Looking for things to do in Canberra? The Australian Capital Territory is a great place to spend time with family and friends.
Canberra has so many activities and places to visit. In fact, there are so many, it can be difficult to know where you should start!
Here are some of the best things you should do when visiting Canberra, ACT Australia:
1. Visit the National Gallery of Australia in Acton
The National Gallery of Australia has a large collection of Australian art, as well the most significant public display in Australia.
It is a great place to start your visit and explore what Canberra has on offer!
Some of the most popular exhibitions at the gallery include the National Indigenous Art Triennial, the National Portrait Gallery and many more.
2. Take a stroll around Lake Burley Griffin
Lake Burley Griffin is a stunning, man-made lake in the heart of Canberra. It is a popular place to visit, with many walking and cycling paths.
It is a popular place for exercise including cycling, running, group fitness classes and rowing.
A walk around the Lake will take you to many of Canberra’s most iconic buildings and places.
3. Visit the Australian War Memorial
The Australian War Memorial is one of the most iconic buildings in Canberra.
At the War Memorial you will find the Tomb of The Unknown Australian Soldier, which is a memorial to all Australians who have died in war.
In addition, the War Memorial also has an extensive collection from World War I and II including weapons used by soldiers during these wars as well items that belonged them such at uniforms or medals they received for their service.
4. Questacon – The National Science & Technology Centre.
This interactive science centre will keep you entertained for hours with hands-on exhibits that are fun but also educational at the same time.
Questacon is famous for it’s incredible science shows and demonstrations.
Some of the most popular are: “The Science Show”, which is a live show with audience participation, as well performances from international artists.
Or you can try out one on their interactive exhibits like The Amazing Human Body where you can explore what happens inside your body to make it work!
You’ll never look at yourself in quite the same way again.
Questacon is a great place for families and young kids.
5. Watch an international cricket match at Manuka Oval.
Manuka Oval is a popular cricket ground in Canberra, ACT.
The Oval is home to the Australian Capital Territory Cricket Association and is also a venue for international cricket matches during summer months (November-March).
It has hosted many high profile events including World Cup games from 1992 as well hosting its first ever Test match against New Zealand on December 17th 2015!
6. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
One of the best ways to see Canberra is from the air.
You can take a Hot Air Balloon Ride with Canberra’s only licensed operator, Balloons Above Australia.
They offer flights over the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales regions from October to April each year (weather permitting).
As a result, you’ll be able see sights such as Parliament House in all its glory or Lake Burley Griffin stretching out below you!
7. Tour New Parliament House
The new Parliament House was opened in 1988 and is the seat of Australia’s Federal Government.
It has been designed to represent democracy, openness on transparency with its glass facade that allows visitors a glimpse into what goes behind closed doors!
You can take guided tours every day from Monday-Friday at 11am or 12pm (except for public holidays).
8. Visit Old Parliament House
Located just down the road from the new parliament is the Old Parliament House Building.
It was opened in 1927 and is now a museum. It’s worth visiting to see the architecture of this building, which has been preserved for future generations!
There are guided tours every day at 11am or 12pm (except on public holidays).
However, you can also take self-guided audio tour if you prefer that option instead.
In addition, the building is also home to the Museum of Democracy which is a new interactive museum that tells the story of democracy in Australia.
9. Take a Day Trip to Local Canberra Wineries
The Canberra region is host to some of Australia’s most famous wines.
Murrumbateman is just a short drive from the heart of Canberra and it’s home to the award-winning wine labels like Clonakilla.
Wineries to Visit in Canberra
- Barton Estate Winery
- Brindabella Hills
- Canberra Wine and Spirit Merchants
- Capital Wines
- Clonakilla
- Collector Wines
- Contentious Character
- Dionysus Winery
- Dog Trap Vineyard
- Eden Road Wines
10. Explore the National Arboretum
One of the newer additions to the list of Canberra’s must-see attractions is the National Arboretum.
The National Arboretum is a living museum of trees from all over the world. You’ll find more than 18,000 different species and subspecies with many plants at the arboretum not found anywhere else in Australia!
In addition there are also walking tracks for visitors so you can explore at your own pace or take one on guided tour if that suits better.