Are you visiting Australia’s capital? Although known more as a political center, the nation’s capital is a fantastic cultural and nature destination.
Step into one of Australia’s few completely planned cities. Previously inhabited by the Aborigines for some 20,000 years, Canberra is now the seat of the Australian government.
It’s a thriving city that’s often ranked among the best cities in the world to visit and live in. Check out some of the exciting things a planned city can offer to its visitors.
#1 – Tour the Zoo & Aquarium Complex
Did you know that the Canberra Zoo is the only facility in the country that offers both a zoo and an aquarium? That’s why seeing the National Zoo & Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Canberra.
You can see a wide range of exotic and native animals. But for the ultimate experience, you can book an interactive tour where you can pat rhinos, feed bears, and get a detailed behind-the-scenes view of the operation.
#2 – Visit the National Museum of Australia
If you’re curious about Australian history, this is a perfect opportunity to learn more. Here, you can learn about the culture, how the country developed over the years, and a lot about its unique geography.
The National Museum of Australia also houses fascinating art exhibits of native and international artists. Aboriginal art is on display, too.
#3 – Get a Glimpse of the Future
If you’re passionate about science, then Canberra is an excellent destination for you.
In Australia’s capital, you have the opportunity to visit Questacon, the National Science and Technology Center. This renowned facility is famous for its virtual and augmented reality exhibits, futuristic displays, and other interactive programs.
You can easily spend a couple of hours learning about science. But what makes a Questacon tour one of the top things to do in Canberra is its policy: the facility works hard on making exhibits both kid-friendly and still exciting for actual scientists.
#4 – Immerse Yourself in Some Outdoor Relaxation
As an inland city, Canberra doesn’t have access to the ocean. But that doesn’t mean it’s not adjacent to any pristine body of water that people should check out.
Among the best things to do in Canberra is to go to the lake.
Lake Burley Griffin is a slice of paradise and what many call the heart of Canberra. It’s a relatively new lake surrounded by hiking trails and populated by many bird species. You can go sailing, have a picnic, enjoy a bike ride, or go bird watching here.
#5 – Get a Taste of Flying Planes
If you’ve ever wanted to step behind the controls of a Boeing 737, you may agree that this is one of the can’t-miss Canberra activities.
Step inside Canberra’s Jet Flight Simulator. It’s a realistic cockpit that transports you in a thrilling virtual environment.
Learn to pilot one of the most famous airplanes in the world alongside an expert flight instructor. You can experience various flying scenarios and land at any one of the thousands of virtual airports replicated in the virtual environment.
#6 – Hike Mount Ainslie
A hike up Mount Ainslie, which is part of Canberra Nature Park, is one of the best things to do in Canberra. While the park alone is worth exploring on a gorgeous sunny day, the mountain itself is a huge draw.
Although not the tallest, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the city. You can easily make out Capitol Hill, the gorgeous gardens, and even the city’s second-best lookout – Black Mountain.
You’ll also go past the Australian War Memorial on your way up the summit, which is another must-see city landmark.
#7 – Learn or Relax Among the Plantlife
When it gets too hot, you’ll want to take a trip to the National Botanic Gardens. What makes it unique is the fact that only Australian plant life is on display.
The lush gardens offer plenty of shade, jaw-dropping wildflower displays, and multiple walkways, as well as picnic spots. You can also take a tour if you don’t feel like exploring on your own or if you want to learn more about the history of Australian plant life.
#8 – Take a Parliament House Tour
The Old Parliament House is now the Museum of Australian Democracy. But the New Parliament House is still in Canberra.
Opened in 1988, it’s one of the most visited sites in the city. The breathtaking architecture set against its picturesque backdrop makes the area perfect for sunset photography.
Tours of the building are also available. If you admire Australian history, culture, and politics, a tour is a great way to familiarize yourself with the intricacies of the local system. You can also see some impressive art displays on the inside.
#9 – Get Your Dose of Sports
Few countries are as excited about sports as Australia. In fact, Aussie culture and sports go hand in hand.
If you’re looking for cool things to do in Canberra, try going on a tour of the Australian Institute of Sports. The tour won’t take more than 90 minutes. But in that time, you’ll learn plenty about Australia’s sporting past. You can also check out high-end interactive exhibits.
The AIS facility is, for some, the most important attraction in the city.
#10 – Experience the Benefits of the Cool-Climate Region
Most people don’t know this, but the area produces excellent wines. So, you may want to tour the wineries and breweries in the region while on vacation.
Taste Pinot, Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Riesling varieties at any of the 140 vineyards near the nation’s capital. Or go to the hottest brewpubs and taste the local craft beers.
And what’s another benefit of Canberra’s climate? It’s a gourmand’s paradise.
However, fine-dining isn’t even the biggest draw. It’s the local Truffle Farm on the outskirts of the city that catches most tourists’ attention.
Yes, truffle hunting is among the unique things to do in Canberra.
More than Meets the Eye
If you think about it, few Australian cities offer what Canberra does, even though they might be more popular with tourists.
In any event, a trip to Canberra is a great way to learn that there’s more to Australia than white sand beaches and surfing.
