Places worth discovering
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
See democracy in action at Australia’s iconic Parliament House high on Capital Hill. Book your tour for Question Time to see the country’s elected politicians making decisions on behalf of the nation. Take a guided tour, visit the popular Queen's Terrace Cafe, and see an impressive collection of Australian art including one of the world’s largest tapestries.
Canberra ACT
0.1 km away
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Natural Attractions
Canberra Nature Park comprises 39 separate native bushland and grassland reserves throughout urban Canberra. These provide fantastic opportunities for walking, exploring the territory and relaxing in nature. These reserves also form valuable wildlife corridors, supporting the movement of animal species through urban Canberra. Reserves include: Jerrabomberra Wetlands, Aranda Bushland, Black Mountain, Mulligans Flat, Red Hill, Urambi Hills, Mt Ainslie, The Pinnacle and Cooleman Ridge.
Canberra ACT
0.2 km away
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Natural Attractions
Canberra Centenary Trail is a 145-kilometre self-guided, shared-use trail experience for walkers, runners and cyclists. It showcases urban and rural Canberra, as well as iconic sites and hidden treasures. For walkers and runners wanting to explore a little further, 10 kilometres of additional 'feature walks' offer a scenic detour off the main trail loop. The shared use loop trail is multi-directional and can be tackled in sections over several days, or as one big adventure. The entire trail can be explored as: A 7-day walk, averaging just over 20 kilometres per day. A 3-day ride, averaging just over 45 kilometres per day. Or a 1-day physical challenge! The Canberra Centenary Trail is a shared-use trail. Please keep left and respect other trail users.
Capital Hill ACT
0.3 km away
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Landmarks and Buildings
The High Commission of India offers miscellaneous consular services for applicants from the ACT, Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia. Please check their website for full details before contacting the High Commission. All passport and visa information can be found at the VFS website. The High Commission of India is in Yarralumla approximately five kilometres south of the city centre.
Yarralumla ACT
0.6 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Visit the Living Stones exhibition at the historic neo-gothic Church of St. Andrew, the closest church in Australia to the Commonwealth Parliament. See its magnificent stained glass and ornate woodwork, hear the organ, ring the bells then visit the adjacent St Andrew's House, built in 1928. Discover how pioneering Church members helped to build the emerging capital. These heritage-listed buildings with a Guided Tour and Exhibition, will be of particular interest to visitors to Canberra, to students studying Society, Culture and Religious Studies, those interested in Canberra's History and Development, those attracted to Architecture, Design and Stained Glass. Enjoy this special spot at the heart of the nation.
Forrest ACT
0.6 km away
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Landmarks and Buildings
Canberra is home to nearly 80 embassies and high commissions. Most are in the suburb of Yarralumla. Take a leisurely drive and see traditional and modern architecture from many countries. See the spectacular traditional design of the Chinese Embassy and the long-house style of the High Commission of Papua New Guinea. Look for the Mexican Embassy’s giant shingle roof and the United States Embassy built in a modified Georgian style. The traditional Cape Dutch style architecture of the South Africa High Commission contrasts with the striking design of the Thai Embassy Royal. See how many countries you can name!
Yarralumla ACT
0.6 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Connections / Mura Gadi: Archives, People, and Places is a permanent exhibition housed within the National Archives of Australia in Canberra. Daily interactions with the Commonwealth generate the records that make up the national archival collection. These records reflect surprising and important connections between Australians and their government and reveal stories that help understand the history of this country and its people. Discover intriguing stories from Australian history then choose your own exploration pathway on the interactive digital wall. There are hundreds of tales and hidden secrets to uncover. Mura Gadi means 'pathways for searching' in the language of the Ngunnawal people of Canberra.
Parkes ACT
0.7 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Explore the National Archives of Australia, located in the historic East Block, where exhibitions, displays, and events bring the national archival collection to life. Open daily and free to the public, visitors can enjoy their exhibitions and the convenience of their on-site shop and cafe. Their diverse events program features activities for all ages, including special school holiday events for families.
Parkes ACT
0.7 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Voices / Dhuniai: Federation, Democracy and the Constitution is a permanent exhibition housed within the National Archives of Australia in Canberra. Take a journey through the history of the Australian Constitution and the democratic system it has created. The Constitution provides the legal framework for how we live together as Australians. It's also about the values and aspirations we share. So how was it written, and how can it be updated to reflect changing times and attitudes? The exhibition also embraces dialogue about the troubled history of constitutional discrimination against First Australians and historical and ongoing attempts to create change. Dhuniai means 'talk' in the language of the Ngunnawal people of Canberra.
Parkes ACT
0.8 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
With authentically restored heritage spaces and inspiring contemporary exhibitions, the Museum of Australian Democracy offers an exciting adventure in one iconic building. Let their guides take you on one of their daily tours to learn about the individuals and events of Australian democracy, in the very places where they occurred. Hear the echoes of the people, parties and prime ministers that shaped the nation as you discover Australia's rich democratic history. Or, embark on a self-guided tour through time in the grand halls and offices of Australia's most iconic heritage building. Step back in time and visit the authentically preserved spaces of historic Old Parliament House, including the House of Representatives Chamber and Prime Minister's Suite. Discover exhibitions that celebrate the stories and spirit of Australian democracy and the power of the voices within it, including Democracy DNA and Changemakers.
Parkes ACT
0.8 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
From 1927 until 1988, the Federal Parliamentary Press Gallery was accommodated in offices and studios above the House of Representatives and Senate Chambers. Visit the House of Representatives Press Gallery where members of the media seated in the gallery above the Chamber witnessed parliamentary sittings, and then raced back to the cramped offices and studios to file stories and hopefully scoop their rivals. Free. Open daily.
Parkes ACT
0.8 km away
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Shopping and Markets
The Shop at Old Parliament House is located in heritage-listed Old Parliament House, now home to the Museum of Australian Democracy. Their products reflect the Museum's stories, themes, and exhibitions. They also offer an extensive selection of political books and biographies. The Shop proudly collaborate with Australian artists and designers and is committed to providing Australian-made and Australian-designed products wherever possible. All of their products are sustainably sourced, socially responsible, and align with Australian and international ethical standards. Every purchase directly supports the ongoing work of the Museum, helping preserve the collection and share the stories that have shaped Australian democracy.
Parkes ACT
0.8 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Old Parliament House Gardens offer a pleasant, rose filled place to pause in the heart of the Parliamentary Zone. Located on either side of Old Parliament House are the House of Representatives Garden and Senate Garden. The roses in this garden were planted during the Great Depression. When parliament moved, the gardens were opened to the public. They were restored in 2004 to their current beauty. The Old Parliament House Gardens are available for public and corporate functions. Call the National Capital Authority for garden-related enquiries. Email Tennis Canberra for tennis court bookings.
Parkes ACT
0.8 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Experience Australia's federal electoral system and the power of Australia's democracy at the National Electoral Education Centre run by the Australian Electoral Commission. Located in the heart of Canberra's parliamentary triangle, the National Electoral Education Centre is a must-see destination for school groups as part of their civics and citizenship curriculum. Using experiential learning to engage and inform, one of the AEC's electoral experts will guide your school group through a 90-minute program. Explore the history of democracy and voting in Australia. Meet DemocraBot and be immersed in DemocraCity, our interactive virtual world, to learn about representation, enrolment, and voting. Students participate in their own election where they will vote, count the votes, and declare the election result, while taking on the roles of voters, ballot box guards, scrutineers and polling officials. The AEC Electoral Education team are pleased to announce the development of 'Teach the Vote'. A free downloadable toolkit which provides curriculum-aligned resources to support the teaching of electoral education, civics and citizenship. Central to the package is DemocraCity – a downloadable 3D educational game that explores democracy and elections in an immersive and interactive way. Explore 'Teach the Vote' and start your DemocraCity journey today!
Parkes ACT
1.0 km away
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Spas and Retreats
mudd The Spa invite you on an inspiring journey that will illuminate your spirit and excite your senses. mudd The Spa offers five relaxation suites, including a couples room, plus a range of quality body and beauty treatments for men and women including facials, massages, body beauty, as well as a Vichy Shower and Body Cocoon. Clients also have full access to enjoy the wet areas of Evo Health Club, that include a 25 metre indoor lap pool, hydrotherapy spa, sauna and steam room, for all treatments in excess of one hour.
Barton ACT
1.0 km away
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Entertainment Venues
Step into Dendy Canberra IMAX and experience movies on a scale that feels truly epic. With crystal‑clear image quality filling the towering screen and precision-tuned surround sound, IMAX pulls you deeper into every scene. The advanced laser projection, enhanced brightness, and expanded aspect ratio reveal stunning detail you won't see anywhere else. From blockbuster action to breathtaking documentaries, IMAX transforms film into an unforgettable, fully immersive event in the most premium viewing experience in the capital. Dendy Cinemas Canberra is located in the heart of civic and is the home of quality cinema screening the best in international film, blockbusters and family friendly films.
Canberra ACT
1.0 km away
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Entertainment Venues
The Wesley Music Centre is a vibrant, classical and chamber music venue located in the inner south of Canberra. Boasting beautiful acoustics, a Yamaha Concert Grand piano, a collection of unique early keyboard instruments, and one of the best available pipe organs in the territory. The Centre hosts many community arts organisations and prides itself on supporting local musicians. The Centre presents a regular Wednesday Lunchtime Concert series (perfect for your lunch break) and a variety of performances to suit any appetite. Check out the events calendar today.
Forrest ACT
1.0 km away
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Natural Attractions
Lennox Gardens, set on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, offers beautiful views of Black Mountain, the Brindabella Ranges and the city centre. Kids love the expanse of lush green grass and there's plenty of space to picnic, have a barbeque or just relax under the shade of towering trees. Lennox Gardens is home to two landscaped gifts from Japan and China; each celebrating the sister city links between Canberra, Beijing and Japan’s ancient capital, Nara. The Beijing Garden is designed in the imperial Chinese garden style of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912); a style symbolic of luxury and refinement. It features a traditional Chinese welcome gate, paths that meander past Chinese stone sculptures and a Chinese pavilion offering a place for quiet retreat to enjoy the garden's serenity. Canberra Nara Peace Park is the home of the annual Canberra Nara Candle Festival held in October. It features a small Japanese themed garden, traditional wooden gate and gazebo, and a number of iconic cherry blossom trees. A distinctive feature of the park is its "borrowed landscape" or the extension of the park's boundaries to encompass landmarks such as Lake Burley Griffin, Black Mountain, Mount Ainslie and Lotus Bay.
Yarralumla ACT
1.0 km away
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Spas and Retreats
Escape to a place of complete indulgence and relaxation. Hale is the newest luxury day spa and fitness centre in Canberra. Located within the heritage-listed Brassey Hotel, Hale Gym+Spa offers five-star facilities and service within an elegant sanctuary. Hale Spa provides a full complement of day spa treatments. The day spa provides a cave-like spa pool, segregated female and male steam rooms and infrared saunas and a row of nine treatment rooms, including a large couples suite. A lounge with a fireplace and views onto an internal courtyard with a water feature will allow you to relax before, during, and after treatments. Hale Gym is a place for body transformations, delivering measurable physical improvements for all guests. Hale members will be treated to leading-edge Technogym equipment in a non-intimidating, contemporary, sophisticated environment. Hale Gym offers casual classes including pilates, barre, yoga, spin and boxing.
Barton ACT
1.2 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Get to know artists, musicians, politicians, athletes, scientists, community leaders and more! Home to over 3000 portraits, the Portrait Gallery tells stories of the Australian people from past to present through the eyes of some of our best-known artists. Gain a greater understanding of Australia's identity, history, creativity, culture and diversity through portraiture, stories and a myriad of exhibitions and programs in the award winning building of the National Portrait Gallery. Discover more on the National Portrait Gallery website.
Parkes ACT
1.2 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Questacon is Australia's national science centre, where science and technology come alive in a hands-on experience for all ages to inspire your imagination with the world of science and technology. With over 200 interactive exhibits across 8 galleries, you can travel to the centre of an Earthquake, to the heart of a beehive, all the way to outer space! To guarantee a visit to Questacon, please pre-book your ticket.
Parkes ACT
1.2 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Welcome to the National Library of Australia – the home of your story. There is always something going on with a constantly changing calendar. Wander through the Main Reading Room to view some of the building's artwork and look through a selection of books on display. Or take advantage of one of their free guided tours. Trained volunteer guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the Library and its collections. And don't forget to browse the Bookshop for a souvenir, a special gift or your next great read. Or, if you need to recharge with a drink and a bite to eat, you can also visit the Paperplate Cafe. Know what is happening at the Library before you arrive. Check out the National Library website for their opening hours and to plan your visit. Also, have a look at the What's On page to find out what events, lectures, discussion panels, author talks, special exhibitions and school holiday activities they have coming up for you to see and participate in. Visit the exhibition galleries, including the Treasures Gallery, which showcases the extraordinary holdings of the National Library of Australia.
Parkes ACT
1.2 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Mabo decision, the National Library of Australia invited Gail Mabo, Eddie's daughter, to select material for display to mark this landmark moment in Australian legal history. 'The Mabo v Queensland (No. 2)' decision was handed down in the High Court of Australia on 3 June 1992. 'Mabo', as it has come to be known, altered the foundation of land law in Australia. It provided official recognition of the inherent rights of Indigenous Australians to their traditional lands. In 2001, the Mabo Case Manuscripts were inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. The Library holds an extensive collection of material relating to the Mabo decision and its lead applicant, Eddie Koiki Mabo. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Mabo decision, the Library invited Gail Mabo, Eddie's daughter, to select material for display to mark this landmark moment in Australian legal history. Explore the display in the Library's Treasures Gallery, open daily, except Christmas Day and Good Friday. Entry to the Gallery is free and no bookings are required. A free booklet containing an interview with Gail Mabo about the significance of the Library's Mabo Collection is available in the exhibition.
Parkes ACT
1.2 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
While the Library's collection has millions of books, it also collects other items. From maps and books to manuscripts, photographs, paintings and ephemera, the Treasures Gallery is where you can find highlights from the physical and digital collection. In the Gallery, you will find answers to popular questions, such as: 'Where are the books?' and 'What is Trove?'. The Treasures Gallery showcases the extraordinary holdings of the National Library of Australia. Their vast collection is primarily made up of documentary resources and is the largest collection about Australia and the Australian people in the world. Highlights of the latest display include: Behind-the-scenes videos showcasing our stacks and collection care and digitisation work. Pages from William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice from the First Folio (1623). A cedar bookcase carved by poet Dorothea Mackellar. A tactile map of Australia embossed with Braille script. Photographs from the nation's photo album including images of Diwali celebrations, balls, share house residents, and the 27 brides over 64 years who wore the Lockhart family's wedding veil. A display of The Wiggles' websites from 1997 to today from the Australian Web Archive. The Treasures Gallery includes labels for children.
Parkes ACT
1.2 km away
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