This article is about top things to do in Canberra. Crowded with cultural resources, Canberra is the Australian Capital Territory. It is the watchfully crafted capital of Australia. The city lies amid Sydney and Melbourne. The place of the capital was selected as a cooperation between these two opposing cities in 1908. American architects, Walter Burley Griffin won a global competition for the city’s plan. Canberra constitute huge greenbelts and statistical shapes. Lake Burley Griffin is the jewel of Canberra. Majority of the tourist attractions lie on its shores. The parliament buildings as well as city’s other main attractions lie within the Parliamentary Triangle. It is formed by Kings Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue and Lake Burley Griffin. The city’s streets are situated out on a liberal scale with many borders by gardens. The other popular city of Australia to explore is Perth and Hobart. There are different fun things to do in Canberra pen down in this article.
Top Things to do in Canberra:
1.) Australian War Memorial
The gigantic Byzantine-style memorial remembering Australia’s war victims is Canberra’s most touching attraction. More than just a War Memorial, the site has an exceptional museum, archives, art gallery, and a library. The Commemorative Courtyard at the entrance hall to the memorial is a haunting introduction. Adorned in bronze on the walls of the walkway are the names of every military person who has died in war since 1885. Exploring this place is one of the most perfect things to do in Canberra.
2.) Lake Burley Griffin
Gorgeous Lake Burley Griffin is the pride and joy of Canberra. Named for the city’s architect, this man made lake was included in his creative plan of 1912. The lake didn’t come to execution until 1958. Tourists come here to bike and amble along the water’s edge paths. Tourist picnic along its park shores or row the shiny waters. Scattered around the lake, you will find some of the best things to do in Canberra. It also includes the National Gallery, National Library, Questacon, and National Museum as an attraction.
3.) Snowy Mountains
About two hours south of Canberra by car, are the rocky Snowy Mountains. These mountains go up to an altitude of 2,228 m. The mountains are popular among tourists all through the year. During summers, the area offers wonderful hiking and horse riding trails. During winters, skiers gather to the popular resorts of Perisher Valley, Thredbo, Smiggin Holes and Mount Blue Cow. Climbing these mountains is one of the most fantastic things to do in Canberra.
4.) Mount Ainslie
To really admire the plan of this capital, head to the 843 m Mount Ainslie. It is one of the city’s most popular vantage points. A well cemented walking/biking track for just over 2 km from the back of the Australian War Memorial. Along the way, you can stop at the memorial sign to learn about historic Australian battles. Thanks to Walter Burley Griffin’s idea. The sentinel aligns entirely with Anzac Parade, Lake Burley Griffin and the smooth lines of New Parliament House. On windy days, be sure to bring a jacket. It is one of the most fun things to do in Canberra with your family.
5.) Black Mountain Nature Park
Black Mountain Nature Park is to the west of the city centre. It is a great backwoods experience to merge with a visit to the neighbouring Australian National Botanic Gardens. Here, hikers can see many species of national birds and other wildlife. The Black Mountain Tower provides wonderful views of the city. For a fee, tourists can go to the top and nip coffee at the rotating restaurant. At the bottom of Black Mountain there is an Australian Institute of Sport. It has a swimming stadium with teaching centre for Australia’s top sportsmen and women. The place is full of hikers on Sundays. Exploring this park is one of the top things to do in Canberra.
6.) Australian National Botanic Gardens
The National Botanic Gardens are stretched across the hills of Black Mountain. Tourists will love to see the vital species of Australian flora. The Rain Forest Gully is mainly exciting. Look for water dragons among the fertile plants. Other tourist attractions comprise the Red Centre garden with its red earth. The other attractions include beautiful grassland as well as the Children’s Discovery Walk. The gardens are also a sanctuary for birds and butterflies. From the gardens, tourists can see the Black Mountain Nature Park. They can walk to the top for magnificent city views. Roaming in these gardens is one of the most joyful things to do in Canberra.
7.) Australian National University
The Australian National University is situated on the north side of Lake Burley Griffin. Walter Burley Griffin’s original plan of 1912 incorporated the university. It was not executed until 1946. It now comprises of two different but closely connected parts. The Institute of Advanced Studies is used for research and the School of General Studies for learning. Going to the university is one of the best things to do in Canberra for the sake of its beautiful grounds. These grounds were developed by the Australian National University landscape architects.
8.) Royal Australian Mint
The Royal Australian Mint is a nice place to spend an hour or so. Here you can learn about the legacy of Australia’s currency. All Australian coins are cast here. Tourists can watch the manufacture of coins from a balcony. You will come to know about the history of Australian coins through a video arrangement. Visitors can mint their own $1 coins. In the lobby of the Mint is a small museum with a memento shop. It is one of the free things to do in Canberra.
9.) National Museum of Australia
The National Museum of Australia highlights the nation’s social history in a modern area with beautiful lake views. The building itself is a work of art. Motivated by a swing, it was planned to highlight the historic stories that helped shape the nation. A major theme at showcase is the cultural history of the Aborigines. Other major attractions include the Gold Rush, Australian industry and migration. Children will also find a few attractive displays to keep them full of activity.
10.) National Zoo and Aquarium
It is Australia’s only mutual zoo and aquarium. This privately owned business enterprise is a hit with families. The National Aquarium displays a wide range of marine life. The tiny Denizens of the reefs and huge sharks are major attraction. Tourists can view all the vital species of Australian fauna as well as foreign species. The famous animals are lions, tigers, cheetahs and more. The animal encounters are very popular and allow tourists to go behind the scenes. Tourist can interact with cheetah, giraffes, sun bears, and red pandas. The place offers facilities for birthday celebration also. This is one of the best things to do in Canberra for animal lovers.