Let’s face it, family trips are awesome…until they’re not. Juggling kids’ interests with your own desire to experience something new can be tricky, especially in a city like Canberra. Known more for political intrigue than wild family fun, Canberra often gets a bad rap when it comes to entertaining the younger crowd. But this reputation is about to be shattered. Here are the 10 BEST Things to Do in Canberra with Kids to help the journey. Forget what you think you know because Canberra is secretly a haven for exciting activities perfect for kids.

Get ready to discover the 10 BEST Things to Do in Canberra with Kids. This list has options for budding scientists, art aficionados, and adventurous explorers. You might just discover your new favourite family vacation spot.

Table of Contents: 10 BEST Things to Do in Canberra with Kids.

• Ignite a Passion for Science at Questacon
• Step Back in Time at the Australian War Memorial
• Unleash Creativity at the National Gallery of Australia
• Embrace Miniature Worlds at Cockington Green Gardens
• Wander Through Nature at the National Arboretum Canberra
• Meet Creatures Big and Small at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
• Blast off to the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex
• Roll into Fun at Yarralumla Play Station
• Journey to the Center of Australian Government at Parliament House
• Get Active with a Bike Ride Around Lake Burley Griffin
• Conclusion

Ignite a Passion for Science at Questacon

For the little Einsteins in your family, Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre, is an absolute must-do. Kids can experience the thrill of scientific discovery through interactive exhibits, mind-bending puzzles, and explosive demonstrations. Imagine freezing their own shadow, launching a rocket, or even walking on the moon.

And for the younger scientists in tow (0-6 year olds), there’s Mini Q. Mini Q is a wonderland designed to engage young minds. It features a water play station, a child-sized model bakery and shop, a crawl and slide space, and a simulated spaceship. This is a day of learning and laughter that’ll stick with them long after the trip.

Step Back in Time at the Australian War Memorial

Teach your kids about Australia’s rich military history at the Australian War Memorial. Explore moving exhibits that commemorate those who have served and learn about Australia’s involvement in past conflicts.

But it’s not just a somber experience, kids can get hands-on in the Discovery Zone. Here they can interact with replica WWI trenches, experience the Australian home front, and learn about modern peacekeeping strategies. It’s a respectful but engaging way to learn about important moments in history.

Unleash Creativity at the National Gallery of Australia

Don’t let the words “Art Gallery” scare you off. The National Gallery of Australia has something for everyone, from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. Kids can marvel at the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

Let their creativity run wild as they explore interactive installations, or take part in special family-friendly programs. Spend the afternoon wandering through the sculpture garden overlooking Lake Burley Griffin – a great spot for a family photo.

Embrace Miniature Worlds at Cockington Green Gardens

One of the 10 BEST Things to Do in Canberra with Kids is definitely Cockington Green Gardens. Step into a meticulously crafted world of miniature buildings and sprawling gardens where tiny worlds come to life.

Children will be transported as they explore famous landmarks shrunk down to size, like miniature Buckingham Palace or tiny Taj Mahal. For added fun, hop aboard the mini steam train that chugs its way through the village. Cockington Green is the perfect place to let imaginations soar.

Wander Through Nature at the National Arboretum Canberra

At the National Arboretum Canberra, kids can climb amongst the giants at the Pod Playground. With giant acorn cubbies, thrilling slides, and winding paths, it’s nature-play at its best.

And while you’re there, make sure to check out the National Bonsai & Penjing Collection nearby. This collection houses a unique exhibition of miniature trees and forests – an interesting juxtaposition to the soaring trees of the arboretum. See if you can spot a platypus from the viewing platform while exploring the sanctuary loop.

Meet Creatures Big and Small at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Just a short drive from the city, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve offers a taste of the wild. Spot kangaroos hopping through the bushland, watch platypus glide through the water, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of a sleepy koala in the Eucalyptus Forest.

For even more exciting wildlife encounters, add the National Zoo & Aquarium to your Canberra itinerary. With red pandas, rhinos, and even a chance to feed a giraffe or white lion, it’s a day of animal magic that the kids will love.

Blast off to the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex

If space exploration is more their thing, blast off to the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex (also known as the Canberra Space Centre). Here, your budding astronauts can discover Australia’s role in space exploration.

Explore interactive displays, stand beneath giant satellite dishes, and learn how we communicate with spacecraft exploring the far reaches of our solar system. Combine a trip to the Space Centre with a visit to nearby Corin Forest and turn the experience into an alpine adventure. During summer, explore the walking trails, go for a bike ride, and take on the challenge of the 1.2 km Alpine Slide that winds down through the trees.

Roll into Fun at Yarralumla Play Station

Yarralumla Play Station is a hub of exciting family activities. From miniature golf, where kids can “putt” on landmarks like Parliament House, to the charm of a miniature railway and a petting zoo. Yarralumla has something to delight every member of the family.

When those hunger pangs hit, grab arguably Canberra’s best kebab from the Yarralumla Turkish Halal Pide House. Another option is Snapper by the Lake where you can get classic Australian fish and chips while enjoying the serenity of Lake Burley Griffin.

Journey to the Center of Australian Government at Parliament House

Parliament House is where Australian democracy comes to life. Take your kids to observe debates in the Senate and House of Representatives and introduce them to how Australian laws are created.

Explore behind the scenes, learn about the architectural features, or challenge them to a game of “spot the politician”. Even little ones will love exploring the LEGO replica of Parliament House made up of a mind-boggling 152,690 bricks. And yes, there is a grassed “roof” for those needing to burn some extra energy after absorbing all that government knowledge.

Get Active with a Bike Ride Around Lake Burley Griffin

Lake Burley Griffin is not just beautiful; it’s the perfect playground for kids (and adults). Bike around the scenic paths, visit iconic monuments like the Captain Cook Memorial, or stop off at a nearby park for a family picnic.

Bike hire options are plentiful in Canberra, including Share a Bike stations dotted around the lake. There’s a good mix of bikes available, including child bikes and even trailers for little ones. Canberra has easy-to-navigate bike paths and drivers are typically cautious, making a family bicycle trip a stress-free activity that’ll be remembered long after your visit.

Here’s a detailed list of attractions, complete with addresses, phone numbers, and website links, for a variety of experiences in Canberra:

1. Ignite a Passion for Science at Questacon

• Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600
• Phone: (02) 6270 2800
• Website: www.questacon.edu.au
• Overview: Questacon, The National Science and Technology Centre, offers interactive exhibits that make science fun for all ages.

2. Step Back in Time at the Australian War Memorial

• Address: Treloar Cres, Campbell ACT 2612
• Phone: (02) 6243 4211
• Website: www.awm.gov.au
• Overview: Explore Australia’s military history through detailed exhibits, personal stories, and powerful memorials at this world-class institution.

3. Unleash Creativity at the National Gallery of Australia

• Address: Parkes Pl E, Parkes ACT 2600
• Phone: (02) 6240 6411
• Website: www.nga.gov.au
• Overview: The National Gallery of Australia showcases an impressive collection of international and Australian art, inspiring creativity and imagination.

4. Embrace Miniature Worlds at Cockington Green Gardens

• Address: 11 Gold Creek Rd, Nicholls ACT 2913
• Phone: (02) 6230 2273
• Website: www.cockingtongreen.com.au
• Overview: Wander through meticulously crafted miniature buildings and lush gardens, perfect for family fun and exploration.

5. Wander Through Nature at the National Arboretum Canberra

• Address: Forest Dr, Molonglo Valley ACT 2611
• Phone: (02) 6207 8484
• Website: www.nationalarboretum.act.gov.au
• Overview: The National Arboretum offers sweeping views of Canberra and features unique gardens and rare plant collections.

6. Meet Creatures Big and Small at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

• Address: Paddys River Rd, Paddys River ACT 2620
• Phone: (02) 6205 1233
• Website: www.parks.act.gov.au
• Overview: A reserve dedicated to preserving Australian wildlife, Tidbinbilla is perfect for nature lovers wanting to meet kangaroos, koalas, and more.

7. Blast off to the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex

• Address: 421 Discovery Dr, Paddys River ACT 2620
• Phone: (02) 6201 7880
• Website: www.cdscc.nasa.gov
• Overview: Learn about space exploration at this NASA-affiliated complex, featuring exhibits on deep space missions and stunning views of massive communication dishes.

8. Roll into Fun at Yarralumla Play Station

• Address: 9 Pescott Ln, Yarralumla ACT 2600
• Phone: (02) 6282 2714
• Website: www.yarraps.com.au
• Overview: Offering miniature train rides, mini-golf, and a petting zoo, Yarralumla Play Station is a hit with families and children of all ages.

9. Journey to the Center of Australian Government at Parliament House

• Address: Parliament Dr, Canberra ACT 2600
• Phone: (02) 6277 7111
• Website: www.aph.gov.au
• Overview: Tour Australia’s political heart and discover the history, architecture, and ongoing work of Parliament in this iconic building.

10. Get Active with a Bike Ride Around Lake Burley Griffin

• Address: Various entry points, Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra ACT 2601
• Phone: N/A
• Website: www.nca.gov.au/places/lake-burley-griffin
• Overview: Rent a bike and enjoy the scenic paths around Lake Burley Griffin, taking in Canberra’s natural beauty and key attractions along the way.

This comprehensive guide offers a diverse range of activities for all ages, from cultural immersion and family fun to outdoor recreation and hands-on science experiences.

Conclusion

Canberra’s image as a sleepy city designed only for grown-up interests is truly a myth. It is bursting with experiences just waiting to be discovered by curious kids of all ages. This 10 BEST Things to Do in Canberra with Kids list is only a glimpse of all this vibrant city has to offer families looking to create lasting memories.

So ditch the dull history books, ditch the screens and experience these 10 BEST Things to Do in Canberra with Kids. Your entire family might be surprised by all that you find.

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