Cool, cosmopolitan, breath-taking, just three words that describe Canberra? You may have others, and these are words often banded about for many cities. Well, once you’ve spent some time in the Australian capital, visited its national museums, strolled in the parks, immersed in the culture and the food. There’s little doubt you will sing its praises, oh, and know that those three adjectives used to describe the city are more than correct.
Overshadowed by places like Sydney and Melbourne, it’s time then to put Canberra on the map. This hub of intellectual pursuits, among its many other talents, offers a surprising number of experiences. Little wonder then it’s fast becoming the cool city on the block. Let’s look at the top things to do in Canberra.
Well, it is the capital, after all
Like any other capital across the globe, Canberra has its national museums and places of national significance. You’ll no doubt want to seek them out, and they are worth the time. We’ve picked out five places you should have on your sat nav.
· National Gallery of Australia – Found on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, you can enjoy a meander around the galleries. You’ll find pieces by artists such as Jackson Pollock and Ned Kelly among the many other works of art.
· Australian National Botanic Gardens – Close to the centre you’ll find this is a place of tranquillity. From native plants in a bushland setting, you’ll in for a botanical treat visiting here.
· National Portrait Gallery – The eyes, it’s all about the eyes! This gallery will give you a look into the history and diversity of this country through the works of the artists and their subjects.
· Australian Parliament House – It’s an acclaimed building from an architectural point-of-view. So go see for yourself. Do you agree?
· National Museum of Australia – The story of Australia comes alive with a visit here. You get quite the view from the outside before you’ve even stepped inside. It’s found on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. Then once inside, discover the diverse stories of Australia.
You’ll find there are many other top museums of interest here, so don’t just limit yourself to these places. Although they are well worth your time. Then you’ll deserve a glass or two of wine! Oh, but not until after exploring the regions natural surroundings.
A glass or two of wine?
There’s plenty of nature on the city’s doorstep. Hikes, and bush walks and mountain bike trails will allow you to discover the waterfalls, forests, and snow-capped mountains. Only within a 45-minute drive away! Also close to the centre, there’s Lake Burley Griffin. So, no excuses to take in fresh air.
Insider tip: An hour or two away you’ll find Pebbly Beach in the Shoalhaven (Murramarang National Park). There’s a large population of kangaroo, who likes to enjoy the beach scene. They are even friendly enough to pose for a picture.
Time for wine! There are 140 vineyards and over 40 wineries within a short drive of the city. Makes sense then to head out there for a taste of the region. You might just discover your new favourite tipple.
That’s not all – Food and Culture
We’ve not even touched on the culinary scene here. You’ll find plenty around the city to tantalise those taste buds. From coffee to local breweries with their craft beers. Verity Lane Market is a great place to test your palette.
Then there are the cultural events to immerse in. The Tulip festival for one, and you’ll find plenty of music and arts events taking place throughout the year.
Canberra is the Cosmo metropolis with more than enough attractions to keep any open-minded traveller occupied. Discover the beauty within and on its outer boundaries and you’ll be glad you did.
