With its abundance of parks, playgrounds, and wildlife reserves, Canberra provides endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Climb through giant acorns, see miniature buildings from around the globe, or spot furry friends at reserves just 45 minutes from the city. Whether you’re into adventure sports, nature experiences, or family-friendly attractions, Canberra has something for everyone.
Parks
The National Arboretum Canberra
With over 44,000 rare and endangered trees across a 250-hectare site, the Arboretum is a place of beauty, conservation, scientific research, education, and recreation. Take a wander through the nearby Bonsai Collection, which hosts a world-class display of some of the finest miniature trees and forests in the world. Children will spend hours at the popular POD Playground.
Cockington Green Gardens
Take the steam train around the well-kept gardens to see the model villages and miniature iconic buildings from around the globe. Spot miniature cricket grounds or fairy-tale castles. Gold Creek Village, where the Gardens are located, also features the Canberra Walk-In Aviary, Canberra Reptile Zoo, and the National Dinosaur Museum.
Playgrounds
Boundless Playground—Kings Park, Parkes
Boundless is Canberra’s first all-abilities playground. The fully secured playground has a massive fort, a glider, a maze, giant swings, and even water cannons. Ramp access, low swings, and loads of sensory features throughout make it inclusive for all ages and abilities.
Commonwealth Park and Tunnel Playground—Albert St, Parkes
This park is home to interesting sculptures, hidden walks, and ponds, as well as perfect picnic spots with BBQ facilities. It’s also the home of Floriade in spring. Kids can crawl through stone tunnels, feeling the excitement of exploring hidden passageways.
The Pod Playground—Forest Dr, Molonglo Valley
One of Australia’s best playgrounds, the award-winning POD playground at the National Arboretum Canberra features climbing structures, slides, swings, giant acorn cubbies, and music-making instruments.
Weston Park—Weston Park Rd, Yarralumla
Located along the water, Weston Park boasts a beach, cycle tracks, picnic shelters, BBQs, toilets, and a miniature railway. The play equipment is spread out with plenty of great picnic spots. Kids will love playing with the mechanical sand diggers, climbing on the rope tower, and yelling through the speakerphones.
Glebe Park—Coranderrk St, Civic
Glebe Park is a scenic urban park in Canberra’s city centre. Located near Canberra Centre, the park contains green space to run around, a rotunda, and a playground with swings, slides, a fort, and plenty of climbing frames.
Adventure & Recreation
Australian National Botanic Gardens
Discover the diverse flora of Australia at the National Botanic Gardens, where you can take a relaxing walk through beautifully curated landscapes or join guided tours to learn about native plants and ecosystems.
Dynamic Motivation
A hub for outdoor adventure and personal development, Dynamic Motivation offers mountain biking experiences, skill-building workshops, and inclusive programmes catering to riders of all levels.
Mountain Strong
An indoor bouldering gym that caters to climbers of all abilities, Mountain Strong offers a challenging and fun environment for those looking to test their skills on the wall.
iPlay Australia Belconnen
A go-to destination for arcade lovers, iPlay Australia Belconnen features a range of classic and modern games, laser tag, bowling, and virtual reality experiences for all ages.
Corin Forest
Located just outside Canberra, Corin Forest offers winter snow play and tobogganing, as well as summer activities like mountain biking and nature walks.
Power Kart Raceway
Get your adrenaline pumping at Power Kart Raceway, an indoor go-karting track with electric karts, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, and racing simulators.
Softball ACT
A fantastic way to get active, Softball ACT provides programmes and competitions for all skill levels, making it a fun and inclusive sport for families and individuals alike.
Funland Canberra
A family entertainment centre featuring trampolines, climbing walls, and interactive play areas, Funland Canberra is perfect for kids looking for high-energy fun.
Canberra is packed with opportunities for adventure, play, and exploration, making it an ideal destination for families, thrill-seekers, and nature lovers alike!
