Planning a family trip to Canberra? You’re in luck. Australia’s capital is packed with fun, educational, and unforgettable activities for kids from toddlers to teens. Looking for outdoor adventures, interactive museums, or peaceful strolls around the lake? Canberra has something for every kind of family. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of a family holiday in Canberra.
1. Experience History at the Australian War Memorial
While it may not be the first thing that comes to mind for a family day out, the Australian War Memorial offers a deeply moving and educational experience, especially for older children. The daily Last Post Ceremony at 5PM is a moment of quiet reflection, where a soldier’s story is told and family members lay wreaths. For Anzac Day, the dawn service is a powerful and respectful tradition worth witnessing.
2. Climb, Slide, and Fly at the National Arboretum
The Pod Playground at the National Arboretum is a hit with all ages. Giant acorn cubbies, net tunnels, and towering slides keep older kids entertained, while little ones enjoy gentler climbs and slides in their own space. The scenic hills are perfect for kite flying on breezy days, and parents can relax at the onsite café with great coffee and views.
3. Discover Science and Fun at Questacon
A trip to Canberra with kids isn’t complete without a visit to Questacon. Little ones (0–6 years old) will love Mini Q, a sensory-rich play zone with water play, imaginative setups, and climbing fun. Older kids and teens can dive into interactive exhibits and experiments that make science feel like magic. Tip: Book your Mini Q token early as spaces are limited!
4. Hop Aboard at Yarralumla Play Station
Previously known as Weston Park Railway, Yarralumla Play Station combines the charm of the old with fresh attractions for a new generation. Ride the miniature train “Bluebird”, play a round of mini golf featuring Canberra landmarks, or meet friendly animals in the petting zoo. Kangaroo sightings are almost guaranteed!
5. Scoot Around Lake Burley Griffin
Bring the scooters or bikes and hit the 5km bridge-to-bridge loop around Lake Burley Griffin. Starting near Questacon, this flat, pram-friendly route includes fun stops like the Boundless All Abilities Playground, Commonwealth Park, and the National Carillon. Reward yourselves with a café break at the National Library at the end, where great coffee and snacks await!
6. Catch a Hot Air Balloon at the Canberra Balloon Spectacular (March)
Time your visit for early March and don’t miss the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. Set your alarms early, as the balloons begin rising from the lawns of Old Parliament House at dawn. Approximately 50 hot air balloons are launched daily over the two week festival. With traditional shapes and quirky creations that range from dancing honey bees, windmills, turtles, and the Skywhale, the spectacle is sure to wow the whole family.
7. Explore the Wonders of the National Zoo & Aquarium
One ticket, double the fun! The National Zoo and Aquarium is Australia’s only combined zoo and aquarium, making it a full-day family adventure. The place is dedicated to inspiring and assisting the conservation of the natural world through memorable and educational experiences. The 19-hectare zoo features a variety of native and exotic animals, along with the largest inland saltwater tank in Australia. Don’t miss hands-on adventures from patting a cheetah to feeding a bear.
8. Step Back in Time at the National Dinosaur Museum
Dinosaur fans will love this quirky, kid-friendly museum filled with life-size dino models, fossils, and interactive exhibits. Dinosaur fans of all ages will completely ‘dig’ the National Dinosaur Museum, Located in Canberra’s Gold Creek Village, this museum has one of the largest permanent dinosaur displays in Australia. Learn about prehistoric life through skulls, murals, and fossils not shown anywhere else in the world. Don’t forget to check out the lifelike models in the recently renovated Dinosaur Garden. A great option for a rainy day or a break from outdoor exploring.
9. Visit the Royal Australian Mint
Watch coins being made and learn about the fascinating world of Australian currency in this award-winning cultural attraction. The Royal Australian Mint is where Australia’s coins are made and family adventures come alive. Aside from coins, custom-made medals, medallions, and tokens rich in history are also produced. Kids can strike their own $1 coin and leave with a newfound appreciation for pocket money.
10. Look to the Stars at the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex
Just outside the city, this NASA-affiliated complex lets kids discover the universe and learn about space missions. Have a look at the space exploration exhibitions, check out spacecraft models and memorabilia, or watch a movie on the history and future of space exploration. It’s out of this world (literally and figuratively)!
Final Tip:
Canberra’s family-friendly nature shines through in its spacious parks, accessible walkways, and thoughtful attractions. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a week, you and your family will surely find something to cherish around every corner.