Discover the fascinating history of Melbourne Observatory, built in the early 1860s. A behind-the-scenes tour of the Melbourne Observatory, and a chance to stargaze through its heritage telescopes. The Melbourne Observatory, in the Royal Botanic Gardens, opened in the early 1860s as the city's home of weather forecasting, time keeping and star charting. Every Monday in July and August, Melburnians can tour the 157-year-old observatory, hear its fascinating history, and gaze up at the night's sky through its heritage telescopes. Tours run for 1.5 hours. From 8pm. Group tours available by arrangement. Tours go ahead in all weather conditions; cancellation policy applies.