Here’s What You Should Know About Things To Do In Canberra With Family Right Now
Alright, settle in, grab your imaginary flat white, and let me tell you about Canberra. Yes, Canberra. The nation’s capital. And no, it’s not all beige suits and serious faces. Think of it as Australia’s slightly quirky, surprisingly fun, and dare I say, actually family-friendly secret. Forget what you heard from your mate Steve who went once and complained about the quietness. Steve probably just needed more coffee. Or maybe less coffee. Either way, here’s the lowdown on keeping the tiny humans (and the slightly larger, equally whiny humans you call parents) entertained in the land of parliament and, surprisingly, awesome playgrounds.
First off, let's address the elephant in the room. Or rather, the kangaroo. Canberra is practically built for families. It’s like they sat down with a giant notepad and scribbled “How to entertain the whole brood?” and then proceeded to build half the country’s best attractions. So, ditch the “Canberra is boring” narrative. That’s as outdated as dial-up internet, and frankly, less useful.
The Big Hitters That Aren't Just for Politicians
You can't go to Canberra without a pilgrimage to the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Now, before you picture dusty portraits and droning speeches, hear me out. This place is seriously cool. Kids can run around in the Senate chamber where all the yelling (and important decisions) used to happen. They can even dress up in old politician outfits. Imagine your little one in a tiny, ill-fitting suit, trying to filibuster the gift shop. Pure gold. Plus, the building itself is a beautiful old dame with secret passages and sprawling gardens. It’s like stepping back in time, but with more opportunities for dramatic reenactments of… well, whatever dramatic thing a six-year-old can imagine.
Then there's the National Museum of Australia. Forget stuffy displays behind velvet ropes. This place is a wonderland of the weird and wonderful. They’ve got everything from giant land vehicles that look like they’ve escaped from a Mad Max movie to delicate Aboriginal artefacts that tell stories older than time itself. And the best part? They have heaps of interactive exhibits. Think building things, digging for ancient treasures (okay, maybe just replicas), and generally making a joyous racket. Seriously, I’ve seen more excited toddlers here than at a free ice cream giveaway. It’s a place where history comes alive, and not in a “haunted house” kind of way (unless your kids find the idea of a boomerang terrifying, which, fair enough).
And let’s not forget the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Yes, gardens. Stay with me. This isn't your grandma’s quiet little rose patch. This is a sprawling wonderland of Australian flora. There are themed walks, rainforest sections that make you feel like you’ve landed in Jurassic Park (minus the actual dinosaurs, thankfully), and hidden little pockets perfect for a picnic. The kids can burn off energy exploring, discover weird and wonderful plants, and maybe even learn a thing or two without realizing it. It’s educational and exhausting in the best possible way. Plus, if you're lucky, you might spot a resident lizard or two, living their best sun-baking life.
Level Up Your Little Explorers
Now, for the truly adventurous (or the parents who just need a win). Canberra has some of the most epic playgrounds you'll ever encounter. Forget your standard swings and slides. We’re talking multi-level, adventure-filled masterpieces. The John Tileman Park in Yarralumla is a prime example. It’s got climbing structures that would make a mountain goat jealous, water play areas that are perfect for a hot day (and guaranteed to get everyone soaked), and enough space for even the most energetic of offspring to let loose.
And if your kids are into anything with wheels, the Parkes Way Adventure Playground (near Parliament House, but don't tell the politicians) is a winner. It's got an amazing flying fox, fantastic climbing nets, and enough nooks and crannies to fuel hours of imaginative play. It’s the kind of place where kids forget they’ve been sitting in a car for hours, which, let’s be honest, is a superpower in itself.
For a slightly different vibe, check out the Central Park playground. It's got a great range of equipment for different ages, including some lovely accessible options. It’s a fantastic spot for a relaxed afternoon, where you can supervise from a distance while pretending to read a very important book.
Adventures Beyond the City Limits (But Still Super Close!)
Feeling a bit more… wild? Head over to GOMO (Go M.A.D. Nature Park). This place is basically a giant outdoor playground for kids who love to explore. Think bushwalking trails, cool natural sculptures, and plenty of space to run free. It’s a great way to get them off their screens and into nature, without them even realizing they’re learning about ecology. It’s like stealth education. Shhh, don’t tell them.
And for something truly unique, consider a trip to the Namadgi National Park. Now, this is for the slightly older, more adventurous kids (and parents). It’s a vast, rugged wilderness that offers a glimpse into Australia’s untamed beauty. There are incredible walking tracks, opportunities to spot native wildlife (keep an eye out for kangaroos and wallabies!), and even Aboriginal rock art sites. Just remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and a good sense of adventure. And maybe a compass, unless you’re confident in your ability to navigate by moss direction. (Spoiler alert: it’s not as foolproof as it sounds).
A surprising gem that often gets overlooked is the National Arboretum Canberra. It’s a bit of a quirky one, with forests planted for specific purposes – think forests of ancient trees, forests of trees from different continents, and even forests for future generations. But for families? They’ve got a spectacular adventure playground that’s unlike anything you’ve seen. It’s built into the landscape and is a riot of ramps, tunnels, and climbing challenges. It’s also got stunning views, making it a great spot for a picnic with a view. It’s like a forest came to life and decided to host a party for children.
Fueling the Fun (Without Breaking the Bank)
Let’s talk food. Because, let’s face it, hungry kids are… a force of nature. Canberra has a fantastic café scene, and many of them are surprisingly family-friendly. Look for places with dedicated kids’ menus, high chairs, and maybe even a small play area. Many of the attractions also have decent cafes, so you can refuel without having to venture too far. And if all else fails, there are always good old-fashioned supermarkets where you can assemble a picnic worthy of a royal (or at least a very tired family).
So, there you have it. Canberra. Not so beige after all, is it? It’s a city that’s surprisingly packed with things to do, from historical explorations to epic playground adventures. So, pack your bags, your sense of humour, and your most comfortable walking shoes. You might just be surprised at how much fun you have.