Family-friendly Activities in Canberra

It’s been said that this city is the ‘perfect place for kids’ due to all the outdoor spaces and fun activities available. So, if your children aren’t normally the biggest fans of museums and learning activities, don’t stress, because you’ll have a great time here! 

Go Back in Time At The National Dinosaur Museum

Dinosaurs are fascinating for both children and adults alike, and heading to the National Dinosaur Museum while you’re staying in Canberra is a must. Located in Nicholls, the museum will take you back in time with the largest permanent display of prehistoric and fossil materials in Australia. Kids will spend endless hours in awe at the interactive displays filled with skulls, full skeletons, lifelike dinosaur models,  and even robotic dinosaurs. It’s a fantastic way to learn some pretty interesting ancient history while spending an afternoon with the kids.

Experience the Questacon Science Museum

Questacon Science Museum is one of the more popular tourist spots in Canberra, and it’s easy to see why. At Questacon, kids and adults alike can learn about all kinds of sciences in both a fun and age-appropriate way. Learn about earthquakes by experiencing the shake of one here, freeze your own shadows, and even free-fall down a 20-foot slide to experience the power of gravity! The museum is spread over four levels, so it’s a perfect way to spend a few hours, if not a whole day. Younger children are also welcome here and can be sent out to space in a simulated spaceship, learn about baking, or have fun at a water play station.

Listen to Music at the Carillon Precinct

Grab your picnic blankets, some food for the whole family to enjoy, and settle down for an epic 50-minute recital at the National Carillon in the Carillon Precinct. The National Carillon is a musical tower that’s situated in a beautiful green space atop Lake Burley Griffin. It’s absolutely beautiful, and with 50-minute recitals being performed by top musicians throughout the week, it’s easy to see why this is a popular spot for families. Kids can play while enjoying picnic food on a sunny day, while parents can soak up the atmosphere and enjoy some music. 

Experience Boundless

Boundless is Canberra’s first all-abilities playground. It’s the number one playground in Canberra, so make sure to check it out while you’re here. The park was designed as a project to mark Canberra’s centenary and is the perfect place for children of all ages and abilities to play, relax, and socialise with other children. It's a state of the art playground that promises inclusivity for all. 

Play in The Snow in Corin Forest

Corin Forest is a year-round alpine destination that's perfect for fun in the snow in winter, as well as warmer weather activities. Situated just 45-minutes from Canberra city centre, it’s a great escape any time of the year. In winter, families of all ages can ski, snowboard, and toboggan, and beginners are able to take lessons too. The fun doesn’t stop once the snow melts, however, as it’s a great place to go for a walk, with multiple picnic and BBQ spots located throughout the forest. There’s also the Alpine Slide, which is an exhilarating experience any time of the year! You’ll descend 1.2 kilometres through the forest and come whizzing out the other end. Talk about an adrenaline rush!

There is plenty to do, see, and discover in Canberra. While the capital might be known for its parliamentary features and top history museums, there’s a world of fun and exploration for little ones, too. Learn about prehistoric times at the National Dinosaur Museum or experience science for yourself at the Questacon. Discover your favourite winter spot in Corin Forest, or make new friends at Boundless. We know that you’ll have a great time visiting Canberra with all the family.