Places worth discovering
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Natural Attractions
To get to Shepherds Lookout, start at the parking area three kilometres from the last traffic island on Stockdill Drive. Walk through Woodstock Nature Reserve to Shepherd’s Lookout for an impressive view along the Murrumbidgee. The return walk is only 1.2 kilometres, an easy 45 minutes. Look out for the ACT border, three kilometres downstream. It's marked by power lines over the river. Dogs are allowed on a lead.
Holt ACT
4.4 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
At Mount Stromlo Observatory you can see spectacular views over Canberra and the Brindabellas and make use of the barbeque and picnic facilities. Discover the site's history; from its use as a World War II optical munitions factory to the Observatory's post-2003 recovery. Or take an interactive heritage walk with the smartphone app. Stroll past the only operational research telescope at the Stromlo Satellite Laser Ranging Observatory, part of the Australian National University's site. Check their website for dates of periodic walking tours and stargazing events. Private stargazing nights are available. Mount Stromlo Observatory is the headquarters of the ANU Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, a world-respected community of researchers exploring the heavens.
Weston Creek ACT
4.8 km away
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Natural Attractions
Allow 2 to 2.5 hours for this 3.5-kilometre walk with sandy river banks and views. It's mostly flat and easy. Watch out for the steep rocky section along the Molonglo River before the track leaves the river. Make use of toilets, picnic tables and wood-fired barbeques at Uriarra East and West Picnic areas. The walking trail is marked by a series of totems. Signage is being upgraded to provide more information. Dogs are allowed off lead at Uriarra East and West picnic areas but not on walking tracks, except from Stockdill Drive to Shepherds Lookout.
Canberra ACT
5.0 km away
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Natural Attractions
Cotter Avenue is a popular recreation venue ideal for picnics, swimming, fishing, bushwalking and relaxation. Facilities include short walking tracks to the Cotter Dam and river, and limited camping at the adjacent Cotter Campground. Take the Cotter Dam Discovery Trail, lined with stories of Canberra's water history. It features a 16-metre-wide, amphitheatre-style viewing platform with majestic views of the dam wall. Around the corner from the dam is Casuarina Sands with barbecue facilities, picnic tables, shaded areas, playground equipment, access to swimming, ample parking and disabled access. Cotter Avenue is 23 kilometres from the city centre.
Stromlo ACT
5.5 km away
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Sports and Recreation Facilities
Stromlo Forest Park (SFP) is a multi-use recreation and sporting facility situated in the heart of the Molonglo Valley in the nation's capital, Canberra. Set on 1200 hectares, with spectacular views and only 15 minutes from the city centre, SFP has something for everyone, from recreational to professional users. Boasting a purpose-built event pavilion, a 1.2-kilometre criterium cycling circuit, a 2.5-kilometre grass cross-country running track, equestrian trails, a pump track, a freestyle BMX facility and over 50 kilometres of mountain bike trails for riders of all abilities. Connect with Canberra's vast network of paths, including the Centenary Trail and Bicentennial National Trail. There are kilometres of shared trails for those wanting to explore on foot as well as with dogs on leash. Adjacent to the main car park is Handlebar Cafe/bar (hours vary) for all of your pre- and post-activity needs. Get the most out of your visit using the award-winning Stromlo Shuttle Bus service with multiple runs per day and over 15 ways to descend the mountain. Don't have a bike? No problem - contact Cycle City bike hire Whatever your outdoor passion is – running, walking, mountain biking, cycling or horse riding – Stromlo is waiting for you!
Wright ACT
5.7 km away
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Sports and Recreation Facilities
The overriding goal at Forest Park is to share the love of horses and horse riding with everyone who wishes to be involved in equine pursuits, no matter how young or old. Take a trail ride or learn to ride just 20 minutes drive from the city. Helmets and boots are available. Private lessons are by appointment on weekdays. Relaxing, supervised rides are also taken to Stromlo Forest. These one-hour rides cater for experienced and beginner riders. Horses are a wonderful mix of personalities, colours and temperaments to suit all standards of riders. Bookings are essential.
Stromlo ACT
5.9 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Strathnairn Arts is a not for profit arts association supported by the ACT Government providing working spaces, studios and facilities for a range of artists, crafts people and community groups. In addition to the three art galleries, you will find a shop stocking local handmade arts and crafts and a café set in a 1920's rural homestead on 9.5 hectares on the Western fringe of Belconnen overlooking the Brindabellas. Strathnairn Arts has been used by artists for decades but still remains one of Canberra's best kept secrets.
Holt ACT
5.9 km away
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Shopping and Markets
The Curatoreum are independent stores located in Canberra, at the National Portrait Gallery and National Arboretum Canberra. Specialising in art, botany, design and children's books, there is a wide selection of inspiring and thought-provoking publications. The Curatoreum's two unique are also ideal for presenting the best of Canberra's creative talent, offering a large range of locally sourced jewellery and gifts for the home.
Molonglo Valley ACT
8.1 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
The Forest Sculpture Gallery is a recently established non-profit space for art located within the beautiful setting of the National Arboretum Canberra. Nestled amongst 40,000 rare, endangered and symbolic trees from around the world, this budding contemporary art trail is attracting the attention of sculptors and art lovers from Australia and beyond. Discover the sculptures set along 20 kilometres of walking paths, forests and scenic lookouts. The National Arboretum Canberra is one of the city's premier tourist destinations and is also a favourite with the locals. The National Arboretum's natural beauty, award-winning architecture and striking landscape design are enhanced by the world class sculptures. Just like the forests of the National Arboretum, the Forest Sculpture Gallery will continue to grow.
Molonglo Valley ACT
8.2 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
The National Bonsai & Penjing Collection of Australia is a stunning public display featuring over 75 styled trees. The Collection features a variety of traditional and modern styles and highlights include many Australian native species including Banksia serrata and Eucalyptus camaldulensis'. Many of the trees are owned by the Collection whilst others are on loan from around Australia by the artists or their families. The rotation of trees allows for continued involvement with the community and enables a dynamic and diverse collection that is always changing and providing new experiences for visitors. The Collection can be appreciated throughout the seasons, from a burst of colour in spring to dramatic colours in autumn. The Collection is located alongside the Village Centre at the National Arboretum Canberra where several of the species featured in bonsai form can be seen in the surrounding forests. Please note: Fully accessible with sealed, level pathways. No dogs allowed, assistance dogs only.
Molonglo Valley ACT
8.2 km away
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Parks and Gardens
Let the kids run wild at the award-winning POD Playground at the National Arboretum Canberra, a truly magical play space designed to ignite curiosity, wonder, and imagination. Inspired by the concept of seeds as the beginning of life in the forest, POD Playground offers a thrilling range of activities that challenge and excite children of all ages. Kids will delight in hiding within the raised giant acorn cubbies, scaling the intricate climbing nets, creating tunes with music-making instruments, and zooming down the exhilarating tube slides. The nest swings add an extra element of fun, offering a spot to sway and unwind after all the excitement. The sand play area offers giant banksia pods to explore along with a mini slide. While the children are immersed in adventure, parents can relax and enjoy the Arboretum's breathtaking views over Canberra with a coffee in hand. Conveniently, an accessible bathroom and baby change facilities are located within the playground for easy access. POD Playground is designed not only as a play space but as an experience that encourages exploration, spontaneity, and joy, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Arboretum. Perfect for sparking active play and creativity, it's an unforgettable destination for families visiting Canberra.
Molonglo Valley ACT
8.2 km away
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Landmarks and Buildings
The National Arboretum Canberra is a mosaic of living forests offering breathtaking views and unique experiences. With over 40,000 trees across the 250-hectare site, the Arboretum is one of the world's largest living collections of rare, endangered and culturally significant trees. Art and nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection of Australia, the Forest Sculpture Gallery, and the National Rock Garden – each offering inspiration and insight into the beauty of living art. Feeling active? Walk or ride through over 20 kilometres of scenic trails that wind through majestic forests, offering breathtaking views and peaceful escapes. Families will love the iconic POD Playground, a space designed to spark imagination and joy. After your adventure, relax at the café and browse the gift shop, or enjoy the serenity at one of the picnic spots. Throughout the year, the Arboretum comes alive with guided tours, school holiday programs, and seasonal events that celebrate the ever-changing landscape and bring people together. Be sure to check the website to help plan your visit or to book upcoming walks, tours and events. Just minutes from the city, the National Arboretum is a vibrant destination for conservation, community, education, award-winning architecture, and events – inviting you to explore a world where nature, art, and adventure come together. Every visit is a new experience waiting to unfold.
Molonglo Valley ACT
8.2 km away
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Natural Attractions
Visit Cooleman Ridge for walks of different lengths, with scenic views. Follow the circuit trail around the lower slope of Mount Arawang. The reserve is part of a connected expanse of woodland across northern Tuggeranong that includes Mt Taylor, Farrer Ridge, Wanniassa Hills and McQuoids Hill. Dogs are permitted on-leash on track and trails only.
Chapman ACT
8.4 km away
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Amusement and Theme Parks
Catch all the fun and excitement at Zone 3 even after other attractions have closed. Zone 3 is a totally interactive, laser tag adventure. Wear a computerised vest or pack, and grab a handheld Laser. Achieve a winning score by zapping opponent players and base stations within the playing arena. Total fun, Leagues, competitions, fitness and excitement all rolled into one. Zone 3 is suitable for anyone aged six years and over. Ideal for birthday parties, large groups, corporate functions, school groups and anyone wanting to have fun.
Belconnen ACT
9.0 km away
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Shopping and Markets
Established in 1976 and bearing new fruit every day. A place where sounds, colours, and scents work in perfect harmony. Capital Food Market is home to some of the region’s finest fresh food providers and casual dining experiences. The Belconnen Fresh Food Markets were once home to more than 20 of Canberra’s finest food providores. After over 40 years supporting local businesses, farmers, and serving the Canberra community, the market has a new lease on life reopening as Capital Food Market in 2023. The new Capital Food Market showcases leading fresh food providers, while offering locals and visitors an exciting new dining destination to be enjoyed all year round. From the outset, energy efficiency has been at the heart of the Market’s design, we’re proud to have included thermal temperature control and solar electricity generation.
Belconnen ACT
9.0 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Government House is the official residence of Australia's Governor-General. Events and activities conducted at Government House include receptions, investiture and credential ceremonies; state dinners for visiting Royalty and heads of state; and functions for community and special needs groups. The 54-hectare property is listed on the Commonwealth Heritage list. The house and grounds are not open to the public, however look out for open days throughout the year. Enjoy a good view of the building from a lookout on Lady Denman Drive, south of Scrivener Dam.
Yarralumla ACT
9.1 km away
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Spas and Retreats
Rejuvenate your body and mind with a visit to endota day spa Belconnen, an oasis located in Belconnen Westfield shopping centre. Allow their therapists to nurture you through their extensive day spa menu of massages, facials, spa packages and beauty therapies. Comprising of 8 treatment rooms, including a double treatment room (perfect for couples treatments), endota spa Belconnen is the ultimate place for relaxation and 'me time'. Conveniently located on the Level 2 of Westfield Belconnen Shopping Centre, near the Telstra store. Free parking (for up to 2 hours) is available onsite.
Belconnen ACT
9.1 km away
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Entertainment Venues
P59 is Canberra's modern home of golf. Bringing together technology, coaching, club fitting, premium retail and social golf under one roof at Emu Bank, overlooking Lake Ginninderra. Their TrackMan-powered simulator bays let golfers play virtual courses, practise with purpose and access detailed club and ball data used by the world's best players. They also offer PGA coaching and a state-of-the-art PuttView putting green to help golfers of all abilities understand their game and improve faster. P59 is a premium club fitting destination, offering full fitting experiences across Titleist, Mizuno, LAB Golf, Bridgestone and Piretti, with Titleist recognising us as a Premium Fitting Partner. The retail space features a curated selection of premium golf equipment, apparel and accessories, including brands such as Greyson and Malbon. Beyond golf, P59 is a relaxed and social space for corporate events, client entertainment, team functions, competitions and casual nights out. Whether you're new to golf, chasing a lower handicap, looking for your next set of clubs or simply want to have a hit with friends, P59 is where you play, practise, connect and improve.
Belconnen ACT
9.1 km away
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Amusement and Theme Parks
Discover non-stop fun at iPlay Belconnen! Get ready for over 2,000 square metres of pure entertainment at iPlay in Westfield Belconnen! Whether you're with family, friends, or workmates, there's something for everyone – all under one roof. With multiple attractions that bring the fun, choose from a huge variety of action-packed experiences, including Laser Tag, Ten-Pin Bowling, Drift Dodgem Cars, Pool Tables and over 80 Arcade games. Planning a birthday party, corporate event, or team-building day? iPlay Belconnen has you covered with dedicated party areas and customisable packages to suit all occasions. Plus, take a break and relax at our on-site café while the kids play or in between games. Open seven days a week, iPlay Belconnen is your go-to destination for fun and entertainment in Canberra.
Belconnen ACT
9.3 km away
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Entertainment Venues
Pinot and Picasso Belconnen is Australia’s number-one paint and sip experience. They allow you to take on some of the basic (and some more advanced) techniques of painting on canvas, in a hassle-free, approachable and collaborative setting. Enjoy a night of wine and painting as the expert Pinot and Picasso hosts deliver each session with comprehensive step-by-step instruction with plenty of room left for your inner Picasso to run wild. By the night's end, even all you ‘non-creatives’ will be taking home your very own Picasso. Pinot and Picasso is a paint-and-sip studio perfect for hen’s nights, private groups and team building or a place to relax with smaller groups (or by yourself) in weekly public sessions.
Belconnen ACT
9.4 km away
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Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks
Get up close and personal with some of the world's most amazing creatures at the National Zoo & Aquarium in Canberra. From lions, tigers and bears to giraffes, penguins and monkeys, the Zoo features a variety of native and exotic animals, as well as the largest inland saltwater tank in Australia! Pat a cheetah, feed a bear or become acquainted with a meerkat during some of the most amazing hands-on animal experiences in Australia. The vision of the National Zoo and Aquarium is to inspire and assist in the conservation of the natural world through exciting and innovative educational experiences. Their mission is to set the world’s best practices for animal care and sustainability while impassioning their guests to protect the natural world.
Weston Creek ACT
9.6 km away
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Shopping and Markets
Meet Gather Collect is a beautifully curated homewares store that supports a range of different Australian Artist, designers and makers products. It's a must see collection that is ever changing, situated in the lovely leafy suburb of Aranda. With a selection of homewares, furniture, jewellery and baby items these items are sure to catch your eye. Not only does MGC support Australian Artist by stocking their products but they also run amazing workshops with local artist too. Why not treat yourself to these unique items or book into one their workshops , create something ah-mazing with a local artist.
Aranda ACT
9.7 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Come and see the permanent public artwork collection in and around Belconnen Arts Centre. The works outside the Centre are visible at all times of the day and night, 365 days a year. The latest addition to the trail is Communities (2024) by Rebekah Weddell, presented as a digital vinyl wrap around the water meter. The painting is a representation of the whole of the ACT and its communities from a birds-eye view, with prominent water sources featured throughout. This project is proudly supported by Icon Water. Other artworks to view include: Dancers on a Lakefront (2010) by Konstantin Dimopoulos Ark in the Ark and Beyond (white granite) by Wataru Hamasaka River Lizard (2013) by Paul Haslam and Richard Lamond And inside the Theatre Foyer: Magpie Message Stick #3 (2020) made of bullseye glass by Jennifer Kemarre Martiniello Powerful Owl (2010) made of bronze and timber by Bruce Armstrong (1957–2024)
Belconnen ACT
9.7 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Belco Arts is a multi-arts centre on the shores of Lake Ginninderra. The building hosts four gallery spaces with a year-long program of free exhibitions; a state-of-the-art Theatre showcasing live music, theatre and dance; workshop spaces catering to a range of creative and community activities and classes; a shop that showcases an attractive range of handcrafted bespoke items; and a café-bar-restaurant serving coffee, food and drinks by the lakeside from early 'til late. They have commissioned new First Nations theatre work and exhibitions, worked in partnership with the LGBTIQ+ community to present exhibitions and drag pageants, and delivered over a decade of arts programs and opportunities specifically devised with and for disabled artists to grow their practice. In collaboration with Canberra's home of live music Smith's Alternative, the monthly Smith's@Belco concert series showcases touring sensations supported by well-loved local artists in a modern 300-seat venue that blends the epic and the intimate for unforgettable nights. A 15-minute drive from Canberra's city centre, Belco Arts is a vibrant destination that invites you to take your time, catch your breath, and combine a lakeside stroll with the experience of distinctly Canberran culture.
Belconnen ACT
9.7 km away
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Explore EventsUse Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.
