Things to do in Canberra

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Parliament House showing an administrative buidling and landscape views
National Arboretum Canberra which includes landscape views and tranquil scenes
Parliament House showing an administrative buidling
Acton showing a city and modern architecture
Canberra

Canberra Attractions

Built from the ground up to be the center of Australia's government and national identity, this stately inland city is ready to share a broad, scenic perspective on the country. You're surrounded by national monuments arrayed around stately avenues and plenty of green space, where you can explore the country's history and art, admire the beautiful scenery, and find a wealth of things to do in Canberra that help you get to know what the city has to offer.


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What to do in Canberra

Free Things to Do in Canberra

There's no need to run your credit card hot in Canberra. The following won't cost a red cent.

Australian Army Memorial - Round up the entire family and enjoy a fascinating adventure through history with each other.

Canberra Contemporary Art Space - If you want to find out more about the area's thriving arts and culture scene, be sure to stop by.

Civic Square - Swing by this landmark and admire its unique design.

Australian and New Zealand 1916-1918 Memorial - If you're interested in times gone by, this is one attraction you really shouldn't miss.

Lake Burley Griffin - Draw a deep breath — nothing beats being beside the water for some rest and relaxation.

CSIRO Discovery Centre - Dig out your guidebook and find out why this place is worth a spot on your itinerary.

Canberra City Church - Whether you're spiritual or not, this place will inspire a sense of reverence.

Mount Ainslie - Unwind and let the natural surrounds here quieten your mind.

City Hill - Organize a picnic and enjoy a walk around the beautiful plants.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Canberra

Forrest

Set right up against the south side of Capital Hill, Forrest's spoke-like avenues are laid out along the original plans drawn up for Australia's federal city. Lined with suburban-style homes and plenty of trees, the area hosts a community of public servants and young professionals with parkland in almost every direction.

Braddon

On the north side of Lake Burley Griffin and bordering Canberra's central business district, you're treated to the vintage buildings and hip attractions in one of the city's oldest neighborhoods. With a row of hotels along Northbourne Avenue and an embarrassment of cafes, bakeries, and pubs on Lonsdale Street, you're in for a delicious and eclectic stay.

Kingston

Running up along the edge of the water and the Jerrabomberra Wetlands, Canberra's first suburb is home to some of its liveliest scenes. Mostly redeveloped from a working-class neighborhood, Kingston still features a few old brick buildings along the Causeway beside the trendy eateries, plazas, and boardwalks that line the Foreshore.

What to See in Canberra

Fittingly for a continent known for its landscapes and open space, the Australian capital has plenty of nature and outstanding views. You can get a great sense of the landscape from the top of Mount Ainslie, and then follow the open mall of Anzac Parade all the way from the Australian War Memorial to the edge of the water.

On the far side of the lake, the Old Parliament House stands in front of the modern new building for a striking symbol of the country's evolution, and you can find a wealth of galleries and museums that range from the prehistoric exhibits at the National Dinosaur Museum to the showcase of science and technology at Questacon. Check out some boutique wines just outside of town at the Mount Majura Vineyard, or get a 360-degree view from the observation deck at Telstra Tower.

Sightseeing in Canberra

If you're looking for a way to sort through the terrific range of sights in Canberra, there's plenty a guide who can help with that. Join a photography tour to practice your camerawork as you're shown to some especially photogenic spots, or take to the sky in a hot-air balloon to see things from a more elevated perspective. If you're more interested in adrenaline than photos, you can get a minute of freefall with some tandem skydiving.

For a deeper look at the heritage that's kept in the city, you can take a tour of the National Museum of Australia with a dedicated host, get to know the athlete's life with a visit to the Australian Institute of Sport, or meet the creatures of the Southern Hemisphere at the National Zoo & Aquarium. A tastier side of the city awaits on a trip through Canberra's craft beer scene, or you can admire the sights of the world in miniature with a visit to Cockington Green Gardens.

Things to Do in Canberra with Kids

There's fun for all the family wherever you wander in Canberra. Here are a few family friendly experiences to try together that are certain to make your escape memorable:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Canberra

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Canberra

Australian War Memorial which includes flowers and a memorial

Canberra City Centre

4/5(56 area reviews)

The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Canberra City Centre. A stop by Canberra Museum and Gallery or Canberra Theatre Centre might round out your trip.

Canberra City Centre
Kingston which includes modern architecture and a bridge

Kingston

The buildings of this foreshore, once a Canberra industrial hub, have been transformed into a welcoming urban lakeside community.

Kingston
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Belconnen

Unique features of Belconnen include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Bimbi Beach or Bargang while you're exploring the area.

Belconnen
Braddon showing landscape views, a sunset and a small town or village

Braddon

Marvel at the urban renaissance of this up-and-coming neighborhood known for its award-winning food and drink, as well as handmade crafts and sophisticated design.

Braddon
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Queanbeyan

Visitors to Queanbeyan enjoy its bars, and if you want to do some exploring, The Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre is worth a stop.

Queanbeyan
Australian War Memorial which includes flowers and a memorial

Northern Canberra

Northern Canberra is known for its popular shops, and you can see some sights in the area like Canberra Museum and Gallery and Civic Square.

Northern Canberra

 

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Popular day trips from Canberra

Frequently asked questions

Is Canberra worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Canberra is visit Mount Ainslie. Tick this leading attraction off your agenda, then discover more of the area's festivals and history.
How do I spend a day in Canberra?
When you've checked off major attractions like Mount Ainslie and Big Splash Waterpark, spend the rest of your day exploring the retail and food options in Canberra.
What is the top tourist attraction in Canberra?
The top tourist attraction in Canberra is Mount Ainslie, so don't forget to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Canberra?
You can easily enjoy leading sights like Mount Ainslie, Big Splash Waterpark and Mount Pleasant Nature Reserve with a three-day getaway in Canberra. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to Canberra Airport.
Is Canberra a walkable city?
With popular neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Canberra is a good place to see on foot. Wander between Mount Ainslie and Mount Pleasant Nature Reserve. Then take a stroll around Canberra City Centre, located 0.1 miles from downtown, and Braddon, which is roughly 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Canberra with kids?
What to do in Canberra for adults?
The Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre and Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial are just a couple of the things to do in Canberra. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Canberra?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Canberra. If you need inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Mount Ainslie is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing activities.