Things to do in Canberra this weekend

Whether you're a Canberra local looking for something new or a visitor making the most of the capital, the ACT delivers a weekend lineup that combines world-class cultural institutions, outdoor adventure, and the best dining scene the region has ever had.

National Museum of Australia

Entry to the National Museum is free, making it an outstanding way to spend a few hours immersed in the stories that shaped the nation. The rotating special exhibitions offer changing reasons to return throughout the year. Walk along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin afterward for the full Canberra experience.

Questacon

The National Science and Technology Centre is a must if you have kids in tow — or if you've just always wanted to slide down a fireman's pole in the name of science. Questacon's interactive exhibits make it one of the most genuinely entertaining museums in Australia for visitors of all ages.

Cockington Green Gardens

This meticulously maintained miniature village in Gold Creek is one of those surprises that visitors consistently rate higher than they expected. The detail in the miniature buildings and the immaculate gardens justify the entry price.

Farmers markets

EPIC Farmers Market on Sunday mornings is a Canberra institution. Fresh regional produce, artisan bread, excellent coffee, and the kind of slow Saturday morning energy that makes you realise you should be doing this every week. The Capital Region Farmers Market at Exhibition Park is the one to beat in the ACT.

Mount Ainslie lookout

The 30-minute walk from the War Memorial to the summit of Mount Ainslie delivers one of the most satisfying urban panoramas in Australia — the Burley Griffin vista down Anzac Parade to Parliament House is the view that appears in every Canberra tourism promotion for good reason.

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