Things to Do in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Canberra and the ACT
Canberra, Australia’s capital city, lies within the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)—a compact region located between Sydney and Melbourne. Established in 1913, Canberra was purpose-built as the national capital, designed by American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin. Unique among Australian cities, Canberra is not part of any state but is administered as a self-governing territory.
The ACT is home to around 460,000 people, most of whom live in Canberra. Despite its small geographical size—just over 2,400 square kilometres—it holds immense national significance. As the political heart of the country, Canberra houses the Parliament House, the High Court of Australia, numerous government agencies, and international embassies.
Canberra is known for its thoughtfully planned layout, with wide streets, expansive parks, and the iconic Lake Burley Griffin at its centre. The city is divided into districts like Civic, Belconnen, Woden, and Tuggeranong, each with its own shopping, business, and recreational hubs. Mount Ainslie Lookout, overlooking central Canberra, offers sweeping views of this well-organised landscape—especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
The city is a major hub for arts, culture, and science. Visitors can explore the Australian War Memorial, a deeply moving tribute to the country’s military history, complete with detailed exhibits and a daily Last Post Ceremony. The Parliament House offers guided tours and rooftop views, while the National Gallery of Australia boasts an extensive art collection, including works by Monet, Jackson Pollock, and leading Aboriginal artists. For a broader look at the nation’s story, the National Museum of Australia presents innovative exhibitions on Australia’s land, people, and culture. Science lovers and families can enjoy hands-on learning at Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre.
Canberra’s vibrant community life is on display at the Old Bus Depot Markets, held every Sunday in Kingston, where you’ll find local crafts, gourmet food, and handmade wares. Nature lovers are also well-catered for—nearly 70% of the ACT is protected as nature reserves or national parks. The National Arboretum Canberra showcases rare and significant tree species from around the world, set among beautifully landscaped grounds with panoramic views.
Just outside the city, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve offers a chance to see native wildlife such as koalas, wallabies, and emus, along with family-friendly walking trails. To the south, Namadgi National Park stretches into the Australian Alps, offering alpine bushland, Indigenous rock art sites, and dramatic scenery.
Canberra enjoys a distinct four-season climate, with warm summers, colourful autumns, crisp winters, and vibrant springs—each season offering unique experiences. Whether you’re interested in politics, culture, nature, or markets, Canberra and the ACT present a diverse and rewarding destination for all types of travellers.
Top Attractions in Canberra and the ACT
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, Canberra and its surrounds offer a diverse mix of top-rated attractions that cater to history buffs, nature lovers, families, and art enthusiasts alike. From world-class museums and galleries to panoramic viewpoints and native bushland trails, these highlights showcase the best of what the ACT has to offer.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) | Take a guided tour of Australia’s elite sports training facility and explore interactive sports exhibits in Sportex. |
Australian National Botanic Gardens | Wander through beautifully maintained gardens featuring Australia’s unique native flora, with walking trails, birdlife, and shaded picnic spots. |
Australian War Memorial | A powerful tribute to Australia’s military history, featuring moving exhibitions, memorial galleries, and the daily Last Post Ceremony. |
Black Mountain Tower (Telstra Tower) | Offers panoramic views of Canberra and surrounds from an observation deck and a rotating restaurant. |
Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex | Part of NASA’s global network, this site in Tidbinbilla offers exhibits on space exploration, satellite tracking, and astronomy. |
Canberra Glassworks | Watch skilled artists create stunning glass art in a working studio, with exhibits, workshops, and a gallery store. |
Commonwealth Park and Floriade | Visit this central parkland for lakeside strolls and picnics—or enjoy the spectacular Floriade flower festival held each spring. |
Lake Burley Griffin | A scenic hub for walking, cycling, kayaking, or simply relaxing at lakeside cafes—central to Canberra’s design and lifestyle. |
Mount Ainslie Lookout | Enjoy sweeping views across Canberra’s meticulously planned cityscape, particularly magical at sunrise and sunset. |
Namadgi National Park | Immerse yourself in alpine bushland, ancient Indigenous rock art, and breathtaking mountain scenery in this vast protected area. |
National Arboretum Canberra | Stroll through a living collection of rare and significant trees, with panoramic views, walking trails, and a serene atmosphere. |
National Dinosaur Museum | Explore Australia’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils and life-sized models, great for families and fossil enthusiasts. |
National Gallery of Australia | Home to the country’s largest art collection, showcasing works by international masters, Aboriginal artists, and contemporary visionaries. |
National Museum of Australia | Discover engaging exhibitions that tell the diverse stories of Australia’s land, people, and culture through interactive displays. |
National Portrait Gallery | A stunning collection of portraits capturing notable Australians, housed in a striking contemporary building next to the National Gallery. |
Old Bus Depot Markets | A vibrant Sunday market in Kingston offering local crafts, handmade goods, gourmet treats, and a lively community vibe. |
Parliament House | Explore the heart of Australian democracy with guided tours, impressive architecture, and panoramic views from the rooftop. |
Questacon | The National Science and Technology Centre offers hands-on exhibits and interactive fun for all ages—perfect for families and curious minds. |
Royal Australian Mint | Discover how Australian coins are made and even mint your own souvenir at this fascinating, behind-the-scenes attraction. |
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve | Encounter native wildlife such as koalas, wallabies, and emus while exploring peaceful bush trails and nature walks. |
Discover the Heart of the Nation
Canberra and the ACT offer an unforgettable mix of natural wonders and cultural treasures that will leave you inspired. Whether you’re admiring iconic architecture, delving into Australia’s rich history, or escaping to the surrounding mountains and reserves, there’s always something new to explore. Plan your journey through the capital today and experience the best things to do in Canberra and beyond.
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