Things to do in South Canberra

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Rolling hills, dense forests, and a clear sky.
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South Canberra Attractions

Explore the best sights in South Canberra with some popular tours & day trips, or try out our list of {47 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.

Things to do

Beautiful view of the Canberra in Australia

Canberra Discovery Tour - Australia's Capital by Gray Line Sydney

$121
per adult
72% of travellers recommend
Canberra Discovery Tour - Australia's Capital by Gray Line Sydney
Captain Cook Memorial Water Jet

Canberra Day Tour - all major Attractions, All free entry

$46
per adult
Canberra Day Tour - all major Attractions, All free entry
Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines

Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines

$49
per adult
Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines
Spies and Secrets in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour

Spies and Secrets in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour

$43
per adult
Spies and Secrets in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour
Canberra Axe Throwing 1 Hour Experience

Canberra Axe Throwing 1 Hour Experience

$39
per adult
Canberra Axe Throwing 1 Hour Experience
Riverside Canberra Stargazing Tour with Astronomer

Riverside Canberra Stargazing Tour with Astronomer

$66
per adult
Riverside Canberra Stargazing Tour with Astronomer
Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour

Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour

$15
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour
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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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A modern building with a central tower, surrounded by a reflective water feature and greenery.

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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A person in a white coat working with a large blue-lit structure.

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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An art gallery with a high ceiling and a central circular platform.

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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A grand legislative chamber with wooden paneling, green leather seating, and a central table.

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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A modern building with a 'coles' sign, surrounded by trees and a landscaped garden.

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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A building with banners advertising a coin shop.

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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A building with large bookshelves and a staircase leading up to the entrance.

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:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in South Canberra? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular South Canberra attractions

A person in a white coat working with a large blue-lit structure.

Questacon

9.2/10 (503 reviews)
Join the kids for a day of learning about the wonders of science and technology at Australia’s national science centre.
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Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from South Canberra

A park with a lake, trees, and a building with a flag.

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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