Canberra - Do & See

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Over half the area of the ACT is a national park, with a well-developed and maintained network of walking trails through mountain ranges and sub-alpine forest. A spectacular way to see the city is to take a hot air balloon ride high over Lake Burley Griffin. The surrounding region offers more than 30 wineries, historic townships, beautiful coastlines and the famous Snowy Mountains.

National Library of Australia

The National Library of Australia was rebuilt in 1968, and inspired by the Parthenon. Australian copyright law requires that a copy of every book published in Australia be deposited with the National Library of Australia. Although the library is “closed access,” it also holds a national bibliographic database and offers access through the Libraries Australia service.

  • AddressParkes Place, Parkes
  • Phone+61 2 6262 1111
  • Webwww.nla.gov.au
  • More InfoTours are every Thursday 12:30 p.m. and free. Meet in the foyer.

New Parliament House

Completed in 1988, in time for the bicentennial celebrations of the first settlement by the British in 1788, the futuristically designed building, the seat of Federal parliament, features the use of native timbers and contemporary art work by Australian artists.

Old Parliament House

Built in 1927, the old parliament house served as the seat of government until 1988, and is now open for tours through the chambers and corridors of power. The lovely Rose Gardens on either side of this national heritage site are a visual delight.

  • AddressKing George Terrace, Parkes
  • Phone+61 2 6270 8222
  • Webwww.oph.gov.au

National Museum of Australia

Spectacularly situated on Acton Peninsula thrusting out into Lake Burley Griffin, the museum explores the events, issues and people that shaped the nation.

  • AddressParkes Place, Parkes
  • Phone+61 2 6208 5000
  • Opening hoursOpen daily 9am-5pm
  • Webwww.nma.gov.au

Australian War Memorial

Serves both as a memorial to Australians who served their country and as a military museum. The building, roughly shaped like a Byzantine church, is a revered national shrine.

  • AddressAnzac Parade, Campbell
  • Phone+61 2 6243 4211
  • Webwww.awm.gov.au

National Gallery of Australia

The national gallery of Australia holds a comprehensive collection of Australian art including a superb collection of Aboriginal Art. The gallery also hosts special interest exhibitions from around the world.

Questacon - National Science and Technology Centre

Interactive science facility that delights visitors young and old with its entertaining hands-on exhibits.

  • AddressEnid Lyons St, Parkes
  • Phone+61 2 6270 2800
  • Webwww.questacon.edu.au
  • More InfoOff King Edward Terrace

Lake Burley Griffin

Explore the lake either by walking or cycling the many pathways round the lakeshore or take a cruise on the lake.

  • AddressLake Burley Griffin

Caving at Wee Jasper Caves

Are you ready to get a little dirty? Explore the Wee Jasper Caves near Canberra for a different and thrilling caving experience. As you abseil into darkness, you can look up to see the sunlight filtering in. Wee Jasper caves are known for their unique and fascinating limestone features and they are sure to take your breath away.

Hot Air Ballooning over Canberra

Come hot air ballooning and view Canberra’s top attractions. Enjoy the unique experience of floating gently over the nation’s capital. Take off at dawn and rise slowly with the sun to the splendour of a new day. After the flight they leave you with champagne and memories that last a lifetime.

Go Karting

Who would have thought that you could burn rubber undercover in Canberra?! Yes, there is a place to get your adrenalin hit, so grab a friend and come on out to enjoy the heart pumping action of go kart racing.