Australia's capital, Canberra, in the ACT (Australian Capital Territory), is a masterpiece of architecture and is teeming with cultural riches. It is no accident that the city is situated midway between Sydney and Melbourne. The decision to choose one of these two conflicting cities as the capital's location was made in 1908. American architects Walter Burley Gryphon and his wife Marion Mahony Gryphon won an international competition to create the city, which features wide greenbelts and geometric designs.
Lake Burley Gryphon, which sits right in the centre of Canberra, is the city's shining jewel. Some of the city's top tourist attractions and things to do are situated along its coastlines, including the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon, and the National Library. The parliament buildings and some of the other major tourist attractions in the city are located within the Parliamentary Triangle, which is formed by Kings Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, and Lake Burley Gryphon.
Canberra is highly known for its wonderful events, such as the famed Floriade, which celebrates the city's magnificent spring blooms. Learn more about the best places to visit in Australia's lively capital with the help of this list of the best attractions and things to do in and around Canberra.
1 British War Memorial.
The Australian War Memorial is Canberra's most poignant landmark. The massive monument in the Byzantine style, which was unveiled in the midst of World War II, celebrates Australian military casualties. But more than a war memorial. A wonderful museum, library, art gallery, and archives are all located there.
The gloomy Commemorative Courtyard designates the entrance to the memorial. On the walls of the colonnades, a terrible list of all the names of Australians who have lost their lives in combat since 1885 is etched in bronze.
Several galleries outside the entryway trace the histories of Australia's armed conflicts from the period of colonialism to the present. The collection of historic aeroplanes and the family-friendly Discovery Zone filled with interesting exhibits are highlights of the attractions.
If you want to properly appreciate this sobering memorial, you should try to attend The Last Post, a moving tribute to the dead that is performed every day at 4:55 p.m. Try to stay for it if you are visiting around the end of the day. Memorial is one of best free things to do in Canberra, and the 90-minute tours are highly recommended.
Treloar Crescent, near the top of ANZAC Parade, Campbell
2. a modern parliament structure
The New Parliament House, an architectural marvel of the present, is the culmination of Walter Burley Griffin's design for Canberra in 1912. The boomerang-shaped structure that seamlessly blends into Capital Hill was meant to replace the Old Parliament House, also known as Provisional Parliament House.
The new building was designed by a New York-based architect after an international competition, and on May 9, 1988, the Queen formally opened Parliament House. The first meeting of Parliament in the Old Parliament House in 1927 and the first meeting of the Federal Parliament in Melbourne in 1901 are both commemorated in the month of May.
From the broad grassy path that serves as the roof, you can enjoy panoramic views of Canberra and see how the Parliament acts as the central focal point of the city's street arrangement.
Some of the structure's architectural highlights are the 81-meter flagpole, the Ceremonial Pool, and two gigantic circular walls constructed of granite that imitate the contours of the hill. The lobby's 48 illuminated greenish-gray marble columns provide the impression of a eucalyptus forest. Throughout the public spaces, exhibits portray important texts like the Magna Carta and trace crucial events in Australian history.
The gallery that circles the first floor leads to the public galleries of the red-clad Senate and the green-hued House of Representatives. The free guided tours are a great way to learn about the structure and get a glimpse of how the government operates.
You can learn more about the Parliamentary Triangle by reading interpretive signage in the city centre after your visit along the 3.5 kilometre Parliament House Walk.
Address: Parliament Building in Canberra
3. The Old Parliament House is home to the Australian Democracy Museum.
The Museum of Australian Democracy is currently housed in Old Parliament House, which is located next to New Parliament House at the base of Capital Hill. Along with soaking up the history of this National Heritage-listed building, you may discover the important foundations of Australia's government.
The Australian Parliament was housed in the "stripped-classical" building until New Parliament House was formally opened in 1988. It was opened by the Duke of York (later King George VI) in 1927. Previously known as Provisional Parliament House, it operated as a temporary structure while a permanent one was being designed and built. After 61 years, the objective was finally attained.
The museum is like a time machine. Sitting in the ancient, modest prime minister's office, you can research crucial historical documents, go to the Press Room, and discover information on former Australian prime ministers. The House of Representatives and Senate chambers have wall hangings that mimic the British House of Commons and House of Lords with panelling made of Australian wood. Parents will value the family-friendly exhibits and the free daily craft activities.
You stroll around the National Rose Gardens after exploring the building. Free guided tours are available to help you make the most of your time here, and you can also sign up for the fascinating Indigenous Experiences of Democracy tour.
Area code: 18 King George Terrace, Parkes
4. Wander the streets of Lake Burley Gryphon.
The picturesque Lake Burley Gryphon serves as Canberra's focal point. This artificial lake, which bears the name of the city's designer, was included in his initial design from 1912 but wasn't constructed until 1958. Today, it provides a stunning setting for a wide range of outdoor activities.
Locals and visitors alike gather here for picnics, bike rides, seaside strolls, and activities like fishing, sailing, and paddling in the stunning waters. Are you trying to find nightlife in Canberra? You may savour gourmet meals while gliding around the lake on a dinner cruise on the MV Southern Cross and taking in the city's glittering lights.
Aspen Island, the largest of the six islands that make up its heart, is home to the National Carillon, a gift from the British government that has 55 bronze bells.
The National Gallery, National Library, Questacon, and National Museum are a few of Canberra's most visited sites, and they are all scattered around the lake.
From the edges of the centre basin, one can see the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, a 147-meter-high fountain built in 1970 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Cook's exploration of Australia. At Regatta Point, there is a globe sculpture that depicts the path of Cook's expeditions.
On the north side of the lake, Commonwealth Park is a great place to take kids. The park is surrounded by a boardwalk, an amphitheatre, wading pools, waterfalls, and playgrounds.
The famed Floriade festival, which takes place in spring when more than a million flowers are in bloom, is held in the park.
5. The Australian National Gallery is a great place to be inspired.
The National Gallery of Australia, next to Lake Burley Gryphon, is home to Australia's largest art collection. Queen Elizabeth II unveiled the three-story, cubic concrete structure in October 1982. It features a fern garden, a big sculpture garden that is set up in accordance with the four seasons, and eleven primary galleries.
The enormous collection, which was built up starting in 1968, includes works from Australia, Asia, Europe, America, and the Pacific as well as the greatest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in the entire globe. One of its assets is Jackson Pollock's Blue Poles, which the museum purchased in 1973 and is now one of the gallery's most well-known pieces of art.
The many various media include, but are not limited to, sculpture, ornamental art, sketching, book illustrations, sketchbooks, photography, films, pottery, costumes, and textiles. Both residents and tourists will appreciate the many special displays.
After touring the exhibition, check out the nearby High Court of Australia for its stunning fountains, Carrara marble flooring, and murals.
The place is at Parkes Place.
6. The National Centre for Science and Technology is known as Questacon.
travelling with your family? Questacon is one of Canberra's family-friendly attractions. On Lake Burley Gryphon, between the High Court and the National Library, is an interactive National Science and Technology Centre with a variety of hands-on science exhibits and do-it-yourself experiments.
The displays are designed to raise awareness of the importance of technology and science in contemporary life. There are guest lectures, special events, and science shows in addition to the 200 interactive exhibits.
At the Technology Learning Centre, novice inventors can participate in workshops, build things, and experiment with technology. Some of the highlights of the ongoing exhibits are the Earthquake House, the Free Fall slide, and the H2O-Soak up the Science room with water-related fun. This is one of the most well-liked family activities in Canberra, which makes sense.
The location is King Edward Terrace in Parkes.
7. The National Portrait Gallery of Australia
Near the High Court of Australia and the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery of Australia has 400 portraits of the most important people in the nation on display. It might easily take an hour or two to interact with Australia's trailblazers as they are depicted through paintings, photos, and sculpture.
Multimedia presentations offer fascinating insights into the lives of the people who helped form the nation, and special exhibitions provide new sights to behold. Parking is free, making it easy to visit the gallery, and the well-known café and bookshop make great stops to round out a trip.
The location is King Edward Terrace in Parkes.
8. Australian National Library.
A large collection of Australian books, manuscripts, newspapers, historical documents, oral histories, music, and artwork are kept in the National Library of Australia, which was founded in 1968. Among its most priceless relics are Captain Cook's logbook (1768–1771) and Wills' diary during his voyage with Burke in 1860–1860.
The architecture of the building is in sharp contrast to that of the High Court and the National Gallery. Its classical look is emphasised by the abundant use of marble and travertine on the columns and walls, which were built in the shape of a Greek temple. Marble from Australia, Greece, and Italy was used to embellish the inside.
The entrance features three Aubusson tapestries made of Australian wool and excellent stained glass windows by Leonard French.
The Treasures Gallery exhibits highlights from the library's collection, and the Exhibitions Gallery holds special visiting shows that frequently require advanced reservations.
The place is at Parkes Place.
9. Explore Mount Ainslie Lookout's sights
For a better appreciation of the layout of this perfectly planned capital, go to the overlook atop Mount Ainslie's 843 metres. It is one of the city's most popular viewpoint points. From the back of the Australian War Memorial, a well-paved walking/biking path extends for just over two kilometres. You can learn about famous Australian conflicts at the remembrance plaques along the road, and you can even see some kangaroos and a variety of pretty birds.
Drive up to the overlook is also an option. Thanks to Walter Burley Griffin's vision, the overlook ideally frames Anzac Parade, Lake Burley Gryphon, Old Parliament House, and, in the distance, the contemporary lines of New Parliament House. Don't forget to bring a jacket on windy days.
Two other popular viewpoint points are Red Hill to the south and Black Hill to the west.
The address is Mount Ainslie Drive in Canberra.
10. Wander the grounds of the Australian National Botanical Gardens
A must-visit for nature lovers is the 50-hectare National Botanic Gardens, which are situated approximately a kilometre west of the city core. All of the key Australian flora species are represented in these painstakingly preserved collections, which are spread out across the Black Mountain slopes. Here, kids will enjoy running around.
The Rain Forest Gully in particular is breathtaking. Search the lush vegetation for water dragons. Additional attractions include the Children's Discovery Walk and the Red Centre garden, which has a spinifex grassland and a deep red landscape. In the gardens, birds and butterflies find safety.
From the gardens, you can enter Black Mountain Nature Park and go to the summit for breathtaking cityscapes.
Do you want to visit any other gardens in Canberra? Another location you'll love visiting is the National Arboretum Canberra, which is only a six-minute drive away. This 250 acre nature reserve has a lovely playground for kids, the National Bonsai and Penjing collection, a Gallery of Gardens, rare native and exotic tree forests, and picnic areas with panoramic views.
If you're looking for cheap things to do in Canberra, this is a terrific option. Although there is a nominal fee for parking in the on-site lot, access to the gardens is free.
Location: Clunies Ross Street in Acton
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