From sunrise to sunset: Explore Canberra in a day

The art and culture scene of Canberra is undeniable; there are local galleries and national museums, delicious restaurants that fly below the radar and fascinating historical sites.

In just one day you can explore Canberra’s exciting art and culture scene.

Morning

8:30am: Start with a coffee

For those who take their coffee seriously, begin your day in the suburb of Braddon and drop into the Kyo Coffee Project. Here you’ll find seasonal blends of intense roasted flavours as well as tasty tarts and cakes. Braddon is an artistic neighbourhood, so go for a wander to see the rainbow roundabout (a roundabout painted with the colours of the pride flag) and discover the creative street art. Lonsdale Street is a great place to start.

10am: Explore the art scene

Now that you’ve had your coffee fix, explore what it means to be Australian at the National Gallery of Australia – home to the largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in the world. Be sure to walk amongst the stunning Fern Garden and James Turrell’s Skyspace.

For something a bit different, hop back in the car and head to the Gallery of Small Things, tucked away on Wade Street in Watson. This tiny gallery houses textiles, ceramics, paintings, jewellery and more by local artists. 

Afternoon

1pm: Take a long lunch

For a paddock-to-plate lunch to remember, book a table at Pialligo Estate’s Pavilion. The stunning estate is located out towards Canberra’s airport at Pialligo, about a 20-minute drive from Watson. Enjoy plates to share and a beautiful view of vineyards and the Canberra skyline.

3pm: Hop on board

After lunch, drive to the Kingston Foreshore and jump on board a GoBoat – an electric boat that offers a unique view of Canberra’s national attractions from the waters of Lake Burley Griffin. There’s no boat licence necessary, so you can be your own captain.

Evening

4:30pm: Visit the Australian War Memorial

Finish the afternoon with an introspective moment at the Australian War Memorial. Wander through the gallery spaces then head to the Pool of Reflection where at 4:55pm each afternoon you can listen to a moving Last Post Ceremony, sharing the story of an Australian from the Roll of Honour.

6pm: Dinner and drinks

An overnight sojourn at Ovolo Nishi will have you wondering if you’re actually staying within an art gallery. Artworks are on display and the innovative architecture tells its own eye-catching story. Enjoy a meal at award-winning Monster Kitchen and Bar, located in the hotel.