Things to do in Canberra

Although many people sideline Canberra for other, more accessible and better known cities in Australia, the countrys capital certainly doesnt lack in the attractions department should people have reservations about making the effort to come here. There are attractive old and stylistic modern buildings, several museums, interesting child-based attractions and a number of beautiful parks and gardens.

Australian National Botanic Gardens

Located in Canberra city centre, the fabulous Australian National Botanic Gardens offer respite from the summer heat and are situated within walking distance of many tourist attractions. Major features of the gardens include many indigenous plants, a rainforest area, a greenhouse stocked with tropical species, a Tasmanian garden, secluded picnic spots, lawns, walking trails and a visitor centre.

Australian Reptile Centre

The Australian Reptile Centre is a great attraction for the children. Located in the Gungahlin district of Canberra, the Reptile Centre is divided into different temperate zones and features many large snakes, giant lizards and some brilliant displays. Many of the worlds most venomous snakes reside in Australia and are detailed here.

Beaches

There are some outstanding beaches within a 3-hour drive of Canberra along the New South Wales coast. Among these is Jervis Bay on the southeast coast; a beautiful beach with white sand and crystal clear waters. Batemans Bay is another popular beach within easy driving distance of Canberra.

Captain Cook Memorial Water Jet

Rivalling that of the famous Jet dEau fountain on Lake Geneva in Switzerland, the Captain Cook Memorial Water Jet, located on Lake Burley in central Canberra, is a memorial to the genius explorer Captain Cook who discovered this part of Australia in the late 18th century. The fountain actually reaches about 30 feet higher than that of Jet dEau and looks awesome when viewed up close from the water. Steam-paddle boat cruises of the lake leave throughout the day.

National Zoo and Aquarium

Popular attractions at the National Zoo and Aquarium include a variety of indigenous creatures including dingoes, koalas and kangaroos as well as lions and tigers. The aquarium features an underwater tunnel where a variety of sea life can be seen including sharks, baby sharks and stingrays. The lobster tanks are also a big hit. The zoo and aquarium are located next to each other in the Yarralumla area of Canberra, which is near the city centre.

New Parliament House

Officially opened by Queen Elizabeth in 1988 as part of the bicentennial celebrations in Canberra, the New Parliament House (seat of the local government) is perhaps Canberras most recognisable landmark. It is located in the Capital Hill district of Canberra and displays some fine architecture including 48 classical marble pillars representing a eucalyptus forest, stone carvings, grand arches and many other features. Guided tours of Parliament House are popular and while inside, visitors will see rare paintings, antique furniture and interesting artefacts from Canberras history. The gardens are also impressive and there is a souvenir and book shop on-site.

Old Parliament House

Previously the headquarters of the Australian government from the 1920s to 1988, Old Parliament House provides an insight into how the Australian government operated, complete with details about scandals of the day. Visitors can tour the prime minister's office, the cabinet room and various other rooms and houses.

Royal Australian Mint

The Royal Australian Mint is another popular attraction for families, with its clever interactive exhibits. Visitors are able to learn all about Australian currency production through the impressive collections on display; a caf and gift shop are also on-site. The mint can be found in the Deakin area of central Canberra and is easily accessible from many other attractions in the city.

St Christopher's Cathedral
This impressive Roman Catholic cathedral is located near the city centre and is perhaps Canberras most endearing landmark. St Christopher's Cathedral was built in the 1930s and is especially noted for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture which includes fabulous stone carvings. In addition, the huge pipe organ easily fills the massive cathedral interior during the regular services.

Telstra Tower

Another unmissable Canberra highlight is the Telstra Tower. Built in the 1980s, this lofty landmark is located in the heart of the city centre and offers the best views of the city from its observation platform. Apart from the outstanding views, the tower also offers a revolving restaurant, an impressive museum and a souvenir shop.

Museums
For a young city, Canberra has a good collection of museums, of which the National Museum of Australia on Lawson Crescent is perhaps the most impressive with its interactive, special exhibits and free entry. The National Gallery of Australia is another free attraction and is one of the largest art galleries in Australia, while the National Library of Australia is noted for its neo-classical architecture and research.