Canberra gets a bad rap from people who’ve never been. We live and work here, and we think it’s one of the most underrated weekends away in Australia: world-class free museums, a mountain in the middle of the suburbs and an excellent food scene.
The short answer: Don’t miss the Australian War Memorial (stay for the 5pm Last Post Ceremony), Parliament House, the National Gallery and the view from Mount Ainslie. Then eat in Dickson or Braddon.
1. Australian War Memorial
Start here. The galleries are world-class, entry is free and the Last Post Ceremony at 5pm every day is unforgettable. It’s only minutes from Ainslie.
2. Walk up Mount Ainslie
The track starts right behind the suburb and rewards you with the classic view down Anzac Parade to Parliament House. Prefer to drive? There’s a road to the lookout too.
3. Parliament House
Wander the public areas, see the art collection and, on sitting days, watch Question Time from the galleries.
4. National Gallery of Australia
More than 155,000 works of art plus a lakeside sculpture garden that’s free to explore.
5. Questacon
The National Science and Technology Centre is a must with kids, with hands-on exhibits across several galleries.
6. National Museum of Australia
Interactive exhibits on Indigenous culture, colonial history and modern Australia on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin.
7. Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House
Sit in the historic chambers, then stroll the heritage rose gardens next door.
8. National Portrait Gallery
Faces of famous Australians in painting, photography and sculpture, right in the Parliamentary Triangle.
9. National Arboretum Canberra
44,000 trees across 250 hectares, a huge kids’ play space and some of the best sunset views in the city.
10. Australian National Botanic Gardens
The world’s biggest collection of living native Australian plants, with easy walking trails and a café.
11. National Zoo & Aquarium
Get up close with big cats, bears and sharks. Book an animal encounter for something special.
12. Eat your way through Dickson
More than 30 cafés and restaurants a short walk from Tall Trees Ainslie, with some of Canberra’s best Asian food.
13. Brunch and bars in Braddon
Lonsdale Street is Canberra’s café and bar strip, perfect for a long weekend breakfast or an evening drink.
14. Old Bus Depot Markets
Canberra’s favourite Sunday market in Kingston, with local makers, produce and street food.
15. Lake Burley Griffin
Walk, run or cycle the lake loops, or hire a paddle boat on a sunny afternoon.
About Tall Trees Ainslie Hotel
| Address | 21 Stephen Street, Ainslie ACT 2602 |
| Phone | (02) 6247 9200 |
| To Canberra City | About 10 minutes by car |
| To Canberra Airport | About 10 minutes by car |
| Rooms | Standard Queen, Executive Queen, Small, Medium and Large Family and a Studio Apartment |
| Facilities | Free parking, free Wi-Fi, on-site gym, guest laundry, BBQ area, vending machine, keyless PIN entry, non-smoking |
| Book direct | Code BOOKDIRECT saves 12% |
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Staying in Canberra? Book direct with us for the best rate and use code BOOKDIRECT to save 12%.
Quick answers
What is there to do in Canberra for free?
Plenty. The Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery’s sculpture garden, Parliament House’s public areas, the Australian National Botanic Gardens, the National Arboretum and the Mount Ainslie walk are all free.
What is the number one attraction in Canberra?
For most visitors it’s the Australian War Memorial. Stay for the Last Post Ceremony, held every day at 5pm.
How many days do you need in Canberra?
Two to three days covers the major national attractions. Add a day if you’re visiting during Floriade or another big event.
Where should I stay to see Canberra’s attractions?
Somewhere central with free parking. Tall Trees Ainslie Hotel is minutes from the War Memorial and about 10 minutes from Canberra City, the Parliamentary Triangle and the airport.
Is Canberra good for families?
Yes. Questacon, the National Museum, the National Zoo & Aquarium and the Arboretum’s play space are all big hits with kids.
