Canberra is the capital of Australia, located in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) between New South Wales and Victoria. The capital city is dotted with beautiful trees and grassy hills, as well as interesting architectural buildings. Although some people may think Canberra is merely populated with boring politicians and bureaucrats, you'll find the city filled with exciting history, museums, entertainment, fine dining, and natural beauty.
TOURIST ACTIVITIES/DESTINATIONS:
Canberra offers many kinds of national attractions, including an almost overwhelming amount of museums, galleries, and historical sites. For the history buff, Canberra is rich with heritage and Australian history. Because Canberra is the home of the National Gallery of Australia as well as other art museums, art galleries, and art collections, art lovers should thoroughly appreciate their visit. For sports fans, there are many different sports associations, sports centres, and even sports museums located in Canberra. Nature lovers will also enjoy Canberra and its surrounding areas for its excellent bushwalking and water sports. Even families will find lots to do in Canberra with its numerous kid-focused attractions.
Mount Ainslie Lookout is just a ten minute drive from central Canberra, and it's a great place to go when you first arrive in Canberra. From the top of the lookout, you will get an excellent view of the Anzac Parade, Parliament House, and Lake Burley Griffin.
Anzac Parade is the red gravel ceremonial avenue leading to the expansive Parliament House. As you walk or drive along the parade, you will see a whole span of Memorial Sites including the Australian Hellenic Memorial, the Australian Army National Memorial, the Australian National Korean War Memorial, the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial, the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial, and much more!
Parliament House is a must-see for anyone visiting Canberra. The new Parliament House (not to confuse it with the Old Parliament House) was built in 1988, and is an impressive structure made mostly of marble. Parliament House was built into the hill with grass grown over the roof. A 81 metre flag mast soars above the building, giving Parliament House a prestigious look. You can take a free guided tour of the public areas of Parliament House including the House of Representatives and the Senate. Parliament House also has beautiful gardens to explore and an extensive collection of contemporary Australian art.
The Old Parliament House was actually built as a temporary parliament house, but the government stayed there from 1927 to 1988. Visiting the Old Parliament House is a great way to learn about the history of Australian Parliament. You can take a guided tour or a self-tour through many rooms and corridors, including the old Kings Hall, the House of Representatives Chamber, the Corridors of Power, the Ministerial Party Room, and the Prime Minister's Office.
The Old Parliament House also houses the National Portrait Gallery, which has an extensive display of Australian portraits that reflect the history, diverse culture, and varied media of Australia. In addition to a fine permanent art collection, the National Portrait Gallery holds regular art exhibitions.
The National Gallery of Australia is Australia's premier art institution. The National Gallery boasts a distinctive collection of Australian art, Aboriginal and Torres Strait art, Asian art, as well as a large international art collection. The National Gallery of Australia also has a large contemporary art and modern art collection.
The Australian War Memorial is located on the other end of Anzac Parade across from Parliament House. By visiting the War Memorial, you can learn about the Australian men and women who have lost their lives at war. The Australian War Memorial's exhibitions tell the stories of individual soldiers, and show a large amount of pictures and documentation.
The National Achieves of Australia is an interesting tourist destination. Inside Canberra's original post office building you will find Australia's collection of government records and official documents. There are many exhibitions inside the National Achieves for the public to view, including Australia's 1900 Constitution Act and the 1967 amendment ending discrimination against Aboriginals.
The National Library of Australia is another valuable source of information and an intriguing tourist destination. Inside the library's walls, you will find a huge collection of books, manuscripts, newspapers, and maps. The National Library of Australia also houses many paintings and well-known artworks.
The National Museum of Australia is the first museum in Australia to solely focus on the lives and histories of Australians. Through state-of-the-art technology and innovative exhibitions, visitors learn about the key issues, events, and people who have shaped Australia as a nation.
Questacon is a natural science and technology centre located near the National Gallery. Designed for kids, Questacon provides an educational, hands-on experience about the many wonders of science. You can experience an earthquake, watch lightning form before your eyes, and learn how telephones work!
Lake Burley Griffin is a beautiful artificial lake located south of central Canberra. You can spend the day jet-boating or taking a leisurely cruise on the tranquil waters. There are also plenty of paths around Lake Burley Griffin, and you can hire bikes and skates to explore the shores of the lake.
There are also many wonderful public and trade events held in Canberra. Including The Designers & Creators Expo, which is eagerly awaited each year.
CANBERRA WEATHER:
The best time to see Canberra is in the fall (March to May) when the trees are changing colours and everything looks beautiful. The fall skies are still sunny, and the temperature remains mild.
However, the winter season in Canberra is very, very cold. Winter temperatures reach a high of about 12° C (53° F), and can drop to 1° C (33° F). Make sure you bundle up! Despite the cold winter temperatures, the skies remain blue and sunny.
The spring (September to November) and summer season (December to January) are also very pleasant, although it can get really sticky and hot in the summer.
TRANSPORT:
Canberra does not have an international airport, but you can fly to directly to Canberra from all the capital cities in Australia. There are also frequent buses to Canberra from Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. You can catch a train from Sydney to Canberra as well.
In Canberra itself, there is an extensive public bus system, but you can also get around by car or bike.
ACCOMODATION:
Canberra has the full range of serviced apartments, hotels, motels, hostels. The city also offers many quaint bed and breakfast places and holiday retreat accommodation. In the areas surrounding Canberra, you will find camping grounds and caravan parks.
