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The ultimate list of free things to do in Canberra
It’s often said that the best things in life are free. So, to ensure you have an amazing Canberra experience, we’ve compiled this handy list of free things you can do in the Aussie capital.
Overview
- There are plenty of free things to do in Canberra —perfect for the often-tight student budget.
- As the bush capital, there are plenty of green spaces and picnic areas.
- There are free activities on the ANU campus as well.
Kambri at ANU
Head to Kambri on the ANU campus for a great time – whether it’s an evening of live music showcasing the best local musical talent, watching a movie at a film festival or planning a fun hangout with your friends at the gaming arcade.
Students at gaming centre
Picnics/BBQ spots
Pack your picnic baskets with delicious food and wine and visit one of the barbeque and picnic spots in Canberra to spend time with friends and family.
The Mt Stromlo Observatory site, Glebe Park, Cotter Dam reserve, Corin Forest and Casuarina Sands are some of our favourites.
Students gathering
Botanic Gardens
Take a break and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city to relax in the tranquil environment of the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Learn about the beautiful flora and fauna, explore the walking trails or take part in educational activities while you’re there.
The Australian National Botanic garden
Bushwalks
If you love spending time in nature, you’re in the perfect place. Go hiking and trekking in one of the many parks and reserves or take a trip to snow-capped mountains, waterfalls and forests close to Canberra.
Students bush walking
Bike rides
Canberrans love to ride their bikes! The city has developed an excellent network of bike lanes and infrastructure that makes it a safe and enjoyable experience. So, grab your helmet and backpack and get pedalling.
Lake Burley Griffin
Popularly called "the lake", LBG is a much-loved spot for locals and visitors and is surrounded by stunning views and city icons. You can go sailing, kayaking, have picnics here and even go swimming. You can take a walk or ride a bike on a five-kilometre bridge-to-bridge loop.
Centenary trail
One of the hidden gems in Canberra, the 145-kilometre self-guided Centenary Trail is a perfect way for walkers and cyclists to explore the bush capital as it takes you through the city’s iconic sites. It’s a must for locals and visitors alike.
National Arboretum
The National Arboretum Canberra offers scenic views and has 94 forests and landscaped gardens with over 44,000 rare and endangered trees across a 25-hectare site for you to explore. What’s more, it was voted the Best Tourist Attraction at the 2021 Canberra Region Tourism Awards.
Mount Ainslie
Walk up to Mount Ainslie to watch the beautiful sunrise at the crack of dawn or the sunset at dusk. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and many of Canberra’s national attractions.
Festivals
Canberra hosts many festivals and events like the National Multicultural Festival, Floriade and Enlighten, full of music, fun, entertainment and incredible local and international food. These annual events truly display Canberra – and the world – at its best and bring the whole community together.
National Gallery of Australia
Canberra's local arts scene and heritage sites will delight art lovers and history buffs. The National Gallery of Australia, for one, hosts free exhibitions by international and local artists and has one of the largest collections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
Parliament House
The doors of this iconic building are open to the public. You can book a guided tour and marvel at the incredible architecture as you walk through the halls where historic decisions are made and see our elected representatives at work.
Australian War Memorial
Learn about Australia’s involvement in wars and pay your respects to those whose lives were lost in service of their country.
National Archives of Australia
Pay a visit to the National Archives of Australia and be prepared to be in awe of its extensive collection of rare books, maps, manuscripts and photographs.
Australian War Memorial
How are these for free things to do in Canberra? And many of them are near ANU. Make our University your home base for exploring the city by living in student accommodation while you study.
