The Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory (RHDDO), designated under the Ontario Heritage Act and a national historic designation, is proudly owned by the City of Richmond Hill and is located at 123 Hillsview Drive. Although plans are currently underway for the transformation of the RHDDO property into a unique destination park, it operates today as a facility for public education and appreciation through a variety of City-run programs and partnerships. Surrounded by beautiful trails, the site is home to the historic Administration Building, Observatory Park and the Observatory Dome* that houses the iconic 74" telescope.
From family programs to heritage tours, lectures with guest speakers to events, you'll find a variety of fun and educational opportunities to explore the cosmos while learning the history of this unique site.
Looking to book a youth group or school to attend the RHDOO? Perhaps you're seeking a private tour with your family? We welcome groups large and small and look forward to working with you to make your visit memorable. Our specialized educational programs will engage stargazers and science enthusiasts alike through our various Private, Group and School packages.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the many beautiful trails that surround the Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory all season long.
The Administration Building and Observatory Dome are currently closed for the season to the public, unless you are attending a registered program. Check back in spring 2025 for updated tour hours.
Bring Your Own Binoculars and observe the night sky at David Dunlap Observatory Park. Our stargazing parties are free, no registration is required. Please note that these events are weather dependent as they are held outdoors.
Monday, April 21, 2025 - Starting at dusk. (Rain/Cloud Date: Tuesday, April 22)
Catch the Lyrids Meteor Shower at its' peak. We will guide you on a tour of the night sky to discover Spring Constellations, Star Clusters, Colourful Binary Stars, Mars, Jupiter, and more!
This is an outdoor event, please dress for the weather.
Please Note: We need a clear sky for stargazing, please check the daily status provided by the DDOD to determine if the nights activity is a "Go" or "No Go".
Facility Bookings at the RHDDO
Looking for a unique location to hold your next meeting, bridal shower, photo shoot or private party? The Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory is a perfect venue. As one of Canada’s National Historic Sites, the 1935 Beaux Art style Administration building boasts a number of meeting rooms, a lecture hall and historic library.
Browse through the various meeting and gathering rooms below to determine which space is best suited for your needs. Once determined, you can submit a Permit Request with your choice of room(s) date and time.
For more information about our various facilities including payments and policies, please visit our Facility Booking page.
This east facing room was once the main lecture room back when the David Dunlap Observatory was a training facility for Astronomy. This is a large room perfect for lectures, workshops or a small party. Located on the first floor.
Room size: 720 sq. ft.
Capacity: 60 people -Theatre seating
Hourly Rental Includes:
6ft - tables and chairs
Screen
Lecture stage and podium
Chalk Board
15 minutes before and after permitted time for set up/clean up
Step back in time and enjoy your get together in the historic Library. This east facing room boasts comfortable parlor seating, fireplace (not working), a small meeting table. Perfect setting for a small get together, baby/bridal shower or a meeting. Located on the first floor. Please note: furniture cannot be removed from this room.
Room size: 553 sq. ft.
Capacity: 27 as set up
Hourly Rental Includes:
Three-seater couch, 2 club chairs,
Two meeting tables with 6 armchairs
Coffee Table and occasional tables.
15 minutes before and after permitted time for set up/clean up
This west facing room provides a cozy setting a small meeting. This room as period tables and comfortable chairs for up to 10 guests. Located on the second floor. Please note: furniture cannot be removed from this room.
Room size: 240 sq. ft.
Capacity: 10 people -conference set up (Tables and Chairs)
Hourly Rental Includes:
Conference table and 10 chairs
15 minutes before and after permitted time for set up/clean up
This west facing room perfect for lectures, workshops or a small party. Located on the second floor.
Room size: 512 sq. ft.
Capacity: 40
Hourly Rental Includes:
6ft - tables and chairs
White Board
15 minutes before and after permitted time for set up/clean up
Wifi
Fee: HST Applicable:
Resident/Hour
Commercial/Non-Resident/Hour
$27.60
$43.49
Our rental permits are processed Mondays to Fridays from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Staff will respond to your request within five business days. Rental permits take up to 10 business days to process.
This 189-acre property has a great natural setting. The area also has the historic structures on-site, including the Observatory Dome and Administration Building. These buildings as well as certain landscapes in the park are protected as a cultural heritage landscape under the Ontario Heritage Act.
Fees in effect until December 31, 2025 (HST Applicable)
Picnic Permit
Resident/Hour
Commercial/Non-Resident/Hour
$54.08
$85.19
Three-Hour Wedding Permit:
Resident
Commercial/Non-Resident
$191.05
$298.07
Submit a Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory Park Permit Request
Double your photo experience with a photo permit that includes Observatory Park, the lobby, main staircase and the historic library in the RHDDO Administration Building.
Resident
Commercial/Non-Resident
$262.84
$379.82
Outdoor Permits
Observatory Park is a beautiful setting for wedding, engagement or family photos. This 189-acre property has a great natural setting. The area also has historic structures on-site, including the Observatory Dome and Administration Building and will make a stunning backdrop for your photos. You must purchase a permit before taking photographs in association with a wedding or other event in Richmond Hill parks as per By-Law 19-22.
Fee in effect until December 31, 2025 (HST Applicable):
The historic buildings, unique features of this site surrounded by picturesque landscapes make the Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory a sought-after filming location. To enquire about filming on location please complete a Film Permit request and staff will reach out within 5 business days.
*A Note Regarding Accessibility* Please note thatthe Observatory and Administration Buildings are historic buildings and 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.
