places to visit in canberra

Australia Recommends 2024

Come and Say G'day

G'day, the short film

Discover your Australia

Travel videos

Deals and offers

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

South Australia

Western Australia

External Territories

The Whitsundays

Mornington Peninsula

Port Douglas

Ningaloo Reef

Airlie Beach

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Hamilton Island

Lord Howe Island

Tiwi Islands

Phillip Island

Bruny Island

Margaret River

Barossa Valley

The Grampians

Hunter Valley

Yarra Valley

McLaren Vale

Glass House Mountains

Alice Springs

Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The Kimberley

Flinders Ranges

Kakadu National Park

Eyre Peninsula

Karijini National Park

Great Barrier Reef

Blue Mountains

Daintree Rainforest

Great Ocean Road

Purnululu National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Litchfield National Park

Aboriginal experiences

Arts and culture

Festivals and events

Food and drink

Adventure and sports

Walks and hikes

Road trips and drives

Beaches and islands

Nature and national parks

Eco-friendly travel

Health and wellness

Family travel

Family destinations

Family road trips

Backpacking

Work and holiday

Beginner's guide

Accessible travel

Planning tips

Trip planner

Australian budget guide

Itinerary planner

Find a travel agent

Find accommodation

Find transport

Visitor information centres

Deals and travel packages

Visa and entry requirements FAQ

Customs and biosecurity

Working Holiday Maker visas

Facts about Australia

Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie

People and culture

Health and safety FAQ

Cities, states & territories

Iconic places and attractions

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Seasonal travel

Events and festivals

School holidays

Public holidays

How to get to Australia's most iconic cities

How long do I need for my trip to Australia?

How to travel around Australia

Guide to driving in Australia

How to hire a car or campervan

How to plan a family road trip

How to plan an outback road trip

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

Guide to Canberra

• Share Share on Facebook Share on Messenger Share on Twitter Share on WhatsApp Copy Link
• Getting to Canberra
• When to visit
• Accessibility

Find a mix of history, art and the outdoors in Australia's capital city.

The small-yet-mighty capital of Canberra is a city that punches far above its weight. Well-known museums and historical sites are just the beginning. Dig a little deeper to find bustling brewpubs, hidden gems, quiet nature and family-friendly attractions. Head just outside the city to relax and unwind in a scenic cool-climate wine region that produces some stellar drops.

Canberra is just as easily reached by air as by car. Fly into Canberra Airport (CBR) on either an international flight or from any Australian state or territory. 

• Canberra Airport (CBR) is 7km (4.5mi) from the city and services both international and domestic flights
• Hire cars, taxis, rideshares and a shuttle service are available at the airport for pre-purchase or hire upon arrival
• Canberra is just a three-hour drive south of Sydney

After you’ve arrived in Canberra, you’ll find getting around is easy due to its compact size. Walking and biking are great options to see what's on offer. 

Canberra enjoys warm summers and crisp winters, however this city is considered a year-round destination. During autumn and spring the city is at its most vibrant with exciting festivals, colourful natural landscapes and mild weather . 

• High season: Spring and autumn (August to October and March to May)
• Low season: Winter (June to July)
• Don’t miss:   Enlighten Festival (March)

Travellers will find plenty of accessible and  wheelchair-friendly  options for accommodation and attractions in Canberra. 

• Arrival: Canberra Airport provides assistance for people with disabilities. Staff can help with security screening and ordering an accessible taxi.
• Getting around: Canberra’s light rail stations have ramp access and designated waiting areas for passengers needing assistance, while the city’s buses have ramps that can be lowered. Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Services can also be booked online or over the phone. 
• Accessible experience highlights: Travellers with limited mobility can ride the Flora Explorer mini-bus throughout the abundant National Botanic Gardens . Don't miss the faces of famous Aussies at the National Portrait Gallery .
• Helpful resources: The Canberra-based travel agency GetOutAble specialises in accessible and inclusive travel.

15 places to Come and Say G'day in 2024

Canberra made the list. where else will 2024 take you, canberra restaurants.

Must-try restaurants

Top coffee shops

Cheap eats in Canberra

Holiday in Canberra

Where to stay

Weather and temperature in Canberra

Suburb Guide

Getting Around

Places to see near Canberra

The Sapphire Coast

Trips and itineraries.

3 days in Canberra

Canberra with kids: a 5-day itinerary

12-day road trip through New South Wales

Sydney to the Sapphire Coast: a 6-day road trip   

Explore another city.

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.  Find out more . By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies.

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

• International (English)
• United States (English)
• Canada (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• India (English)
• Malaysia (English)
• Singapore (English)
• Indonesia (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Deutschland (Deutsch)
• France (Français)
• Italia (Italiano)
• 中国大陆 (简体中文)

*Product Disclaimer:  Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

HerCanberra

Everything you need to know about canberra. one destination., 55+ things to do, see and eat this may in canberra.

Posted on 3 May, 2024

Autumn has settled in and rumour has it, winter is coming..

So get out and soak up Canberra’s autumnal beauty with markets, festivals, expos, launch parties, fashion shows and more.

Don’t miss…

Play outside ngala day.

Canberra, it’s time for a Play Outside Ngala Day! Celebrate the beauty of nature this season in Haig Park.

Join a day packed with diverse activities suitable for all ages and interests:

• Escape From Plastika Performance: A dynamic and interactive way for kids to learn more about sustainability.
• Fairy Tea Party: Enjoy the enchanting new fairy tea party tree seating.
• Charcoal Drawing: Express your creativity by charcoal drawing on the trees.
• Suitcase Rummage: find hidden treasures!

And when it’s time to relax, there will be cosy hammocks for you! Come out, play, and enjoy autumn in Canberra.

Saturday 4 May from 11 am until 3 pm | Haig Park, Braddon | Free | More information here

Market Day at the Museum

See the region’s talented makers and creators as they showcase their wares at the National Museum of Australia on 4–5 May. Browse more than 40 market stalls featuring locally crafted products, including ceramics, candles, spirits and artworks, as well as much-loved Aussie labels at The Museum Shop.

Soak up the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy great music, food and drink while you hunt for that unique gift. Perfect for Mother’s Day shopping!

Saturday 4 May and Sunday 5 May, 9 am–3 pm| National Museum of Australia | Free entry | nma.gov.au/whats-on/market-day

Boho Luxe Market

Those who like their market stalls with a side of aura photos and vegan chocolate need to clear their diaries from 18-19 May, because the Boho Luxe Market is back.

Offering an exciting and diverse range of small businesses the chance to connect with Canberra audiences across two days in a relaxed market environment, the Boho Luxe Marke t is your chance to open your mind and heart – and indulge in some completely delicious vegan fare.

Taking place in the Budawang Pavilion at Exhibition Park, there will be a huge variety of eco-conscious and artisanal stalls to browse and shop. You can also expect immersive free workshops all weekend, including free sound healings, free aura photos from 10 am until 11 am each day, the Boho Bar, free psychic stage shows, psychic readers, live muic, vegan food samples and gin tastings. There will even be a dedicated Boho Bride section!

Speaking of vegan food, your Boho Luxe Market ticket will also give you entry to The Vegan Market, with the two events running alongside each other and offering a plethora of vegan goodness including food from Lord of the Fries, Bao Melbourne, Australian Cookie Empire, Dessert Quartets / Vegan Tasty, Hare Krishna Food for Life Inc, Rodu Bodu, Mim’s Vegan Treats and Oh My Doner.

Saturday 18 May from 10 am – 5 pm and Sunday 19 May from 10 am – 4 pm | Budawang Pavilion, Exhibition Park in Canberra | boholuxemarket.com

Young, trusting, and fragile – Bella Manningham thinks she’s losing her mind. In the evenings, she hears strange noises. The sitting-room gas lamps dim for no apparent reason. Is Bella’s loving relationship with her partner Jack all that it seems?

With all the hallmarks of Victorian Gothic, refreshed with intriguing new insights, Gaslight is a thrilling theatrical experience.

15 – 19 May | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Buy tickets here .

ALLBIDS Appraisal Day

On Saturday 11 May,  ALLBIDS  is holding an  Appraisal Day  in their Fyshwick showroom, where you’ll be able to have a free, no obligation one-on-one chat with an ALLBIDS expert to appraise your treasures and finally find out what they’re really worth.

Completely free to take part in and with no appointment needed, the event will take place at ALLBIDS Auction Rooms at 7 Wiluna Street, Fyshwick between 12 pm and 2 pm.

There will be live music and free parking as well as toasted sandwiches from neighbour Melted and artisanal baked goods from Crust Bakery as well as coffee and more in the styled vintage lounge.

Saturday 11 May from 12 pm to 2 pm | ALLBIDS, 7 Wiluna St, Fyshwick |   allbids.com.au/h/for-seller/discover-hidden-treasures-at-allbids-appraisal-day-257

Suitcase Rummage

Suitcase Rummage is your local community market, without the hassle! Pack your suitcase with your pre-loved wares and/or handmade creations and sell straight out of your suitcase. It’s as easy as that!

There are no tents, no tables, no racks, no overheads and most importantly, no elitism.

Saturday 4 May from 11 am – 3 pm | Haig Park | More information here

Sci(Fi) Night

Leave the Ewoks at home and journey to a gallery far far away for the ultimate Sci(Fi)Night as Questacon’s annual evening of adults-only entertainment ventures beyond the known universe.

Saturday 4 May from 6-9 pm | Questacon | Tickets via Ticketek

The Dirty Janes Fashion Runway Show 

Enjoy a night of glamour, sustainability and vintage style. There’ll be champagne, a fabulous catwalk, stylists and photographers as well as local wineries, and some wonderful food trucks. What a great night to celebrate creativity and eco-consciousness in the Canberra fashion industry.

Friday 3 May 6.15 – 9 pm | Dirty Jane, 80 B Collie Street, Fyshwick | See information here

The Guilty Feminist: Live

Less of a podcast and more of a global phenomenon, The Guilty Feminist is part comedy, part deep-dive discussion and part activism.

Returning to Australia and New Zealand after her last successful tour, host Deborah Frances-White and a different array of world-class guests each night will examine our noble goals as 21st century feminists – and our hypocrisies and insecurities that undermine those goals.

With over 150 million downloads in eight years, this is the show that proves you don’t have to be perfect to be a force for meaningful change.

With special co-host Kirsty Webeck, poetry by Hangama Obaidullah and guest speakers Lauren Beckman and Dr Elise Stephenson.

Tuesday 28 May from 7.30 pm | Canberra Theatre Centre | canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/the-guilty-feminist-live-2024

Dance Week 2024

Did you know that   ACT hosts the largest Australian Dance Week program in Australia?

This year, The Dance Week 2024 lineup is extraordinary and highlights the growing strength of dance, both professional and community, in Canberra and surrounds.

Australian Dance Week provides the opportunity for to turn the spotlight on Canberra’s incredible local dance scene. This is the time to get out and try a new dance experience, see a show, take a class and celebrate dance.

See the full lineup of events here .

29 April – 5 May | Various venues across Canberra | ausdanceact.org.au/australian-dance-week

Let’s talk about Ethics

This conversation explores historical collecting practices, evolving approaches to interpretation and display, the ethics of archaeology and repatriation with researchers, museum professionals and the curators of the Discovering Ancient Egypt exhibition.

Featuring Egyptologist Dr Melanie Pitkin, bioarchaeologist Professor Ronika Power, Egyptologist and exhibition curator Dr Daniel Soliman in conversation with National Museum of Australia senior curator Craig Middleton.

Thursday 9 May from 6-7.30 pm | National Museum of Australia | Tickets via Eventbrite  

Talk about menopause

An opportunity for the women of Canberra to access insights into the identification of perimenopause, management of menopause transition symptoms, and how to navigate access to care locally. Bringing together a menopause doctor, pelvic floor physiotherapist and clinical psychologist, this session will empower women by explaining the physiology behind their symptoms and offer tips to transition with confidence.

Hosted by Nurse Katie, from Cosmetic Skin Therapies, who advocates for women experiencing symptoms but have difficulties accessing care.

All proceeds go to YWCA Canberra.

Wednesday 8 May 6 pm | Ainslie Football and Social Club, 52 Wakefield Ave, Ainslie | Buy tickets here.

The CBR Small Business Expo

The CBR Small Business Expo is an opportunity for Canberra businesses to network, learn and connect with other business, industry and government.

The Expo will feature a range of: exhibitor stalls to support businesses in anything from accounting to marketing, panel discussions on topics such as cyber and recruiting staff, keynote speakers from industry and government and information sessions to help your business grow.

Whether you’re just starting out or taking an existing company to new heights, the CBR Small Business Expo can help.

Thursday 9 May, 10 am – 4 pm | Budawang Pavilion, EPIC | act.gov.au

Peak Women Launch Party

Peak Women has designed the Confidence Blazer that supports women to be more confident, empowered and to stand out for all of the right reasons in the work place.

They are launching their first range of Women’s Suits, in bold colours with functional and empowering design aspects. Party goers will have the opportunity to hear from the CEO & Founder of the brand, check out the designs and clink drinks with like-minded women.

Saturday 11 May 3-5 pm | Luna Bar, 99 London Cct, City Canberra | Buy tickets here.

Walk-W-Me (WWM)

Walk-W-Me is swapping out their activewear and sneakers for suits and dresses at their first Walk-W-Me Gala. Tickets include a 3-course meal, open bar, entertainment and a lucky door prize.

With a mission to improve mental health through community, laughs and an uplifting atmosphere. 

Saturday 25 May | Hotel Realm, National Ballroom, 18 National Circuit, Barton | Buy tickets here.

The Trojan War

Following the success of Don Juan and Jekyll & Hyde, A Slightly Isolated Dog brings you the third instalment in the trilogy of very sexy works: The Trojan War!

This explosive and hilarious work uses a cast of faux-French performers to create a joyful, interactive celebration. Theatrical magic, wicked pop songs and fierce wit are combined to create a delightful romp through this classic twisted tale.

14-15 May | The Q | theq.net.au/whats-on/the-trojan-war

Food and Wine

Urban wine walk canberra.

The streets and laneways of Canberra will come alive this Autumn as a line-up of the best venues transform into an Urban Cellar Door for you to visit on a self-guided trail.

Simply decide which venue you’d like to start from and you’re off. Choose your own adventure as you and your friends move from venue to venue tasting delicious wines thanks to the incredible line-up of Australian winemakers.

Guaranteed to sell out, the Urban Wine Walk promises a fun and unique self-guided wine-tasting experience that you and your friends won’t want to miss.

Saturday 4 May | Across multiple venues in Canberra | See information here .

Whisky Live Canberra 2024

Whisky Live is Australia’s premiere whisky sampling event, showcasing high-quality whiskies to taste and are held in Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney and Perth.

Explore different brands and styles of whisky – Scotch, Irish, Australian, Japanese, peated, non-peated, sherry cask aged and more.

24-25 May | University of Canberra | Tickets here

Mexican Fiesta at Midnight

A month long Mexican Fiesta celebration? Hold my sombrero. Until Friday 31 May, Midnight Bar is hosting a mouth-watering celebration of all things Mexican and delicious, from opportunities to try some Mexican-inspired food and cocktails, to sipping on custom-crafted cocktails from our build-your-own margarita menu.

Transport your taste buds south of the border and nab your seat by booking ahead, or simply walk in.

Until Friday 31 May, from 3 pm until late | Midnight Bar, Braddon | More information here .

Tequila Masterclass at Midnight

Calling all seasoned tequila drinkers and novices. To further celebrate Mexican Fiesta Month, join Midnight Bar for an exclusive Tequila Masterclass that will have you discovering the secrets of tequila craftsmanship.

For one night only, you will be guided in an exclusive tequila tasting and learn what it takes to master your very own buzzy cocktail, all while grazing upon Mexican-inspired bites to share.

With a margarita on arrival, and delicious snacks to be enjoyed, be sure to secure your ticket.

Saturday 25 May from 6-8 pm | Midnight Bar, Braddon | Tickets here

Capital Region Farmers Market

Fresh produce, flowers and the ready-to-eat food and coffee. What more could you need? The Capital Region Farmers Market has everything you need.

7 am – 11.30 am Saturday | Exhibition Park in Canberra, Old Well Station Road, Mitchell | capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au

Little Burley Markets

Offering a diverse array of multicultural foods, much-loved beverages and brunchables, beautiful blooms, locally made art, fashion, photography and homewares, artisanal bread, delectable pastries, seafood, smoked charcuterie, truffles, meats, puppy treats, and much more, you’ll be able to find plenty of goodies at this bespoke lakeside market

8 am – 1 pm Saturday | Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes |  thelittleburleymarket.com.au

Southside Farmers Markets

This village market is located at Canberra College, making it the perfect place to duck in to grab what you need (and maybe a few things you don’t). Order an egg and bacon roll to start the morning as you explore the best of fresh seasonal veggies, handmade pasta and pet treats.

8 am–11.30 am Sunday | 2 Launceston Street, Phillip |  facebook.com

Haig Park Markets

Moments away from Lonsdale street’s boutiques and cafes, the Haig Park Village Markets will delight your senses with delicious cuisines, tasty treats, beautiful blooms, fresh produce, delectable charcuterie and artisan products. It’s a lovely place to enjoy a picnic whilst feasting your senses on the culinary delights on offer or to browse the fabulous local handmade design stalls.

8.30 am – 2 pm Sundays | Haig Park, Girrahween Street, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au

Old Bus Depot Markets

Lovers of fine hand-crafted wares, clothing collectors, food fanatics and jewellery junkies are just a few of the people who head to Canberra’s award-winning Old Bus Depot Markets every Sunday. In a fabulous old industrial building you’ll experience the endless colour, tastes, sounds and atmosphere that is “Canberra’s Sunday Best”.

Not your average market, each week you’ll find over 200 stalls of exceptional quality, featuring items all hand-crafted by local and regional creatives. There’s simply no better way to spend your Sunday in Canberra.

Every Sunday | 21 Wentworth Ave, Kingston | obdm.com.au

Hartley Hall Markets

This fine family-friendly market is proudly organised and operated by Hartley Lifecare, and it promises to be a lovely day out. Explore over 200 stalls offering a variety of products including food, locally grown vegetables and fresh produce, baked goods, plants, furniture, clothing, pottery, children’s toys, arts and crafts, unique gifts and more and make the most of the live entertainment and children’s activities!

Sunday 5 May | Hall Showground, Hall Street, Hall | More information here .

Theatre and Music

Billy elliot.

Nothing was quite the same after Jamie Bell put on those ballet slippers for the first time in the 2000 film  Billy Elliot  – but did you know it was originally a musical?

Now Free-Rain Theatre Company is bringing the magic of this iconic story of struggle, class, freedom and the love of dance to  The Q  from 9 April until 5 May – plenty of time to let original songs by Elton John let you forget about our impending Canberra winter.

Until Sunday 5 May | The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre | theq.net.au/whats-on/billy-elliot-the-musical

Canberra International Music Festival

Witness a remarkable lineup of international, national and First Nations artists converge on the nation’s capital to bring vibrant life to an unmissable 2024 Festival program! You’ll see  60 world-class artists, 20 spectacular concerts, 11 magnificent venues, over five glorious days, and it sounds amazing.

Until Sunday 5 May | Various locations | Book here .

A symphony of acrobatics, sound and light, this is next level circus by Circa. Created by circus visionary Yaron Lifschitz, Humans 2.0 is intimate, primal and deeply engaged with the challenge of being human.

2 – 4 May 2024 | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Buy tickets here .

The Actress

The curtain is ready to rise on Lydia Martin’s final performance before retirement. As Lydia prepares to farewell the stage her family, friends, rivals, and colleagues descend upon her dressing room to deliver gracious goodbyes and settle past scores.

There’s as much drama and comedy backstage as there is onstage in this witty, smart, and emotional tribute to the power of leading ladies everywhere.

3 – 18 May 2024 | Canberra REP Theatre, 3 Repertory Ln, Acton | Buy tickets here .

Jessica Mauboy’s Yours Forever Tour 

A proud Kuku Yalanji and Wakaman woman, whose soulful songs and stirring voice never fail to give everyone goosebumps.

Expect an unforgettable journey through her classics and new hits. Prepare to be blown away by her soaring vocals and incredible live band.

Friday 3 May 2024 | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Buy tickets here .

Five Women Wearing The Same Dress

A hilarious and heartfelt comedy from renowned playwright Alan Ball. Meet five very different women who joyously discover a common bond – despite their differences, they have much more in common than we think.

Featuring a talented ensemble of female and non-binary performers. This show is bound to be queer-friendly and fun.

8 – 18 May 2024 | ACT Hub, 14 Spinifex Street, Kingston | Buy tickets here .

Fourteen addresses the trials and tribulations of growing up with honesty, humour, and heart.

Equal parts uplifting and heart-wrenching, we follow young boy Shannon in a year of self-discovery. Set to a nostalgic mixtape of 90s bangers from all your faves, from Shania Twain to The Spice Girls, this is not to be missed. 9 – 11 May | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Buy tickets here .

Canberra Flickerfest

Celebrating its 33rd year, Flickerfest, Australia’s only Academy® Qualifying and BAFTA-recognised short film festival, and the country’s largest Australian & International short film competition, screens the best of short films from Australia and around the globe. Everyone’s invited!

Thursday 16 May 2024 | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Buy tickets here .

QL2 Dance – Subject To Change

With 26 young Canberran dance artists at the forefront, Subject to Change is a triple bill of new dance works created by renowned Australian choreographers Alisdair Macindoe (Naarm/Melbourne), Gabrielle Nankivell (Meanjin/Brisbane) and Artistic Director of QL2 Dance, Ruth Osborne OAM (Kamberri/Canberra). 16 – 18 May 2024 | Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, City | Buy tickets here .

Bron Lewis: Obviously

From joining a mother’s group and sitting next to the patchouli mum to being held hostage in Africa by a man with a plastic police badge, Bron is no stranger to pretending everything is under control. Because obviously it is. Join Lewis for an hour of laughs because this is a show you don’t want to miss.

Friday 24 May 2024 | The Street,15 Childers St, City West | Buy tickets here .

Exhibitions

Temple at the nfsa.

Created by Australian artists Leila Jeffreys and Melvin J. Montalban, this contemplative artwork celebrates the awe-inspiring beauty of native cockatoos.

Temple invites us to reflect on the wonder of nature and our place within it.

Open until 30 June | NFSA Acton | nfsa.gov.au

In this playful exhibition, Alexander Thatcher pays homage to two things: his love for creating tiny ceramic architecture and his passion for clay.

It’s his hope that when you explore this exhibition of tiny buildings (or take one home), they ignite your imagination and fill your heart with wonder.

Until April – 19 May | The Nook, Belconnen Arts Centre | Find out more here .

Belco Arts – Exhibitions Now Showing – PLACE

“There are many things in life I have immense gratitude for. In this playful exhibition, I hold homage to two: my love for creating tiny ceramic architecture and my passion for clay.”

Vincent Namatjira: Australia in Colour

This exhibition of acclaimed Western Aranda artist Vincent Namatjira,  Vincent Namatjira: Australia in Colour , charts the artist’s career, revealing the power of his painting and the potency of his words.

Showcasing Namatjira’s burgeoning artistic practice, this major exhibition brings together paintings, works on paper and moving image from public and private collections nationwide, the exhibition will also feature a selection of watercolours from the national collection by the artist’s great-grandfather and critically acclaimed Western Arranda artist, Albert Namatjira.

Until Sunday 21 July | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here .

2023 Artist-in-Residence Exhibition

This spectacular exhibition showcases the work of Julie Bradley and Holly Grace. Completed as part of the annual Craft + Design Canberra Artist-in-Residence program at Gudgenby Ready-Cut Cottage in the Namadgi National Park. Following a two-week research component at the National Portrait Gallery of Australia.

Until 11 May 2024 | Craft + Design Canberra, 180 London Circuit, City | More information here .

ABODE Exhibition

This exhibition uses sculptural and visual responses to explore what it means to have a roof over your head, and the continuous quest to make a place to habitually return too.

Make a Paper Based Dwelling with ABODE. Take inspiration from the exhibition and experiment with the ABODE artists in this paper- based construction workshop. Discuss exhibition concepts and develop your own ideas of abode and what it means to you. You may learn some origami or you might prefer to use other paper based methods to make a house. Visit the website to book.

Until 8 June 2024 | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Greenway | Book your free ticket here .

Behind The Lines 2023

Celebrating the best of the year’s political cartoons, Behind The Lines is back again to help us look back on 2023. This year, the exhibition theme is ‘All Fun and Games’, reflecting on a year when political party games were being played in parliament and featured in Australia’s daily news. Head along to see the witty, insightful and often poignant satirical drawings, paintings, GIFs and sculptures for yourself.

Running until late 2024 | Museum Of Australian Democracy, 18 King George Terrace, Parkes | More information here.

Focus: Australian government photographers

Focus: Australian government photographers  brings Australia’s government photographers out of the darkroom and into the spotlight.

Between 1939 and 1996, dozens of photographers were employed by government agencies to capture Australian life. This fascinating exhibition delves deep into the lives and work of these talented individuals who helped to preserve our rich visual heritage, including Harry Frauca, Max Dupain, Mervyn Bishop and many more. Focus invites visitors on a journey spanning six decades of Australian life.

Explore a diverse selection of work that includes intimate nature photography, striking architectural shots and images that capture everyday memories from Australia’s past. Step into our virtual darkroom and experience the magic of photography by watching pictures develop before your eyes. Experience the power of photography to shape perceptions, ignite conversation and preserve memories.

Showing until 10 June 2024 | National Archives of Australia, Kings Avenue, Parkes |  naa.gov.au

Dark Silhouette | Helen Heslop

‘Dark Silhouette‘ is a solo exhibition by Helen Heslop.

Exploring the ‘abuse cycle’ in intimate partner relationships, Helen Heslop’s artworks employ quilting language and paint swatches. They illuminate women’s experiences of coercive control, with ‘Dark Silhouette’ invoking a charcoal-grey house-paint, evoking a feeling of being watched and surrounded by menace.

Until 12 May 2024 | M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith | Book your free ticket here  

An ‘assembly’ can be a temporary collective with a shared sense of purpose, or a creative, resilient (and sometimes precarious) construction. Assembly brings together eight Hong Kong-born artists from different generations of the diaspora. Amid the current wave of migration, this exhibition explores the act of ‘making sense’ of layers and fragments, of memories and stories, told or untold. Assembly embraces the resonance and dissonance between the diverse creative practices of these artists, questioning readymade notions of diasporic identity.

Until 24 May 2024 | Australian Centre on China in the World (CIW)

The Australian National University 188 Fellows Lane, Acton | Book your free ticket here .

Democracy. Are You In?

Democracy. Are You In? is a contemporary exhibition that aims to encourage visitors to recognise that their freedoms and way of life are built on the foundation of democracy.

The exhibition at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House explores powerful stories of democracy in action through a series of photographs, objects and audiovisual displays.

Until 2 May 2025 | Museum of Australian Democracy, 18 King George Terrace, Parkes | More information here

Discovering Ancient Egypt

Journey to the land of the pyramids to discover the wonders of ancient Egypt in this must-see exhibition featuring over 220 objects from the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden). 

From early exploration to cutting-edge modern research, this exhibition unveils the lifestyles of the ancient Egyptians, their religion and society, their creativity and their belief in an afterlife where they hoped to live for eternity.

Until 8 September 2024 | National Museum of Australia Lawson Crescent, Acton | Purchase tickets here

Jordan Wolfson: Body Sculpture

This is the first solo presentation of Wolfson’s work in Australia and will feature the world premiere of Body Sculpture – so you don’t want to miss this exhbition. Using animatronic sculptures to reflect the socio-political currents of the United States today, Body Sculpture will be shown alongside a selection of earlier works, offering Australian audiences a full expression of Wolfson’s innovative vision.

Until 28 July | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information  here

Duntoon Estate: Work With All Your Might

Nearly 200 years ago, merchant, philanthropist and politician Robert Campbell was granted 4,000 acres of land – advised by James Ainslie, he established a sheep station on the banks of the Molonglo River. Now, you can see never-before-seen objects and images from the house, families, woolshed and dairy that made up this extensive early estate thanks to this amazing exhibition.

Until Sunday 21 July | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Civic Square | More information  here .

Nature’s Way

Featuring new work by Liz Hanna, Catherine Ellerton, and Janine Gould, Strathnairn Arts is the place to be. Exploring the participating artists’ solostagia and will act as a witness to the current anthropogenic environmental degradation, their aim is aim to share the message with viewers that landscapes, waterways, oceans, birds, insects, animals and plant life must be protected at all costs.

Until Sunday 19 May | Strathnairn Arts Association, 90 Stockdill Drive, Holt | More information here .

Ralph Heimans: Portraiture. Power. Influence

This is the first major exhibition of the Sydney-born artist’s work in his home country. Featuring some of the most significant portraits in the artist’s career to date (from early major works such as his painting of HM Queen Mary of Denmark through to his most recent paintings), you’ll see some amazing works that have cemented Ralph Heimans as a internationally sought-after portraitist known for his meticulously realised paintings.

Until Monday 27 May | National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | More information  here .

A Century of Quilts

This exhibition showcases an often-overlooked art form made almost exclusively by women. Head along to see the National Gallery’s most requested work of art, The Rajah quilt 1841, and other exceptional examples of nineteenth- and early twentieth-century quilts. The exhibition also includes key examples of possum skin cloak designs by leading First Nations artists whose work has revitalised this historically important cultural and artistic tradition.

Until Sunday 25 August | National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here .

Backyard Archaeology

This exhibition at Canberra Museum + Gallery tells the story of thousands of small objects that Steve Brown collected from around an ordinary suburban house and garden. Exploring the history of his property and local area, the exhibition shows how a person can become deeply connected to found objects and how everyday encounters with lost and forgotten things can shape us and give us a ‘sense of place’.

Until early September | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Civic Square | More information  here .

Materiality…But Not As We Know It

Featuring new and recent works by ten artists and designers, who each have an association with the Canberra region, this exhibition explores what happens when ancient geology becomes a wall treatment – when acid transforms smooth shiny copper into organic dripping furniture – and when rich coloured glass formed into a coolamon holds the cultural knowledge of the flow of water on this Country.

Until late October | Canberra Museum + Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Civic Square | More information here .

Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies vs Fijian Drua

May the Fourth be with you when the Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies take on the Fijian Drua at GIO Stadium.

Don’t miss any of the action, visit the website and book your tickets now!

Saturday 4 May | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.

UFC 301 at ONYX Lounge Casino Canberra

Defending Flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja is going toe-to-toe with Aussie fighter Stephen Erceg. Who will win, the champ or the underdog?

Join in Live & Loud on the big screen at the ONYX Lounge and Bar with one of the biggest screens in Canberra and find out for yourself!

Sunday 5 May | Casino Canberra 21 Binara Street, Canberra City, | More information here

2024 Canberra MS Walk, Run and Roll

Whether you’re moving on your feet, using a wheelchair, or pushing a pram. Come celebrate the resilience and diversity of Canberra’s amazing MS community – Sign up and participate in the 5-kilometre or 10-kilometre course, with staggered start times for Walk, Run or Roll.

Sunday 5 May | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Register or donate here

Lomachenko V Kombosos Boxing at ONYX Lounge Casino Canberra

Aussie fighting typhoon and former champion, Kambosos is determined to reclaim his belt but so is Ukranian legend Lomachenko, the three-division champ. Both want to add to their collection of trophies and won’t give up easily, making this fight sure to be a gruelling one.

Don’t miss a second of the entertainment on the big screen at the ONYX Lounge and Bar! Have a drink, eat some food, and let them do the rest.

Sunday 12 May | Casino Canberra 21 Binara Street, Canberra City, | More information here

Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies vs Crusaders

Be a part of this iconic match as the Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies host the 2023 Champions the Crusaders.

Take a trip down memory lane with the Brumbies celebrating the 20-year anniversary of the 2004 Championship.

Saturday 18 May | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.

Canberra Runners Half Marathon

Take that run club to the next level and show off those skills at the annual Canberra Runners Half Marathon. 

Sunday 19 May | Lennox Garden, Flynn Drive, Yarralumla  | Register here.

Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies vs Melbourne Rebels

Get behind your team, as The Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies play their final regular season home game against the Melbourne Rebels.

Friday 24 May | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.

Raiders vs Roosters – Round 12 

Cheer on the Canberra Raiders as they take on the Sydney Roosters in NRL Indigenous Round.

Spend your Saturday right with an afternoon of footy fun for the whole family!

Saturday 25 May | GIO Stadium Canberra, Battye Street, Bruce | Book here.

Workshops, Tours and Talks

Volunteering expo.

The Volunteering Expo is held every year to connect the Canberra community to volunteering opportunities and volunteer involving organisations in the Canberra Region. There are a range of sectors represented, including environment, sport, education, science, arts, tourism, emergency response and more!

This is an excellent opportunity to see the wide variety of volunteering options in Canberra and find the perfect role for you!

The Expo is a wonderful place to start your volunteering journey and to learn more about how you can get involved in supporting the community.

There will be music, food vans, coffee, face-painting and a smoking ceremony.

Entry is free for visitors! Visit the Facebook event  here  to RSVP.

Saturday 18 May 2024 from 10 am – 4 pm | UC Refectory, 11 Kirinari St, Bruce | volunteeringact.org.au/event/volunteering-expo-2024

Volunteering Conference

The Volunteering Conference is held annually during National Volunteer Week to build capability, professional development, connection and skills within the Canberra Region volunteering ecosystem. Register now to learn about inclusion and cultural competency in volunteering, background checks, status of the ACT Volunteering Strategy, national standards and more! Access the full event program  here .

A limited number of scholarships are available for volunteers wishing to attend the Volunteering Conference. Each scholarship covers the cost of attending the conference.

To apply, fill in the  Volunteer Scholarship application form.

The Conference is a fully accessible event with auslan interpreters for the entire day.

Online ($50), Members ($100), Non-Members ($170) – Register  here .

Tuesday 21 May from 9 am – 5 pm | Ann Harding Conference Centre, 24 University Dr S, Bruce | volunteeringact.org.au/event/volunteering-conference-2024

Related Posts

Five Canberra experiences you need to have before the year ends

Want to send off December in style? We’ve rounded up five Canberra experiences you need…

This special ART for indigo event aims to raise $20,000 to empower women and girls

There are many sayings about the power of art, and its ability to transform perspective,…

Comments are closed.

Are you all about this beautiful city?

Sign up to our newsletter.

• Name * First Last
• Email Address *
• Food + Drink

• 11 Fun Canberra Destinations That Are Not Tourist Traps!

Visit Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park for Best Sightseeing!

Sun, Nature, and Every Great Places to Enjoy in Gold Coast

• destination

Visiting major capital cities often means encountering a lot of tourist traps, but not in Australia! There are many great places to visit in Canberra even for a long holiday. From museums and historical sites to markets and vineyards, Australia’s capital city offers rich, vibrant attractions that combine the best of both worlds.

Despite being founded by British settlers, Canberra was originally a home of indigenous people for thousands of years. Even its name came from Ngunnawal people’s clan name. Now, Canberra is nicknamed “ the Bush Capital ” thanks to the sweeping mountain range and nature that surround it. This makes Canberra a unique capital city; a modern urban spot surrounded by nature.

Related : Get to Know 8 Capital Cities in Australia Before You Travel There!

Canberra offers modernity and rich, diverse culture, having equally cultured Nara, Beijing, and Wellington as its sister cities. Travelers from around the world visit Canberra to get rich, vibrant experiences. Here are 11 great places to visit in Canberra for your next trip to Australia.

Table of Contents

Australian War Memorial 

Every visitor interested in Australia’s history should visit the Australian War Memorial . Unveiled in 1941, this beautiful memorial site is dedicated to members of the military and supporting organizations that served and died for the country. The memorial buildings have beautiful Art Deco design, with different sections such as the Hall of Memory, galleries, Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier, research center, and Sculpture Garden.

National Gallery of Australia 

The National Gallery of Australia is not just one of the largest museums in the country. Despite the modern-looking Brutalist architecture, it is actually the main custodian of indigenous arts in Australia. The gallery has numerous sections, exhibitions, and programs that introduce visitors to indigenous arts. However, you can also see artworks by other Australian and international artists.

Related : Feast Your Eyes with the Artworks at Top Art Galleries in Australia

Parliament House 

Do you know that the Parliament House in Canberra is open for tourists? You can sign up for a guided tour to learn about Australia’s political history, the architecture of the building, and various artworks displayed inside. If you visit on weekends, you can enjoy high tea while sitting at the beautiful Queen’s Terrace Café, with selections of sweet and savory treats to accompany your tea or coffee.

National Arboretum Canberra

National Arboretum Canberra was created as a response to two fires in 2001 and 2003. Now, it is a place for forest rehabilitation, outdoor activities, and environmental education for the public. Here, you can learn about various tree species and enjoy the beauty of landscaped gardens. The arboretum also has an amphitheater and open-air stage for performances, along with picnic spots, walking and cycling trails, bonsai garden, and children’s playground.

The Royal Australian Mint 

The Royal Australian Mint is responsible for creating all legal coins in Australia, including coins from precious metals. Here, you can have a guided tour and learn about coin collection. The Royal Australian Mint also boasts Wave to Titan, a robot capable of lifting an object weight 1,000 kg! If you want to start your own collection, head to the Mint Coin Shop to get the coins produced by the facility.

National Dinosaur Museum 

Dinosaur enthusiasts should head to the National Dinosaur Museum. Situated in Gold Creek Village, the museum is the largest facility in Australia that stores prehistoric specimens. Aside from exclusive fossils and skeletons, you can see dinosaur replicas and interactive displays to satisfy your curiosity. The National Dinosaur Museum also offers night tours and various group activities for students and the general public.

Old Bus Depot Markets 

Experience the colorful and vibrant Canberra by visiting Old Bus Depot Markets. Situated in a refurbished warehouse complex, this market sells handcrafted goods, fashion items, accessories, food and drink, snacks, toys, and many more. This is the perfect place to hunt for one-of-a-kind goods that you will not find at retail or chain stores.

Questacon Canberra 

Add some wonder of science into your trip by visiting Questacon Canberra. Opened for the public in 1988, this interactive science center started as a project by Australian National University. The goal is to educate the public using interactive and attractive exhibits, increasing interests toward science in general.

Questacon Canberra has a white cube-shaped exterior, but the interior is divided into eight unique galleries. You can learn specific themes in each gallery, such as the science and mythologies surrounding the planet Mars in Mars Gallery, geology and natural disasters in Awesome Earth, and experimental science and artwork in The Shed.

National Portrait Gallery 

Australia could not achieve its current status in the world without important figures. You can learn about these important figures at the National Portrait Gallery. Notable Australian painter Tom Roberts initiated the idea in the early 1900s, but the actual gallery was only established in 1988.

Currently, the gallery has around 3,000 permanent collections. The portraits are not just traditional photographs, but also paintings, illustrations, multimedia artworks, and even textile arts. It also regularly holds themed exhibitions, so make sure you check out their event calendar if you want to see them.

Canberra Glassworks 

Have you ever seen stunning glassworks and wonder how people make them? Canberra Glassworks will answer your curiosities. This facility combines gallery and studio, where you can witness the process of making glassworks and the results. It has been the largest glasswork facility in Australia since its inauguration in 2007.

Interested in trying the art? Join short courses to learn about the fundamentals of glassworks. Here, you can learn about techniques such as glass engraving, glass blowing, kiln forming, casting, beadmaking, flower making, and many more.

Mount Majura Vineyard 

Finally, head to Mount Majura Vineyard to taste some delicious Shiraz and Riesling wine. This rustic winery is situated in a beautiful valley, where you can join a guided tour to learn about winemaking. Mount Majura Vineyard also holds wine tasting the whole week, with delicious selections of cheese and cold cuts to accompany your favorite wine. For something more luxurious, book the truffle experience, where the chef cooks fresh truffles so you can enjoy them with your cheese and wine.

Related : Best Australian Wineries to Visit, Mainly When Your Mouth is Dry

The capital of Australia offers vibrant, beautiful, and insightful attractions for all types of travelers. Add these great places to visit in Canberra to your itinerary, and enjoy the most unforgettable experiences in Australia.

Related : A 360° View Of The Artificial Lake Burley Griffin’s Natural Charm

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

SIXT Magazine Australia

Travel Tips & News from SIXT Rent a Car

5 Unmissable Winter Activities in and Around Canberra

From riding a toboggan to going truffle hunting, there are plenty of things to do in Canberra during winter. Plus, if you’re keen to hit the slopes out of town, they’re only a couple of hours’ drive away. 

Here are five winter activities in and around Canberra that’ll make you glad the weather’s cold. 

GO TOBOGGANING IN CORIN FOREST

Just 45 minutes’ drive southwest of Canberra is Corin Forest Mountain Resort. It’s the closest snowfield to the city. 

One section is devoted to snow play – so you can go tobogganing, throw snowballs and build snow people to your heart’s content. The other is for learning to ski. Beginners can enrol in lessons (either privately or in a group), then spend the day honing their skills on the gentle slopes.

When it’s time to take a break, warm up in the cafe, complete with roaring fireplace. 

ATTEND THE CHRISTMAS IN JULY FESTIVAL

Take a side trip to Europe at Canberra’s Christmas in July Festival, which takes place over four days every year. 

Visit an artisanal market housed in wooden chalets imported from Europe, drink in a mulled wine garden while listening to live music, feast at melted cheese stations and roast marshmallows around a fire spit in a snow-filled lane.  

It’s mostly free, though there are small fees for some experiences, which should be booked in advance. 

WARM UP WITH A HIKE UP ONE TREE HILL

There’s no better way to warm up than by getting moving. Canberra, surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and with national parks in every direction, has loads of walking trails.

One of the easiest to reach is One Tree Hill, near Hall, in the city’s northern suburbs. The walk is a steady, 4.1-kilometre-long climb to the summit, and, once you’re there, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views.

One Tree Hill trail is part of the Canberra Centenary Trail, a 145-kilometre loop around and through the city.

GO TRUFFLE HUNTING IN CANBERRA

Canberra’s truffle season runs from May to September. The perfect place to experience it is The Truffle Farm, which is just 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre. 

First, you’ll join the farmers and their dogs for a truffle hunt in the forest. Whatever the pups find will go straight to the chefs, who’ll create a truffle-inspired degustation. Every dish is matched with a local wine, and served in the cosy barn. 

If you’re travelling on a weekend, then be sure to book in advance. Also, the Truffle Farm isn’t the only spot in Canberra that celebrates truffle season – look out for truffles on the menu at the city’s many excellent restaurants.

HIT THE SLOPES OUT OF TOWN

For skiers and snowboarders, Canberra is one of Australia’s best-situated cities. It’s just two-hours’ drive from the Snowy Mountains – home to four ski resorts: Perisher Blue, Thredbo, Selwyn and Charlotte Pass. 

Perisher Blue is hard to beat for size and variety of runs, while Thredbo is well-known for its expansive, family-friendly beginners’ area and having Australia’s only alpine gondola. Meanwhile, Selwyn is NSW’s most affordable snow resort, and Charlotte Pass is the highest. It’s snow-bound, which means you can’t travel by car. Instead, drive to Bullock Flat (where parking is free), then take the Skitube to Perisher and catch oversnow transport. 

GETTING TO CANBERRA

Canberra is three hours’ drive southwest of Sydney and seven hours’ drive northwest of Melbourne . If you’re driving from Melbourne, then check out our road trip guide . 

Short on time? Fly to Canberra Airport , then pick up a car rental from SIXT. If you’re visiting Canberra with kids, then find more tips for things to do over here .

• All Sixt Australia Locations

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

Top Searches

Meghalaya Fossil Discovery

Hill Stations

India Cold Places

World Big Countries

Varkala Cliff Kerala

River Rafting Destinations Ind

7 iconic things that make Australia's capital, Canberra special

Amin Ali Amin Ali / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Created : May 7, 2024, 13:00 IST

You're Reading

Canberra, the capital of Australia, is a vibrant city offering a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights. From stargazing and hot air balloon tours to wine tasting and museum visits, Canberra has som … Read more

Canberra, the capital of Australia, is a vibrant city offering a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights. From stargazing and hot air balloon tours to wine tasting and museum visits, Canberra has something for every traveler. Read less

More from Travel News

World’s oldest man-made structures that are still standing

Comments (0)

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration.

Visual Stories

Popular Galleries

Places on Earth that turn hottest during summers! TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD

5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Maharashtra you must explore in this life!

8 national parks to visit in India before they shut for the season TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA

Trending stories.

Places on Earth that turn hottest during summers!

• Varkala Cliff: Kerala's majestic seaside wonder and a geo-heritage site

Tourists arrivals from India to the Maldives decreased by 42 percent

A trip to Nalanda for a journey through time for the history lover in you

Sri Lanka extends visa-free entry for Indian visitors and others to boost tourism

• 1 7 iconic things that make Australia's capital, Canberra special
• 2 Best destinations for river rafting in India
• 3 Guess the size of General Sherman, the largest tree on Earth by volume?
• 4 Chhattisgarh: Kanger Valley National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders
• 5 Coastal Karnataka: Mangaluru is where history, culture, and nature come together

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO DESTINATIONS, ITINERARIES, THINGS TO DO, RESTAURANTS, NIGHTLIFE and LOTS MORE!

FOLLOW US ON

Places to visit.

• Places to visit in Bangalore
• Places to visit in Mumbai
• Places to visit in Delhi
• Places to visit in Goa
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Shimla
• Hotels in Mumbai

Things To do

• Things to do in Goa
• Things to do in Mumbai
• Things to do in Bangalore
• Things to do in Delhi

Travel Inspiration

• Visa on arrival for Indians
• Honeymoon Places in india
• Hill Stations in India
• Weekend getaways in Mumbai
• Weather in Delhi
• Weather in Chennai
• Weather in Bangalore
• Weather in Mumbai

Best Beaches

• Goa Beaches
• Mumbai Beaches
• Pondicherry Beaches
• Kerala Beaches
• Restaurants in Bangalore
• Restaurants in Chennai
• Restaurants in Pune
• Restaurants in Jaipur
• Hill Station near Delhi
• Winter trip to Ladakh
• Places to visit in Kerala
• Winter Honeymoon Destinations
• UK visa guide for Indians
• Winter Trip to Manali
• Vaishno Devi Yatra
• Special Train Ticket Booking
• HP inter-state Bus
• Honeymoon Destinations India

Latest News

• Abbott Mountain: A hidden gem in Uttarakhand's Himalayas

Congratulations!

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

Canberra, the capital of Australia, is a vibrant city offering a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights. From stargazing and hot air balloon tours to wine tasting and m...

• Accommodation Superior King Room One Bedroom Apartment Two Bedroom Apartment Spa Suite Accessible Room Corporate Accommodation Canberra
• Offers Book Direct & Save 10% Bed and Breakfast Package Corporate Rates Family Movie Night
• Canberra See & Do Blog

Hidden Gems of Canberra: Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations for Adventurous Couples

If you're the kind of couple who believes there ain't no mountain high, valley low, or river wide enough to keep you from adventure, then Canberra's hidden gems are calling your name. From hot air ballooning to conquering rugged hiking trails, there's no shortage of things to do in Canberra. So pack your bags and book your stay at Avenue Hotel in Canberra, Australia, where you can come home to luxury and comfort after your excursion. This is where the adventure begins!

Explore Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Looking for a cool adventure near your hotel in Canberra? Check out Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve ! It's the ultimate playground for adventurous duos within Namadgi National Park, just a short 40 km drive from Avenue Hotel in Canberra City . The main attraction is The Sanctuary, a huge wetlands area where you can wander and spot wildlife for hours. Tidbinbilla is home to all sorts of animals, including platypus,  skinks, bandicoots, rock wallabies, and countless species of birds. So, keep your eyes peeled and try to plan your visit during quieter times to avoid crowds and make the most of your time in the wild.

Get Wet at Alpine River Adventures

Alpine River Adventures

Get set for an epic rafting adventure with Alpine River Adventures . South-East Australia's stunning wilderness sets the location for eco-tours perfect for couples seeking thrills with minimal environmental impact. Paddle through rocky gorges and beautiful valleys in the Byadbo wilderness, taking on easy-to-moderate rapids along the way. With expert training, comfortable camping, and superb scenery, it's the ultimate escape. Trips run year-round, but book early for prime water levels from August to November.

Hot Air Ballooning at Sunrise

Balloon Aloft Canberra

Ready for some high-flying adventure with a touch of romance? Well, pray for clear skies and book you and your partner a Balloon Aloft Canberra hot air balloon ride at sunrise. We promise the early wake-up call will be worth it as you soar through the sky for about an hour of jaw-dropping views. And the best part? There's champagne waiting for you once you touch the ground. If you happen to be staying in the luxury Avenue Hotel rooms in Canberra during the Balloon Spectacular , don’t miss the annual party in the sky. There’ll be plenty of photo opportunities up for grabs as a kaleidoscope of hot air balloons glide over Lake Burley Griffin and Arboretum.

Hunt for Truffles at The Truffle Farm

The Truffle Farm

Get ready for a seriously good time at The Truffle Farm located in the beautiful Majura Valley. Just a quick 15-minute drive from your hotel in Canberra, this place is pure magic. Think lush oak trees, stunning views of Mount Majura Winery, and the aroma of fresh truffles filling the air – it’s a total vibe. Join local truffle farmer, Jayson, and his dogs for the ultimate hunt, diving deep into the oak forest in search of the elusive black truffles. And when you find the perfect truffle, it's time to celebrate back in the truffle shed for a degustation feast.

Hike Mt Ainslie

Mount Ainslie views

Lace up your hiking boots and escape to Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve , a protected area next to Mount Majura. Together, these two reserves form a decent chunk of forest overlooking Canberra. Getting there is easy - you can walk, cycle or drive up to Mount Ainslie Summit for amazing views of the city, Lake Burley Griffin, and Namadgi National Park. Why not pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with your partner amongst the quintessential eucalyptus trees? For extra thrill, cycling and horse riding are allowed on marked paths. Otherwise, take on the 4.5km winding trails by foot with spectacular views at every turn.

Horseback Riding at Burnelee

Burnelee Horseback Riding

Reconnect with nature in the Australian countryside of Burnelee Horseback Riding Excursions . No matter your skill level, the guided horseback rides offer an unforgettable and safe experience. Located on a sprawling 3500-acre property just outside Canberra, Burnelee is guaranteed to strike the sweet spot of adventure and dating. Choose from a range of experiences to suit your preferences, including Bush Experience Rides, Muster Rides, and Twilight Rides during the warmer months for a magical evening experience followed by local produce tasting.

Conquer Booroomba Rocks

Booroomba Rocks

Pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime at Namadgi National Park . Tucked away on Ngunnawal Country, this hidden gem offers a chance to ditch the tourist traps and dive into some real Aussie wilderness. Pitch your tent at Mount Clear Campground for basic yet beautiful camping and explore nearby historical sites like Brayshaws and Westermans Huts. For an adrenaline kick, tackle the challenging Booroomba Rocks trail, but watch your step on those cliff edges. With jaw-dropping views and plenty of adventure, Namadgi National Park promises an unforgettable experience for you and your partner. 

Ready to dive into these adventurous things to do in Canberra? Book your stay at Avenue Hotel now for luxury rooms in the heart of the city.

Connect with us

1800 828 000

80 Northbourne Avenue Braddon, Canberra ACT 2602

What would you like to do?

We have a room for everyone, stay at one of our contemporary hotels located in the heart of Canberra.

Dine with us, whether it's for breakfast, lunch or dinner, with your family friends of colleagues.

Looking to book your next function in Canberra? We can help your organise the perfect venue.

How many guest?

Have you got more than 10 guests? Contact us

When are you coming?

How long will you stay with us.

10 cool things to do with the kids

There’s so much for kids of all ages to enjoy in Canberra that they’ll want to keep coming back each school holidays.

An inside look into arts and culture in Canberra

Explore below the surface of Canberra’s arts and culture scene and discover more than you came for with this insider's look.

Richie Allan's insights into Ngunnawal cultural tours

Proud Ngunnawal and Kamilaroi custodian, Richie shares what you'll see, do and learn during a tour of Ngunnawal country.

Wild at heart

Embark on a journey to uncover Canberra's many natural marvels, each inviting you to indulge your adventurous spirit. From bushwalks to celestial encounters, Canberra can be seen as a bit of a playground for outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes.

The best school holiday activities in Canberra

While Canberra’s iconic attractions are open for fun, many host an array of activities and programs exclusive to the school holidays.

A guide to Canberra's must-see museums and galleries

Home to some of Australia’s best art galleries and museums, Canberra has long been a destination for culture-hunters. Don’t miss these museums and galleries.

What's on in Canberra this autumn

In autumn, experience Australia’s capital with this list of the best activities from visiting blockbuster exhibitions to sipping wine at cellar doors.

Chef-hatted and awarded restaurants

Canberra is a culinary paradise of chef-hatted and award-winning restaurants awaiting your indulgence.

Enlighten Festival's must-attend events

Here’s your guide to the signature events at this year's festival, including pride weekend, the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, and Enlighten Illuminations.

Seven unique places to stay on your getaway

Spend your trip to the nation's capital glamping in a vineyard, slumbering near lions and sinking into luxe surrounds in the CBD.

Romantic restaurants for the perfect date night in Canberra

Searching for the perfect romantic dining experience for two? Canberra knows how to make your night out special.

Top Instagram posts of 2023

From spectacular sunsets to beautiful vistas, here are the top most liked photos on VisitCanberra’s Instagram in 2023.

Keep in touch

Be among the first to discover the latest and greatest things to see and do, taste and try, explore and experience in Canberra by signing up to our newsletter.

All fields marked with * are required

Accommodation deals

Discovering Ancient Egypt - King Studio @ Abode Belconnen

Fall into Winter Package - Studio Room @ Abode Tuggeranong

Discovering Ancient Egypt - Studio Room @ Abode Narrabundah

Fall into Winter Package - Studio Room @ Abode Woden

Fall into Winter Package - One Bedroom Apartment @ Abode Tuggeranong

Fall into Winter Package - Family Studio @ Abode Gungahlin

• Financial News
• The best nights out in New Jersey
• Maryland’s sports betting legislation
• Ideal Hairstyling & Barbershop
• Jilly’s T-Shirt Factory
• The Ocean City Library
• Fishing Report
• Surf Report
• Sign in / Join

Best Places to Visit in Canberra

Canberra is a vibrant megacity that’s replete with a good selection of cultural relics; it’s also the country’s capital. The city’s position is between Melbourne and Sydney. It was chosen as the country’s capital in 1908. There are a lot of delightful places to visit in Canberra. So, in this post, we will explore the top of them.

Places in Canberra and Fun Things to Do There

Visiting Canberra is often a fun-filled adventure. The following are some of the amazing places to visit and the fun activities to do there.

Top Attractions in Canberra: Must-See Destinations for Your Visit

Some of the best places to visit in Canberra include the following.

Lake Burley Griffin

Lake Burley Griffin is a gorgeous lake that serves as the ideal position for a wide variety of out-of-door fun pastimes. This lake attracts multitudes of excursionists from across the globe, who come to enjoy the colourful water activities, bike rides, and picnics. Tourists can enjoy dinner while watching the city lights shine from the deck of the MV Southern Cross.

National Library of Australia

The National Library of Australia was established in 1968 and has since gathered an expansive collection of Australian literature. The extravagant use of marble and travertine on the structure’s columns and walls, shaped like a Greek temple, emphasises its classical appearance. The building’s ornamentation included marble from Australia, Greece, and Italy. The foyer features three spectacular stained-glass windows by Leonard French and three gorgeous Aubusson tapestries made of Australian wool. The bottom floor has two galleries:

• The Treasures Gallery showcases exceptional objects from the library’s collection.
• The Exhibitions Gallery presents one-of-a-kind touring shows that are popular but need advance scheduling.

Rainforest Gully in the Australian National Botanic Gardens

The National Botanic Gardens is located about a kilometre west of the city centre. These well-preserved collections, scattered over the highlands of Black Mountain, include every significant species of Australian flora. They show a variety of exciting settings. Guests can also relax here while playing their favourite casino games at https://gamblenator.net/au/casinos .

Rain Forest Gully stands out as especially impressive. Keep an eye out for water dragons in the dense foliage. Other notable attractions are the Children’s Discovery Walk and the Red Centre Garden, which has grassland with spinifex and deep red soil. In addition, the gardens provide a safe home for numerous different species of butterflies and birds. You may enter Black Mountain Nature Park from the gardens, journey to the peak provides superb city views.

National Zoo and Aquarium

Australia’s only combined zoo and aquarium, this privately owned venture is a hit with families and anyone who loves animals. It’s only five minutes from the city centre. The National Aquarium displays a wide range of marine life, from the tiny residents of the reefs to massive sharks.

This privately operated company attracts many families and people who like animals. From the tiniest reef dwellers to the world’s most giant sharks, the National Aquarium holds a diverse range of aquatic species. In addition to exotic animals like lions, tigers, cheetahs, bears, and many more, the nearby zoo has every significant species of Australian flora and fauna. Visitors like animal encounters because they allow them to view exotic critters closely while providing a behind-the-scenes look at the attraction. Cheetahs, sun bears, giraffes, and rhinos are among the numerous animals that live in Canberra’s famous zoo.

National Museum of Australia

The National Museum of Australia, located on a peninsula that stretches into Lake Burley Griffin, covers the country’s socioeconomic history. The controversial modern structure provides spectacular views of the lake. A jigsaw inspired the project, which sought to highlight the interrelated tales that helped build the country.

The displays delve extensively into the diverse cultural legacy of Australia’s Indigenous peoples. One of the hobbies coming from the past is slot spinning. Here’s the website Australians can check to find the best Australian pokies apps .

Other exhibitions address human migration, the clothing industry, Australian manufacturing, and the Gold Rush. There are also a few hands-on exhibits where children can entertain themselves.

Canberra, Australia’s exquisite capital city, exudes polished appeal because of its well-balanced combination of cultural institutions and natural beauty. The city is designed to allow for various fun outdoor activities, making it a top destination for tourists. Canberra is also a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Point Sailing School Gets Ready to Hit the Water for 2024

Volunteers Needed For Ocean City’s After Prom Celebration

Postal Food Drive Scheduled for Saturday

Latest news.

POPULAR CATEGORIES

• Latest Stories 6847
• Trending 5901
• What to do 744
• Beaches, Boardwalk, Bay 180
• obituaries 137
• Comments Policy

Discovering Ancient Egypt

The must-see exhibition of rare and remarkable artefacts from Ancient Egypt

Ralph Heimans

A major exhibition of the internationally sought-after portraitist

All My Memories Are Mistranslations

Exhibition of woodcuts from award winning Bornean-Australian author, visual artist and poet Omar Musa

Vincent Namatjira: Australia in colour

A cheeky exhibition of acclaimed Western Aranda artist Vincent Namatjira

An immersive, reflective audiovisual installation that pays homage to the native cockatoo

Jordan Wolfson, Body Sculpture

A robotic work of art that combines performance and sculpture

A Century of Quilts

A showcase of the often-overlooked art form made almost exclusively by women

Paradise won

A mural by Ryan Presley challenging traditional power structures

Life Drawing by Lee Crisp

Lee explores agency, strength, sensuality and sexuality as lived by mature women.

Life In The Old Dog Yet

A photographic exhibition by Brian Jones challenging senior citizen stereotypes

Warped and Twisted

The annual member's exhibtion of the Canberra Spinners and Weavers

Discover the best exhibitions currently on now in Canberra. This page curates the best of Canberra's Art and Culture.

Have we missed anything? Let us know .

• Subscribe to Canberra Digest
• News, Events, Culture & Sports

North Canberra

• 1.2 By light rail
• 2.1 Anzac Parade
• 2.2 Other military sites
• 2.3.1 In nature reserves
• 2.3.2 Other parks and lookouts
• 2.3.3 Commonwealth and Kings Parks
• 2.4 Other points of interests
• 4.2 Mid-range
• 4.3 Splurge
• 4.4 Dickson Shops
• 6.1 Mid-range
• 6.2 Splurge

Memorials, military sites, and parks all characterise North Canberra , a district comprised of several neighbourhoods in the District of Canberra Central.

The term "North Canberra" is usually used to describe everything in Central Canberra north of Lake Burley Griffin, but for Wikivoyage purposes, Civic and Acton are covered separately.

Get in [ edit ]

North Canberra is well connected by both public transport and road, given that it is right to the north of the city and is along one of the most important stopover points in Canberra.

By car [ edit ]

The area is well connected by road. From the city, to get to places such as Dickson, use A23 Northbourne Avenue north while if you're heading to Campbell, use Parkes Way but east.

By light rail [ edit ]

North Canberra is the only place where some some form of public transport that is not bus transport passes through. While Walter Burley Griifin's original 1912 plan had plans to incorporate a tram network in Canberra, it took over 107 years for that to finally happen. Today, the tram line runs from Civic (or the city) passing through A23 Northbourne Avenue before terminating north in Gungahlin . The largest interchange in North Canberra is the -35.250381 149.133757 1 Dickson Interchange , right next to the Dickson Shops.

See and do [ edit ]

If there are two things North Canberra is filled with to the brim, it's memorials and military sites. Nearly all of them are found on Anzac Parade (or sometimes ANZAC Parade), including the Australian War Memorial on the northeasterly edge, while the rest can be done on a short 2-kilometer walk (return). There are some other memorials in Kings Park , while there are other military sites (some of which are of interest to travellers) scattered in Campbell.

North Canberra also contains many parks and lookouts, some of which require you to go via bushwalking trails. Any photography cognoscenti in Canberra will tell you about Mount Ainslie ; a lookout where if you can get your camera aligned just right, many of Canberra's important landmarks will appear in one straight line.

Anzac Parade [ edit ]

Anzac Parade is not just an important street in North Canberra but for Canberra as a whole (and some may even say it's one of Australia's most important streets). Up the northern end of it is the Australian War Memorial, but what you may not have been aware of is the smaller memorials. These can either be in commemoration of specific warfare forces like the Royal Australian Air Force, broad categories of workers such as the Australian Service Nurses National Memorial, or after wars like the Boer War Memorial.

Not many people walk this itinerary, but if you're really into learning about wartime history, this rather short and easy itinerary along Anzac Parade and back is a great way to do just that. Anzac Parade is only 1.1 km one way, so the distance is not very long either.

The obvious choice for where to start is the Australian War Memorial, where there's an abundance of parking slots available, as parking is limited towards the southern end near Lake Burley Griffin.

After you've spent some time in the Australian War Memorial, head out to War Memorial Carpark and cross the Fairbairn Avenue roundabout where Anzac Avenue starts. For the purpose of this itinerary, this article will cover the route from the perspective of being on the left side of the road.

Once you've passed the New Zealand Memorial, you'd have passed all memorials along the eastern end of Anzac Parade and passed the halfway mark. There are six other memorials, but they are across Parkes Way (and crossing that roundabout is near-impossible) in Kings Park , so consider taking your car down after you've finished the walk of Anzac Parade.

Other military sites [ edit ]

• -35.2991 149.1681 16 Royal Military College , Duntroon ( enter via Staff Cadet Avenue or Robert Campbell Road ). The Australian Army's officer training academy was established in 1911 and pre-dates the city of Canberra by two years. Its grounds are open to the public, though access to most buildings is restricted. The Changi Chapel , halfway along Miles Road, was constructed by Australian prisoners of war being held in Singapore during World War II and was moved to Duntroon following the war.  

Parks and lookouts [ edit ]

In nature reserves [ edit ].

North Canberra has many parks, but most of them are just for residents rather than for travellers or visitors.

If you're driving to Mount Ainslie, just enter "20 Mount Ainslie Dr" into your GPS and it should work, but otherwise Mount Ainslie Drive should also get you to the top, but there are several bushwalking trails that you can hike to reach the top.

Another important lookout in North Canberra is -35.2376 149.1815 19 Mount Majura , to the north of Mount Ainslie, access to the peak is by walking tracks only – despite there being a service road, it is not available for use by the public. One of the popular walking trails starts near Antill Street in Watson and is a great way to go bushwalking without having to drive to Country ACT .

Other parks and lookouts [ edit ]

• -35.2984 149.1582 21 Mount Pleasant ( Mount Pleasant Lookout ), General Bridges Drive . The hill which overlooks the Royal Military College - Duntroon and the nearby Australian Defence Force Academy is topped by the modest Royal Australian Artillery Memorial , which includes two historic cannons. The grave of General William Bridges , the first commander of the Australian troops at Gallipoli, is just off General Bridges Drive at the base of Mount Pleasant: Bridges was killed in May 1915 and is one of only two Australians killed in the war to have been returned home for burial (the other being the Unknown Soldier at the nearby Australian War Memorial).  

Commonwealth and Kings Parks [ edit ]

Situated in the southwest and southern ends of North Canberra, Commonwealth Park and Kings Park are two important adjacent parks and the only piece of Parliamentary Triangle that is in North Canberra and has interesting points of interests. Here, you can see Walter Burley Griffin's original design plans for Canberra, an outdoor amphitheatre where many of Canberra's events are hosted, and several more memorials, but unlike the memorials on Anzac Parade , most of the memorials in Kings Park are not war memorials.

• -35.29042 149.13117 23 National Capital Exhibition , Barrine Drive , ☏ +61 2 6272 2902 , [email protected] . M-F 9AM-5PM, Sa Su 10AM-4PM . See an exhibition about the original Burley Griffin Plan for Canberra and how the city was planned and built. Good views over Lake Burley Griffin out to the museums on the Lake's south shore. Free .  
• -35.2883 149.1321 1 Stage 88 . An open-air event venue where many musical, cultural and sporting events are regularly hosted every year. Most of the events only draw local Canberrans, but some like Canberra's iconic Floriade festival draw flora enthusiasts from all over Australia. ( updated Jun 2022 )

If you've got children into art and nature, there are two short family-friendly walks in Commonwealth Park that you can walk: Art in the Park and Tweet Trail . The former passes through some memorial sculptures in Commonwealth Park, and there's an adventure map for the kids (somewhat like the USA's NPS Junior Ranger Program booklets), but it's only available online – meaning you have to print the online copy of it. The latter is a trail for any birdwatching enthusiast and also has a pamphlet, but it too needs to be printed from here .

Kings Park is also home to six important memorials, but only two of the six are war memorials. They're within a few metres from each other and are all within walking distance. The "civilian memorials" include the National Emergency Services Memorial , the National Workers Memorial , the National Police Memorial and the Indian Ocean Tsunami Memorial while the other two Merchant Navy Memorial and the HMAS Canberra Memorial are two military memorials, but in Kings Park instead of Anzac Parade.

Other points of interests [ edit ]

• -35.2491 149.1445 25 ANCA Gallery ( Australian National Capital Artists Gallery ), +61 2 6247 8736 , ☏ +61 2 6247 8736 . W–Su noon–5PM (closed M Tu) . This gallery's several exhibitions feature the work of local Canberran artists. Contrary to what most art galleries do, there is no emphasis on quality though in practice, what you see here is just as good as any other art gallery. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.301296 149.156476 26 Duntroon Dairy ( Historic Duntroon Dairy ), Kelliher Dr , ☏ +61 2 6205 0255 . Built in 1832, this building is believed to be the oldest building in the ACT standing. It's only open on request, but you can still see the building very close to a small carpark off Kelliher Dr. There's plenty of informative signage, and you'll see some excellent views over Lake Burley Griffin. ( updated Jun 2022 )

Buy [ edit ]

• Lonsdale Street in Braddon houses a growing number of boutiques which specialise in independent clothing labels, other designer objects, and many, many, coffee shops and casual restaurants. The southern end of Lonsdale Street contains many of Canberra's outdoor clothing and camping stores and some several bicycle shops.
• -35.238069 149.15 1 Gallery of Small Things , 27 Wade St, Watson , ☏ +61 422 263 533 . Th–Su 11AM–4PM . An art shop that sells all sorts of small but yet unusual small things as the name of the shop says. Several of their products incorporate elements of indigenous art, but the products are known to be very pricy. ( updated Feb 2022 )
• -35.277845 149.13771 2 Gorman House Market , 55 Ainslie Ave, Braddon , ☏ +61 2 6182 0000 . Every Saturday in Braddon, just north of the city (easy walk). Crafts, second-hand items, antiques, international food in a lovely, grassy setting. ( updated Feb 2022 )
• -35.270147 149.133336 3 Haig Park Village Markets , Haig Park, Braddon . Su 9AM–2PM . A small but vibrant community market with lots of diverse goods available. ( updated Jun 2022 )

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

• -35.27427 149.131 1 BurgerHero , 31 Mort St, Braddon , ☏ +61 450 933 025 . Su–Th 11AM–8:45PM, F Sa 11AM–9:45PM . A small burger restaurant best known for its waffle fries and its original cheeseburger. There's a good range of gormet burgers out there, but they're super large, and for the freak burgers, it means a lot of chilli! ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.25215 149.1247 2 The Front Gallery and Cafe , 1 Wattle Pl, Lyneham , ☏ +61 473 403 054 . Tu-Sa 8AM–10PM, Su M 8AM–6PM . Enjoy a coffee and explore an art exhibition. Comfy couches.  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• -35.2747 149.1328 3 Bamiyan , 62/10 Lonsdale St., Braddon , ☏ +61 2 6156 5381 , +61 2 6156 5376 (bookings) . Su–Th noon–3PM, 5–9:30PM, F Sa noon–3PM, 5–10PM . A restaurant specialising in modern-Afghani cuisine, a cuisine that few have tried which is a mix of South Asian cuisine and Middle Eastern cuisine . Bookings aren't required, but are strongly recommended by either filling out a form on their website or by giving them a ring. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.2728 149.13333 4 Darbar Indian Restaurant , 139/24 Lonsdale St, Braddon , ☏ +61 2 6152 0920 (landline), +61 426 998 487 (mobile) , [email protected] . Tu–F 5–10:30PM, Sa Su noon–2:30PM, 5–10:30PM . Originally a Sydney-based restaurant, it serves some fine foods from pretty much all over the Indian subcontinent (i.e. South Asia without Afghanistan). Both dine-in and takeaway options are available. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.27514 149.1321 5 Hopscotch ( Hopscotch Bar ), 5 Lonsdale St., Braddon , ☏ +61 2 6107 3030 , [email protected] . noon–4AM . A classic restaurant and pub with lots of good cocktails, a good vibe and some live music. Bookings are highly recommended, but time slots are limited to two hours. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.26402 149.1226 6 Tu Do , 7 Sargood St, O'Connor , ☏ +61 2 6248 6030 , [email protected] . Tu–Sa 10:30AM–3PM , 5PM–10PM Su 10:30AM–3PM , 5PM–9PM . Cheap and tasty Vietnamese, very popular with the local Vietnamese community and known for its good range soup. There's a good bar nearby too.  

Splurge [ edit ]

• -35.2896 149.1542 7 Les Bistronomes , 18 Blamey Pl., Campbell ( in Campbell Shops ), ☏ +61 2 6248 8119 , [email protected] . Tu–Sa noon–2PM, 6–9PM . An upscale fine-dining restaurant specialising in French cuisine, in particular, seafood. The wines however, are unambiguously an Australianised version resembling French wines. The venue is explicitly 18+ only though. ( updated Apr 2022 )
• -35.27757 149.137561 8 Sage Dining Rooms , Batman St., Braddon ( near Gorman House Arts Centre ), ☏ +61 2 6249 6050 . A modern dining restaurant with some tranquil settings and a lively outdoor bar. Temporarily closed as of March 2022, but is expected to reopen soon. ( updated Apr 2022 )

Dickson Shops [ edit ]

• -35.25 149.13655 10 Au Lac Dickson Vegan Cuisine , 4/35-39 Woolley St , ☏ +61 2 6262 8922 , [email protected] . A mid-range vegan restaurant, and a rare sight in Canberra with delicious soy-based versions of everything. If you're not used to eating vegan cuisine but want to try, this place is a great place to start. Though this restaurant is in Canberra's de facto Chinatown, it's actually a Vietnamese restaurant, but there's plenty of other Southeast Asian dishes. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.2503 149.1365 11 Dickson Asian Noodle House , Shop 4/29 Woolley St , ☏ +61 2 6247 6380 . Tu–Su 11AM–9PM (closed Mondays) . It's been a long established budget favourite in Canberra for many. It specialises in Southeast Asian noodles with terrific laksa and is quite cheap if you put a bit of thought into the price. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.2514 149.1364 12 Dickson Dumpling House , 77/2 Cape St , ☏ +61 2 6248 8350 . Daily 11:30AM–3PM, 5–10PM . A rather noisy budget cheap traditional dumpling restaurant with lots of beef, pork and noodle options on the menu. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.2497 149.1366 13 Hang A Ri kimchi ( Korean : 항아리김치 ), 5/55 Woolley St , ☏ +61 406 421 791 . A mid-range Korean barbecue restaurant with an extensive menu of noodles, hot pots, stews and soups, Korean pancakes and mot importantly, chicken! Korean drinks are also available. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.2494 149.1369 14 Jimmy's Place , 71 Woolley St , ☏ +61 2 6248 8188 . A very flavourful restaurant with some excellent laksa and noodles available. It's a mid-range restaurant, but there are plenty of budget options available if you're on a budget. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.2503 149.1369 15 Ruby Chinese Restaurant , 18 Woolley St , ☏ +61 2 6249 8849 . Th–Tu noon–2pm, 5–11PM (closed Wednesdays) . An upper mid-range/splurge Cantonese restaurant with an extensive seafood menu. It's a long established restaurant, and while seafood is their specialty, their noodles and soup are also worth a try. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.2513 149.1357 16 Shin Sen Teppanyaki Restaurant , 71/2 Cape St , ☏ +61 2 6262 7888 . M–Sa 5:30–9:30PM (closed Sundays) . A teppanyaki restaurant specializing in Japanese and Taiwanese cuisine. Keep in mind however, that you'll need to make a booking 24 hours in advance before coming here, and there is also an additional deposit fee of $20. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.2507 149.1369 17 Tak Kee Roast Inn , 10 Woolley St , ☏ +61 2 6257 4939 . Daily 11AM–10PM . It is Canberra's first Chinese restaurant with many barbecue dishes and noodles in soup options available. The chef's specialty is laksa though, not the former two mentioned. BYO available. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.25002 149.1376 18 Two Sisters Lao Thai Cuisine , 5/38 Badham St , ☏ +61 2 6247 7199 . Tu–F 11AM–2:30PM, 5–9:30PM, Sa–M 5–9:30PM . Laotian cuisine is rather rare to encounter – in fact, unless you've been looking for it or been to Laos and surrounding countries, have you ever dined at a Lao restaurant? This one is not exactly a Lao restaurant, but rather a mix of Thai and Lao cuisines (they're quite similar though). ( updated Jun 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

• -35.251924 149.12418 1 Tilley's Devine Cafe Gallery , cnr Brigalow St & Wattle St, Lyneham , ☏ +61 2 6247 7753 . Originally a "female only" establishment, it now opens its doors to everyone and is a fantastic venue for acoustic and jazz local and international acts. Food and coffee available, along with a large bar selection. ( updated Feb 2022 )
• -35.2749 149.1328 2 Civic Pub , 8 Lonsdale St, Braddon , ☏ +61 2 6248 6488 . Su–Th 11AM–10PM F Sa 11AM–11PM . A mid-range bar with a great range of food and drink available. It's reasonably sized, and has a good strong emphasis on Carlton Draught Beer. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -35.264188 149.1221 3 Duxton , 8 Macpherson St, O'Connor , ☏ +61 2 6162 0799 . Bar in a suburban shop setting. Great for pre-dinner drinks before moving on to one of the small restaurants in the area. ( updated Feb 2022 )
• -35.274795 149.1314 4 Knightsbridge Penthouse , 1/34 Mort Street, Braddon , ☏ +61 2 6262 6221 . Great DJ and lovely selection of cocktails. Good crowd, lots of dancing. Often a line after 10PM.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• -35.2611 149.1314 1 Mantra MacArthur Canberra ( MacArthur Canberra Hotel ), 219 Northbourne Ave (A23), Turner , ☏ +61 2 6112 9200 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: 10AM . A large hotel near Dickson that has some reasonably spacious rooms, and includes a gym and a restaurant. The outside may look a bit dated, but it's very modern on the inside. ( updated Apr 2022 )
• -35.272952 149.130862 3 Midnight Hotel , 1 Elouera St, Braddon , ☏ +61 2 6220 0000 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: 11AM . A rather conveniently located hotel which is just minutes from many centres in North Canberra and the city. Rooms are known for being clean, and there's underground parking, but you have to pay for it. from $248 . ( updated Mar 2022 )
• -35.27189 149.1308 4 Pacific Suites Canberra , 100 Northbourne Ave. , ☏ +61 2 6262 6266 , [email protected] . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: 10:30AM . A large hotel that is rather spacious in size, especially when so close to the city. Cleanliness has been seen a small problem, but it is generally better compared to most other hotels of its size. Facilities include a pool, a restaurant, a bar, a gym free Wi-Fi and depending on availability, parking. ( updated May 2022 )

Connect [ edit ]

As of 2022, Telstra has a near-complete 5G coverage in North Canberra, except in some parts of the Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve where there is good 4G coverage. Optus also has 5G coverage, but only outdoor coverage outside the suburbs of Braddon and Dickson. Vodafone however only has 4G coverage, but has indoor coverage, and this is throughout North Canberra.

There are several locations in North Canberra where you can connect to CBRfree public Wi-Fi , including the Dickson's -35.2495 149.1396 1 Libraries ACT branch, on Antill Street in Dickson. It's open M–Th 10AM–5:30PM, F 10AM–8PM Sa 10AM–4PM and Su noon–4PM. The library doesn't have a specific email address or a phone number, but consider ringing ☏ +61 2 6205 9000 if you wanted to make an enquiry.

• Has custom banner
• Has map markers
• Has mapframe
• Maps with non-default size
• See listing with no coordinates
• All destination articles
• Guide districts
• Guide articles
• District articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

• Canberra Tourism
• Canberra Hotels
• Canberra Bed and Breakfast
• Flights to Canberra
• Canberra Restaurants
• Things to Do in Canberra
• Canberra Travel Forum
• Canberra Photos
• Canberra Map
• All Canberra Hotels
• Canberra Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Canberra
• Canberra Motels
• Canberra Campgrounds
• Canberra Hostels
• Canberra Business Hotels
• Canberra Family Hotels
• Canberra Green Hotels
• Canberra Casinos
• Canberra Luxury Hotels
• Canberra Spa Resorts
• Romantic Hotels in Canberra
• 5-stars Hotels in Canberra
• 4-stars Hotels in Canberra
• 3-stars Hotels in Canberra
• Quest Apartment Hotels in Canberra
• Adina Hotels in Canberra
• Accor Hotels in Canberra
• Mantra Hotels in Canberra
• Ibis Styles Hotels in Canberra
• Wyndham Hotels in Canberra
• Ovolo Hotels in Canberra
• Canberra Hotels with Pools
• Canberra Hotels with Free Parking
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Canberra
• Hotels near Lyneham
• Hotels near Griffith
• Hotels near Forrest
• Hotels near Campbell
• Hotels near Braddon
• Hotels near O'Connor
• Canberra Hotels with Bridal Suite
• Canberra Hotels with Bike Rentals
• Canberra Hotels with EV Charging
• Canberra Hotels with Sauna
• Canberra Hotels with Breakfast Buffet
• Canberra Hotels with Heated Pool
• Canberra Hiking Hotels
• Boutique Bed and Breakfast in Canberra
• Romantic Bed and Breakfast in Canberra
• Canberra Casino Spa Hotels
• Hotels near Australian War Memorial
• Hotels near Parliament House
• Hotels near National Gallery of Australia
• Hotels near Questacon
• Hotels near Mount Ainslie Lookout
• Hotels near National Museum of Australia
• Hotels near Lake Burley Griffin
• Hotels near National Portrait Gallery
• Hotels near National Zoo and Aquarium
• Hotels near National Arboretum Canberra
• Hotels near (SYD) Kingsford Smith Airport
• Hotels near (CBR) Canberra Airport
• ACEA Subic Beach Resort
• Queensland Hotel
• Cloud 9 Hotel Resort
• Sampaguita Tourist Inn
• Kingsford Hotel Manila
• Puerto Azul Beach
• Bloomfield Hotel
• Villa Excellance Beach and Wave Pool Resort
• University Hotel
• The Forest Camp
• Pearl Farm Beach Resort
• Lakawon Island Resort
• Amontay Beach Resort
• Popular All-Inclusive Resorts
• Popular Beach Resorts
• Popular Family Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Hotels
• Popular Hotels With Waterparks
• Popular Honeymoon Resorts
• Popular Luxury Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Family Resorts
• Popular Golf Resorts
• Popular Spa Resorts
• Popular Cheap Resorts
• All things to do in Canberra
• Things to do near Canberra Airport
• Things to do near Ultimate Travel
• Things to do near Central Railway Station
• Australian War Memorial
• National Gallery of Australia
• Parliament House
• Mount Ainslie Lookout
• Lake Burley Griffin
• National Zoo and Aquarium
• Jerrabomberra Wetland
• Cockington Green
• Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
• Museum of Australian Democracy
• National Museum of Australia
• National Portrait Gallery
• Canberra Outlet Centre
• John Knight Memorial Park
• Architectural Buildings in Canberra
• Cemeteries in Canberra
• Civic Centers in Canberra
• Sacred & Religious Sites in Canberra
• Government Buildings in Canberra
• Historic Sites in Canberra
• Monuments & Statues in Canberra
• Neighborhoods in Canberra
• Observation Decks & Towers in Canberra
• Scenic Walking Areas in Canberra
• Arenas & Stadiums in Canberra
• Farms in Canberra
• Points of Interest & Landmarks in Canberra
• Lookouts in Canberra
• Churches & Cathedrals in Canberra
• Dams in Canberra
• Playgrounds in Canberra
• Forests in Canberra
• Gardens in Canberra
• Geologic Formations in Canberra
• Mountains in Canberra
• National Parks in Canberra
• Nature & Wildlife Areas in Canberra
• Parks in Canberra
• Biking Trails in Canberra
• Hiking Trails in Canberra
• Aquariums in Canberra
• Zoos in Canberra
• Bodies of Water in Canberra
• Art Galleries in Canberra
• Antique Stores in Canberra
• Department Stores in Canberra
• Factory Outlets in Canberra
• Flea & Street Markets in Canberra
• Shopping Malls in Canberra
• Gift & Specialty Shops in Canberra
• Farmers Markets in Canberra
• Movie Theaters in Canberra
• Casinos in Canberra
• Game & Entertainment Centers in Canberra
• Horse Tracks in Canberra
• Sports Complexes in Canberra
• Room Escape Games in Canberra
• Scavenger Hunts in Canberra
• Mini Golf in Canberra
• Paint & Pottery Studios in Canberra
• Sightseeing Tours in Canberra
• Segway Tours in Canberra
• Water Sports in Canberra
• Beer Tastings & Tours in Canberra
• Food Tours in Canberra
• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours in Canberra
• Hiking & Camping Tours in Canberra
• Cultural Tours in Canberra
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours in Canberra
• Private Tours in Canberra
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals in Canberra
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours in Canberra
• Photography Tours in Canberra
• Distillery Tours in Canberra
• Multi-day Tours in Canberra
• Beach & Pool Clubs in Canberra
• Golf Courses in Canberra
• Horseback Riding Tours in Canberra
• Boat Tours in Canberra
• River Rafting & Tubing in Canberra
• Eco Tours in Canberra
• Nature & Wildlife Tours in Canberra
• Safaris in Canberra
• Other Outdoor Activities in Canberra
• Spas in Canberra
• Health/Fitness Clubs & Gyms in Canberra
• Yoga & Pilates in Canberra
• Art Museums in Canberra
• Children's Museums in Canberra
• History Museums in Canberra
• Science Museums in Canberra
• Specialty Museums in Canberra
• Wineries & Vineyards in Canberra
• Breweries in Canberra
• Distilleries in Canberra
• Cooking Classes in Canberra
• Wine Tours & Tastings in Canberra
• Wine Bars in Canberra
• Bars & Clubs in Canberra
• Gay Clubs & Bars in Canberra
• Karaoke Bars in Canberra
• Coffeehouses in Canberra
• Tramways in Canberra
• Mass Transportation Systems in Canberra
• Taxis & Shuttles in Canberra
• Bus Transportation in Canberra
• Railways in Canberra
• Sports Camps & Clinics in Canberra
• Lessons & Workshops in Canberra
• Boat Rentals in Canberra
• Kayaking & Canoeing in Canberra
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Canberra
• Theme Parks in Canberra
• Water Parks in Canberra
• Conference & Convention Centers in Canberra
• Libraries in Canberra
• Visitor Centers in Canberra
• Things to do near Mercure Sydney
• Tacloban City San Juanico Cruise + Island Stopover W/ Boodle Feast
• Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass
• From Bangkok: Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Day Trip
• Savannah to Tybee Island with Dolphin Cruise
• Corregidor day tour via Manila to Bataan
• [Private] Seoul Seventeen Carat Tour - Guide Only
• Camiguin: Transport - Car-Van-MotorBike
• Genting Highlands Day Trip
• Island Hopping in Samal Island with Lunch Buffet
• Iloilo Fishing Port Tour and Local Market Food Trip (Fresh from the Sea)
• Villa Escudero
• Puning Hot Spring
• Top of the Glo
• The Garden Ciudad de Victoria
• Hidden Valley Springs
• Bato Springs
• Baluarte Zoo
• Mambukal Resort & Wildlife Sanctuary
• Picnic Grove
• Kidzooona - BGC Uptown Mall
• GreenLeaders
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near NSW TrainLink

• South Pacific    
• Australia    
• Australian Capital Territory    
• Canberra    
• Things to Do in Canberra    
• Things to do near NSW TrainLink

Things to Do near NSW TrainLink

Trusted reviews and ratings, free 24-hour cancellation, low-price guarantee.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Los Angeles

The 13 best restaurants to dine at in Canberra right now

The Capital’s food scene rivals the ranks of Sydney and Melbourne

Photograph: Anne Stroud | Such and Such

With its award-winning restaurants and dishes worth trekking interstate for, Canberra has earned its place on Australia’s gourmet map. The star of the show is the region’s local produce – including truffles, smoked meats and wines – which are fired, flamed, fermented and fried into all sorts of culinary creations.

Whether you’re dining at the Italian spot in Braddon, swinging by Canberra’s trendiest bar or making friends with Canberra’s newest openings, these are the places you want to be seen in town. 

RECOMMENDED: Kick on at one of the best bars and breweries in Canberra .

An email you’ll actually love

The best restaurants in Canberra

What is it? A bite-sized Parisian-style restaurant focused on nose-to-tail cooking and natural wines.

Why go? This loosely French diner is easily one of the best places for small plates and good wine in Canberra. Onzieme revolves around a super seasonal menu written up on its grid window every day. Foraged ingredients and local produce are cooked over fire and coals, whether it be mutton skewers, sugar snap peas, kingfish head or duck. Dine in French style with a minimal intervention glass of wine, before backing it up with round two at their tiny underground bar, 11e Cave.

• Modern Asian

What is it? A funky pan-Asian eatery, perfect for lazy lunching or a dashing date night.

Why go? Follow the big city lights to this hip and happening late-night eatery on Lonsdale Street. Play your cards right by starting with Lazy Su’s infamous wagyu cheesesteak spring roll. It wraps Japanese, American and Korean cuisines all into one crispy package and serves as a bite-sized taste of how the night will unfold. Opting for the set menu is your best bet, where you’ll sample all of Lazy Su’s greatest hits, including donburi nori tacos, spicy wontons and fluffy bao buns. Pump up the pan-Asian party with soju, local beers and a Japanese Spritz.

Bar Rochford

• Restaurants

What is it? The place you want to be seen on a Saturday night in the Berra.

Why go? If anyone ever complains about Canberra’s nightlife, just nod quietly and then laugh all the way up the stairs to Bar Rochford. This is undoubtedly the best little wine bar in the ACT, and it’s hidden away in one of the capital’s oldest buildings. Once you’re up in the cosy confines of this first-floor bar you could be in Melbourne, Munich or Manhattan. Let their young gun team guide you on a vinous adventure that traverses the world, but if you don’t order food too, it’s a lost opportunity. The $90 set menu isn’t a cop-out; it’s more like a tour of their latest and greatest seasonal hits. Think smoked beef tongue with anchovy mayo; lamb ribs (or cauliflower for vegos) with Szechuan and lime caramel; and cheesecake mousse to send it off.

What is it? A modern mash-up of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines, served alongside a stellar list of sake and pisco. 

Why go? Let Inka be your introduction to Nikkei cuisine. A contemporary fusion of Japanese-Peruvian techniques and ingredients, you can travel across the world in one night with everything from crispy potato tapas and prawn tacos to kingfish ceviche and wagyu nigiri. Bring more friends so you can share more dishes, which are prepared in three separate areas: the ceviche bar, the kitchen and the robata grill. We won’t even get started on the drinks menu, which spans almost 30 pages of wines, whiskeys, pisco and sake from around the world.

What is it? A stylish yet small neighbourhood diner serving up a stand-out seven-course degustation with wine pairings. 

Why go? Nostalgic flavours and playful desserts take flight at this small suburban restaurant in Ainslie. Pilot’s seven-course set menu is quintessentially Australian, and on any given day, you may be served IPA beer pretzels, Hawaiian pizza scrolls or brandy butterscotch Wagon Wheels. The experimental non-alcoholic drinks pairing is just as impressive as the boozed-up version, with a focus given to small, sustainable Aussie producers.

Such and Such

What is it? The cooler and colourful younger sibling of Canberra’s award-winning restaurant, Pilot.

Why go? Shimmy on down to Such and Such for a fun, fresh and flavoursome feast that you’ll be raving to friends about for the rest of the year. You could mistake the bright and bold dining room for an art gallery, where the walls pop with artworks, ceramics and sculptures by local artists. Each dish is a playful masterpiece too, with the super seasonal menu featuring contemporary takes on nostalgic snacks and share plates. Don’t take things too seriously and add on a glass (or three) of lo-fi, organic wines from both local makers and far away places.

Rebel Rebel

• Modern Australian

What is it: A creative take on modern Australian cuisine with plenty of plant-based options, plus a takeaway wine shop.

Why go? Whether it’s day or night, this groovy all-day diner – named after the David Bowie song ‘Rebel Rebel’ – is buzzing with both corporate and cultured Canberrans. The dining room feels polished yet bare, with bold graphics and bright wall prints taking cue from the proto-punk early ’70s era when ‘Rebel Rebel’ was released. You could drop by for a light lunch of Sydney Rock oysters, grilled prawns and roasted cauliflower with tahini, or draw out your dinner date with fried quail, wagyu tongue, lamb tomahawk, and a burnt honey and citrus ice cream sanga to finish it off.

What is it? A fun and fast-paced pan-Asian diner with Australia’s largest sake list.

Why go? You’re meeting a pal, you want to eat, drink and get a bit merry to the familiar tune of ‘Ghetto Superstar’, and you don’t want to have to dress up. Akiba is definitely where you should head. Inside, it’s decked out a little like a cabin in the woods by way of a neon Tokyo karaoke bar. Pull up a stool to a high table and get snacking, though be mindful that serves aren’t small so you can fill up fast. Their dumpling game is on point – shoutout to the Peking duck parcels – and they don’t get lazy on the veggo front, grilling a whole half eggplant with sweet miso and then adding some snap, crackle and pop with pepitas, puffed rice and seaweed. Keep the good times rolling with fresh oysters and tartare from the raw bar, Japanese fried chicken, lemon tofu cheesecake and a sake flight.

What is it? A raw meets refined fine diner with playful takes on nostalgic desserts

Why go? This Braddon hotspot has worn a comfortable groove, and most importantly, dining here is fun. Watching all the action at the burners is part of the experience – it’s like being in the middle of a Chef’s Table episode, and this time you’ll be the one eating the habanero steak tartare with prawn crackers, or the soft, three-bite steamed buns filled with duck meat, hoisin sauce and quick pickles. The staff here have that knack for making you feel like their personal guest, and their enthusiasm for the local wines on the menu is contagious. However, you can also cash in all your adult life points for a frozen Margarita with caramel popcorn sundae or banoffee pie.

Italian and Sons

What is it? The place to go for good Italian in Canberra and to access an award-winning wine list.

Why go? Braddon might be where all the cool kids of food and drink are hanging out, but it’s also home to Italian and Sons, an Italian institution serving up the kind of contemporary yet classic Italian fare that we all crave when the mercury drops. It’s a warm, casual spot where you can just pop in for a plate of pasta and some wine – you don’t need an occasion to dine here, but it’s also very popular, so booking is a smart move. The game plan here is simple to follow: bread, antipasti, pasta, and mains, then dessert. Pastas are hand-rolled and adorned with seasonal sauces, focaccias are baked on wood and served with whipped ricotta, and the tiramisu – well, we don’t know the secret for that, but it’s bloody good.

What is it? This is where you come for beautiful, restrained Japanese food with a focus on seafood. 

Why go? Named after a Japanese style of pottery, Raku blurs the lines between art and sustenance. The menu is extensive, showcasing seafood in all its rainbow glory. You can have it raw in the kingfish served with truffle yuzu, cold in a spanner crab sushi roll, or hot as king prawns doused in XO butter. Masters of the blades, the chefs expertly slice up fresh snapper, tuna belly and scallops into sashimi or nigiri; add crunch with popcorn shrimp on the tempura menu; and grill high-grade Wagyu on a robata charcoal grill. From the express lunch to the royal tasting degustation, Raku will leave you wishing you had the moolah to dine here daily.

What is it? Canberra’s hottest (and perhaps, smallest) pizza joint tucked away behind the Ainslie shops.

Why go? When the sun goes down and the oven heats up, Mama Dough is where you want to be. The cosy space sits only six people inside but does a roaring takeaway trade and serves their pizzas directly to diners at the local pub, Edgar’s Inn, just next door. Mama Dough gets its name from the ‘mama dough’ used to create their original pizza base, which gets fired up in an imported Forno Bravo pizza oven. Picking a favourite pizza here is like picking a favourite child, so we’ll have to settle on the prosciutto and roquette for carnivores, or the mushroom, caramelised onion and sticky balsamic version for herbivores.

Grease Monkey

What is it? Canberra’s comfort cravings served up from a converted old mechanic’s garage on Lonsdale Street.

Why go? These guys are the mechanics you see when you need to grease up your system with burgers, pizza and a milkshake. When you need a full service and oil change, that’s the time to go big with a burger featuring a beef patty, streaky bacon, egg, cheese, pineapple, lettuce, tomato, beetroot, onion, relish and special sauce. However, you can also bring it home with a fat slab of their Detroit pizzas with toppings like beef brisket, truffle mushroom, chilli prawns and Tandoori chicken. Get extra greasy with liquid cheese-topped fries, stringy mozzarella sticks and Greasy Monkey’s famous milkshakes.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Time Out Market

• Destinations
• Trip Styles
• Customize Trip

South-East Asia

Travel Guide

Trip Styles Including

Get more useful information

Rediscover why Canberra is one of the coolest city in Australia

At this point it’s a little obvious to tell you that Canberra is cool now. If you haven’t heard that Australia’s capital has quietly but radically changed face, you haven’t been paying attention.

The last decade has seen what feels like an almost complete transformation of the inner-city suburbs of Braddon and New Acton, in which a new generation of bars, restaurants and cafes have gradually set up shop.

Today, the ACT may surprise as the home to eats and drinks on par with Sydney and Melbourne’s best – which means that if your last visit to Canberra was in year 6, it’s time to make a return. Here are the spots you need to seek out.

Of course, no trip to Canberra is complete without a visit to the galleries. You’ll want to devote at least a day to wandering the National Portrait Gallery and National Gallery of Australia, which are set a few minutes walk apart in Parkes.

But while we mean no disrespect to the collection of Picassos, Canberra’s greatest asset is actually what’s outside.

We’re called the Bush Capital for a reason – beautiful bushland fringes the city and you’re never more than 30 minutes from a national park, walking trail or swimming spot.

For an easy introduction to Canberra’s natural beauty, take a walk up Mount Ainslie, a 4.5 kilometre summit track that can be tackled in under two hours. It offers great views of the city below, as does Red Hill Lookout on the other side of the city.

If you’re in town when it’s warm (something that doesn’t happen here before late November) do as the locals do and go for a dip in one of the many dams or lakes on the outskirts of the city, of which Kambah Pools and Casuarina Sands are probably the nicest.

To really make a day of it, hit Namadgi National Park, or drive 30 minutes north from the city centre to find Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary, where you go bushwalking and wildlife spotting by day or on one of their guided night walks.

Canberra’s also a great jumping off point to the region’s wineries – there’s nearly 40 dotted around the city to explore. Start with Eden Road Wines and go from there.

If you’re only down for a weekend, choose wisely – there’s a lot to get through.

The current number one for coffee and associated goods is Kyo Coffee Project, which serves artful Japanese-inspired dishes like quinoa porridge with miso crumble along with the best flat whites in town.

The South American-styled menu at nearby Barrio is another perennial favourite. Both cafes are on Lonsdale Street in Braddon, the epicentre of all things cool in Canberra, so starting your day here with breakfast and then poking around the strip’s boutiques is the right call.

But if you’ve got multiple days here and want to head a little further afield one morning, Intra, set in the sleepy suburb of Campbell, is great too.

For dinner, the cosy dining room at Pilot in Ainslie can’t be beaten. It offers share plates of modern Australian delights like beef katsu sangas and kingfish with kohlrabi and goat’s curd.

Morks in Kingston, which serves up hatted contemporary Thai, is another must-do. And whether you want to fill up on burrata and cold cuts or just drink your weight in natural wines, Bar Rochford reigns as the city’s coolest bar for a reason.

After a more casual option? Try CBD Dumpling for cheap and cheerful Chinese or hit Capital Brewing for locally-brewed beers and taproom food. To fill up on a Canberra cult classic for all of $12, stop by Asian Noodle House in Dickson for a bowl of its fiery combination laksa. You’ll want to be in waistband-free attire – servings are big.

And it might not strictly be in Canberra but if you’re driving down from Sydney, the very-Instagrammable Some Cafe in the small town of Collector is well worth a stop – in fact, Canberrans are known to make the 40 minute drive out there for its plates of green tahini, poached egg and house dukkah on rye.

Sweetening the deal, Some Cafe shares a space with Collector Wines cellar door as well as a delightful fruit and veg shop that also sells cute homewares.

Two options tower above the rest and they’re both located in New Acton, within a 30-minute stroll of both the galleries and bars of Braddon.

If you can afford it, the obvious choice is Ovolo Nishi (formerly Hotel Hotel), easily one of the best city stays in Australia. It’s set in a head-turning building – you’ve probably seen photos of its incredible lobby and sexy stone bathtubs – that’s also home to the excellent Monster Kitchen & Bar, another for the must-eat-at list.

Across the road is the dependably chic QT Hotel and a stone’s throw from both accommodation options are cafe Mocan & Green Grout and the stylish Palace Electric Cinema. Those who want the convenience of New Acton on a smaller price tag could opt for the Breakfree Serviced Apartments, which are next door to the QT.

Top Highlights

• $500 OFF for 15 Day Spirit Of Bali & Return Flights With Vietnam Airlines
• 10 Relaxing Destinations to Visit in Southeast Asia

10 Traditional Gifts You Can Buy in Japan

• 10 ways to get away from it all in Tasmania
• 16% OFF for your Vietnam tour packages! Celebrate our partnership with Vietnam Airlines
• 20 things you never should do in Australia
• 4 places to explore in Japan today!
• 5 Reasons Why You Need to be in London For 2019

Recent Posts

Japan Destination: Kyoto

What is Torii Gate? Meaning, Types and Tips

Japan Destination: Tokyo

Tokyo in Spring: 10 Best Things To Do

Let’s planning your vacation

Sign up to stay updated on our Hello 2024 deals. $300 OFF for minimum $5,000 spent. Pay at ease in 3 instalments. Don't miss out our latest promotion!

No Spam. Plus, unsubscribe anytime.

Animals Around the Globe

9 Best Places to See Kangaroos in the Wild

Posted: November 14, 2023 | Last updated: November 16, 2023

Fun Facts About Kangaroos

• The baby kangaroos are known as little joeys. Also, the size of little Joeys is equivalent to that of a jellybean.
• Kangaroos cannot move backward.
• Kangaroos have a total of 60 species.
• Kangaroos can jump up to 8 meters.
• The female kangaroos can call off their pregnancies.

Kangaroo Island

In fact, tourists and ecologists claim that no adjective would justify this island’s beauty. The island is so serene and exotic. As its name hints, the place is packed with a diversity of kangaroos, making it a kangaroo lover’s goldmine. Visiting this place means seeing plenty of kangaroos basking in the sun as a daily ritual.

This island is no less than the main headquarters of kangaroos. Also, it is the third largest island in Australia and is known as Karta Pintingga. Location-wise, Kangaroo Island is tracked down around the right miles of Southern Adelaide, Australia. Overall, the island is ideal for seeing wondrous wildlife, including sea lions, seals, koalas , and most importantly, kangaroos. Moreover, this island is considered a bonanza for nature lovers and wildlife biologists as the island offers plenty of native wildlife and jaw-dropping coastal sightseeing and farmlands.

What can be more guaranteed to see kangaroos than a place named Kangaroo? Usually, places are named after their biggest specifications, Kangaroo Island, the home of kangaroos is one of them.

Murramarang National Park

Other than that, go to pebble and pretty beaches, where you will see a particular species of kangaroos, i.e., eastern gray kangaroos. Make sure to visit the beach in the evening or at dusk for a perfect view. Another cool place from Murramarang National Park to see kangaroos is the Duras North, where kangaroos love to roam, hop, and graze freely. Notably, the experts believe this place is the easiest and the most potential place to see different species of kangaroos. You can easily witness kangaroos hopping hither and thither from car parking to grassy areas.

What if we tell you about a place where serenity prevails, wildlife exists, and beauty hypnotizes your nerves and captivates your heart? Sounds exciting? Well, the excitement you are feeling right now is just a small fraction of the excitement you will get while visiting. The Murramarang National Park is an iconic place in terms of beauty and a highly potential place to see unique animals, e.g., kangaroos. It’s a national park located in New South Wales, Australia. Precisely, it is 206 km from Sydney in its south. The park is also best known as a potential spot to see kangaroos. All you need to do is find a grassy area, and you will see a kangaroo – I can bet you on that.

Lucky Bay is one of the most loved beaches of Esperance. Talking about Esperance beaches, one may forget one’s name, but it’s impossible to forget this breathtaking beach – lucky bay beach. Precisely speaking, it is located in the Cape Le Grand National Park in Southern Australia. And the major reason for its popularity is its picturesque beauty – an amalgamation of white-colored sand and turquoise-colored water making it a favorite spot for beach lovers and a great tourist place.

The city is known as Bush Capital due to its vast range of urban areas. The most potential territories to sight kangaroos within or adjacent to Canberra are Mount Ainslie, Namadgi National Park, Tidbinbilla National Park, and the Governor General’s house. Of all, the Eastern Gray Kangaroos are the most common species. So, if anyone wants to see kangaroos, you need to visit the capital of Australia or Kangaroo Capital.

Canberra, the Australian capital, has a bonus exclusivity of having around thirty thousand kangaroos. With this range, the city is known as the highest concentration hub of kangaroos, or even some call it a Kangaroo Capital.

Great Ocean Road

The Anglesea Golf Course is the best zone with this place to see roos hopping or roaming freely. The respective administration claims to conduct kangaroo tours over there, which is a sight too much to watch. Excited to see a kangaroo march? Plan a trip to Great Ocean Road. You won’t get disappointed with these sure-fire sightings.

The Great Green Ocean Road is a must-visit place for nature lovers. It is due to the spectacular beauty that warmly welcomes you as soon as you enter the zone. Due to its jaw-dropping beauty and scenic views, the road is considered the best route for long drives. Also another specification of this place is the abundance of Eastern gray kangaroos that you can easily see hopping on the roads. The best way to identify Eastern Gray Kangaroos is to check their pale bellies and the back covered with gray furs.

Woodlands Historic Park

The park provides a great experience for wildlife biologists as it is home to many unique and one-of-its-kind animals, such as wallabies, migratory birds , bandicoots, echidnas, and most importantly, kangaroos. The most obvious species of kangaroo that you will find here is the eastern gray kangaroo.

The next place where you can easily find kangaroos is Woodlands Historical Park , Australia, adjacent to Melbourne's Tullamarine Airport.

Wrapping Up on the 9 Best Places to See Kangaroos

The post 9 Best Places to See Kangaroos in the Wild appeared first on Animals Around The Globe .

Thank you for reading the 9 Best Places to See Kangaroos.

If you enjoyed reading this blog, you may enjoy a few others we’ve got up our sleeve! Top 10 Animals in the Australian Outback or Wildlife in Australia

Also, if you want to meet kangaroos like your lost friend. If you want direct interaction by touching, hugging, or picking them on your lap – then a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a must. In addition, all the places mentioned above are great tourist spots where you will have plenty of existing things to do.

To summarise, we have provided you with the top nine places where you can easily find kangaroos roaming or grazing. Of all these places, we recommend you go to Kangaroo Island or Canberra, Australia. It’s because there are 99.9% chance of seeing kangaroos in these two places.

More for You

'Mile Wide' Tornado In Oklahoma Causes Mass Destruction

30 things Americans consider normal but no one else understands

This American Engine Produces The Most Horsepower Per Liter

A UK Action Thriller Sequel Is Climbing Up Netflix's Top Charts

Kids who do these 6 things have 'high emotional intelligence,' says parenting expert who studied over 200 children

Archaeologists Found a Smoking Gun Behind the End of the Maya Kingdom’s Reign

15 Shocking Reasons Why More Baby Boomers Are Getting Divorced

Top 10 Most Expensive Cars in the World

White House Budget Proposals Would Hike Taxes on Retirement Accounts of the Wealthy

Chevron CEO reveals when US will see the 'end of the oil age'

How Many Fighter Jets Does The United States Have?

Archaeologists Find Rare Item Worth More to Romans Than Its Weight in Gold

I quit sugar for 6 months and this is what it did to my face and body

A.I. Predicts What 20 Popular Cars Might Look Like in 100 Years

About half of the North Korean missiles Russia fired at Ukraine flew off course and exploded in the air, official says

Holocaust survivor: It 'never occurred' to me I’d have to worry about my grandchildren

Opinion: The Supreme Court just quietly handed a huge win to veterans

17 Things We Were Taught As Kids That Are Total Nonsense

Lost Planet Theia Is Hidden Inside the Earth, New Study Says

Crazy V12-Powered Quad Bike Has Same Performance As A Bugatti Veyron