Things to do in Canberra

Canberra has its own share of national attractions – from the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery, to iconic Australian landmarks like Old Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial.

But there’s plenty to see and do beyond the nation’s capital too. Here are 15 top things to do in Canberra, whether you’re visiting for the day or staying a little longer.

Visit the National Gallery of Australia

The National Gallery of Australia is one of the country’s premier art museums, and is a must-see for any visitor to Canberra. Housing an extensive collection of Australian and international art, the Gallery offers something for everyone, with exhibitions ranging from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art to European Renaissance paintings.

Tour Old Parliament House

Old Parliament House is one of Canberra’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1927, the building served as Australia’s parliament house until 1988, when the current Parliament House was opened. Today, Old Parliament House is a museum and art gallery, and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in Australian history and politics.

View the Australian War Memorial

The Australian War Memorial is a moving and powerful tribute to the Australians who have served in wars and conflicts throughout the country’s history. The Memorial houses an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks, as well as a Roll of Honour listing the names of more than 102,000 Australians who have died in conflict.

Take a stroll through the Royal National Park

The Royal National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the world, and is just a short drive from Canberra. Covering more than 15,000 hectares of land, the park is home to an array of native wildlife, and offers plenty of opportunity for hiking, camping, and picnicking.

Visit the National Zoo & Aquarium

Canberra’s National Zoo & Aquarium is home to more than 200 species of animals, including lions, tigers, and polar bears. The Zoo also has an extensive aquarium housing everything from sharks to seahorses, and is a great day out for the whole family.

Go skiing or snowboarding at Mount Baw Baw

Mount Baw Baw is a small ski resort located just a few hours’ drive from Canberra. The resort offers skiing and snowboarding in winter, and mountain biking and hiking in summer. With its easy access and variety of activities on offer, Mount Baw Baw is a great option for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Explore the Australian National Botanic Gardens

The Australian National Botanic Gardens are located just outside of Canberra, and are home to more than 50,000 plants from across Australia and the world. The Gardens offer a variety of walking trails, as well as a cafe and gift shop.

Visit the National Museum of Australia

The National Museum of Australia is one of the country’s leading museums, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Canberra. The Museum houses an extensive collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artifacts, as well as a range of exhibitions on Australian history and culture.

Take a dip in Lake Burley Griffin

Lake Burley Griffin is a man-made lake located in the centre of Canberra. The lake is popular for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing, and is also home to a number of parks and gardens. And the view is stunning.

Visit the Australian National University

The Australian National University is one of the country’s leading research universities, and is located in the centre of Canberra. The University offers a variety of tours, as well as a museum and art gallery.

Shop at the Canberra Centre

The Canberra Centre is one of the city’s largest shopping malls, and is home to a range of retailers, cafes, and restaurants. The Centre is located in the heart of Canberra, and is a great place to find gifts and souvenirs.

Go for a walk or cycle around the town

To take in the atmosphere, simply walking in the center of the city or biking your way to the most appreciated sights will make your day memorable. Canberra has something for everyone.

Visit the National Arboretum

The National Arboretum is a recently opened park located just outside of Canberra. The park is home to more than 100,000 trees, as well as a range of walking trails. Breathe in the air and views that will stay with you for a long time.

Stay at one of Canberra’s many hotels

Canberra is home to a number of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury 5-star properties. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay for business or pleasure, Canberra has a hotel to suit your needs. For those who are on a budget, the best options are typically located outside of the city centre. For instance, the Airport Motel is located just a few minutes’ drive from the airport, and offers affordable rates. The Best Western Motel is another option, and is located just a short drive from the city centre.

For those looking for a more luxurious option, the Hyatt Hotel is located in the heart of Canberra, and offers 5-star accommodation. The hotel is also home to a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa. Another option is the Burbury Hotel, which is located just a short walk from Parliament House. The hotel offers a range of luxury amenities, including an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness centre.

For those travelling with family, the QT Canberra is a great option. The hotel is located in the heart of the city, and offers a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, kids’ play area, and babysitting services. Whatever your budget or needs, Canberra has a hotel to suit you.

Canberra is a great city to visit, and there are a number of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to relax, Canberra has something for everyone. So why not add it to your list of places to visit? You won’t be disappointed.