Everyone knows about Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial, but did you know Canberra is home to the largest display of dinosaurs in Australia or that stunning swimming spots are just a 20-minute drive from the city centre?
Canberra has plenty on offer that goes well beyond the typical guidebooks. With a vibrant arts and culture scene, natural beauty and independent breweries, there’s something for everyone in our nation’s capital.
Insider Guides spoke to An Le, a business informatics student from Vietnam studying at the University of Canberra, and Emily Teoh, a law student from Malaysia studying at The Australian National University, about their favourite hidden gems in and around the city.
Lake Ginninderra
A favourite for An Le, Lake Ginninderra and the district park is a place she often visits.
About a 20-minute drive from the city centre, on either side of the lake you’ll find a sandy beach, picnic tables, barbecues and spaces to relax. There are walking trails, wetlands and a water garden, too.
Better yet, if you visit Canberra in the autumn months, you’ll experience the beautiful golden leaves around the park.
“This park has a large playground, a skatepark and a scenic lake,” says An Le. “It’s perfect for families, offering activities like kite flying, boat paddling, and bird feeding.”
Casuarina Sands and Kambah Pool
Escape the heat and immerse yourself in nature on the Murrumbidgee Discovery Track. There are lots of places to stop along the walk, but Casuarina Sands and Kambah Pool are highlights. Casuarina Sands is located at the starting point, while Kambah Pool is 14km down the track.
Make the most of the day and enjoy a slightly challenging walk, where you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful spot to bird watch, swim, kayak or fish.
“Both spots offer beach-like experiences with natural pools and sandbanks,” Emily shares. “Loads of students like to swim and have picnics here.”
National Dinosaur Museum
At the National Dinosaur Museum, you can learn about the prehistoric giants who once roamed the earth. Explore interactive exhibits, fossils, skeletons and life-size dinosaur models, plus enjoy the outdoor display of a 20-metre animatronic T. rex.
An Le thinks it’s a fantastic place for kids and families. “This museum offers a fun, educational experience. A family pass for four costs around $50, making it an affordable day out,” she says.
It even holds the title of the largest permanent display of dinosaur fossils in Australia!
Gang Gang Cafe
If you’re looking for an all-day place to enjoy food, a drink or even a dance, head to Gang Gang Cafe.
“It’s one of my favourite cafes,” Emily says. “It offers great food in a relaxed environment but also hosts weekly trivia, jazz and dance music events. It’s an amazing place to go with friends or even meet new people!”
Gang Gang Cafe has a large and affordable menu, offering breakfast and lunch options all week, plus afternoon snacks, a Wednesday evening special (expect a rotating roster of Nepalese curries!), and pizzas and share plates from Thursday to Sunday.
National Arboretum
Just 6km from the heart of the CBD you’ll find the National Arboretum. This botanical garden has a keen focus on tree conservation, scientific research and education, and is home to one of the largest collections of rare and endangered trees in the world.
There’s so much to see and do including tracks and trails (both guided and self-guided) where you can walk or cycle through the forests, a beautiful bonsai display and a playground for kids.
If you’re looking to take things slow, make your way through the gardens and forests while keeping an eye out for sculptures.
Alternatively, enjoy a picnic at the Himalayan cedar forest, or at Dairy Farmers Hill for a bird’s eye view of Canberra.
Cafe Stepping Stone at Strathnairn Arts
Keen for a coffee with a view? Cafe Stepping Stone is situated in the 1920s homestead at Strathnairn Arts. A 15-minute drive from the city, this unique countryside eatery features some pretty incredible mountain views with plenty of outdoor seating and gardens to explore.
Aside from the delicious food (think locally sourced ingredients inspired by Asian, Middle Eastern and South American cuisines), Stepping Stone is an advocate for refugee and migrant women, providing jobs and training.
“My visit here was special because I attended an art exhibition featuring ceramics and paintings,” says An Le. “The pink-coloured lake nearby adds to the charm and makes it a must-visit spot for a peaceful weekend retreat.”
Mount Stromlo Observatory
For stargazing enthusiasts, the Mount Stromlo Observatory is not to be missed.
If you’re visiting during the day, explore the Heritage Trail while learning about the history of the observatory and take a look inside the original 1928 director’s residence.
However, the real magic happens when the sun sets.
“Mount Stromlo Observatory offers guided walking tours along a beautiful hiking trail that leads up to a lookout equipped with telescopes from which you can stargaze during the night,” Emily says.
Bookings are essential!
Capital Brewing Co Fyshwick
When you’re finished exploring everything Canberra and the surrounding areas have to offer, reward yourself with a visit to Capital Brewing Co in Fyshwick.
As one of the largest independent breweries in Australia, there’s no shortage of good drinks and good food on offer, including non-alcoholic options.
Take a seat inside the taproom surrounded by brewing machinery, or enjoy a spot outside for a long and lazy afternoon.
