Last updated: November 14, 2026
The best things to do in Canberra in 2027 include visiting the Australian War Memorial, touring Parliament House, exploring the National Gallery and National Museum, walking or cycling around Lake Burley Griffin, taking in the views from Mount Ainslie and the National Arboretum, and timing your trip for events such as Floriade or Enlighten. This guide is part of our Canberra business services hub.
Canberra punches well above its size for visitors. Many of the country’s national institutions are free to enter, the city is compact and easy to drive or cycle, and bushland, lookouts and cool-climate wineries are all within a short trip of the centre.
This guide groups the highlights by interest, adds seasonal events and finishes with practical planning tips.
National Institutions And Museums
Australian War Memorial
The Australian War Memorial combines a shrine, a museum and an archive, and it is the most visited attraction in the city. The Last Post Ceremony is held at the end of each day and is a moving way to finish a visit.
Parliament House
Parliament House is open to the public, with free tours, art collections and the chance to watch Question Time on sitting days. The building sits under a grassed roof with views over the Parliamentary Triangle.
National Gallery Of Australia
The National Gallery holds a major collection of Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and international art, plus a sculpture garden on the lake shore.
National Museum, Questacon And More
The National Museum of Australia tells the nation’s story through objects and exhibitions, while Questacon is a hands-on science centre that families love. The National Portrait Gallery, National Library and Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House round out a cultural weekend.
Outdoors, Lookouts And Nature
Lake Burley Griffin
The lake is the heart of the city. Walk or cycle the bridge-to-bridge loop, hire a bike or kayak, and look out for the Captain Cook Memorial Jet and the National Carillon.
Mount Ainslie And The National Arboretum
Mount Ainslie lookout gives the classic view down Anzac Parade to Parliament House. The National Arboretum offers forests from around the world, playgrounds and panoramic views from the Village Centre.
Australian National Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens on the slopes of Black Mountain showcase Australian native plants, with walking trails, a rainforest gully and free guided walks.
Tidbinbilla And Namadgi
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is about 40 minutes from the city and is one of the best places near Canberra to see kangaroos, emus and platypus. Namadgi National Park covers much of the ACT and offers bushwalks, Aboriginal rock art sites and alpine scenery.
Food, Wine And Markets
Braddon, New Acton And Kingston
Braddon’s Lonsdale Street is lined with cafes, bars and restaurants, New Acton has a cluster of dining and arts venues near the lake, and the Kingston Foreshore offers waterfront dining in the inner south.
Canberra District Wineries
Cellar doors around Murrumbateman, Hall, Lake George and the Majura Valley are a short drive away. Our list of Canberra District wineries covers the best places to start.
Weekend Markets
The Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston run on Sundays with crafts, food and local makers, and the Capital Region Farmers Market at Exhibition Park runs on Saturday mornings.
Events Worth Planning Around
Floriade
Floriade, held in spring each year in Commonwealth Park, is Australia’s largest flower festival, with garden displays, music and food stalls.
Enlighten And The Balloon Spectacular
In autumn, Enlighten lights up national buildings with projections and night events, and the Canberra Balloon Spectacular fills the morning sky with hot air balloons over the lake.
Summernats And Major Sport
Summernats brings car culture to Exhibition Park each January, while the city hosts AFL, NRL, rugby union and cricket fixtures through the year.
Planning Your Visit
Canberra is easiest to explore by car, though light rail runs between Gungahlin and the City, and buses and bike paths connect most attractions. Many national institutions are free, but some exhibitions and tours charge fees, so check before you go.
Accommodation clusters in the City, Braddon, Kingston, Barton and New Acton. Book early for Floriade, Enlighten and sitting weeks of Parliament, when hotels fill quickly. For longer stays, see our guides to moving to Canberra and the best suburbs to live in Canberra.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Days Do You Need In Canberra?
Two to three days covers the main national institutions, a lake walk and a lookout. Add a day for wineries or Tidbinbilla.
What Are The Best Free Things To Do In Canberra?
The Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, the National Gallery collection, the National Library, the Botanic Gardens and the lake and lookouts are all free to visit.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Canberra?
Spring brings Floriade and mild weather, and autumn brings Enlighten, the Balloon Spectacular and vivid tree colours. Winters are cold but clear.
Is Canberra Good For Families?
Yes. Questacon, the National Museum, the National Zoo and Aquarium, Cockington Green Gardens and the Arboretum’s playgrounds are favourites with kids.
Conclusion
Canberra rewards visitors who plan around its national institutions and seasonal events. Start with the War Memorial, Parliament House and the lake, then add lookouts, nature reserves and a winery day.
Check event dates and opening hours before you travel, and book accommodation early in peak seasons.
