Canberra offers a surprising mix of nature, adventure, and social experiences that appeal to young groups under 30. Whether you’re into adrenaline-fuelled activities, laid-back winery trips, or exploring the outdoors, the city and its surrounds provide plenty of options for memorable outings. The best way to experience these destinations together is with a bus hire in Canberra, making it easy for your group to travel comfortably and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Here are some of the top places young groups can explore for fun in and around the capital.
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1. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a great spot for groups who want to mix outdoor adventure with native wildlife encounters. Just 40 minutes from Canberra’s city centre, it offers scenic trails where you can see kangaroos, koalas, and emus up close. Young visitors often enjoy the easy hikes, picnic areas, and interactive ranger programs. The Sanctuary wetlands boardwalk is perfect for spotting platypuses and snapping photos with friends. For groups looking for more of a challenge, the Gibraltar Peak hike rewards with sweeping views of the Brindabella Ranges, making it a memorable day trip into nature.
2. National Arboretum Canberra
The National Arboretum is more than just trees—it’s a vibrant space for exploring, relaxing, and connecting with friends. Home to 94 forests of rare and endangered trees, it also has wide open lawns perfect for group picnics, kite flying, or casual games. The Pod Playground is a creative spot that appeals even to older groups with its quirky design, while the lookout at Dairy Farmers Hill provides panoramic views over Canberra. For a relaxed day, grab coffee from the café, wander through the bonsai collection, and enjoy the mix of nature and art in a social, open-air setting.
3. Corin Forest
Corin Forest is Canberra’s alpine playground, especially popular with groups seeking adventure just 45 minutes from the city. In winter, it’s the go-to spot for skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing without the long drive to the Snowy Mountains. During summer, groups can try the alpine slide—an exhilarating ride weaving down the hillside. Surrounded by tall forests, Corin also has picnic spaces and hiking trails for those who want a slower pace. Whether it’s snowball fights in winter or forest adventures in summer, Corin Forest offers young groups a fun, energetic escape close to Canberra.
4. Namadgi National Park
Namadgi National Park, part of the Australian Alps, is perfect for groups craving wide-open spaces and challenging hikes. Only 40 minutes from Canberra, it offers incredible scenery with granite mountains, alpine meadows, and historic Aboriginal sites. Young groups often take on trails like Yankee Hat, where ancient rock art can be seen, or Mount Tennent, a rewarding climb with sweeping summit views. Camping and stargazing here are popular options for those wanting an overnight adventure. With opportunities for mountain biking, photography, and cultural discovery, Namadgi is a versatile destination that balances physical activity with natural and cultural exploration.
5. Murrumbateman Wine Region
Just a 30-minute drive north of Canberra, Murrumbateman is a vibrant wine region that also appeals to younger visitors. While known for its cool-climate Shiraz and Riesling, many wineries here have relaxed cellar doors, live music weekends, and food trucks—creating a social atmosphere perfect for group outings. Beyond wine, the region offers farm visits, local produce markets, and bike-friendly routes between vineyards. Whether your group is looking for a laid-back afternoon sipping with friends, or a fun day trip exploring boutique wineries, Murrumbateman combines country charm with youthful energy, making it a great alternative to city nightlife.
6. Delta Force Paintball
For thrill-seeking groups, Delta Force Paintball delivers high-energy fun just outside Canberra. With themed game zones—like a pyramid field or Wild West village—players get the chance to strategize, compete, and bond in a safe, action-packed environment. Perfect for birthdays, uni groups, or simply a weekend adventure, the experience mixes teamwork with adrenaline. The facility provides protective gear, professional marshals, and plenty of opportunities to snap group photos in combat mode. For young people looking to swap the usual hangout for something unforgettable, paintball at Delta Force is an ideal way to burn energy and share laughs.
7. Treetops Adventure Canberra
Treetops Adventure Canberra is all about pushing limits while having fun in nature. Located at Majura Pines, it features aerial obstacle courses, flying foxes, and rope bridges suspended among tall trees. With multiple difficulty levels, groups can start easy and work their way up to more daring challenges. It’s a great team-building activity for friends who want something more adventurous than a city outing. Young visitors especially enjoy the giant ziplines, which give a rush of adrenaline and epic views. Active, social, and exciting, Treetops Adventure guarantees a day of shared challenges and laughs in the canopy.
Your Ultimate Canberra Adventure Awaits
Canberra truly offers an exciting array of activities for young adults, blending nature, adventure, and social experiences. From high-energy paintball and treetop challenges to serene nature reserves and vibrant wine regions, there’s something for every group dynamic. Make your exploration of the capital city and its stunning surrounds effortless and enjoyable by opting for a comfortable and convenient bus hire. Gather your friends, choose your adventure, and let Canberra surprise you with its youthful spirit and endless possibilities.