Top Rated Attractions in Canberra

Showcasing some of the best artworks from national and international artists, the National Gallery of Australia is an iconic landmark of the city. Set along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, the building is one of the finest examples of Brutalist architecture. The dazzling glass edifice of the gallery welcomes art lovers to the vibrant galleries housed inside the massive 2.3 hectares (23000 square meters) floor space. The exhaustive collections vary from Australian art, Modern art to photography and crafts exhibits. The surrounding lawns boast of a spectacular sculpture garden featuring works of renowned sculptors like Auguste Rodin and Fujiko Nakaya. Offering an insightful as well as a rich aesthetic experience to its patrons, the National Gallery of Australia commands respect as one of the largest art museums of the country.

At the National Botanic Gardens, you can see the best of Australia's exotic plant life right from the nation's capital. In an afternoon, visitors can experience tropical rainforest flora, lush eucalyptus lawns, and alpine rock gardens. The institution aims to "grow, study, and promote Australia's flora," and it holds a special place among Canberra's attractions. Daily free guided tours ensure that you don't have to be an expert to enjoy the richness of Australia's National Botanic Gardens.

Many of Canberra's most significant attractions sit on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, an artificial lake built in the city center. It takes its name from architect Walter Burley Griffin, who designed the plans for the capital city itself. The manmade wonder is an easy place to enjoy an afternoon, and people can often be spotted rowing, fishing, and sailing across the lake. There are also picnic areas at the site's Yarramundi Reach, Commonwealth Park, and Black Mountain Peninsula. Overall, Lake Burley Griffin is indisputably an unforgettable sight in Canberra.

Opposite Parliament House at the head of Anzac Parade sits Mount Ainslie, a landmark of Canberra National Park that commands attention. The hill towers over the heart of the city, and its lookout is prized for the views it offers of downtown Canberra and beyond. Staring out over eucalyptus groves, the mount provides an elaborate view of everything from the white spray of the Captain Cook Memorial water jet to Australia's largest flag fluttering atop the nation's capital building.

BentSpoke Brewing is a beloved spot for excellent beer. It serves top-notch brews with a passion, as evidenced by the microbrewery on the tap-house premises. Stop by for some of Australia's best brews, be it a specialty ale made just once or a seasonal favorite. Among the renowned beers served at BentSpoke Brewing are Ned’s Ale, GFG, Sprocket, Pedal Pale Ale, and Farrer’s Wheat. If you want to bring your family to this lively joint, have no fear, as the brewery also offers a special menu for kids.

An excellent music venue in Canberra, The Basement offers weekly lineups that will knock your socks off, featuring bands that really know how to rock. It has two stages and is outfitted with premier equipment, promising its patrons only the best. A number of well-renowned local bands have played here over the years, and The Basement has also hosted events like Tindyfest and Charityfest. Stop by next time you want to listen to live music, play some pool, or join a darts competition.