10 Things You Didn’t Think You Could Do in Australia’s Capital

Canberra has many attractions you’d expect in a national capital, such as the Parliament House and the National Museum. However, there’s far more to the capital than these standard tourist stops.

1. Take a wine tour on the slopes of Mount Majura

At the Mount Majura Vineyard, you can learn about winemaking while taking in a breathtaking view. Perhaps the best time to visit is during the Harvest Festival in April.

2. Ride a hot air balloon

The Canberra Balloon Spectacular has been filling the skies with colour for decades. Held annually in March, it’s one of the biggest ballooning events in the world. Even if you can’t make it to the Spectacular, balloon tours over the city are available year-round.

3. Take a seven-day walk

The new Centenary Trail is a 145-kilometer loop that takes you through some of the city’s most interesting sites. Because it’s so massive, it has been divided into seven relatively equal sections.

4. Look Australian history in the eye

The National Portrait Gallery, the newest of Canberra’s cultural centres, features representations of every Australian you’ve ever heard of and many you haven’t. Paintings, photographs and sculptures tell Australia’s story through the lives of those who lived it. Admission is free.

5. Jump out of a plane

The beauty of Canberra makes it a great place to go skydiving. Skydive Oz operates a skydiving operation that starts 15,000 feet in the air and ends with a landing at the Royal Australian Mint.

6. Take a kayak tour the wetlands

R.E.A.L. Fun is an outdoor touring company that can take you on a 2-3 hour tour of the wetlands. There’s no better way to learn about the local wildlife than by seeing it up close.

7. Watch a roller derby game

The Canberra Roller Derby League was founded in 2008 and has since grown to include seven teams. Roller derby has an amateur ethos and a devoted following that make attending a bout a one-of-a-kind experience.

8. See art being made

Canberra Glassworks is the only cultural centre in Australia dedicated to art made of glass. Not only do exhibits feature art you can’t find anywhere else, but you can also observe live glassmaking and even learn how to make your own.

9. Witness the beautiful union of Japanese and Australian cultures

The Nara Candle Festival celebrates Canberra’s relationship with Nara, Japan, its sister city. As 2,000 candles light up Lennox Gardens, live Japanese music and demonstrations of calligraphy, sumo wrestling and other aspects of Japanese culture are on display. This free event occurs every October.

10. Tour the National Botanic Gardens at night

On the first Saturday of every month in winter, the afterDARK Lantern Tours give you the chance to explore this unique national treasure at night after constructing your own lantern. Tours are led by ranger guides.

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