Top 10 Activities For A Weekend in Canberra
You'll have no problem packing your weekend in Canberra with as many activities as you'd like. There are fantastic things to do in every district, with outstanding restaurants, national exhibits, shopping, and adventures for the whole family. Here is our list of the top 10 activities to make the most of your weekend in Canberra!
1. Visit Bungendore
Images via Bungendore Fine Arts Gallery | The Gathering | Flickr
The town of Bungendore is chock full of ways to fill your afternoon and only a lovely 30-minute drive from Pavilion on Northbourne. The Bungendore Fine Arts Gallery plays host to both well-known and upcoming local and international artists. If you have an appreciation for the fine arts, this ever-growing gallery is a must-see. After a visit to the gallery, head over to The Gathering, a cafe that boasts traditional coffee with an honest twist. Dine outside and enjoy one of their fresh pastries to get the energy boost you need to take on the historic and beautiful Yanununbeyan State Conservation Area.
2. Visit Wineries
Images via Delicious | Clonakilla
There are multiple wineries and wine tours in the Canberra region. Two of them, in particular, are ideal for their picturesque landscape and high-quality wines. Clonakilla, a family-owned winery, is just a 33-minute drive from the Pavilion on Northbourne, offering delicious handcrafted wines and tastings. Eden's Road is another winery, with vineyards surrounded by gorgeous forests and a rich history. Treat yourself to a tour of either of these spots and indulge the rest of the afternoon by stopping by their cellar doors.
3. Old Bus Depot Markets
Images via Old Bus Depot Markets | Flickr
Canberra's beloved Sunday Old Bus Depot Market is ideal for gift shopping, finding local art, and tasting some regional and international dishes. This lively event is one of the many ways Canberra comes together as a community. You'll be able to experience the local vibe like never before, all the while shopping in one of the city's most frequented and award-winning markets.
Located at 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston
Open Sunday only, 10am till 4pm
More info at obdm.com.au
4. Visit a National Attraction
Images via Flickr | The National Museum of Australia | Questacon
The National Museum of Australia
Visit the National Museum of Australia and marvel at the stunning architectural space, providing a vibrant and lively atmosphere to learn more about Australia’s rich cultural history. Their most current exhibit is the DreamWorks Animation show, running until 2 February 2020. Learn more about the brilliant animation, technical, and creative processes of the iconic studio behind Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and many more beloved animations.
Located at Lawson Cresent, Acton ACT 2601
Open Monday-Sunday from 9am-5pm
More info at https://www.nma.gov.au/
Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre
Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre is a great way to spend the afternoon, especially for families with young kids. This joint Australian and Japanese project is an incredible educational opportunity to explore an awesome lineup of interactive science exhibits. Their vibrant interior and colorful playspace are sure to spark your kids' scientific curiosity and tear their eyes away from their phones!
Located at King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600
Open Monday-Sunday from 9am-5pm
More info at https://www.questacon.edu.au/
Australian War Memorial
A visit to the Australian War Memorial makes for both an emotional and educational experience. The war memorial plays host to a variety of exhibitions and galleries that will take you on an immersive journey through historical periods of conflict in Australia. With memorial guides and audio tours in multiple languages, this exceptional museum is an important reminder about all Australians who have served and sacrificed.
Located at Treloar Crescent, Campbell ACT 2612
Open Monday-Sunday from 10am-5pm
More info at https://www.awm.gov.au/
5. New Acton's Cellar Doors
Images via Cellar Door Canberra
The Cellar Door in New Acton is another one of Canberra's must-see spots for wine-lovers. This wine market has new stalls every week, and you'll be able to pair your wine with some of the capital’s finest local cheeses and chocolates. With amazing smells and a gorgeous interior, the Cellar Door is a necessary visit for anyone looking to taste something new and unique to Canberra.
Located at Nishi Grand Stair, 2 Phillip Law Street, NewActon ACT 2601
Open for guests every Saturday from 3pm-6pm
More info at http://newacton.com.au/events/cellar-door-weekly-wine-market/
6. Boutique Shopping in Braddon
Images via Pink Ink Boutique | The Canberra Centre | The Hive
Braddon is home to some of Canberra’s favourite boutiques, boasting an impressive collection of both local and international designer pieces. If you have a few hours to kill in Canberra, you won't regret checking out Pink Ink Boutique, well-known in Canberra’s luxury fashion scene. Immerse yourself in the creative community and stop-by The Hive, stocking a rare and unique selection of arts, crafts and homewares that celebrates emerging local talent. If you're looking for the convenience of a one-stop-shop, make sure you check out The Canberra Centre, the city’s largest shopping centre where you’ll find all favourite specialty store brands and fashion labels.
Pink Ink Boutique
Located at 130/24 Lonsdale Street, Braddon
More info at pinkinkboutique.com.au
Open Monday 11am till 5pm, Tuesday through Friday 10am till 5:30pm & Saturday 10am till 4pm. Closed Sunday.
The Hive
Located at 58/30 Lonsdale Street, Braddon
More info at facebook.com/thehivelonsdalest
Open Monday through Thursday 10am till 5pm, Friday 10am till 5:30pm & Saturday & Sunday 10am till 4pm.
The Canberra Centre
Located at 148 Bunda Street, Braddon
More info at canberracentre.com.au
Open Monday through Thursday 9am till 5:30pm, Friday 9am till 9pm, Saturday 9am till 5pm & Sunday 10am till 4pm.
7. GoBoat
Images via GoBoat
Don’t miss the opportunity to take out one of GoBoat’s electric boats with an ultra-quiet motor that allows guest to take in the serene beauty of Lake Burley Griffin. Bring along a picnic and enjoy the company of friends and family in this peaceful setting. Don’t worry if you don’t own a boat licence, as the team at GoBoat will tell you everything you need to know about operating their electric boats. This is the perfect activity to get the family out of the house or to celebrate a special occasion with friends.
Located at 8 Trevillian Quay, Kingston ACT 2604
Open Monday-Friday from 11am-8pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-8pm
More info at https://goboat.com.au/canberra/book
8. Escape Rooms
Images via Escape Rooms Canberra
Who doesn't love the excitement of solving real-life puzzles? Team up with friends or family and join Escape Rooms Canberra in the ultimate team-building exercise which is guaranteed to give your mental muscles a workout. With 70 minutes on the clock, you and your team will have to uncover clues and solve a variety of quirky and inventive puzzles to escape. These highly recommended escape rooms serve as a fun, stimulating, and affordable weekend activity that brings the whole family together.
Located at 2/24 Dundas Court, Phillip ACT 2606
Open Monday-Wednesday from 10am-10pm, Thursday-Sunday 10am-11pm
More info at https://www.escaperoomscanberra.com/
9. Hot Air Balloon Flight
Images via Balloon Aloft Canberra
A ride in a hot air balloon may seem like an impossible dream, but with the award-winning Balloon Aloft Canberra, you'll be flying in no time. After more than 30 years of flying over Canberra, Balloon Aloft has cultivated a great reputation for their talented pilots, care for balloons, and knowledgeable staff. So make your book today to enjoy this thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Meeting Place is in the foyer of The Park Hyatt, which is located on Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla
Open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm
More info at https://balloonaloftcanberra.com.au/
10. Bricks 4 Kidz
Images via Franchise Business | Kid Size Living | Weekend Notes
For families with young kids looking for the perfect weekend activity, Bricks 4 Kidz in Belconnen makes for a fun, educational afternoon. Bricks 4 Kidz uses LEGO to teach kids about technology, creativity, and problem-solving. With over 750 locations around the world, Bricks 4 Kids has established itself as a favourite weekend activity for families everywhere.
Located at 125/99 Eastern Valley Way, Belconnen ACT 2617
Open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-5pm
More info at https://www.bricks4kidz.com.au/act-northside/
