Australia Is Even Better After Dark—From Torchlit Tours and Open-air Theater to Rooftop Climbs Under the Stars

As far as travel trends go, none are making a splash in 2025 quite as hard as “noctourism.” In fact, Booking.com named it the No. 1 travel trend of the year. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like: nocturnal tourism, ensuring people don’t just see their favorite destinations in the daylight. This trend is all about what happens in these spots after dark. And few spots are as spectacular after the sun goes down as Australia. 

“We’re seeing an increase in visitors coming specifically for the night sky, but also for our nocturnal wildlife tours and dark-sky experiences,” Sarah Clark, the chief executive of Tourism Tasmania, recently shared with ABC. “Tourists are coming for the natural beauty during the day, but staying for the nighttime spectacles like the aurora. It’s a major driver for visitors, particularly from international markets.”

And while certainly gorgeous, travelers should stay up late for far more than the aurora. 

From torchlit prison tours and twilight roof climbs, to artistic illuminations and private after-hours museum access, these seven nighttime experiences from Cultural Attractions of Australia members will make your next night visit to Australia all the more memorable. 

Badu Gili, Sydney Opera House

Every evening, the Sydney Opera House transforms into a glowing canvas as Badu Gili, which translates to “water light” in Gadigal language, illuminates the eastern Bennelong sails with spectacular First Nations art. The free art exhibit runs multiple times each evening after sunset, so check here for the full schedule. 

Torchlight Tour, Fremantle Prison

Visit Western Australia’s only UNESCO World Heritage site after dark with a spooky and educational nighttime tour. The Torchlight Tour at Fremantle Prison takes visitors into the cells, tunnels, and courtyards of the prison, all by handheld light, with guides recounting the stories of those imprisoned in the 19th-century penitentiary. Book a tour here. 

Night at the Gallery, National Gallery of Australia

Live out a real-life “Night at the Museum” experience at Canberra’s National Gallery, which opens its doors after hours for select Night at the Gallery events. Get access to marquee exhibitions, performances by local creatives, food and drink pop-ups, and a more intimate vibe than your average daytime visit. See exhibition dates here. 

RoofClimb Twilight, Adelaide Oval

Get a bird’s-eye view of South Australia’s capital by signing up for the RoofClimb Twilight experience. As the sun sets, guests will strap in and ascend the curved rooftop of the Adelaide Oval, a historic sports arena, taking them all the way to the top. There, guests can gaze upon the twinkling city lights and the River Torrens below. Book your climb here. 

Aura, Sovereign Hill

Aura is far from your average historic reenactment. This immersive nighttime show at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat includes projection mapping, storytelling, and sound design to help guests more deeply understand the impact of the discovery of gold in the area. Learn about the chapters of Australia’s history by booking the experience here. 

Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour

Experience the magic of live theater under the stars with open-air productions at the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbor.  With seats over the water, the stars above, and the Sydney skyline behind you, it certainly has cinematic appeal. See what’s coming to the stage for your next visit here.

Dinner with David, MONA

Travelers can sit down for one of the most exclusive meals in the world with Dinner With David at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). The event, hosted by MONA founder David Walsh, is a rare experience that brings each guest into his orbit for an evening of food, wine, and unforgettable conversation. Get a seat at the table here.