Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory, Richmond Hill: Photos, Reviews & Location

Observatory since 1935 on a 189-acre estate with Canada's largest optical telescope, tours & events.

At a glance

#5 of 6 Tourist attractions in Richmond Hill

LocalGuideWorld score: 4.60

1.7 km from the center of Richmond Hill

Rating breakdown

5 ★73%
4 ★20%
3 ★4%
2 ★1%
1 ★1%

123 Hillsview Dr, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 1T3, Canada

richmondhill.ca

+1 905-884-1281

Photos of Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory (41)

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Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory, Richmond Hill – photo 1

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Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory, Richmond Hill – photo 12

Quick facts

What is the rating of Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory?: Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory is rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 415 reviews.
How does Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory rank in Richmond Hill?: Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory is #5 of 6 Tourist attractions in Richmond Hill by LocalGuideWorld score (rating weighted by number of reviews).
Where is Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory located?: 123 Hillsview Dr, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 1T3, Canada — 1.7 km from the center of Richmond Hill.
How can I contact Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory?: Phone: +1 905-884-1281 · Website: richmondhill.ca

Reviews (8)

Sarah Zulak 2024 May 08

We booked a night with the stars through the Richmond Hill website.

We were greeted at the front of the observatory by a volunteer from RASC (Royal Astronomical Society of Canada or Rascles lol). Upon entry we learned about the dome, its history and why it's built the way it's built.

(Accessibility is limited because of the age of the historical site, so stairs are you're only option.)

As we enter up to the telescope landing, you're greeted by a red light (allows you to still see, but isn't as aggressive as white light. (As a nightshift worker I had a deep appreciation for this.) and standing in the middle of the room is the colossal telescope weighing in at literal tones.

Lucky for us, the night was clear, so the dome was open and before we had entered the building the team of volunteers had trained the telescope for us.

We learned about the equipment used, and the mechanics of the telescope (From the concrete rebar foundation sitting 30 feet underground, to the mirror tip,) as they maneuvered it from its first train to the second. (Communication is integral).

We also learned about the history of the people who built it, and used it to make it the historical land mark it is today.
We were taught about constellations, star clusters, black holes, lightyears, planets, light pollution and my particular favorite diffraction gratings. (No spoilers, you'll have to go yourself).

Overall a once in a lifetime experience, the volunteers from RASC were knowledgeable, and eager to talk about their passion.

I find myself looking up more than I used to, so thank you to the volunteers from RASC who delighted our minds.

Bryan Chan 2024 Mar 31

A nice place with an easy trail.

E T 2023 Oct 05

Because my husband loves astronomy and star-gazing, this is a must-go place to visit for him. I was also intrigued by the giant observatory, plus the visitor centre building that was displayed as a museum. There were many detailed photos of planets, stars, nebulas, etc. plus they sell items too at the gift shop. There were many helpful volunteers around that helped guide and explain the observatory's history and current events. I highly recommend getting a free self-guided tour too!

The overall building and greenery outside is well-kept. David Dunlap Observatory serves as an important history in Toronto for it's astrological findings. It's free to visit with ample parking space.

Tom YueBei 2023 Jul 02

I had the desire to see this observatory two years ago, but because of the epidemic and other reasons this building was not opened. Today I finally came to visit it. The exhibition hall was very nice, the customer service staff was very welcoming and the volunteers here were also very good. I will come back next time.

Olga Hutsul 2023 Jun 02

Amazing place, we were lucky to stop by and see it on the York Region doors open events. I wishi it was more accessible .

Stephen Mlot 2023 May 22

Here is a historic treasure in Richmond Hill. It's great that it has been preserved. A very well kept site. Everyone should go for the self guided tour, it's free. Great walking trails on in the park area, picnic tables too. More trails are being added, so it's quite the site for a hike, open meadows and wooded sections. Even goes south to Elvis Stojko Arena. It's close to home so I'm there many times a week. I saw a deer in one wooded area this week.

Ashok Tak 2023 May 16

Favourite place for star ⭐️ lovers and astronomers!
The observatory is full of history and a place where you can see stars over the largest telescope.

Y L 2022 Nov 02

I walk my dog here weekly. Many different paved and cleaned trails to take, surrounded by brand new large homes. The most majestic walk is actually the entrance from Hillsview to the Observatory but keep your eyes open, deer still roam this area.