Tourist Attractions
Our top 10 Canberra attractions
1. Old Parliament House:
Home to the Australian Federal Parliament from 1927 to 1988 this iconic building is now the Museum of Australian Democracy and displays exhibits detailing our democratic history.
2. National Gallery of Australia:
The NGA is the national wall on which we hang our finest art. With over 160,000 works in its permanent collection, this is Australia’s largest art museum.
3. Australian War Memorial:
This national memorial is a poignant tribute to the heroism, remembrance and tragedy of conflict. It houses a moving collection of galleries, exhibitions, dioramas and interactive installations which detail Australia’s wartime past and its place in history.
4. Parliament House:
This uniquely designed building became the federal seat of government in 1988 and is one of Canberra’s biggest attractions. A section of the grounds actually forms the roof and offers wonderful views of the city and the 81 metre high flag staff.
5. Australian National Botanic Gardens:
Housing a vast collection of flora from around Australia, the Gardens also act as a research and scientific setting, cultivating threatened plants to protect rare vegetation from extinction.
6. Lake Burley Griffin:
This artificial lake is Canberra’s centrepiece, creating a beautiful backdrop for the capital’s parks and cultural and government landmarks. It is also the city’s social and recreational heart with shoreline restaurants and many active pursuits on offer.
7. Questacon:
Questacon, a.k.a The National Science and Technology Centre, bills itself as “the smarter way to have fun”, with more than 200 hands-on exhibitions in eight themed galleries there’s enough to keep budding Newtons, Einsteins and Hawkings engaged for hours.
8. National Museum of Australia:
The museum highlights the thousands of years of indigenous history, European settlement as well as modern social and cultural events and the ever changing social structures of today.
9. Commonwealth Park:
Located on the edge of Lake Burely Griffin, this beautifully manicured park is the perfect place for a picnic or leisurely stroll. Home to Floriade, the park also hosts many outdoor concerts and events throughout the year.
10. Australian Institute of Sport:
Ever wanted to know what is takes to become an elite athlete? Take a guided behind-the-scenes tour of the AIS to see the Institute’s world-class facilities and experience a range of interactive sporting activities.
