$10 back on your first eligible booking — in the RatedOtels app only. Get the app Terms
BOOK
With the family

3 Days in Canberra — Family with Kids

family canberra city-break education museums
Length
3 days
Stops
15
3 Days in Canberra — Family with Kids
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
SEARCH

What this plan covers

This 3-day itinerary for Canberra is designed for families with children, blending educational experiences with interactive fun. Explore world-class museums, enjoy vast outdoor spaces, and get up close with wildlife, ensuring memorable moments for everyone. It's a perfect blend of learning and play in Australia's unique capital city.

Activity 4 Culture 5 Food 3 Nature 2 Viewpoint 1

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 10 hrs
1

Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre

Activity Half day

Kids can explore hands-on exhibits that make science fun and accessible, from earthquake simulators to free-fall slides.

Good to know

Arrive early, especially on weekends or school holidays, to maximize time at popular exhibits.

2

National Museum of Australia

Culture 2-3 hours

Offers engaging and interactive exhibits covering Australian history and culture, often with dedicated family trails and spaces.

Good to know

Check the museum's website for current family programs or guided tours suitable for children.

3

Lunch at Museum Cafe or nearby Acton

Food 1 hour

Conveniently located to refuel after morning explorations, offering kid-friendly options.

Good to know

Many museum cafes offer a range of light meals and snacks; consider packing some extra snacks for younger children.

4

Australian National Botanic Gardens

Nature 2 hours

Provides a beautiful outdoor space for kids to explore diverse Australian plant life, with walking paths and open lawns.

Good to know

Wear comfortable shoes and bring water; look for the Children's Discovery Garden for specific kid-focused activities.

5

Lake Burley Griffin (Paddle Boats/Cycling)

Activity 1-2 hours

Enjoy scenic views of Canberra's iconic lake with a fun, active experience like paddle boating or cycling along the foreshore.

Good to know

Rental services for bikes and paddle boats are available at various points around the lake; check operating hours seasonally.

Day 2 5 stops · about 9.5 hrs
6

Parliament House

Culture 1.5-2 hours

Kids can learn about Australia's government in an impressive building, with opportunities to see parliamentary chambers and unique architecture.

Good to know

Entry is free; consider joining a public tour to gain insights into the building's function and history.

7

Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

Culture 2 hours

This historic building offers a more hands-on and engaging look at Australia's democratic journey, often with family-friendly exhibitions.

Good to know

Look for special children's activities or exhibitions designed to make history accessible and fun for younger visitors.

8

Lunch at a nearby cafe (e.g., in Barton or inside one of the Parliament buildings)

Food 1 hour

Conveniently located to continue the day's adventures after exploring Australia's political heartland.

Good to know

Cafes in this area can get busy during lunchtime; consider dining slightly earlier or later.

9

National Zoo & Aquarium

Activity Half day

Kids will love seeing a wide array of animals, from big cats to marine life, and engaging with interactive exhibits.

Good to know

Book tickets online in advance to save time; wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved.

10

National Capital Exhibition

Culture 1 hour

Discover the fascinating story of Canberra's design and development through interactive displays and models, perfect for understanding the city's unique layout.

Good to know

Located by Lake Burley Griffin, it's a great spot to learn about the city's origins; check for free guided talks.

Day 3 5 stops · about 37 hrs
11

Cockington Green Gardens

Activity 2 hours

Marvel at the intricate miniature villages and landscapes from around the world, a delightful and whimsical experience for all ages.

Good to know

Allow time for a ride on the miniature steam train, a highlight for many children; tickets can be purchased on arrival.

12

Australian War Memorial

Culture 2-3 hours

Offers a poignant and educational experience with engaging exhibits, including aircraft and interactive displays, suitable for older children.

Good to know

Entry is free, but booking a timed ticket online is highly recommended, especially for the popular galleries and the Last Post Ceremony.

13

Lunch at the Australian War Memorial Cafe or nearby

Food 1 hour

A convenient and respectful place to pause and reflect after exploring the memorial's exhibits.

Good to know

The cafe offers a range of options; consider visiting outside peak lunch hours for a more relaxed experience.

14

National Arboretum Canberra (Pod Playground)

Nature 2-3 hours

Features the incredible Pod Playground, an award-winning adventure space for kids, surrounded by stunning tree collections and panoramic views.

Good to know

The playground is a must-visit; bring a picnic to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and open spaces.

15

Mount Ainslie Lookout

Viewpoint 30 minutes - 1 hour

Provides breathtaking panoramic views of Canberra, allowing families to see the city's layout and landmarks from above.

Good to know

Accessible by car, it's a perfect spot for photos and to reflect on the trip; best visited on a clear day for optimal visibility.

Where to stay

Hotels in Canberra

Book direct on our own Canberra hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Canberra

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Canberra itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Canberra, from our own travel research.

Back to the Canberra guide
Take RatedOtels with you
Cashback on eligible app bookings only, credited after check-out. Terms
$10 back on your 1st app booking
App bookings only · Terms
Get app