A good weekend in Canberra doesn’t need to cost much. From museums and markets to walking trails and cheap lunches, there’s plenty to do for $20 or less. 

 

Free things to do 

The National Museum of Australia 

General admission is free, including to exhibitions such as Great Southern Land, Landmarks and Talking Blak to History. 

Where: Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula | When: Daily, 9am–5pm | Cost: Free 

 

Old Bus Depot Markets 

Spend Sunday browsing more than 180 stalls filled with handmade goods, local produce, fashion, jewellery and food. Entry is free, as is parking off Eastlake Parade. 

Where: 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | When: Sundays, 9.30am–2.30pm | Cost: Free 

 

Canberra Glassworks 

While you’re in Kingston, head into the Kingston Powerhouse to explore the gallery and watch artists at work in the Hotshop from the viewing platform. Try not to go between noon and 1pm though as this is when the artists usually stop for lunch! 

Where: 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | When: Wednesday to Sunday, 10am–4pm | Cost: Free with optional donations welcomed 

 

Get outside 

Mount Ainslie summit walk 

This 4.5km return walk starts behind the Australian War Memorial and climbs 250 metres to one of Canberra’s best-known lookouts, with panoramic views over Lake Burley Griffin and the National Triangle that are well worth the effort. Allow around 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the return trip. 

Where: Treloar Crescent, Campbell | Cost: Free 

 

National Arboretum Canberra 

Explore the forests and walking trails or head up to Dairy Farmers Hill for the view. The main Village Centre car park is paid from 9am–4pm, while limited free parking is available at several forest car parks. 

Where: Forest Drive, Molonglo Valley | When: Daily, 6am – 8.30pm | Cost: Free entry (paid parking at the Village Centre) 

 

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve 

If you’ve got a car and a couple of mates, a day pass costs $16.09 per vehicle, not per person, making it a very affordable day out when you split it. Once you’re in, there are walking trails, picnic spots and plenty of chances to spot native wildlife across the reserve. 

Where: Tidbinbilla Reserve Road, Paddys River | Cost: $16.09 per vehicle (concession and Seniors Card $9.66) 

 

Cheap eats under $20 

All weekend: Café Momo in Bruce has a medium coffee with a bacon and egg roll or ham and cheese croissant for $12, while Assembly in Braddon serves a schnitty burger and chips for $20 from 12pm to 3pm. 

Saturday: Weston Bull has $1 wings all day with a minimum order of 10, while Dickson Tradies has an $18 roast lunch.  

Sunday: Ainslie Football Club has a half-serve roast from $15.50, or you can stretch the budget by 50 cents for the full serve at $20.50. The District serves fish, chips and salad for $20, while Hopscotch in Braddon does 50-cent chicken wings. 

 

Prices and specials can change, so check with each venue before heading out.