Things to do in South Canberra

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Melbourne which includes night scenes, a square or plaza and a city
Australian Capital Territory featuring fall colors and a park
Royal Australian Mint featuring interior views
Royal Australian Mint featuring interior views
Parliament House featuring interior views, modern architecture and an administrative buidling

South Canberra Attractions

Explore the best sights in South Canberra with some popular tours & day trips, or try out our list of {29 fun activities in South Canberra fun activities in South Canberra}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and channel all your energy into planning the vacation of a lifetime.


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South Canberra must see attractions

1. Parliament House

Australia’s Parliament House is the standout structure in the capital. It’s in the very centre of the city and has an impressive 62 acres (25 hectares)) of floor space. It’s the work of New York-based architectural firm Mitchell and Giurgola, who beat 329 entrants from 28 countries in a competition run by the Australian Government. Construction started in 1981, and it was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988.
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Parliament House featuring an administrative buidling

2. Questacon

Questacon is the Australian National Science and Technology Centre. It features a range of exhibits about everything from water, to electricity and light. Most exhibits are targeted at children, but there’s plenty to see and do for adults as well.
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Questacon

3. National Gallery of Australia

The National Gallery of Australia is the largest art museum in the country. It’s home to over 160,000 works, including the most extensive collection of Aboriginal art in the world. It also holds traditional and modern works from all around Asia, statues and paintings by European and American masters, and Australian works from the colonial era to the present day.
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National Gallery of Australia showing outdoor art

4. Old Parliament House

Old Parliament House was constructed in the 1920s as a provisional base for the national parliament. It was designed in a stripped classical style with little ornamentation, but is decorated with numerous artworks and Australian timber panelling. Today it’s home to the Museum of Australian Democracy, hosting exhibits about the evolution and workings of the Australian political system.
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Old Parliament House which includes heritage architecture, interior views and an administrative buidling

5. Manuka Shopping Centre

Experience a friendly village atmosphere at Manuka Shopping Centre, which provides interesting outlets for everyday needs, entertainment and luxuries all in one location. Visit for essential services and stay for the restaurants, fashion and gift shops, all in close proximity to Canberra’s major attractions.
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Manuka Shopping Centre which includes autumn leaves

6. Royal Australian Mint

The Royal Australian Mint was opened in 1965 by Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh ahead of the introduction of the new Australian dollar in 1966. The mint makes every single coin in circulation as well as medallions and commemorative tokens. It does not produce notes; these are produced at Note Printing Australia.
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Royal Australian Mint showing interior views as well as a large group of people

7. National Library of Australia

The National Library of Australia is the most comprehensive reference library in the country. It was formed as the National Parliamentary Library in 1901 and became the National Library in 1960. Its collection includes Asian literary works and documents, rare books and manuscripts, photographs, maps, paintings, music and video. Browse the archives, choose something interesting and settle down in a reading room. There are over 10 million items in the library catalogue, so you’re sure to find something to your taste. The periodicals section has copies of the first newspaper printed in Australia as well as an enormous range of overseas publications. Explore the manuscripts archive to see gems like Captain Cook’s journal and original documents written by the country’s first prime minister.
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Autumn is quite a spectacular affair in Canberra as the deep reds, oranges and yellows creep into the foliage with earnest on a backdrop of the rich gold colour of the grass plains after another hot summer. Canberra comes alive for ten days and celebrates the coming of autumn with the Enlighten Festival, which literally lights up the Parliamentary Triangle. The first week in March is the time to visit. The Enlighten Festival is a must, with food, street performers, architectural projections, music, film and more to absorb over the 10 days.

8. National Archives of Australia

The National Archives of Australia was officially formed in 1961 to preserve and promote access to important documents from the country’s history. It holds everything from government legislation to blueprints and patent applications. There’s a series of permanent exhibits as well as frequent special exhibitions, lecture series and workshops.
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National Archives of Australia which includes interior views and signage

What to do in South Canberra

Free Things to Do in South Canberra

Leave your wallet in the hotel room. It's a snap to have a blast in South Canberra without surrendering a penny.

Parliament House - Be wowed by the design and originality of this fantastic example of modern architecture.

Merchant Navy Memorial - Stop by this historic site and discover a few things about the cultural heritage of the area.

Dalhousie Mound Springs - Shut your eyes and draw a deep breath — nothing beats being near the water for some calm and relaxation.

Embassy of America - Well known among the locals, this site is worth taking a look at.

Canberra Baptist Church - Spend a moment in prayer or meditation at this tranquil sacred place.

Arkaroo Rock - You're bound to feel connected with Mother Earth at this picturesque place.

National Rose Gardens - If you're into pottering about the garden, this place will delight your green thumb.

Things to Do in South Canberra with Kids

You'll find loads of enjoyable things to do in South Canberra with the young ones. Everyone can get in on the sightseeing with these family friendly experiences:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in South Canberra

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in South Canberra

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
Spring is here 😎

Narrabundah

You'll appreciate the restaurants during your time in Narrabundah and you might want to plan a stop by Capital Public Golf Course and Manuka Oval while you're in the area.

Narrabundah
Manuka Shopping Centre which includes autumn leaves

Griffith

A walk through the tranquil leafy streets of this Garden City suburb reveals architectural marvels and pleasant local parks.

Griffith
Manuka Shopping Centre which includes autumn leaves

Manuka

Green streets, historic buildings, excellent food and ample shopping opportunities distinguish this small South Canberra suburb.

Manuka
Parliament House featuring an administrative buidling

Capital Hill

4/5(24 area reviews)

With its many museums and government buildings, this planned district offers a convenient way to learn about Australian history and culture.

Capital Hill
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Forrest

Check out the restaurants, shopping, and forests while spending some time in Forrest. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighborhood, you won't need to go far to find top spots like Manuka Shopping Centre or Manuka Oval.

Forrest

 

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Popular day trips from South Canberra

Frequently asked questions

What to do in South Canberra on a sunny day?
What to do in South Canberra on a rainy day?
A Small-Group Craft Beer Tour with Lunch & Tastings is a terrific indoor activity to try if the weather turns bad.
What should I not miss in South Canberra?
Pack your appetite for adventure and head straight to these popular sights:

  • National Gallery of Australia
  • Parliament House
  • Old Parliament House

What can you do in South Canberra for free?
Your vacation in South Canberra needn't break the bank with free things like these to enjoy:

  • Parliament House
  • National Library of Australia
  • Manuka Shopping Centre
  • The Cusack Centre

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