The Ultimate Guide to Canberra’s Coolest Neighbourhoods
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Parliament House
Canberra
Go for the iconic museums, galleries, or delight in a foodie paradise with world-class art, stunning nature, and family adventures all within easy reach. Top it off with a taste of the thriving cool-climate wine region. It’s more than you expect and it’s waiting for you.
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Places to stay
From those looking for a budget stay to those wanting to spend big, Canberra has a bounty of accommodation options available for everyone. In the shadow of Parliament House, you’ll find the suburb of Barton which has hotels that are filled with history, charm and affordable luxury. Without straying too far from all the sights nestled around throughout the National Triangle, Manuka and Kingston are famous for their great eats and popular day-spas. For the city’s newest boutique and luxury hotels, Braddon is home to the arty Midnight Hotel while the city sports The Sebel - both of which are close to the breweries and up-and-coming restaurants on Lonsdale Street. If you’re heading off to the snow, Canberra is a great base or stop for those heading to the wilderness of the alpine regions, or you can enjoy a wild city adventure instead at the unique Jamala Wildlife Lodge where the usual creature comforts come with a cheetah or two.
Things to do
Known as the “bush capital”, Canberra is a place where an endless array of outdoor activities seamlessly blend with cultural and culinary attractions that are showcasing the city’s evolution. There’s no better way to start your day than by joining in on the local pastime of cycling with a pedal around the lake. Once you’re done stretching your legs, pull up at one of the many cafes lining the Kingston Foreshore to pick up your morning brew or if you’re there on a Saturday, grab some gifts from The Little Burley Markets.
Prefer to spend your mornings soaking up history? A visit to the Australian War Memorial is a must for any visit to Canberra - it is a moving tribute to the brave men and women who served Australia in battle. To pay your respects to other influential Australians, a visit to the National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery of Australia will see you come face to face with artistic legends. Looking for an outing that’s a little more laidback? Questacon and the National Museum of Australia are great for those who are wanting an interactive and fun way to keep the kids entertained - as well as the big kid in you. It’d be hard to miss Parliament House while you’re in Canberra, but for those intrigued by the inner workings of the hill, a guided tour is a great way to hear about all the history of the building.
Where to go
Australian National Botanic Gardens
To walk through the Gardens is to walk through Australia’s unique landscapes, from tropical rainforests to the red centre. With over 4,300 plant species, the Australian National Botanic Gardens is the only place in the world you will see this diversity of Australian native plants in one location. Climb into the canopy to explore the Paperbark Treehouse, grab lunch on the deck of Pollen Café or pamper yourself at Jindii Eco Spa — all nestled in the gardens just six-minutes’ drive from the city centre.
Eat and drink
Canberrans take their food and drink seriously – why not get an award-winning coffee from the world renowned experts from Ona Coffee at The Cupping Room. Settle in for a long lunch or grab a quick bite for dinner at the plethora of breweries, eateries and cool restaurants Braddon has on offer - BentSpoke Brewing Co, Corella Bar, and eightysix are all popular options. If you’re looking for a spot to station yourself for the evening, the Melbourne Building is the best place to sample some different bars with the likes of the hatted Bar Rochford, the charming speakeasy Molly, or the live-music bar Sideway, all located in this mecca for lovers of all things mixology.
National Galley of Australia
Looking for culture in the capital? Find inspiration through creativity and journey as you explore the history of art at the National Gallery of Australia.
With diverse exhibitions, dynamic public programs and a national collection of over 160,000 works – including the largest display of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in the world and works by leading contemporary artists – there is something for everyone. Located by Lake Burley Griffin and with a picturesque Sculpture Garden, visitors can picnic with a view between gallery-hopping.
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