Iconic Canberra Activities
Canberra is famous for its national museums and galleries, but the locals know where the real treasures are hiding. There’s a botanic garden home to around a fifth of Australia’s native plant species, a conservation zoo where your visit helps protect endangered animals, and a bustling market in a historic bus depot.
Plenty of attractions are free or have family-friendly prices, so a Canberra getaway doesn’t have to break the bank. Keep an eye out for guided tours, hands-on programs and special experiences at each one.
And from Eaglehawk Park Canberra, just 15 minutes from the city centre, it’s all an easy drive away.
For Young Families
Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre, is just 15 minutes from Eaglehawk Park Canberra, and kids go wild for it. They can feel an earthquake rumble, watch lightning strike and meet Robo Q, Questacon’s friendly robot.
Next, say hello to red pandas and rhinos at the National Zoo & Aquarium, come face to face with a Muttaburrasaurus at the National Dinosaur Museum, or head up to Corin Forest and race down its 1.2-kilometre alpine slide. Then come home for a swim, a play and a BBQ.
Image Credit Visit Canberra
Some of the best meals around are right next door. The Eaglehawk Hotel is part of our Eaglehawk precinct, and it’s famous for mouth-watering steaks cooked on the stone grill, crowd-pleasing pizzas and a warm, family-friendly welcome.
Best of all, you can leave the car at your door and wander over. No traffic, no parking, no designated driver. Just good food, a cold drink and a friendly country pub atmosphere, then a short stroll home to bed.
Bringing a group? Just ask us and we’ll help you set up a group lunch or dinner at the hotel.
Animals and Nature
Canberra runs on 100% renewable electricity, and around 70% of the ACT is set aside as nature parks and reserves. For outdoor lovers, that’s a lot of room to roam.
Take the challenge at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and try to spot five Aussie icons: the koala, platypus, kangaroo, emu and wombat. Or hike up Mount Ainslie, Mount Painter or Black Mountain for sweeping views over the city. And back at Eaglehawk Park Canberra, the kangaroos often come to you.
Image Credit Visit Canberra
Museums and National Icons
Canberra is home to 13 of Australia’s national icons, from galleries and museums to Parliament House. History buff, art lover or just curious, there’s something here for you. More Info here.
Spend your days exploring the stories of Australia: our great artists, our political history, and the science and innovation shaping the future. Then head home to the bush for a quiet evening under a big sky.
Image Credit Visit Canberra
Events and Festivals
Canberra’s calendar has something for every season. In spring, Floriade fills the city with colour. Summer brings Summernats, a roaring celebration of cars and horsepower. In autumn, Enlighten lights up the city’s landmarks, and in winter the Truffle Festival serves up the region’s finest.
In between, there’s live music and cultural events all year round. Whenever you visit, there’ll be something on.
Image Credit Events ACT
Local Markets
Canberra and the surrounding region are a foodie’s dream, with festivals celebrating local truffles, wine and produce throughout the year.
Stock up on fresh produce at the markets in Fyshwick and Belconnen, or visit one of the farmers’ markets held every weekend, where you can chat with the growers and makers, hear their stories and taste the results. Bring it all home and cook up a feast in your kitchen or at the BBQ.
Image Credit Visit Canberra
