Discover Canberra: 23 Top Things to Do and See

The Australian War Memorial in Canberra is a must-see for history buffs and those interested in Australia's military and cultural past. It offers a unique and meaningful way to learn about the country's wartime experiences and honors those who served their country. An insider detail is the Hall of Memory, which has a beautiful mosaic of the Southern Hemisphere constellations set into its domed ceiling. Another nearby attraction is the National Gallery of Australia, which houses a collection of impressive artwork by Australian and international artists.

The National Gallery of Australia in Canberra is a must-see for every art lover and traveler! The gallery has a world-class collection of more than 160,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures and photographs. You'll be amazed by the works of famous Australian artists like Sidney Nolan and Arthur Boyd, as well as international masters like Jackson Pollock and Pablo Picasso. Be sure to check out the impressive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art collection - it's the largest of its kind in the world!

The National Arboretum Canberra is a must-see for nature lovers and anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The 250-hectare site is home to over 44,000 trees from around the world and offers breathtaking views, tranquil walking trails and a variety of interesting events and exhibitions. Visitors can enjoy delicious food and drinks at the café and restaurant with panoramic views of the city.

The National Zoo & Aquarium in Canberra is a unique experience not to be missed! It is the only combined zoo and aquarium in all of Australia and offers a unique opportunity to see a large collection of land and aquatic animals up close. The zoo houses an amazing variety of creatures from Australia and around the world, including snow leopards, lions, giraffes and more. Equally impressive is the aquarium, where there are a variety of marine animals to admire, including sea turtles, sharks and stingrays. There is also a great café on site where you can enjoy a snack or lunch. Nearby, you can visit the historic Australian War Memorial to learn more about the country's military past.

Get ready for a miniature adventure in the heart of Canberra at Cockington Green Gardens! With its beautifully manicured gardens and attention to detail, this attraction is perfect for families, couples and even solo travelers who want to discover something truly unique. Scenes from around the world are recreated in this 1:12 scale miniature park. Marvel at the tiny buildings and sculptures as you wander through the charming gardens.

Are you an art lover? A culture lover? Or just someone who wants to learn about Australia's rich history? Then the National Museum of Australia in Canberra is a must for you! This museum offers a unique insight into the different cultures and traditions of Australia's indigenous people. A must-see exhibit is the "First Australians" exhibit, which features artifacts and interactive exhibits that explore the history, culture, and struggles of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Take a trip down memory lane and explore Australia's political history at Old Parliament House in Canberra. This iconic building served as the seat of the Australian Federal Parliament from 1927 to 1988 and has been preserved as a museum. Marvel at the impressive architecture and soak up the atmosphere as you wander through the halls and chambers where important decisions and debates took place. Don't miss the opportunity to sit in the Prime Minister's chair in the House of Representatives or visit the Cabinet Room where important political decisions were made.

As a traveler, you should definitely put Mount Ainslie Lookout on your list of must-visit places in Canberra. This premier lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city, including iconic landmarks such as Parliament House, Lake Burley Griffin, and the Australian War Memorial. Plan to visit at sunrise or sunset to witness the breathtaking play of colors and make your experience even more memorable.

Are you ready to delve into one of Canberra's best kept secrets? Then Commonwealth Park is just the place for you. This lush, sprawling park is right in the heart of the city and offers countless opportunities for relaxation and fun. Stroll through the gorgeous rose gardens, snap a picturesque photo at Scrivener Dam, or take a summer dip at the nearby water park. And if you're lucky enough to come here during Floriade, Canberra's annual flower festival, you'll be treated to a kaleidoscope of vibrant blooms that will absolutely captivate you. Pro tip: Visit the nearby National Carillon for an unforgettable musical experience.

Are you ready to satisfy your curiosity and explore the fascinating world of science and technology? Then Questacon, the national science and technology center in the heart of Canberra, is the place for you. You can learn all about physics and chemistry, electricity and astronomy in dozens of interactive exhibits. Don't miss the opportunity to experience exciting simulations, see how lightning strikes, or even design and launch your own mini rocket!

Are you looking for a place where you can relax surrounded by nature? Then the Australian National Botanic Gardens are the perfect destination for you. This sanctuary is home to over 6,000 species of plants, including rare and endangered specimens. Take a relaxing stroll through the many themed gardens, such as the Aboriginal Plant Use Garden or the Rainforest Gully.

Pick up some Australian dollars at the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra! This is the perfect destination for anyone interested in the history of Australian currency. Millions of coins are made at the mint every day, and visitors can see the entire process up close. Don't miss the opportunity to mint your own coin as a souvenir of your visit. The Mint also offers an impressive collection of historical coins and medals, and you can even view a giant one-ton gold coin. After your visit, don't forget to visit the nearby National Zoo & Aquarium for some fun with your furry friends!

If you love nature and are looking for a peaceful adventure, then you should definitely visit Namadgi National Park in Canberra. This stunning park offers over 106,000 acres of lush greenery, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. You'll feel at one with nature as you explore the vast park, breathing in the fresh air and listening to the sounds of birds and animals. Don't forget to bring a picnic to enjoy at the picturesque spots in the park. If you're lucky, you might even spot a wallaby or two! Also visit the nearby Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve where you can get up close and personal with the fascinating Australian wildlife.

A visit to Black Mountain Nature Reserve is a must for all nature lovers traveling to Canberra! Located just a short drive from the city center, this reserve offers breathtaking views of the city, scenic hiking trails, and an abundance of native flora and fauna. The reserve is home to the iconic Telstra Tower and offers visitors the chance to see kangaroos and wallabies in their natural habitat.

Parliament House in Canberra is a must-see for any visitor to the Australian capital. This iconic landmark is the seat of the Australian federal government and a beautiful architectural structure that offers stunning views of the Canberra skyline. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building's interior, see the chambers and halls where politicians debate and make decisions, and even attend a parliamentary session.

The National Capital Exhibition at Regatta Point in Canberra is a must-see for any lover of Australian history. The exhibition offers a glimpse into the fascinating history and planning of Australia's capital city. Get a glimpse of how the city came to be and the unique vision that guided Canberra's architects. You can also enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Burley Griffin and many other iconic buildings of the city. In addition, the exhibition is located near Commonwealth Park, which is ideal for outdoor recreational activities. Don't miss out on this wonderful experience!

For nature lovers, Mount Taylor Nature Reserve in Canberra is a must-visit. The reserve offers hiking trails for all fitness levels and incredible panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountain ranges. Unique to this reserve is the historic trigonometry station at the summit, from which you can get a bird's eye view of Canberra.

Rising majestically above Canberra's cityscape, the Telstra Tower is an iconic attraction offering panoramic views of the city. The observation deck, 150 meters above the ground, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and lakes. Marvel at the breathtaking 360-degree view from the three observation decks or dine in the revolving restaurant while enjoying the stunning scenery. For a unique souvenir, take a photo with the life-size statue of Pinky Winky, Telstra's iconic mascot, at the entrance to the tower. Pro tip: Take a short walk to the nearby Black Mountain Nature Park for a refreshing hike.

Are you looking for an enriching cultural experience in Canberra? Then the National Portrait Gallery is the place for you! This impressive facility pays tribute to Australia's most influential figures - from explorers and artists to politicians and athletes. Wander the halls and discover the faces of famous Australians from past and present, all captured in stunning portraits. While you're here, be sure to check out the gallery's calendar of events - from fascinating lectures to musical performances, there's always something exciting going on. For even more art and culture, check out the nearby National Gallery of Australia!

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of Jerrabomberra Wetlands Nature Reserve. Just a short drive from downtown Canberra, this stunning nature reserve offers a unique opportunity to view an abundance of native wildlife, including over 170 species of birds. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalks and keep an eye out for kangaroos, echidnas and even the elusive platypus.

A trip to Canberra would not be complete without a visit to the beautiful Commonwealth Park. This sprawling park sits on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin and offers stunning views of the city skyline. As you stroll through the park, you can see a variety of native plants, an impressive fountain, and an outdoor amphitheater that frequently hosts concerts and events. Don't miss taking a ride on the miniature train that winds through the park, and keep an eye out for the hidden fairy garden. If you have time, you should also visit the nearby National Library and the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

One of the must-see attractions in Canberra is the National Carillon, an impressive 50-meter high bell tower located in the picturesque Lake Burley Griffin. The tower houses 55 bronze bells that originated in the United Kingdom and ring every hour, creating a melodious atmosphere. Attend a live concert or simply stop below the tower to take in the incredible views of the surrounding parkland.

Get ready for the ultimate wildlife experience of a lifetime when you visit Jamala Wildlife Lodge - an incredible wildlife hotel in Canberra. This unique lodge offers an unforgettable stay with the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world's deadliest predators like lions, tigers and bears. Imagine waking up to lions roaring in the distance and dining with a tiger. And if you're lucky, you can even feed the lions by hand! Pro-tip: Ask for a room with a giraffe view. Right next door is the National Zoo and Aquarium, where there are countless other animals to see and learn about. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity and book your stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge for a once in a lifetime adventure.