Canberra, the Australian capital city, is filled with family-friendly attractions that blend fun, learning, and the outdoors. From hands-on science exhibits and miniature villages to peaceful gardens and wildlife encounters, there’s something to spark every child’s curiosity and keep parents engaged. Exploring these highlights is easy and enjoyable when families travel together by bus hire in Canberra, ensuring comfort and convenience for all. Here’s a round-up of the top places for families to visit in Canberra.
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1. National Arboretum Canberra
The National Arboretum is a living collection of rare and significant trees spread across 250 hectares. Families can explore themed forests, enjoy panoramic views of Canberra, and let children play in the popular Pod Playground. Walking trails, picnic areas, and interactive displays at the Village Centre make it easy to spend an entire day outdoors. With its mix of natural beauty and educational experiences, the Arboretum is a great spot for families to relax, learn, and connect with nature.
2. Canberra Nara Peace Park
Canberra Nara Peace Park is a serene lakeside garden celebrating the sister-city relationship between Canberra and Nara, Japan. Families can stroll through landscaped gardens, admire cherry blossoms in spring, and explore traditional Japanese features like a lantern and pagoda. The annual Nara Candle Festival is a highlight, lighting up the park with thousands of candles. It’s an ideal setting for a quiet picnic or leisurely walk, giving children and adults alike a chance to unwind and enjoy peaceful surroundings.
3. Canberra Reptile Zoo (Reptiles Inc)
Canberra Reptile Zoo is an exciting attraction where families can get close to some of Australia’s most fascinating creatures. The collection includes snakes, lizards, turtles, and even crocodiles, all housed in carefully maintained habitats. Kids enjoy learning fun facts about reptiles and seeing feeding demonstrations, while parents appreciate the knowledgeable staff ready to answer questions. The zoo offers safe, hands-on experiences that make wildlife education engaging and memorable. It’s an interactive and affordable outing for families wanting a unique adventure.
4. Red Hill Nature Reserve (Canberra Nature Park)
Red Hill Nature Reserve is a natural escape right on Canberra’s doorstep, offering walking trails, wildlife spotting, and sweeping views across the city. Families can enjoy a leisurely bushwalk among native plants, with opportunities to see kangaroos, birds, and other local wildlife. The trails range from gentle paths to more challenging climbs, making it suitable for different ages and fitness levels. Picnic spots and shaded rest areas make it a perfect day out for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.
5. Cockington Green Gardens
Cockington Green Gardens delights visitors with its miniature village displays, showcasing hand-crafted models of houses, castles, and famous landmarks from around the world. Families can ride the miniature steam train, wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, and marvel at the tiny details of each display. The attraction combines fun, imagination, and craftsmanship, making it particularly appealing to children. With cafes, picnic spots, and interactive features, Cockington Green offers a whimsical and educational outing that sparks curiosity and creativity for all ages.
6. National Capital Exhibition
The National Capital Exhibition is a free, interactive museum where families can learn how Canberra was designed and built. Featuring scale models, audiovisual displays, and historical exhibits, it explains the city’s unique story in an engaging way. Children can enjoy hands-on activities while parents explore architectural and planning insights. The exhibition overlooks Lake Burley Griffin, adding scenic value to the visit. It’s a compact but enriching stop for families wanting both entertainment and an educational experience about Australia’s capital city.
7. Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre
Questacon is one of Canberra’s most popular family destinations, offering hundreds of hands-on exhibits that make science fun for all ages. Families can explore interactive galleries covering topics like physics, robotics, and Earth sciences. Kids especially enjoy the Mini Q play space, while older children are drawn to the thrilling Freefall slide. Live science shows add excitement to the experience. With its mix of play, discovery, and learning, Questacon is the perfect outing for families curious about the world around them.
8. Canberra Walk-In Aviary
The Canberra Walk-In Aviary is an immersive experience where families can step into a large free-flight enclosure filled with colorful, friendly birds. Visitors are given food to hand-feed species like parrots, finches, and doves, creating close encounters children never forget. The aviary’s design allows birds to fly freely around guests, making it both educational and exciting. Families can learn about bird behaviors while enjoying photo opportunities. It’s an affordable and enjoyable activity that combines nature, interactivity, and plenty of fun.
Make Your Family Trip to Canberra Memorable
Canberra truly offers a diverse range of activities that cater to every family member, combining education, nature, and pure fun. From thrilling science experiments to tranquil garden strolls and close encounters with wildlife, there’s no shortage of experiences to create lasting memories. To ensure your family enjoys every moment without the hassle of navigating or parking, consider a reliable bus hire service. It’s the perfect way to explore all the fun things to do in Canberra with family, allowing you to focus on enjoying quality time together.