One of the best things about visiting Canberra is that so many of the best attractions in Australia’s Capital are free. These are just the top six of them:
Parliament House
Not only is Parliament House the seat of government, it is the most expensive building in Australia and one of the most spectacularly designed. Admission is free and if you’re lucky enough to go there when parliament is in session, you can watch the action from the public gallery.
If that doesn’t sound exciting, then you’ve never seen a heated debate between Australian politicians taking place! After seeing the workings of parliament take a stroll through The Old Parliament House Gardens located on either side of Old Parliament House.
National Museum of Australia
The National Museum of Australia is totally devoted to Australian history and culture from aboriginal times to the present. Among the displays in the museum are the heart of the legendary Phar Lap, winner of the 1930 Melbourne Cup and Australia’s most beloved horse, an eerily lifelike Tasmanian Tiger carcass and innumerable artefacts. Aboriginal and Torres Strait islanders have a section devoted entirely to their cultures that include both ancient and modern works of art and crafts.
Australian National Botanic Gardens
The Australian National Botanic Gardens boast the largest collection of native flora in Australia. In the rainforest gully, you will get lost in a fascinating mini eco-system that contains examples of Australian plants from all parts of the long New South Wales coast.
Australian War Memorial
The Australian War Memorial is the largest of its kind in the world, with over 4 million items in its collection. Dedicated to the soldiers of Australia and the world who have struggled and died for their countries and beliefs, a visit to the Australian War Memorial is a sobering and enlightening experience.
The Royal Australian Mint
Visitors can watch the workings of the Mint including one of the world’s strongest robots sorting and stamping coins from elevated observation windows. See the process of how coins are made in a short behind the scenes video about the workings of the Mint in the theatrette. View a number of coin displays in the museum gallery including some rare gold sovereign pennies which were made in 1930. Pose for a picture in the Old Factory exhibition while the kids make their own $1 coin in the Mint shop.
National Capital Exhibition
On the shores of manmade Lake Burley Griffin is the National Capital Exhibition. Here you will see how Australia’s capital was designed and built from the ground up to be the modern capital of a modern Australia. While you’re there, take advantage of the opportunity to cycle or row around Lake Burley Griffin and enjoy the beautiful sights along the way.
You’ll also find that some of Canberra’s most delightful restaurants and al fresco cafes are located in or near all of these free attractions. Since the price of admission was so reasonable, feel free to relax and indulge a little.
About the author
Rob writes for bookitnow.com.au about popular things to do and see in Australia. If planning on visiting Canberra you will find information and a wide range of Canberra accommodation on ‘Book it Now’.
By Olivia GrilHey Folks! I'm Olivia from California, United States. I'm a blogger, travel lover, I can travel anywhere, whether it's a new place or already visited. I love meeting new people, clicking photos of every movement, and documenting my adventure. I also, write about travel, travel movies, the best places to visit, etc. Read my stories.
