Sydney Pylon Lookout Review by John H
Known
as the original Sydney Lookout, the Pylon Lookout on the southern side
of the Sydney Harbour Bridge has been open to the public since 1934,
when Archer Whitford, an enterprising businessman, converted the pylon
into a popular tourist venue.
That was just 2 years after the official
opening on the iconic harbour bridge. Today it is still one of the most
popular spots for viewing the beautiful harbour and city sights.
There has been periods when the Pylon Lookout has been closed to the
public, such as during World War 2, when gun placements and anti-aircraft
guns were installed, or during work such as in 2000 when work commenced
on the Bridge Climb exhibition "Proud Arch".
It may now be overshadowed by the popular, but much more expensive
"Bridge Climb",
but does have quite a few advantages over the climb. If you want some
fabulous photos of Sydney Harbour and the Opera
House, this is the place to take them. You are not allowed to take
anything on the bridge climb, let alone a camera, but the Pylon Lookout
is one place that cameras are very welcome.
Another
advantage is that the whole family can enjoy the views together, even
taking smaller ones up the 200 steps to the lookout balcony. You don't
have to book ahead or wait in queues, and there is no safety requirements.
You can walk at your leisure and stay as long as it is open.
For under $10 for an adult, you can spend as much time at the lookout
as you want. Ideal for getting those holiday snaps or more serious photography
by keen amateurs, the Lookout also provides some of the fascinating
history behind how and why the bridge was built. There is 3 levels to
the Lookout with historic pictorial images showing the men who built
the bridge, an audio-visual presentation where you can watch a short
film featuring rare images taken during the construction of the Sydney
Harbour Bridge, plus gift shop to take home a souvenir to remember your
visit.
To get to the Bridge Pylon Lookout, take the Cumberland St steps from
The Rocks area up to the bridge road, or the Milsons Point steps from
the northern end. Just walking to the Pylon, you will have fabulous
views of Sydney Harbour, yet being 89 meters above sea level once on
the Pylon Lookout, the scenic views become magical. The admissions counter
is located at the entrance on level one and the staff will direct you
to the top Lookout level once you have paid the admission. On your way
down, take the time to look at all the memorabilia on level one and
watch the short film on the building of the bridge.
Is
it worth the time and effort to climb all those stairs to the top on
the Pylon Lookout?
Just look at our selection of photos taken at the lookout on a recent
trip to Sydney. There's your answer!
Opening Times
Sydney Bridge Pylon Lookout is open from 10am to 5pm daily. (Closed
Christmas Day)
Admission Prices
Adults (13 years and over) $9.50
Seniors with valid seniors card. $6.50
Children (8 to 12 years, inclusive) $4.00
Children (7 years and under) FREE
(Prices are valid to until 30 June 2011. Prices are subject to change
without notice.)