Discover Australia's capital with engaging museums, outdoor adventures, and animal encounters perfect for all ages.
familycanberracity-breakeducationmuseums
Length
3 days
Stops
15
Style
With the family
Max occupancy:
1Rooms
1Adults
0Children
Children's Ages
1 room · 1 adults · 0 children
Select Passengers
1
Adults 12+ years old
0
Children 2-11 years
0
Infants under 2 years
1 Passenger · Economy
Calendar
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What this plan covers
This 3-day itinerary for Canberra is designed for families with children, blending educational experiences with interactive fun. Explore world-class museums, enjoy vast outdoor spaces, and get up close with wildlife, ensuring memorable moments for everyone. It's a perfect blend of learning and play in Australia's unique capital city.
Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.
Day 1
5 stops · about 10 hrs
Activity, Culture, Food, Nature
1
Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre
Activity
Half day
Kids can explore hands-on exhibits that make science fun and accessible, from earthquake simulators to free-fall slides.
Good to know
Arrive early, especially on weekends or school holidays, to maximize time at popular exhibits.
2
National Museum of Australia
Culture
2-3 hours
Offers engaging and interactive exhibits covering Australian history and culture, often with dedicated family trails and spaces.
Good to know
Check the museum's website for current family programs or guided tours suitable for children.
3
Lunch at Museum Cafe or nearby Acton
Food
1 hour
Conveniently located to refuel after morning explorations, offering kid-friendly options.
Good to know
Many museum cafes offer a range of light meals and snacks; consider packing some extra snacks for younger children.
4
Australian National Botanic Gardens
Nature
2 hours
Provides a beautiful outdoor space for kids to explore diverse Australian plant life, with walking paths and open lawns.
Good to know
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water; look for the Children's Discovery Garden for specific kid-focused activities.
5
Lake Burley Griffin (Paddle Boats/Cycling)
Activity
1-2 hours
Enjoy scenic views of Canberra's iconic lake with a fun, active experience like paddle boating or cycling along the foreshore.
Good to know
Rental services for bikes and paddle boats are available at various points around the lake; check operating hours seasonally.
Day 2
5 stops · about 9.5 hrs
Culture, Food, Activity
6
Parliament House
Culture
1.5-2 hours
Kids can learn about Australia's government in an impressive building, with opportunities to see parliamentary chambers and unique architecture.
Good to know
Entry is free; consider joining a public tour to gain insights into the building's function and history.
7
Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House
Culture
2 hours
This historic building offers a more hands-on and engaging look at Australia's democratic journey, often with family-friendly exhibitions.
Good to know
Look for special children's activities or exhibitions designed to make history accessible and fun for younger visitors.
8
Lunch at a nearby cafe (e.g., in Barton or inside one of the Parliament buildings)
Food
1 hour
Conveniently located to continue the day's adventures after exploring Australia's political heartland.
Good to know
Cafes in this area can get busy during lunchtime; consider dining slightly earlier or later.
9
National Zoo & Aquarium
Activity
Half day
Kids will love seeing a wide array of animals, from big cats to marine life, and engaging with interactive exhibits.
Good to know
Book tickets online in advance to save time; wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved.
10
National Capital Exhibition
Culture
1 hour
Discover the fascinating story of Canberra's design and development through interactive displays and models, perfect for understanding the city's unique layout.
Good to know
Located by Lake Burley Griffin, it's a great spot to learn about the city's origins; check for free guided talks.
Day 3
5 stops · about 37 hrs
Activity, Culture, Food, Nature
11
Cockington Green Gardens
Activity
2 hours
Marvel at the intricate miniature villages and landscapes from around the world, a delightful and whimsical experience for all ages.
Good to know
Allow time for a ride on the miniature steam train, a highlight for many children; tickets can be purchased on arrival.
12
Australian War Memorial
Culture
2-3 hours
Offers a poignant and educational experience with engaging exhibits, including aircraft and interactive displays, suitable for older children.
Good to know
Entry is free, but booking a timed ticket online is highly recommended, especially for the popular galleries and the Last Post Ceremony.
13
Lunch at the Australian War Memorial Cafe or nearby
Food
1 hour
A convenient and respectful place to pause and reflect after exploring the memorial's exhibits.
Good to know
The cafe offers a range of options; consider visiting outside peak lunch hours for a more relaxed experience.
14
National Arboretum Canberra (Pod Playground)
Nature
2-3 hours
Features the incredible Pod Playground, an award-winning adventure space for kids, surrounded by stunning tree collections and panoramic views.
Good to know
The playground is a must-visit; bring a picnic to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and open spaces.
15
Mount Ainslie Lookout
Viewpoint
30 minutes - 1 hour
Provides breathtaking panoramic views of Canberra, allowing families to see the city's layout and landmarks from above.
Good to know
Accessible by car, it's a perfect spot for photos and to reflect on the trip; best visited on a clear day for optimal visibility.
Where to stay
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