Discover the great places in Canberra to visit for free, affordable attractions for families and some of the best things to do with kids that promise fun and won't break the bank!
From the most beautiful Canberra parks and gardens and outdoor activities to the best playgrounds and fun things to do in Canberra with kids.
โญ Discover school holiday fun today! Check out the ultimate Canberra school holiday activities for kids of all ages, including holiday programs and free activities.
Some of the best family activities and great places to visit in Canberra for free are:
- Brunch with Alpacas and Llamas at Blackwattle Alpaca Farm
- Wildbark Visitor Centre
- Bridge To Bridge Walk
- Canberra Sculpture Garden
- National Carillon
- Pink Lake in Canberra
- Mount Ainslie Lookout in Canberra
- Jerrabomberra Wetland
- Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
- Australian National Botanic Gardens
- National Arboretum in Canberra
- Bonsai at National Arboretum in Canberra
- Lennox Gardens in Canberra
- Nara Peace Park in Canberra
- Black Mountain Peninsula Park & All-ability Playground
- Kambah Park: Adventure Park & All-ability Playground
๐ Ready for a weekend full of fun! ๐ Explore what's on in Canberra this weekend for families and make the most of every moment in the ACT!
Brunch with Alpacas and Llamas at Blackwattle Alpaca Farm
Get ready for the fun activities in Canberra! Enjoy a brunch experience with adorable alpacas at the Blackwattle Alpaca Farm, just a short 25-minute drive from Canberra.
When booking, please keep in mind that this family experience operates every second Sunday.
Not only will you get to indulge in a delicious brunch, but you'll also get to meet, feed and pat alpacas and llamas and learn about alpaca farming in Australia.
With an experienced tour guide, you can ask all your alpaca and llama questions and even try out to hand-feed your new fluffy best friends with some alpaca muesli!
This unique farm experience in Canberra is perfect for the whole family to enjoy these Canberra school holidays!
Wildbark Visitor Centre: spot rare animals on a twilight tour
Get ready for an exciting evening adventure at the Canberra Wildbark Visitor Centre Twilight Tour. Join a trained guide and explore a critically endangered ecosystem, searching for animals that are extinct on the mainland of Australia.
You'll learn about the local ecology, spot nocturnal and endangered animals, and enjoy a relaxing bushwalk in the grassy woodlands.
Look out for Eastern Bettongs, Eastern Quolls, Bush Stone-Curlews, and many more!
This twilight tour is perfect for kids aged 3 to 18 and takes approximately 2 - 2.5 hours.
Don't miss this unforgettable evening adventure - book Wildbark Visitor Centre Twilight Tour in Canberra today!
Bridge To Bridge Walk
If you're looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon with your family, why not take the Bridge To Bridge Walk by the beautiful Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra's iconic man-made lake?
You and the kids will get to take in some of the city's most beautiful sights, including Commonwealth Park, Captain James Cook Memorial, Walter Burley Griffin Terrazzo, Boundless Playground, Australians of the Year Walk and many more!
Bridge to Bridge Walk is one of the most popular walks in Canberra. This 5-km walk connects Commonwealth Bridge to Kings Avenue Bridge. During your stroll, you'll be able to discover several historical and cultural attractions along the way.
If you love cycling, then a bike ride around the Lake is an adventure not to be missed! With several different paths to choose from, ranging in distance and difficulty, there's something for everyone!
So take in the beauty of the lake and its surroundings as you ride, and be sure to explore all the hidden gems this beautiful walk has to offer.
And if you get peckish, don't worry โ The Lake offers some of the best picnic spots in Canberra!
Are you up for a refreshing dip on a hot day? The designated Lake Burley Griffin swimming areas are:
Yarralumla Beach (West Lake)
Weston Park East (Tarcoola Reach)
Black Mountain Beach (Tarcoola Reach).
Lake Burley Griffin walk map
Here's The Lake Burley Griffin walk map. You can view the full version of the map for a Lake Burley Griffin walking tour here.
Lake Burley Griffin Parking
๐ Lake Burley Griffin Parking near Kings Park and National Carillon
๐ Lake Burley Griffin Parking near Acton Park
Canberra Sculpture Garden
Canberra Sculpture Garden is a lovely hidden gem of the city and one of the most beautiful Canberra parks and gardens. Located next to The National Gallery of Australia, it's one of the best Canberra bush walks and picnic spots for families!
Kids will love the artificial rainforest fog and art sculptures, and there is lots of space to let off steam!
Public toilets are also available.
Canberra Sculpture Garden directions
National Carillon
The National Carillon is one of the best family attractions in Canberra. This beautiful bell tower on Aspen Island in Lake Burley Griffin offers stunning cityscape views and is perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
The Canberra Bell Tower is 50 metres tall and home to 55 beautiful bells, playing via a clavier keyboard. So if you're feeling romantic, why not bring your loved one for a picnic on the lawns surrounding the tower and enjoy its majestic sight? And even you can check out the view at night - it's simply breathtaking!
The National Carillon is also home to some of the most enchanting recitals in town. Public concerts are played each Wednesday and Sunday at 12.30 pm. While the National Carillon Recitals are closed for renovations, be sure to check out their updates before your visit!
Pink Lake Canberra Bruce ACT
Bruce Pink Lake in Canberra is one of the hidden gems of Canberra and one of the most beautiful and favourite attractions for families. The Pink Lake is hidden among trees across the road from the University of Canberra.
Bruce Pink Lake is covered with a fantastic blanket of pink water plants - Azolla Pinnata, an aquatic microform native to Australia. The naturally pink water is a stunning sight and makes it the perfect backdrop for a selfie.
The Pink Lake Bruce is about 15 min drive from Canberra CBD:
Mount Ainslie Lookout Canberra
Mount Ainslie Lookout is the best way to enjoy Canberra's fantastic views and its magnificent setting and design features. Mount Ainslie Lookout offers a panoramic view of the centre of Canberra, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Burley Griffin and Mount Stromlo.
Mount Ainslie Lookout is about 15-minute drive from Canberra CBD.
You can drive or walk up from the bottom to get there. Located near the War Memorial, you access this lookout by car via a twisty road that offers even more scenic views.
If you have time, enjoy the Mount Ainslie Lookout walk, which can take up to 2.5 hours. The bush walk starts immediately behind the Australian War Memorial in the suburb of Campbell, with the trailhead in Remembrance Park. The walking path is paved to the top, sometimes very steep. This is a great walk, perfect in the early morning or evening in the warmer months.
So, bring your camera or a picnic, as there are a few picnic tables at the summit of Mount Ainslie to take beautiful photos and enjoy the iconic Canberra skyline in the distance!
Mount Ainslie Lookout dogs
Dogs are allowed on a leash.
Mount Ainslie Lookout address
Mount Ainslie Lookout address: ๐ 20 Mount Ainslie Dr, Australian Capital Territory 2609
Jerrabomberra Wetland
If you're looking for a peaceful place to relax and take in some stunning scenery, Jerrabomberra Wetlands is one of the best parks in Canberra.
With over 200 different bird species, this Canberra Park is a must-see for nature lovers. Jerrabomberra Wetlands is about 10 min drive from Canberra CBD.
Bring your kids to explore the magic of nature at Jerrabomberra Wetland! This park is perfect for a relaxing day out and full of fun adventures with the family.
With plenty of bird-watching opportunities and easy walking paths, it's ideal for visitors of all ages and abilities. Be sure to check out their school holiday activities - your kids will love it!
Jerrabomberra Wetlands accessibility
The walks are wheelchair and pram accessible so that everyone can enjoy the beauty of this unique ecosystem.
Jerrabomberra Wetlands bikes
Bicycles are allowed only on the sealed, shared trail between Eyre Street and Dairy Road.
Jerrabomberra Wetlands dogs
Dogs are allowed on leash on the sealed, shared trail between Eyre Street and Dairy Road. Dogs are prohibited from all other parts of Jerrabomberra Wetland.
Jerrabomberra Wetlands map
Jerrabomberra Wetlands opening hours
Jerrabomberra Wetlands are open 24/7
Jerrabomberra Wetlands parking
Free off-street parking at the end of ๐ Dairy Road in Fyshwick:
Free off-street parking at ๐ Eyre Street.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve Canberra
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is an excellent place in Canberra for a day out with the family on the weekend or during the ACT school holidays. With plenty of walking trails, wildlife sightings, public BBQs and picnic areas, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is up to 45 min drive from CBD.
This beautiful park offers heaps of family activities and fun activities for kids. Many walking trails will take you through lovely scenery, while the wetlands provide a sanctuary for local wildlife. Be sure to keep an eye out for koalas, kangaroos, and emus while you're here!
You can grab a delicious cup of coffee or snack at the Visitor Centre from the kiosk, then head out on an adventure! The Visitor Centre is wheelchair accessible, with baby change facilities and a water refill station.
At the Visitor Centre, you can also hire a wheelchair for free. If you need more information, call 02 6207 7921.
Tidbinbilla Playground
Don't forget to check out the Tidbinbilla Playground. Kids will love it! The nature playground also features a bird's nest swing for small kids and people with limited mobility.
So, if you're looking for a beautiful park that offers plenty of peace for the whole family, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is the perfect spot.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve map
You can pick up a copy of the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve Map and Visitor Guide at the Visitor Centre to plan your visit.
Tidbinbilla opening hours
7:30 am - 8 pm daily (Daylight Savings Time/Summer)
Closed on Christmas
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve entry fee
The entry fee is $14 per car, making it one of the best budget-friendly activities too!
Directions to the Nature Reserve
Australian National Botanic Gardens
The Australian National Botanic Gardens is one of the best free things to do in Canberra! It's the perfect place to bring the whole family to explore the beauty and serenity of nature and relax surrounded by greenery.
With over 4,500 species on display and 75,000 plants, the Australian National Botanic Gardens Canberra is the perfect place to discover Australia's stunning diversity of native plants.
Nestled in the foothills of Black Mountain, the gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Australian National Botanic Gardens are about 10 min drive from CBD.
Bring your kids to explore and stroll beneath the Rainforest Gully canopy, enjoy a coffee at the Botanic Gardens cafe in Canberra, or breathe in the fresh air and listen to the birds.
Paperbark Treehouse at Gardens
The Paperbark Treehouse and Garden are an incredibly fun interactive experience for kids and visitors of all ages.
The treehouse has a ramp-accessible platform at 2.5 metres high and is nestled among a colony of swamp paperbark trees. From there, a ladder takes you up to a crowโs nest in the forest canopy. The three-level treehouse provides plenty of opportunities for exploration and connection with nature.
The water dragons are sure to fascinate everyone!
Soak up the peace and beauty of nature at this beautiful botanic garden.
Canberra Botanic Gardens entry fee
Australian National Botanic Gardens offer free entry. Parking is not free, though.
Canberra Botanic Gardens cafe
The botanic gardens Canberra cafe is open daily 9 amโ3:30 pm.
Australian National Botanic Gardens' opening hours
Australian National Botanic Gardens are open daily 8.30 am - 5 pm
Closed on Christmas Day
Australian National Botanic Gardens dogs
Dogs are not allowed at Australian National Botanic Gardens Canberra.
Australian National Botanic Gardens map
Here's a map of the Australian National Botanic Gardens. You can view the complete visitor guide and map here.
Direction to the Canberra Gardens
National Arboretum Canberra
The National Arboretum Canberra is a great place to spend the day with family as it offers heaps of family activities and kids activities. From its living forests and beautiful Canberra gardens, you can enjoy breathtaking views as well as unique experiences for kids and the whole family.
One of our favourite things about this venue is the cafe with a playground in Canberra right next door - it's perfect for kids of all ages and adults too!
With over 44,000 rare and endangered trees across a 250-hectare site, National Arboretum in Canberra, Australia, is perfect for nature lovers of all ages.
The Pod Playground at National Arboretum
Don't forget to check out the POD Playground at National Arboretum! National Arboretum Canberra Playground is a one-of-a-kind, award-winning playground that encourages kids of all ages to explore, learn and have fun.
With nest swings, music-making instruments and more, the playground is surrounded by spectacular views, making it a fantastic adventure for your little ones. Kids will love running wild in this great nature-themed playground with acorn and banksia cubbies, sand play, slides and swings.
National Arboretum Canberra entry fee
There is no entry fee for The National Arboretum Canberra.
National Arboretum Garden
National Arboretum Canberra is a place for visitors to explore the beauty and diversity of Australian plants.
There are seven gardens for the whole family to enjoy, each with its own unique theme, ranging from the Childrenโs Garden to the Terra Australis Garden. The Labyrinth Garden is perfect for visitors looking for a place to reflect and relax, while the Butterfly Garden is perfect for kids.
Canberra bush walks at National Arboretum
If you're looking for some of the best Canberra bush walks, the National Arboretum Trails are worth visiting!
With over 20km of walking trails to choose from, there's something for everyone. The STEP Track (1km return, easy walk) is perfect for families, while the Himalayan Cedar Track (2.1km return, moderate difficulty) offers a more challenging experience.
Find out more information about National Arboretum Canberra nature walks and trails for kids and families.
National Arboretum map
Here's a map of the National Arboretum in Canberra. You can view the full version of the map here.
National Arboretum directions
Bonsai at National Arboretum Canberra
The National Bonsai and Penjing Collection is a sight to behold! This unique exhibit consists of 75 miniature trees and shrubs, each with its own story and style.
So whether you're a bonsai lover or just curious about this ancient art form, the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection at the National Arboretum Canberra is the perfect place to explore it all with the whole family!
Bonsai at National Arboretum entry fee
Entry is free.
Lennox Gardens Canberra
If you're looking for a tranquil spot to relax and enjoy nature, look no further than Lennox Gardens in Canberra.
Surrounded by beautiful gardens and picturesque scenery, this is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with the kids and family.
Public BBQ and seating areas are available, as well as a children's play area, so make sure to bring your picnic basket along! Plus, there are public toilets too.
The park is also home to Canberra Beijing Garden and Canberra Nara Peace Park, so be sure to check them out too.
๐ฎ Did you know? Beijing Garden is home to the Lantern Festival Canberra, a traditional Chinese festival that marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Lennox Gardens is one of the places to see in Canberra for those who appreciate beautiful gardens and stunning sculptures. This Canberra garden features traditional Japanese gardens in Nara Peace Park, the Australians in the Spanish Civil War memorial, a beautiful Chinese pavilion and more!
Paths meander through the garden, providing visitors of all ages with a great way to explore and admire the artistry of the sculptures on display.
So, if you're looking for a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, make Lennox Gardens Canberra your next stop.
And don't forget your furry friend - dogs are welcome on leash in the park.
Direction to Lennox Gardens
Nara Peace Park Canberra
Nara Peace Park at Lennox Gardens is a beautiful and serene Japanese garden in the heart of Canberra. It's the perfect place to relax and escape the city bustle, surrounded by peaceful gardens and iconic cherry blossom trees.
The park also features two large stone lanterns commemorating the sister city link between Canberra, Australia and Nara, Japan.
If you're looking for a peaceful and beautiful place to have a picnic, BBQ, or relax, the Nara Park Canberra is perfect.
This park is popular with families and kids, with stunning lake views, plenty of open space, and well-organised gardens. Also, make sure to check out the Lantern Festival โ it's a beautiful sight!
Black Mountain Peninsula Park & All-ability Playground
Black Mountain Peninsula Park is home to a fantastic play area for toddlers and young children.
With water on either side, plenty of running space, and ducks to watch, Black Mountain Peninsula Playground is perfect for a day out with the family and for toddlers and preschoolers to explore, play and have fun.
The slide, tunnel, spider climbing web, bridge and see-saw are sure to keep the kids entertained for hours, while the wheelchair-accessible liberty swing makes it easy for everyone to join in on the fun.
There are also swings, a climbing structure, spinning poles and seats, musical instruments to enjoy, and plenty of shade.
In addition, the playground is conveniently located near public toilets, the Black Mountain Peninsula BBQ area and picnic tables.
Note that dogs are prohibited at Black Mountain Peninsula Playground.
Black Mountain Peninsula Park is a wheelchair-accessible park and playground so that everyone can enjoy it here.
So visit Black Mountain Peninsula Park and Playground with the kids and family and enjoy this beautiful park, perfect for a day of fun in the sun.
Kambah Park: Adventure Park & All-ability Playground
If you're looking for a playground that will keep your little one entertained for hours on end, look no further than the adventure playground at Kambah Park!
Kambah Adventure Park is the perfect place to have fun and get active with your little ones, and it is one of the best things to do in Canberra with family. With various activities available for all ages, you're sure to find something your whole family will enjoy.
This park features a boulder-style rock climbing wall, perfect for preschoolers who love a good challenge. The kids will be entertained for hours with plenty of other activities, including a slippery slide, step ladders, and a spider web swing.
Swing on the kangaroo rocker, spin around on the things-to-spin and challenge your strength and skill on the smaller flying fox. If you're feeling adventurous, try out the zip line.
Plus, there's an all-abilities liberty swing on-site, making Kambah Adventure Playground one of the best playgrounds Canberra offers for kids.
Please note that dogs are not allowed at Kambah Adventure Park.
And don't forget to pack a picnic lunch - Kambah Adventure Park offers some of the best family picnic spots in Canberra!
When you're searching for fantastic, budget-friendly places in Canberra that the whole family can enjoy, make sure to bookmark this list so you can come back later!
We've rounded up the most beautiful Canberra parks and gardens, fun outdoor activities, top-notch playgrounds, and family-friendly attractions just for you.
With these suggestions, you're all set to create a memorable time in Canberra with your kids and family without spending a fortune.
