Observatory Tour, Doors Open Richmond Hill

Tickets are sold for specified start times. Tickets are required for admission to the Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory. Ticket sales close on May 8, 2026 at noon

The Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory is a national historic site, designated under the Ontario Heritage Act. Opened in 1935, it was at the forefront of Canadian astronomical research, housing the then-largest telescope in Canada. Today, it is a facility for public education and outreach through city-run programs and partnerships. Join Heritage Services for a tour of the Observatory and Administration buildings. Ages: 7 years plus, Duration: 45 minutes (approximately)

Doors Open Richmond Hill is an event that supports cultural sites in the community to open their doors to everyone. This free event is part of Doors Open Ontario, launched in 2002 by the Ontario Heritage Trust.

This year, the Richmond Hill Studio Tour will partner with Doors Open Richmond Hill. Explore these home studios and see the artists' work, view their creative spaces, engage in lively demonstrations and learn more about their artistic processes.

Accessibility

As the Observatory and Administration Buildings are historic buildings, they do not meet existing accessibility standards. Access to both buildings is by stairs only. Washrooms and program rooms are located in the basement and on the second floor of the Administration Building and are accessible only by stairs. Both the Administration Building and the Observatory do not have elevators.

Parking

On this day, free parking in the David Dunlap Observatory Park is reserved for accessible parking permit holders or drivers (operating a vehicle for the purpose of transporting an accessible permit holder) who display a valid accessible parking permit.

FREE parking:

• Elvis Stojko Arena, 350 16th Ave, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 7A9

Please note, on this day, parking is not permitted along Hillsview Drive

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Host or Publisher Heritage Services, City of Richmond Hill