The Best Family Getaways in Canberra on a Budget

What will kids do in Canberra?

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The humble capital of our country has plenty to explore – and there’s plenty open, ready for you to enjoy the city in all its chilly winter glory. Things are changing fast, so make sure to use your internet detective skills to discover even more opening up both indoors and outdoors!

• The National Zoo and Aquarium is back open and welcoming guests. Ticket numbers are limited, so if you’re thinking of saying hello to some lions, tigers or bears, make sure to purchase your ticket first.
• Tower over minature villages and cities at Cockington Green Gardens, featuring minature buildings inspired by over 30 different countries. You may not be able to jump on a plane to Europe, but you can experience it in minature at the Gardens!

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• The famed Old Bus Depot Markets are closed for now, but you can still pick up fresh fruit and veg, as well as locally made goodies, at the Capital Farmers Market at Exhibition Park every Saturday morning from 7am... the early bird gets the worm in this case.
• Race around the track at Canberra's glow-in-the-dark PowerKart Raceway, with electric go-karts running on an F1 style circuit, this is the perfect wet-weather activity while you're in the capital.

What are the Free things to do for Kids in Canberra?

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GO FOR A HIKE

• The Mount Ainslie (Kokoda) Track is a must-do, and a regular weekend wander for Canberrans, with stunning views leading to Parliament House
• Explore around native flora and fauna at the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Entry is free, but parking is $3.50 an hour - worth it to explore the sprawling grounds, forests, meadows and rainforests
• The National Arboretum and Lake Burley Griffin both have iconic trails running between trees, BBQ spots, toilets and cafes, perfect for taking a day out with the family

GET CULTURED

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• The National Gallery of Australia, National Portrait Gallery, and Museum of Australia are all open, but with timed visits only. It’s still free, but bookings are essential!
• Head out on a heritage walk around the Mount Stromlo Observatory. Damaged by the 2003 bushfires, the heritage-listed observatory is still rich in history, and provides a stunning outlook over Canberra.
• The Museum of Australian Democracy, located in Old Parliament House, is running free self-guided and guided tours with a little piece of Floriade hiding in the old House of Representatives Courtyard.
• Check out where you cash comes from at the Royal Australian Mint, complete with a treasure hunt for little ones.