Attractions
Canberra’s attractions hold and share the treasures of our nation. Celebrate Australia’s proud sporting achievements, delve into our unique political history, and reflect on our young nation’s experience on the international stage. See our country and people through the eyes of our artists and experience Australian character through sound and film, books and exhibitions.

National attractions
The essence of Australia’s culture, history and way of life is reflected in the national museums, galleries and institutions in Canberra. These national icons hold and share the treasures of our nation, offering an intriguing insight into Australian character and democracy, and our journey from an Indigenous continent to a modern nation.

Arts and culture
See the essence of Australia’s culture, history and way of life reflected in the national museums, galleries and institutions in Canberra. These national attractions hold and share the treasures of our nation, offering an intriguing insight into Australian character and democracy, and our journey from an Indigenous continent to a modern multicultural nation.

History
The Canberra region had a rich Indigenous and farming heritage long before Australia’s early politicians thought of choosing the area for the new federal capital in the early 1900s. From this time onwards, as its oldest buildings were acquired by the new federal government, the area’s rural heritage became inextricably intertwined with its history as a purpose-built capital.

Family fun
With so many attractions and museums and fun things to do, even the big kids can get away with being children in Canberra. Here are just some of the great things to do for families:

At the Australian Institute of Sport, take a tour with an elite athlete and test your skills at virtual rowing, wheelchair basketball and the gymnastic beam. The miniature buildings at Cockington Green Gardens make even the smallest child a giant. While you’re there visit the nearby Gold Creek Village which is filled with great family attractions, as well as a tempting lolly shop.

Sport
Sport is a vital part of the Australian way of life, and Canberra is home to some of Australia’s top sports heroes. Cheer on Canberra’s top rugby league and rugby union teams, catch an Australian Football League game, watch cricket, play golf on the many outstanding golf courses or cycle through beautiful scenery

Outdoors and nature
Canberra is a city in a park, a landscaped capital carefully designed to transform with the four distinct seasons. But beneath the golden autumn leaves and spring blooms is a vibrant city, spread amongst parks and stretches of green open space that are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the fresh air.

Science and technology
Canberra is a centre for science and technology. Experience an earthquake or get close to a lightening bolt at Questacon –the National Science and Technology Centre, or touch giant stick insects, see a model wind turbine and wind tunnel at the CSIRO Discovery Centre, a showcase for achievements in Australian science and technology.

Shopping
Canberra offers everything from luxury boutiques, malls and department stores to street markets and local designers if you know where to look.

Wineries
Canberra region cool climate wines are now receiving worldwide recognition. There are 140 vineyards with more than 30 cellar doors in peaceful rural countryside around Canberra, and most are only 30 minutes from the city. The district’s vineyards produce all the varieties you would expect from a premium wine region. Despite the sophisticated product, the wineries are small and friendly and you may even get to meet the winemaker at the cellar door.