Canberra Famous Places Youll Want to Visit Again

Canberra isn’t just a capital—it’s a city where powerful stories, striking architecture, and natural beauty live side by side. Behind its political image lies a vibrant mix of culture, history, science, and nature that surprises even returning visitors. Some cities whisper their secrets—Canberra proudly shares them. From stirring memorials to hands-on museums and colorful flower festivals, each place leaves a lasting impression. There’s something magnetic about its iconic landmarks—they draw you in with beauty, purpose, and pride. This isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a city that invites you to connect, reflect, and explore. What awaits is more than sightseeing—it’s an experience filled with meaning and discovery.

Parliament House – The Pulse of Australian Democracy

Parliament House isn’t just a government building—it’s a working parliament and an architectural symbol of open governance. Located at the apex of Canberra’s land axis, the structure seamlessly integrates into Capital Hill, symbolizing the people’s authority over government.

Designed by Mitchell/Giurgola & Thorp Architects, the building was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on May 9, 1988, marking Australia’s bicentenary.
The marble foyer, with 48 soaring columns made from Italian Carrara marble, mirrors the eucalyptus trees found throughout the city.
Public access is available nearly every day, including galleries where visitors can watch live debates.
The building houses original documents, including the 1297 version of the Magna Carta, one of only four surviving worldwide.

Interesting fact: The 81-meter stainless steel flag mast supports a 12.8m by 6.4m Australian flag—so large that it’s replaced every few months due to wind damage.

Australian War Memorial – Stories Etched in Stone and Spirit

The Australian War Memorial is more than a commemorative space—it's a living archive of national memory. Established in 1941, the Memorial honours Australians who have served and died in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions.

The Roll of Honour, made from bronze panels, is inscribed with over 103,000 names of fallen soldiers, many with poppies placed beside them by visitors.
The Hall of Memory features a striking mosaic dome and stained-glass windows, each representing a service member type.
ANZAC Day (April 25) and Remembrance Day (November 11) ceremonies here draw thousands annually.
The Conflicts 1945 to Today exhibit uses immersive displays to convey modern war experiences.

Did you know? The eternal flame in the courtyard symbolizes remembrance that never dies, and real letters from soldiers are displayed throughout the galleries.

Lake Burley Griffin – Canberra's Sparkling Centrepiece

Lake Burley Griffin, the shimmering heart of the city, is more than a body of water—it’s an urban centerpiece designed to reflect Canberra’s symmetry and planning excellence.

Created in 1963 by damming the Molonglo River, it’s named after Walter Burley Griffin, the American architect who designed the capital.
The lake features six islands, including Aspen Island (home to the National Carillon)—a 50-bell tower gifted by the British Government in 1970.
Joggers, cyclists, and families frequent the 5km central basin loop for exercise and recreation.
Black swans, pelicans, and even fishing tournaments bring the area to life.

Tip: Visit in spring for perfect reflections of autumn foliage, or book a dinner cruise for a scenic meal afloat.

National Gallery of Australia – Artistic Treasure Trove

The National Gallery of Australia (NGA) holds treasures that span continents and centuries, making it one of the most significant art museums in the Southern Hemisphere.

Housing over 166,000 works, the collection includes Renaissance, Impressionist, Modernist, and contemporary Indigenous art.
Its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art gallery is globally respected, with works dating back tens of thousands of years.
Blue Poles by Jackson Pollock, purchased controversially in 1973, remains a major attraction and debate point in Australian art history.
The Sculpture Garden includes fog installations, kinetic works, and tranquil riverside pathways.

Fun fact: The NGA was the first major art museum in the world to have a dedicated Aboriginal art gallery, leading the way in representing First Nations culture.

Questacon – Where Science Gets Loud

Questacon, Canberra’s science playground, brings curiosity to life through interactive displays that make complex concepts fun and accessible.

Over 200 hands-on exhibits are spread across eight themed galleries, from Earth sciences to human biology.
The Earthquake Room lets visitors experience tremors up to 6.6 on the Richter scale, while the H2O gallery explores water in all forms.
MiniQ, designed for children under 6, introduces early science through play-based learning.
It hosts science shows with explosions, fire tornadoes, and robotic demonstrations.

Trivia: The Free Fall slide simulates 9.8 m/s² gravitational acceleration and is the only indoor drop-slide of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Mount Ainslie Lookout – A Perfect Vista

Climbing or driving up to Mount Ainslie Lookout rewards visitors with sweeping, symmetrical views of Canberra’s geometrically aligned landmarks.

The view forms a straight axis down Anzac Parade, across Lake Burley Griffin, and up to Parliament House—all by design.
The 2.2 km Kokoda Track trail, ascending from the War Memorial, commemorates WWII battles in Papua New Guinea.
The summit has informational plaques, picnic tables, and coin-operated binoculars for deeper views.
Locals often hike it during sunrise to beat the heat and enjoy magical golden-hour photography.

Wildlife note: Kangaroos and rosellas are common along the walking path—early morning is best for spotting them.

National Museum of Australia – Telling the Nation’s Story

This museum’s mission is to tell Australia’s story from multiple angles—cultural, historical, political, and personal.

Exhibits explore Indigenous traditions, convict beginnings, the Gold Rush, Federation, migration, and more.
The landmark object? The heart of champion racehorse Phar Lap, preserved in glass.
Its rotating exhibitions often highlight social movements, sports history, and rural life.
The building, shaped like a twisted loop, represents interwoven narratives—a metaphor expressed in literal architectural lines.

Cool feature: The "Circa" theatre is a rotating platform with 360° projections, offering a time-lapse view of Australia’s evolution.

Floriade – Canberra in Full Bloom

Floriade, held annually in Commonwealth Park, transforms Canberra into a rainbow of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths over four vibrant weeks.

More than a million flowers are planted by volunteers and landscape artists each year.
Themes vary—past displays have paid tribute to space exploration, Indigenous stories, and sustainability.
The NightFest edition features light shows, concerts, and outdoor cinemas under the stars.
Free entry means massive crowds on weekends, but weekdays offer a quieter stroll through the blossoms.

Bonus: Local chefs give cooking demos using edible flowers and herbs grown on-site.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve – Nature and Discovery

Nestled in the foothills of the Brindabella Ranges, Tidbinbilla offers a retreat into Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.

The Koala Enclosure lets visitors observe the marsupials up close in a native setting.
Other highlights include Bogong Moth migration, rock art sites, and the Birrigai Rock Shelter, which shows evidence of Indigenous habitation over 20,000 years ago.
The Sanctuary, with its boardwalks and bird hides, is a prime location to spot platypuses and water dragons.
Ranger-guided programs include nocturnal spotlighting tours, Aboriginal storytelling, and junior ranger camps.

Little-known fact: The reserve was part of NASA’s Apollo tracking station network, helping transmit signals from the Moon.

Here’s a list of the best places to visit in Canberra, mixing cultural icons, natural escapes, and interactive attractions:

Best Places to Visit in Canberra

Parliament House
Experience the seat of Australian democracy with guided tours, public galleries, and panoramic rooftop views.
Australian War Memorial
A powerful tribute to Australian military service with exhibitions, ceremonies, and immersive historical galleries.
Lake Burley Griffin
The city’s central lake, perfect for walking, cycling, kayaking, or relaxing with a picnic and views.
National Gallery of Australia
Explore over 160,000 works including Aboriginal art, international masterpieces, and a scenic sculpture garden.
Questacon – National Science and Technology Centre
A family favorite with hands-on exhibits, live science shows, and the famous Free Fall slide.
Mount Ainslie Lookout
Get the best panoramic view of Canberra’s layout—ideal for sunrise or sunset.
National Museum of Australia
Discover the stories of Australia through fascinating exhibits about culture, identity, and history.
Floriade Festival (Seasonal – September to October)
Australia’s biggest celebration of spring with over a million blooming flowers and live entertainment.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Spot koalas, kangaroos, emus, and platypuses just 40 minutes from the city.
National Library of Australia
Home to rare manuscripts, historic exhibitions, and one of the best reading rooms in the country.
Royal Australian Mint
See how coins are made and even mint your own souvenir coin.
Australian National Botanic Gardens
A peaceful retreat showcasing native plants from across Australia in one beautifully designed space.
National Portrait Gallery
Meet Australia's notable figures through stunning portraiture in a modern riverside gallery.
Old Bus Depot Markets (Sundays)
A lively indoor market full of local crafts, gourmet foods, and handmade goods.
Namadgi National Park
Explore hiking trails, Aboriginal rock art sites, and stunning alpine views on the edge of the ACT.