Queer Sydney: Hidden Histories walking tour
About the event
If these walls could talk, they’d tell you to order another round and get out of the drag queens’ way.
From 1980 until 2001, The Albury Hotel at 2a Oxford Street was the undisputed, rowdiest beating heart of Sydney’s gay scene. Famous for its shirtless bartenders, piano bar, and legendary drag shows, the crowds were so massive they routinely spilled out onto the pavement.
The building might be quiet now, but its wild energy helped define the golden era of Oxford Street.
Want to uncover the secret stories behind the places you walk past every day? Join us on our Queer Sydney: Hidden Histories walking tour as we dive into the legendary bars, secret haunts, and outrageous icons that built our city’s queer DNA.
Book your spot via the link in our bio!
Photographer: Mazz Image
About the venue
Qtopia Sydney is a queer history museum and cultural centre at 301 Forbes Street, Darlinghurst. It opened in 2024 inside the former Darlinghurst Police Station, where people arrested at the first Sydney Mardi Gras in 1978 were held…
“Great theatre. Wonderful location. Enjoyed the museum and the fact the original prison cells from the police station that it once was is preserved” — Eva McArdle, Google
“A big shoutout to the dedicate volunteers! They are very forthcoming and passionate in sharing information regarding the exhibition.” — jinggwennlinn, Google
Nearby Hotels
via Stay22Sydney, Australia Open in Maps →
Our three picks · Sydney
via Stay22YWCA-run budget hotel by Hyde Park at the city end of Oxford Street, with dorms, basic rooms and ensuite studios.
Serviced apartments on Campbell Street at the southern edge of Sydney's CBD, near Central Station and Chinatown.
Design-led luxury hotel in the heritage Gowings and State Theatre buildings on Market Street, Sydney CBD, with a spa, bar and grill.
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Last verified: 21 Oct 2026 Source: instagram.com Report an issue