22 Things to do in Canberra in 2022
If you're looking for a list of things to do in Canberra in 2022, you're spoilt for choice! From exploring the city's history and culture to getting active outdoors, there's something to keep everyone entertained. Base yourself at the Pavilion on Northbourne and start ticking off these 22 activities.
1. Stay with Pavilion on Northbourne & Dine at Atrium Restaurant & Bar
Whether you live in Canberra or are visiting, stay with the Pavilion on Northbourne and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Atrium Restaurant & Bar. Despite being close to the Canberra city centre, you’ll feel like you’re in the tropics with rooms surrounding two tropical atriums. Choose from the Atrium Hotel Room or the 1 & 2 bedroom apartments for a little more space.
2. Football at GIO Stadium
If you have the opportunity to see an NRL or Rugby Union game in 2022, head to GIO Stadium and watch the Canberra Raiders or Brumbies play. Pavilion on Northbourne offers accommodation near the Canberra stadium, making it easier for you to get to and from the game.
3. Floriade 2022
Surround yourself with beauty at Floriade 2022. After being cancelled for the past two years, Floriade will be back better and more beautiful than ever. From the 17th of September to the 16th of October, celebrate spring in Canberra with over a million blooms blossoming.
Floriade 2022. Image Credit Visit Canberra
4. See a show at the Canberra Theatre Centre
Theatre is finally back and here to stay! If you’re staying in Canberra, make sure you see a performance at the Canberra Theatre Centre. This year there are plenty of shows, with Girl from the North County and Cruel Intentions for the adults or Fairytales on Ice for the kids.
5. See a Comedy Show
If you need a good laugh, like the belly-deep laugh, get yourself a ticket to a comedy show in 2022 in Canberra. Visit The Street for comedy shows such as Story + Party: True Dating Stories or Courtyard Studio at the Canberra Theatre complex for Jimmy Rees and Alan Carr.
6. View Exhibitions at the National Gallery of Australia
The National Gallery of Australia presents exhibitions throughout the year but also houses some of the best pieces of art year-round. In 2022 celebrate women with the Know My Name exhibition until 26 June, or visit Ceremony until 31 July, a testament to the survival of indigenous culture.
National Gallery of Australia. Image Credit Visit Canberra
7. Truffle Festival
Do you love gourmet food? The Truffle Festival from mid-June to mid-August brings together truffle growers and other premium food and beverage vendors to showcase the exceptional produce surrounding Canberra. Join the truffle hunts, and cooking classes or taste some of the gourmet food and wine available at the event.
8. Christmas in July
Gather your family and friends and celebrate Christmas in July. With the cool climate in Canberra, it makes for a perfect experience. Head to Parkes Pace Lawns from the 30th of June to the 3rd of July for the festival, or otherwise, book with Marble & Grain for a 5-course feast with matching wine.
9. National Portrait Gallery
Canberra has a scattering of Galleries for everyone to enjoy. From the larger national galleries down to the independently owned galleries displaying up-and-coming artists. The National Portrait Gallery is displaying famous faces from the 16th century through to today in the Shakesphere to Winehouse exhibition (closes July 17).
National Portrait Gallery. Image Credit Visit Canberra
10. Visit the National Film & Sound Archive
The National Film and Sound Archive collects, preserves and shares films, television, videos, audiotapes, records, compact discs, phonograph cylinders and wire recordings, with the purpose to encourage Australians to connect with our past and then shape our future. This year, visit the limited-time exhibition Australians & Hollywood: A Tale of Craft, Talent and Ambition.
11. Get out in Nature and the Brisk Cool Air
There are varying walks and hikes available in and around Canberra for you to enjoy the fresh air. From your easy walks surrounding Lake Burley Griffin to the slightly more difficult Mt Ainslie. Check out Australian Traveller’s 10 Canberra walks that will take your breath away.
12. Pay your Respects at the Australian War Memorial
Located close by to the Pavilion on Northbourne is the Australian War Memorial. Visiting the memorial provides an opportunity to discover more about those who have sacrificed their lives for Australians and also pay your respects.
Australian War Memorial. Image Credit Visit Canberra
13. Do a Luxury Wine Tour with Van Du Vin
Do you love wine or want to learn more about the wine region surrounding Canberra? Jump onboard one of the private wine tours offered by Van Du Vin and explore wineries while tasting their selections of wine and some delicious food.
14. Tour De Savoie
Have you heard of the Savoie region in France? Whether you have or not, Marble & Grain are offering the perfect opportunity to explore this region and its wine. Sit down with friends and devour a 5-course lunch that comes with matching wine (or maybe food that matches the wine).
15. Parliament House
Open to the public, take the opportunity in 2022 to explore Parliament House in Canberra. Watch questions time, see bills being debated or take a tour of the premises and view the artworks and architecture.
Australian War Memorial. Image Credit Visit Canberra
16. Royal Australian Mint
Coins have been around for centuries and are used for bartering and purchasing. The Royal Australian Mint doesn’t just make the everyday coin in your pocket, but also the collectable coins. Take a tour and see the factory through the viewing platform and hear or share some remarkable coin stories.
17. National Museum of Australia
Visit the National Museum of Australia to discover the past stories of Australia and its culture through exhibitions, events and other resources. For a limited time, delve into Australia’s oldest national intelligence organisation at Decoded: 75 Years of the Australian Signals Directorate.
18. Lake Burley Griffin
Lake Burley Griffin is the picturesque lake in the centre of Canberra. With an abundance of activities on the lake like cruises, paddling or swimming, it’s worth exploring. Surrounding the lake you’ll find plenty of trails, beaches, parks and other key Canberra attractions.
Balloons and paddle boarders on Lake Burley Griffin. Image Credit Visit Canberra
19. Cockington Green
Just 12 minutes from the Pavilion on Northbourne, you’ll find Cockington Green Gardens, where small things and imagination are big players. Explore the gardens and take in the miniature handcrafted world landmarks that are on display or take a ride on the miniature steam train.
20. National Zoo & Aquarium
In Canberra, you’ll find the National Zoo and Aquarium all in one place. Discover Australian animals as well as international wildlife like Meerkats and Tigers. Treat yourselves to the Awesome Roarsome package and enjoy an exclusive experience to get up close and personal with some of the animals.
21. Day trip to the snow
If you love snow and the cold, make sure you visit Corin Forest for winter 2022. Take on the snow with some snow play, skiing on the bunny hills or the alpine slide. If you’re after a lot more snow and some mountains, visit Perisher Blue or Thredbo, just under 3 hours from Pavilion on Northbourne.
Corin Forest adventures for winter. Image Credit Visit Canberra
22. Canberra International Film Festival
This year, visit the Canberra International Film Festival from August 26 - 28 to celebrate the achievements of Australians in cinema in the 40s and 50s. You’ll have the opportunity to view neglected films that have become relevant and discover more about them through guest speakers, Q&As and panel discussions.
If you’re visiting Canberra or living in Canberra 2022, you’ve got a year's supply of activities and fun to attend to. So what are you waiting for? Book your stay at Pavilion on Northbourne and get planning your fun.
