Top 10 things to do in Canberra

Often referred to as a city in a park, Canberra offers visitors a diversity of experiences year round. With a flourishing food and drink scene, a multitude of galleries and museums that share the Australian story and easy access to nature activities and national parks, it’s the perfect base for a little indulgence and adventure.

No trip to Canberra would be complete without ticking off these top 10 things to do, see and taste.

1. An event for all seasons

Canberra’s signature events are timed to coincide with Canberra’s distinct seasons. See more than a million blooms at Floriade, Australia’s biggest celebration of spring. Winter in Canberra is known for the Truffle Festival, where the cold weather produces black truffle in the region, with truffle hunts and degustation dinners a feature of the festival.

2. Escape into nature

Natural beauty is right on your doorstep in Canberra. Step back in time and experience the Australian bush as it was 100 years ago on a twilight tour of Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary where you’ll spot native possums, quolls and bettongs as part of the sanctuary’s conservation program.

4. Explore the lake

Lake Burley Griffin in the centre of Canberra divides the north and south of the capital. You can explore the lake a number of ways including on an electric GoBoat picnic boat! The boats are made from recycled materials and are powered by a state-of-the-art zero-emissions electric motor.

3. Sample the region's produce

Love coffee? You’re coming to the right city — with ONA Coffee’s award-winning sustainably produced coffee beans. The city has a great reputation for its craft beer too, well catered for by the popular Capital Brewing Co. The team make beer that’s socially and environmentally responsible.

5. A bird's eye view of the captital

Hot air ballooning over Canberra is definitely a bucket-list contender. If you’re looking for the ultimate experience, visit during the Canberra Balloon Spectacular in autumn to glimpse dozens of balloons inflating and launching from the lawns of Old Parliament House.

6. Inspire young minds

From nature themed playgrounds to Questacon’s science wonderland, Canberra is the ultimate family friendly destination. Head out to Gold Creek Village to take part in a fun treasure hunt at Cockington Green Gardens’ miniature village, almost exclusively all hand weeded to protect the surrounding natural environment.

7. Tours with a twist

Wanting to be guided around Canberra? Join Canberra Guided Tours on a wildlife tour where you’ll learn about & photograph some of Australia’s most unique wildlife. Stop in at the Canberra Deep Space Complex where the images of the first man on the moon were received.

10. Discover the Australian story

There’s no better place to discover the Australian story than in Canberra. The city is home to some of Australia’s most significant collections in its many national museums and galleries. Ever wondered how Australia’s coins are made? Visit the Royal Australian Mint.

8. First nation's experiences

Immerse yourself in some of the oldest and richest cultures in human history. To learn about local culture, join Dhawura Tours and travel back in time to ‘The Dreaming’ or explore a variety of landscapes, wildlife and natural bush around Canberra with the Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation during a cultural immersion.

9. Experience the nearby regions

Canberra is the perfect central base for exploring the surrounding region. Within a few hours’ drive, you can be in Australia’s high country exploring the Snowy Mountains, or the beautiful unspoilt coastline of the South Coast. Hire an eco-friendly car for the journey!

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