Things to Do in Canberra 2026 — Best Activities, Attractions and Experiences in Canberra

Things to Do in Canberra 2026

Canberra is Australia's national capital and holds a concentration of national cultural institutions unmatched by any other Australian city — and most are free. The Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery, the National Museum and the National Portrait Gallery are all within walking or cycling distance of the lake. visitcanberra.com.au

Iconic Canberra Experiences

• Australian War Memorial — Treloar Crescent, Campbell. One of Australia's most moving and significant institutions. Free entry. The Last Post ceremony at closing (4:55pm daily) is particularly powerful. awm.gov.au
• National Gallery of Australia — Parkes Place, Parkes. Free permanent collection — the NGA holds Australia's most significant art collection including Jackson Pollock's Blue Poles. nga.gov.au
• Parliament House — Capital Hill. Visit Australia's Parliament — enter the public areas including the Great Hall, the Members' Hall and the roof. Free. Sit in the public gallery when Parliament is sitting. aph.gov.au
• National Arboretum Canberra — Forest Drive, Molonglo. World-class arboretum with 94 forests and extraordinary views. Free entry. nationalarboretum.act.gov.au

Free Things to Do in Canberra

Virtually all of Canberra's national institutions are free — Australian War Memorial, National Gallery, National Museum, National Portrait Gallery, National Library, Old Parliament House and Questacon science centre (small entry fee). This makes Canberra one of Australia's best-value city destinations.

Things to Do This Weekend in Canberra

Check Visit Canberra's What's On at visitcanberra.com.au/events for the latest Canberra events this weekend.

This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.