As the summer season in Australia begins in December and ends in February, it becomes a popular winter escape destination. You can explore Canberra's summer delights with various adventures, festivals, film-watching, and more. Canberra offers outdoor retreats for wildlife exploration, cultural experiences, scenic hikes, and brewery tours.
We have curated a list of seven must-visit spots and experiences for a memorable vacation. Check out the list as you plan to escape the winter into a warm retreat.
Immerse yourself in the splendour of Lake Burley Griffin, which offers an array of thrilling experiences. You can begin your journey by renting bikes or e-scooters from the convenient Canberra and Region Visitors Centre. Alternatively, you can hop onto a Beam or Neuron e-scooter through a mobile app. If you're looking for a tranquil escape, you can cruise the lake on an electric-powered GoBoat, available for rent at Kingston Foreshore or the lake's central basin. You can also indulge in a leisurely meal aboard the MV Southern Cross or a sightseeing cruise with Lake Burley Griffin Cruises. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Lake Burley Griffin caters to all preferences.
Experience the thrilling horsepower celebration at Exhibition Park, Canberra, with four action-packed days of modified car festivities, including show 'n' shine, tyre burnouts, city cruises, and live entertainment. The event is slated down for January 4 - 7, 2024.
Discover the cafes, restaurants, and bars lining Kingston Foreshore. Snapper & Co. offers relaxed outdoor dining with a sunset backdrop. Water's Edge and The Boat House provide exquisite dining and breathtaking sunset vistas over Lake Burley Griffin. Canberrans have numerous outdoor dining spots for lunch and dinner. After a lakeside picnic, head to Margot Bar, The Jetty, or House of Bubbles for sunset refreshments and stunning views.
Experience the renowned sustainability and community-driven ethos of Capital Brewing Co., which is celebrated for its exquisite craft beer. You can indulge in the flavours with a tasting paddle and relish the tantalising Brodburger. The brewery is located in the Dairy Road Precinct, which offers a diverse range of activities to explore. You can visit a nearby gin distillery, chocolaterie, indoor ski centre, or bouldering gym and enrich your experience with the area's multifaceted offerings.
Address: Building 3/1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick ACT 2609, Australia
Embark on a journey to the Rainforest Gully at the Australian National Botanic Gardens and submerge yourself in the enchanting realm of vibrant plants sourced from the diverse rainforests spanning Australia's eastern coast, extending from Tasmania to Queensland. Across 35 hectares, the Botanic Gardens meticulously showcase over 4,300 plant species, offering an exclusive destination to witness the extraordinary richness of Australian native flora all in one place.
Address: Clunies Ross St, Acton ACT 2601, Australia
Embark on a wine-tasting adventure in Canberra's wine region, which boasts over 140 vineyards and more than 40 wineries, all conveniently located within a 35-minute drive from the city centre. You can indulge in many experiences as you explore and savour the diverse offerings of Canberra's flourishing wine scene.
Additionally, if you're seeking a beach-like experience but prefer to avoid travelling to the NSW South Coast, you might be surprised to learn that Canberra has many beautiful swimming spots right on its doorstep. These hidden gems provide an ideal retreat from the summer heat, inviting you to relish refreshing moments in and around Canberra.
Immerse yourself in the beloved summertime tradition of outdoor movies at Sunset Cinema. This experience will be available from November 2023 to February 2024. The cinema is within the picturesque Australian National Botanic Gardens, providing a stunning backdrop for your cinematic adventure. Gather your loved ones, bring your favourite beverages, and prepare a delightful assortment of snacks for an unforgettable evening under the stars.
Lose yourself in the extraordinary artistry of Emily Kam Kngwarray during her exclusive exhibition from December 2, 2023, to April 28, 2024. Kngwarray is recognised as a preeminent Australian artist and is celebrated as one of the most influential contemporary painters of the 20th century. Her legacy is showcased only in Canberra, and this exhibition pays homage to the revered Anmatyerre elder. Kngwarray devoted her final years to creating artworks encapsulating her extraordinary life experiences and wisdom.
Address: Parkes Pl E, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
Entry Fees: Admission to this gallery is free
Embark on a captivating journey through time with "Discovering Ancient Egypt," a must-see exhibition at Canberra National Museum of Australia. The exhibition is scheduled from December 15, 2023, to September 8, 2024. Immerse yourself in ancient Egypt's rich history and culture, showcased in this compelling exhibition.
Address: Lawson Crescent Acton Peninsula, Canberra, ACT 2601
Entry Fee: Though the general entry to this museum is free, guided tours of the building are chargeable.