InterContinental Sydney is bringing its historic lift to life through a new moving bar experience that celebrates the building’s rich heritage.

Built in 1851 as part of Sydney’s first purpose-built government office, it is believed to be the oldest working lift in the Southern Hemisphere and remains as a centrepiece of The Treasury Bar and Lounge today. Located at the heart of the hotel’s original cortile, The Treasury Bar marks the location Australia’s first vine plantation was laid. The lift itself has been preserved since the hotel’s transformation in 1985. In this new bar experience, guests will be invited to step into the historic lift in the Treasury atrium and watch on as mixologists craft micro cocktails on the spot as the lift ascends and descends. Each cocktail is a nod to days of old. The Georgian Gimlet, for example, celebrates the Treasury building’s Georgian architectural style with Four Pillars Yuzu Gin, while The Vault Martini is inspired by the old vault beneath The Treasury where bonds were once stored. The experience continues at The Treasury Bar, where a second cocktail from a curated menu is served tableside, paired with two small plates.

“The Treasury Bar is a vault of Sydney’s best-kept secrets, and we’re thrilled to unveil the southern hemisphere’s oldest lift bar,” said InterContinental Sydney Director of Bars, Mattia Arnaboldi. “It will allow guests to immerse themselves in a part of Sydney’s rich history, journeying through time and taste, as they sip on cocktails that reflect the heritage and charm of the Treasury.” The Southern Hemisphere’s Oldest Lift Bar will open for guests, each Friday and Saturday from February 21 to March 29, 2025, between 4pm-6pm.