass now.
Kimpton Margot Sydney | Photograph: Andrew Loiterton
Win an unforgettable weekend with the Sydney Open Golden Ticket
A few lucky City Pass attendees will receive the red carpet treatment for Sydney Open as holders of the Golden Ticket, which unlocks exclusive experiences including a luxurious night’s stay and dinner at five star Art Deco beauty, the Kimpton Margot Hotel. All you have to do to win it is be in it, with everyone who books a City Pass ticket by October 20 going into the draw. Find out more here.