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Things to Do in Canberra

Things to Do in Canberra

There are numerous things to do in Canberra as the place is crammed with beauty and cultural treasures. With the proliferation of galleries, museums, and the world’s leading research units, the city is an attractive hub for intellectual chasers and showcases. So, if you enjoy exploring mesmerizing natural beauty, go to museum hopping and cafes; you don’t want to miss touring this city. People who come to this city get to experience awe-struck views each autumn, attend energetic floral festivals in spring, quest on the summer lake, truffles in winter and explore jaw-dropping exhibitions throughout the year.

Among the long list of Canberra Australia things to do, you must not miss out on the chance to reconnect with nature and Australian animals. Also, explore the National Gallery of Australia, wander around the wine breweries, discover beautiful sites of lake burley griffin and spend a joyous day with your young family member at Questacon. However, it is not only the activities that will make you fall in love with the city; it is its beautiful buildings, its art of history, and the local’s behavior. Moreover, it can be really fun if you visit Canberra with your friends since it has the most happening nightlife among many cities of the world.

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The Parliament House
 Adorned with the boomerang-shaped structure the Parliament House is one of the best places to visit in Canberra. It is intricately built with modern style architecture and has got several recognitions for its design. The entrance of the building is embraced with well-manicured lawns and one can gape at the classic views it extends. The major architectural highlights of the Parliament House are the two granite walls where you can see a slight reflection of the hill and the 81-meter tall flagpole carved with elegant designs.

Here you can learn about the Australian history & city’s street layout. If you are an architecture lover or wish to know about the origin of cities then this is your place to be. Make sure that you visit the various galleries here, as they are the best source of information for travelers.

Location: Parliament House, Parliament Dr, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia

Timings: All days, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Lake Burley Griffin
Almost every traveler who visits Canberra must add this beautiful Lake Burley Griffin to their list as it’s not just a remarkable sight here but is a true delight for the soul. This is the centerpiece of the capital city and gets its name from the architect who built it back in 1958.

If you are looking for a beautiful wavefront with relaxing vibes, then this is the place to be. The park is fringed with sparkling shores and one can spot around six islands that are scattered in this lake. One must not miss out on this lake because of the adventures it offers, like the 147-meter high fountain, Captain Cook Memorial Jet, and the mighty globe that showcases Cook’s journeys! Lying adjacent to the lake is Commonwealth park that has its own amphitheater & elegant waterfalls that will not fail to surprise you with their charm. 

Location:
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 

Timings:
All days, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Canberra Railway Museum
Enjoy an interesting tour of the Canberra Railway Museum, which is situated inside Kingston in the Australian Capital Territory. This museum is one-of-its-kinds and showcases an amazing collection of historic steam locomotives that were used back in the early centuries.

Here you can find the mainline diesel locomotives, steam locomotives, carriages, and countless other engines that were used back in the olden times. Something that you should not miss out on when here is the 140-year-old locomotive 1210 which was the very first train for this capital city in the year 1914. If you have an interest in facts and how engines work, then this is a must-add place for you in the Canberra itinerary.

Location:
7 Geijera Pl, Fyshwick ACT 2604, Australia

Timings:
10:00 am to 03:30 pm only Sunday
Mount Majura Vineyard
One more among the most fun-filled Canberra tourist places is the Mount Majura Vineyard. This place is a pioneer of Australia when it comes to vineyards and is covered with red clay soils. It is known for its production of great quality Riesling and Shiraz wines which are a great success.

This place is not just a vineyard but also has a winery where you sit and sip in some of the best wines of the city. When here you can learn all about the process of winemaking and even contribute a bit to it. Later, you can just explore their cellar, which features a unique sitting experience and stylish interiors. If you are traveling here with your loved one then this a place you should not miss.

Location:
88, Lime Kiln Road, Majura ACT 2609, Australia

Timings:
All days, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
The National Portrait Gallery
The National Gallery Of Australia
Australian National Botanic Gardens
Nestled about a kilometer away from the heart of the city is this nature delight-Australian National Botanic Gardens, which sprawls over 50 hectares of land. These gardens are dotted on the slopes of Black Mountain and feature an exotic collection of Australian flora.

You can also take a look at the water dragons in the lush foliage of gardens. Apart from this, there is the Red center garden that features red earth along with the Children’s Discovery Walk. If you are a birdwatcher, then this place is a haven for you as it boasts a number of avian species. Make sure that you spot the Gallery of gardens, Penjing collection, and the National Bonsai!

Location:
Clunies Ross St, Acton ACT 2601, Australia

Timings:
All days, 08:30 am to 5:00 pm
Beijing Garden
Canberra is also famous for this garden, A Chinese ancient garden at intervals Lennox Gardens, on the formation of Lake Burley mythical monster. A conventional Chinese gate welcomes guests. Ways meander past sculptures crafted by Chinese stone masonry the Chinese tent offers an area for the quiet get back get pleasure from the garden's serenity and delightful views across the lake towards a number of Canberra's known landmarks just like the National repository and Telstra tower.

The symbols, creatures from Chinese mythology, a unit of measurement revered as deities with each representing a celestial constellation, a season and one in all the cardinal points. So, on this sculpture you will be ready to see any type of birds and beasts like: A black turtle, an azure dragon, a vermilion (Phoenix) bird, a white tiger,

Location:Flynn Drive, Yarralumla

OPENING HOURS:-Open 24 hours a day

ENTRY COSTS: -Free 
Mount Ainslie Lookout
Among one of the most serene places to see in Canberra is Mount Ainslie that features picture-perfect vistas of nature. The layout of the mount is beautifully crafted to cater to the needs of the visitors. It is located at an elevation of 843 meters above the ground, and one can even take the bird’s eye view of the city with its vantage points.

While tracing this beautiful mountain, you can also witness a wide collection of flora & fauna. There is even a well-paved path to reach the top of the mountain where you can cycle up the trail instead of trekking it. If you are on the lookout for an adventurous yet amazing experience, then trekking this mountain is a great choice. 

Location:
Mount Ainslie Drive, Canberra

Timings:
All days, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Questacon National Science And Technology
A tour to Canberra is incomplete without visiting Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre. This center is located between the High court and National Library on the shores of sparkling Lake Burley Griffin. It offers an interactive range of science displays, and you can also indulge in various experiments all by yourself. This place was opened back in 1988 to increase the knowledge of people and is revered by tourists and locals alike.

While visiting this place, make sure to witness the science shows and learning sessions as they are quite informative and tell you about the new innovations happening around the globe. Not only this, but you can also participate in knowledge sharing if you have your own science masterwork. There are various temporary and permanent exhibitions like the H2O Soak, Science room, and several others that you can witness here, where you charge up your brain cells!

Location:
King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia

Timings:
All days, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Telstra Tower
Standing high and tall as the most iconic building of Canberra is the: Telstra Tower. This mighty tower stands 195 meters high above the ground and can be easily spotted from the city. It offered a 360-degree view of the entire city and has an observation deck as well.

While there is a closed observation deck there are two other open decks from view you can gape at the panoramic views of the city and also whiff in the fresh air. Apart from this, you can even enjoy a quick meal with your friends & family at its very own cafe which serves local delights. As the tower stands high with an amazing design it has also received several awards and is a must-visit spot in Canberra for a memorable experience. 

Location:
100 Black Mountain Dr, Acton ACT 2601, Australia

Timings:
All days, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Royal Australian Mint
If you are looking for a place that you can cover quickly then Royal Australian Mint is the place for you. This is the place where you can learn about the heritage of the city and more about the currency of Australia. This place gets its name the Royal Australian Mint as all the coins are minted here.

When here, you can learn about coin manufacturing and take a look at the galleries that showcase the coins from early times. Not only this but you can also get your own coins minted here if they lost their shine. All the coins that are circulated in the entire Australia are manufactured here and it was opened back in 1965. This is a popular tourist destination so make sure you visit it on your Canberra trip.

Location:
Denison St, Deakin ACT 2600, Australia

Timings:
All days, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
National Zoo And Aquarium
Vist it early in the morning or in the daytime, this place will never fail to surprise you. Marking its prominence in the spectrum of wildlife places to see in Canberra the National Zoo & Aquarium is a great option for a day out. Here you can take a look at the underwater world right from the small reefs to the huge sharks in the tanks.

Apart from this, you can even experience the wildlife with its wide collection in the Zoo. It features some of the best collections of flora & fauna like the sun bears, red pandas, cheetah, and countless others. It is located in the heart of the city and easily accessible so make sure that you add this place to your itinerary plan!

Location:
999 Lady Denman Drive, Western Creek, Yarralumla

Timings:
All days, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
National Carillon
Amidst the shore of Lake Burley Griffin lies the National Carillon which is the most iconic structure of Aspen Island. This tower was a gift to Australia from the British government on their 50th birthday back in 1963. This mighty tower stands 50 meters high and has around three sections.

The most striking feature of this tower is the 55 bronze bells that are adorned on it and they range in different sizes making it look even prettier. If you are planning for a fun-filled time with family or friends then you can head out to this place and also stroll around on the well-maintained lawns. Make sure that you visit this place in the moonlight as the tower is lit in the evening and looks beautiful at this time.

Location:
Kings Park, Aspen Island, Canberra

Timings:
All days, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
The Australian War Memorial
Take pride and feel the patriotic vibes at the Australian War Memorial, an amazing one in the array of places to visit in Canberra.  Built back at the time of World War II to pay tribute to the soldiers and citizens who lost their lives, this memorial is worth visiting. Australian War Memorial is not just a war memorial but has a lot more to offer to the visitors like the museum, library, and galleries. The names of the martyrs who lost their lives are engraved in bronze on the walls keeping them still alive.

While the museum still preserves the remains of WWII the galleries have images & paintings that depict the conflicts of that time. Some of the highlights of this place are the Discovery Zone that has interactive displays and a wide collection of aircraft of that time. Make sure that you visit each part of this memorial as the installations will give you a sense of what WWII was for Australia.

Location:
Treloar Crescent (top of ANZAC Parade), Campbell

Timings:
All days, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

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Canberra Things To Do FAQs

What are the best things to do in Canberra?

1. Reconnect with nature and Australian animals: Canberra is the only place in Australia that has a combined aquarium and zoo facility. Exploring this place is one of the top things to do in Canberra with your little ones. The national aquarium showcases a wide array of marine ranging from tiny residents of the reef to dangerous sharks. Simultaneously, the zoo ventures display various important species of Australia, including fauna and all other exotic species. Here you get to feed a bear, hand-feed a giraffe, and pat a rhino.

Location: 999 Lady Denman Drive, Western Creek, Yarralumla
Price: $47
Timing: 9:30 am to 5 pm, except Christmas Day

2. Explore the National Gallery of Australia: Among the long list of Canberra Australia things to do, the second-best thing you can do here is exploring the National Gallery of Australia. This gallery contains the largest jaw-dropping collection of art. It was first opened in the year 1982 and still contains eleven main galleries on three levels. You can find the largest art collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders here and the eyes-struck work of Asian, Australian, American and European. Moreover, there are beautiful oil paintings, sketchbooks, ceramics, sculptures, costumes, and many more things to explore.

Location: Parkes Place Parkes
Time: 9 am to 5 pm

3. Rejuvenate in the Australian National botanical garden: Another activity you can add to your list of Canberra Australia things to do is rejuvenating your soul in the National botanical garden. Everyone knows Australia has a great collection of flora, especially when it comes to wildflowers. The national botanical garden depicts just that. Make sure to take a stroll around the Rainforest gully, children’s discovery park, red center garden and the Black Mountain Nature park to get some fantastic views. Apart from being a great strolling place containing many exotic trees and rare native, it is also a perfect picnic spot with panoramic views.

Location: Clunies Ross Street, Acton
Timing: 8:30 am to 5 pm, except Christmas Day

4. Wander around the wine breweries: Canberra has three cool-climate wine places, which offers its visitor a spectacular chance to go wine-tasting and wander through the breweries. A 30-minute drive through more than 140 vineyards and 40 wineries is what gives people a soulful experience. The region has been making wine for around 160 years and has been pioneered by scientists. Here you not only get to experience the traditional methods of producing low-volume vintages, but you also get to meet the winemakers in the cellar doors for testing.
Time: Starts from 9:30 am

5. Witness the panoramic views from Mount Ainslie: Mount Ainslie is located in the northeast of central Canberra, inside the Canberra nature park. The place boasts a jaw-dropping panoramic view of central Canberra like the Black mountain, Capital hill and other gorgeous statues of the west. If you want to show an excellent and extremely educational side of this mountain to your young family member, find the Mount Kokoda summit train. It is a well-maintained and informational signposted trail situated behind the Australian war memorial.

Location: 20 Mount Ainslie Dr, Australian Capital Territory 2609

6. Visiting National Library of Australia: This national library is the treasure trove of Australia and visiting it is one of the best interesting things to do in Canberra. It contains a wide range of manuscripts, books, oral history, newspapers, historic documents, music and pictures that will completely blow your mind. Moreover, the place has the most valuable possession, i.e., the captain cook’s journal. Many find the structure of the national gallery mesmerizing because of its dramatic contrast and Greek style. Also, don’t miss out on exploring the superb stained glass window in the foyer.

Location: Parkes Place, Parkes
Time: 9 am to 5 pm

7. Discover beautiful sites of lake burley griffinDiscovering the beautiful sites of Lake Burley Griffin is another best thing to do in Canberra. It is the centerpiece of Canberra and is not only a place for biking and strolling but also a great spot for a picnic. Many find it very soothing to set up a picnic along a park bordered with shores and paddle along the glistening waters. Six islands lie in its center, among which the largest is Aspen Island, home to National Carillon. Apart from these, there are also a national library, national gallery, national museum and Questacon, which you can explore.

8. Spend a joyous day with your young family member: When thinking of the best thing to do in Canberra with kids, you can visit the Questacon, The National Science and Technology center. It is an interactive wonderland that explains to your kids the power of an element, witnesses lightning strike and understands the force of an earthquake. Moreover, your kid also gets to meet a friendly mechanical humanoid, the Robo Q. Furthermore, it is just beside the National Zoo and Aquarium, so you can also discover the National Dinosaurs museum while enjoying the wildlife.

Location: King Edward Terrace, Parkes Act 2600
Price: $ 18.90 to $24.50
Time: 9 am to 5 pm, last session 3 pm

Click Here to Book Now: Sydney Tower Eye Tickets

What are the romantic things to do in Canberra?

1. Propose on a hot air balloon: One of the most romantic things to do in Canberra to impress your loved one is to book a hot air balloon date. As you take off with sunrise, you both get to witness how remarkable this city of Canberra is. On top of this, the drifting wind gives the best ambiance for proposing.

2. Book lunch boat ride: You can book a boat ride and pack a picnic to have the most romantic date while steering the boat around Lake Burley Griffin.

3. Couples Spa: Another romantic thing you can try is a couple-spa day. You can start it with a bath blended in aromatherapy oils and scented moisturizers and then take it to lounges with complimentary chocolate and sparkling.

4. Cozy date night: You can enjoy a simple and cozy date night at Bar Rochford to surprise your loved one. It has great food, wine and cozy couches to serve as the perfect setting.

5. Enjoy live music and drinks together: You can enjoy live jazz music and classic cocktails together at Molly Bar for a shakeup night.

Also Book: Skydiving Newcastle

What are the adventurous things to do in Canberra?

1. Ski or snowboard: When looking for adventurous things to do in Canberra, try skiing or snowboarding in the Corin Forest mountain resort during winter. It has gentle sloping terrain and modern snowmaking technology for a perfect experience.

2. Horse riding: With Burnelee Excursions on Horseback, you get to saddle up for an adventure in Canberra. Moreover, you also get to muster sheep and cattle as well as spot native wildlife.

3. Rock climbing: Another thrilling activity you can try in Canberra is rock climbing and bushwalking. Namadgi National park has an outstanding collection of Booroomba Rocks worth climbing.

4. Bike along the centenary trail: Bikers love to cycle along the centenary trail covered with natural environment all around. It is a 145 kilometer self-guided trail loop which can give you enough adrenaline rush.

5. Ride the rapids: For a heart-racing experience, you can raft the rapids of the mighty Murrumbidgee River. While rafting, the expert will also guide you through water dragons and other wildlife.

Also Book: Skydiving Wollongong

How to reach Canberra?

1. By flights: 14 international flights land in Canberra every week. Moreover, there are daily flights from Singapore and flights every two hours from eastern Australia.

2. By car: It just takes three hours and eight hours from Sydney and Melbourne, respectively. However, you can take other scenic route alternatives if you want to enjoy other towns on your way.

3. By train: chauffeured cars and coaches: If you want someone else to take the responsibility of driving, you can take services from various regular buses, coach service, chauffeur-driven car and train option.

What is the best time to visit Canberra?

The best time to visit Canberra is during its springtime, i.e., from September to November. It is a very pleasant time of the year when the weather is cool at night and sunny in the daytime. Moreover, you also get to attend the colorful Floriade festival.

What is Canberra known for?

Canberra is known for many things ranging from world-class exhibits to incomparable art galleries and spectacular events. It is also an attractive spot for many because of its sweeping nature reserves and extensive mountain ranges.

What to buy from Canberra?

You can buy many things from the popular gifting shops of Canberra like jewelry, art and design items, glassware, books, toys, jigsaws, scarves, bags, and a lot more things.

Is Canberra worth visiting?

Canberra has so much to offer its tourists, from interesting national galleries, botanical gardens to the zoo. However, apart from offering so many awesome places, it has incredible hospitality, making it worth visiting.

How many days in Canberra is enough?

Three days are more than enough to visit Canberra. It lets you digest the history, culture and outdoor activity of the place while giving you a perfectly rounded short break.

What are the best things to do in Canberra at night?

1. Try whiskey at Hippo Co: The place has around 200 choices of whiskey. Plus, it has a perfect ambiance with jazz music in the background to sit and enjoy drinks with friends.

2. Dance at the basement Canberra: Among all the coolest Canberra Australian things to do, the best one is to dance in this finest nightclub. It is the ultimate place with a beer garden, pool tables, and perfect music choice to show your groove.

3. Taste Asian style cuisine: Akiba is an east Asia-themed BBQ where you get to taste the Asian style cuisine and enjoy a homely ambiance with amazing cocktails.

4. Hit 88mph: If you are a person stuck in the 80’s you can find a good time in 88mph. The place runs 80’s theme music, serves fresh pizzas and awesome drinks.

5. Visit Honkytonks: It is a restaurant cum bar that operates at night. It has the most amazing American and Mexican fusion cuisine and is one of the hip places in the city.

What are the best free things to do in Canberra?

1. Visit Australian War Memorial: The best thing to do in Canberra for free is to visit the Australian War Memorial. It has several interactive exhibitions, portraits, paintings, and videos to blow your minds off.

2. Take a stroll at botanical gardens: Another perfect thing you can do is take a stroll at the botanical garden containing a beautiful red desert area, rocks and beautiful buildings around it.

3. Explore parliament house: To learn about the past and present of the Australian government, you can explore this house of extensive art collection.

4. Lake Burley Griffin: By visiting Lake Burley Griffin, you get to explore Blundells Cottage, National Carillion and The National Capital Exhibition. In addition to these, there are many more things to explore.

5. Tour the Royal Australian Mint: To learn about the currency’s present and past and witness how it was made, you must visit the Royal Australian Mint. It is also a place where you can see real robots in action.

Click Here to Book Now: Symbio Wildlife Park Tickets

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