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things to do in canberra

13 Things to Do in Canberra with Family (Includes Free Activities!)

With an enormous list of things to do in Canberra, it is easily one of the most visited places in Australia. Canberra’s specialty is that it houses monuments that are free to visit, making it a budget-friendly destination. 

Located between Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra is a great escape from the bustling city, offering various entertainment options. The list below covers things you need to know about Canberra and its tourist attractions. 

Precisely, Lake Burley Griffin is the sparkling jewel of the city. Located in the city center, it houses numerous attractions, including the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library, and the famous Questacon. Furthermore, you will find a wide array of parliament buildings in Canberra. Some famous attractions comprise the Australian War Memorial, the Australian Mint, and many more. 

Things to Do in Canberra

There are unsurmountable things to do in Canberra. However, it may become impossible to do all of them if you are on vacation. Hence, there is a need for a list comprising the things to do in Canberra that you cannot miss. 

We have made a list that will take you to the famous places in the city and let you plan your trip accordingly. We suggest adding all these activities to your list of fun things to do in Canberra to maximize your enjoyment. Therefore, let’s look at the fun things to do in Canberra without any further ado.

Things to Do in Canberra (1-6)

1. Visit Canberra’s Most Poignant Attraction: The Australian War Memorial

Making it to the top of our list of the best things to do in Canberra is visiting the Australian War Memorial. Being a poignant attraction, Australian War Memorial saw its inauguration in WWII. This monument celebrates the works and services provided by Australian men during WWII.

Australian War Memorial things to do in Canberra
Australian War Memorial

Once you enter the facility, you will see a haunting introduction to the monument. The walls of the Australian War Memorial pay homage to every Australian who died in wars after 1885. Each of their names got inscribed in bronze on these walls, and the list of warriors is spine-chilling. 

The walls of the Australian War Memorial pay homage to every Australian who died in wars after 1885. Each of their names got inscribed in bronze on these walls, and the list of warriors is spine-chilling. 

Entering into the structure further will take you to Australia’s war history since the colonial days. Furthermore, the galleries offer a glimpse of the wars Australia has fought. Try staying at the memorial till the Last Post where a moving tribute happens for the fallen at 4:55 PM every day. We consider the Australian War Memorial one of the best free things to do in Canberra as it won’t cost you anything in the facility!

  • Address: Treloar Cres, Campbell ACT, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: Between 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Fun things to do: See the beautiful galleries retracing the stories of Australia during the colonial period. Attend various exhibitions, visit Discovery Zone, and many more.
  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Hotels Nearby: The Village Canberra

2. Hop on Canberra’s Hot Air Balloon Services

Australia is a popular place, and its Hot Air Balloon Services further add to its popularity. Hot-Air ballooning is one of the best things to do in Canberra to experience the beautiful sceneries of the Capital Territory.

Hot Air balloon Aloft things to do in Canberra
Hot Air Ballooning in Canberra

The best time to Hot-Air balloon in Canberra is at sunrise or sunset. A 3h30m ride on the balloon will take you to some of the most beautiful places in Canberra, including the lakes, parks, and even the Parliament House. We highly recommend adding it to your list of fun things to do.

  • Recommended Canberra’s Hot Air Balloon Service: Balloon Aloft Canberra
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to Hot Air Balloon in Canberra: Just after sunrise and 2-3 hours before sunset. 
  • Fun things to do: See Canberra’s scenic and gorgeous views while soaring through the city skylines in a Hot Air Balloon.
  • Prices: $330 per adult and $240 per child on weekends. Prices differ on weekdays and add-ons.
  • Hotels Nearby: Vibe Hotel Canberra

3. Test Your Luck at Canberra Pub Crawl Game

Another fun way to spend time in Canberra is to explore its pub scene by going on a pub crawl game with Let’s Roam. Signing up for the Pub Crawl Game will help you visit some of the most famous bars of Canberra. 

Pub Crawl Game best things to do in Canberra
Play Pub Crawl Game in Canberra

There is also a leaderboard to make the game more fun and competitive. Additionally, it provides the perfect opportunity to meet new people and make friends. It is also one of the best things to do in Canberra if looking for a date idea. Hence, why are you waiting? Add the Pub Crawl Game to your list to make your trip more enjoyable. 

  • Famous Bars: Brew Nation, Reload Bar & Games, Mooseheads Canberra 
  • Let’s Roam Official website: Click here
  • Fun things to do: Participate in the trivial game, meet new people and make friends.
  • Entrance fee: Between $12 to $45

4. Admire the Art at the National Gallery of Australia

As art enthusiasts, the National Gallery of Australia is nothing less than heaven for us. If you are the same as us, you cannot miss the world’s largest art collection at the National Gallery of Australia. 

National Gallery of Australia best things to do in Australia
Beautiful sculptures at the National Gallery of Australia

Inaugurated in October 1982 by Queen Elizabeth II, the facility never fails to amaze us with its beautiful art forms. With over 11 galleries and a large Sculpture Garden, you are sure to spend quality time here. 

The museum's notable collection is Jackson Pollock's Blue Poles, which has now become the most seen painting in the National Gallery of Australia.

The extensive collection campaign started in 1968 with arts from almost every continent, including Australia, Europe, America, Asia, and the Pacific. The museum’s notable collection is Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles, which has now become the most seen painting in the National Gallery of Australia. Other things include sculpture, book illustrations, photographs, ceramics, decorative art, etc.

  • Address: Parkes Pl E, Parkes ACT, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: Each day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM 
  • Fun things to do: Enter the facility with the enormous art collection of Australia, comprising books, photographs, illustrations, and many more.
  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Hotels Nearby: Hotel Kurrajong Canberra

5. Inspire Your Kids at the Questacon

Making your kids fall in love with a place may be a challenging job for any parent. However, Questacon makes this work a piece of cake as your kids won’t want to leave this National Science and Technology Centre. Questacon possesses various interactive science displays and lets your child bring out the science enthusiast within them.

Questacon best things to do in Canberra
Inspire your kids at Questacon exhibitions

Visiting Questacon is one of the best things to do in Canberra with kids as it promotes the significance of science in everyday life. You can attend the guest lectures, special events, and science shows happening in the facility. 

Let your kids participate in the workshops and play with technology in Questacon to further inspire the scientists inside them.

Let your kids participate in the workshops and play with technology in Questacon to further inspire the scientists inside them. All these factors combined make this National Science and Technology Centre one of the best things to do in Canberra.

  • Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: Between 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM 
  • Fun things to do: Attend science shows, guest lectures, and over 200 exhibits at the Questacon with kids. 
  • Entrance fee (at gate prices): $23 for adults and $17.50 for children (4-16 years).
  • Hotels Nearby: Quest Canberra City Walk

6. National Library of Australia is the Place for Book Lovers

National Library of Australia

If you are one of those who love to read books, the National Library of Australia is where you ought to be. This structure offers a treasure of Australian books, historic documents, music, manuscripts, and many other precious things. The most renowned possession out of all is Captain Cook’s Journal (1768-71) and Wills’ Diary (1860-61).

The most renowned possession of the National Library of Australia is Captain Cook's Journal (1768-71) and Wills' Diary (1860-61). Ensure to pay your visit while you are in Canberra!

Reaching the lower floor will give you access to the library’s collection and the Exhibition Gallery. However, attending these exhibitions may require booking beforehand. Finally, if you are a budget traveler, visiting the National Library of Australia is one of the best free things to do in Canberra Au.

  • Address: Parkes Pl W, Canberra ACT, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: Between 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM from Mondays to Thursdays and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. 
  • Fun things to do: Enter the treasures and exhibitions gallery to spend quality time in the National Library of Australia
  • Entrance fee: Nil
  • Hotels Nearby: The Village Canberra

Things to Do in Canberra (7-13)

7. Visit the Canberra Botanic Gardens

Botanic Gardens are an integral part of Australia. In fact, almost every major city on the continent has Botanic Gardens within them. Since Canberra is the capital of Australia, you are deemed to find Botanic Gardens here.

Botanic gardens best things to do in Canberra
Canberra Botanic Gardens

Located a kilometer from the city center, the National Botanic Gardens serve as a great escape from the bustling city. The facility has a vast collection of vital species of flora found in each corner of Australia. Again, it is one of the best free things to do in Canberra with kids, as the admission fee is $0.

The most notable features of the National Botanic Gardens are the Rain Forest Gully, the Red Center Garden, Black Mountain Nature Park, and the Children's Discovery Walk.

The most notable features of the National Botanic Gardens are the Rain Forest Gully, the Red Center Garden, Black Mountain Nature Park, and the Children’s Discovery Walk. Each plays a vital role in attracting the people around and gives them the perfect space to rejuvenate. The birds and butterflies flying around call for the opportunity to become photogenic. 

Read More: 11 Unbelievably Amazing & Fun Things to Do in Adelaide

Hence, if you want inexpensive options for your list of things to do in Canberra, National Botanic Gardens is the best choice. 

  • Address: Clunies Ross St, Acton ACT 2601, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: Every day from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Fun things to do: Rejuvenate in the Botanic Gardens and escape the city’s hustle and bustle. 
  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Hotels Nearby: Alivio Tourist Park Canberra

8. Meet the Wildlife at Canberra National Zoo and Aquarium

Canberra can get termed as one of the most family-friendly destinations in Australia. The primary reason is you can do so many things here with your family and kids. Another example is Australia’s only combined zoo and aquarium.

National Zoo and Aquarium best things to do in Canberra
Meet the Wildlife at the National Zoo and Aquarium

The National Zoo and Aquarium is home to almost every specie of fauna found in Australia. For instance, you can find the tiny inhabitants of Australian reefs, enormous sharks, and other marine life in the National Aquarium. 

From the Australian fauna to the exotic species of tigers, bears, and lions, the zoo has every animal you will want to interact with!

The National Zoo nearby also has a wide range of species for you to see. From the Australian fauna to the exotic species of tigers, bears, and lions, the zoo has every animal you will want to interact with. 

  • Address: Lady Denman Dr, Yarralumla ACT, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: Every day between 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Fun things to do: Visit Australia’s only combined Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra and meet the beautiful fauna.
  • Entrance fee: $47 for adults and $26 for children
  • Hotels Nearby: Jamala Wildlife Lodge

9. Spend an Hour at the Australian Mint

Want to know how the Australian Dollar gets minted? Or just want to spend time learning the heritage of the currency? If yes, visiting the Australian Mint is one of the best things to do in Canberra.

Australian Mint best things to do in Canberra
The Australian Mint

Again, the admission fee is nil, meaning you must not miss this great place. Once you enter the Mint, look for the gallery where you can see the manufacturing of coins with your own eyes. Furthermore, it also allows you to learn the currency’s history with the help of videos and multimedia presentations.

Learn the history of the Australian currency through various videos and multimedia presentations. Furthermore, you can also mint your own $1 in the Australian Mint!

Australian Mint is on our list of fun things to do in Canberra as you can mint your own $1 coin here!

  • Address: Denison St, Deakin ACT, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: Between 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM on Weekdays and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Weekends.
  • Fun things to do: Learn the heritage of Australian currency at the Australian Mint.
  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Hotels Nearby: Forrest Hotel and Apartments

10. Turn the Pages of History at the National Museum of Australia

The National Museum of Australia is another entry on our list of fun things to do in Canberra, which does not cost any admission fee. It is one of the best places to visit in Canberra to learn about Australia’s social history.

National Museum of Australia best things to do in Canberra
National Museum of Australia

The National Museum of Australia allows you to experience the gorgeous lake views while understanding the stories that shaped and united Australia as we see it today. Furthermore, it exhibits the cultural history of the native Australians in detail.

The National Museum of Australia is one of the best places to visit in Canberra to learn about Australia's social history.

Some other notable exhibits include the history of Australian industry, clothing, the age of migration, and the Gold Rush. These displays are sure to keep your kids engaged for prolonged periods.

  • Address: Lawson Cres, Acton ACT, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: Between 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Fun things to do: Learn the cultural history of Indigenous Australians, industry, clothing, etc.
  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Hotels Nearby: Hyatt Hotel Canberra

11. Inspire the Athlete Inside You at the AIS

The Australian Institute of Sports is nothing less than heaven for sporty people. Being an innate part of the Aussie culture, you cannot ignore sports in Australia.

Australian Institute of Sport best things to do in Canberra
Australian Institute of Sport

Take part in the 90-minute tour of the AIS to have a wonderful experience in the facility. It will take you on an incredible trip to the country’s sporting past, present, and future. 

Visit AIS to have a fun-filled itinerary in Australia. Hence, you must add it to your list of fun things to do in Canberra.

  • Address: Leverrier St, Bruce ACT, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM on Weekdays and 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM on Weekends. 
  • Fun things to do: Take a 90-minute tour of the facility and understand Australia’s contribution to world sports.
  • Hotels Nearby: Mantra MacArthur Canberra

12. Become a Jet-Pilot in Canberra

At least once in childhood, we all have wished to become jet pilots. Fortunately, Canberra has made our dreams possible through the Jet Flight Simulator. In a virtual safe environment, you will create memories cherished for life.

Become a Jet-Pilot in Canberra

You can become the pilot of the Boeing 737 without having any experience in the Jet Flight Simulator. Luckily, an experienced instructor will accompany you to help on your first trip as the jet’s captain.

You can choose from over 22,000 virtual airports and different weather conditions to fly on. Hence, there is no reason for you to not add this activity to your list of fun things to do in Canberra.

  • Address: Montford Cres, Lyneham ACT, Australia
  • Official website: Click here
  • Best time to visit: Every day between 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Fun things to do: Become a Jet-Pilot in the virtually safe environment of Canberra’s Jet Flight Simulator
  • Entrance fee: Depends on how long you want to fly the Jet
  • Hotels Nearby: Ibis Budget Canberra

13. Serve Your Eyes with the Gorgeous Views from Mount Ainslie

The last entry to our list of fun things to do in Canberra Au is the beautiful Mount Ainslie. Offering some of the most panoramic views in Australia, Mount Ainslie is a must-visit place. 

From the top of Mount Ainslie best things to do in Canberra
From the top of Mount Ainslie

Located within the Canberra Nature Park, you will see the gorgeous views of Capital Hill, Black Mountain, central Canberra, and many more. Hence, hike the mountain and reach the summit to see the scenic views.

  • Location: Australian Capital Territory 
  • Wiki Page: Click here
  • Fun things to do: Hike the mountain and see the gorgeous views of Central Canberra from the top of Mount Ainslie.
  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Hotels Nearby: Ibis Budget Canberra
  1. How should I spend my weekend in Canberra?

    Spending a weekend in Canberra is fun-filled and joyful. From the above, you can pick your top things to do in Canberra and plan your weekend accordingly. The capital of Australia is one of the best places to roam around with your family. Hence, don't forget to consider them in your weekend plans!

  2. How long should my trip to Canberra be?

    Most tourists include Canberra in their trip to Australia, meaning they come here either from Sydney or Melbourne. Furthermore, they won't hesitate to spend at least 2 or 3 days seeing Canberra's major tourist attractions. However, we suggest staying for 4 or 5 days in Canberra as it gives ample time to roam around the capital.

  3. Is Canberra budget-friendly?

    As mentioned, Canberra is probably the most budget-friendly city in Australia. Most attractions in the capital city do not cost any admission fee. Hence, if you are a budget traveler, you should visit Canberra. 

  4. When is the best time to visit Canberra?

    Our recommended time to visit Canberra is between September and November. The weather gives off positive vibes and offers the best opportunity to see the scenic views. You can also opt for summers but these months are usually the peak seasons, meaning high crowds!

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