Looking for free things to do in Canberra? Check out these top spots and activities for exploring the Capital with zero dollars!
Tour the free exhibitions of the National Gallery of Australia
With an evolving collection of over 155,000 works of art, created by more than 15,000 artists, The National Gallery of Australia is not to be missed. Hosting the largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander works, representing Australian art and modern art worldwide, most galleries and exhibitions are free to attend and are just waiting to be explored. Then, end you tour with a walk outside to the beautiful Sculpture Gardens between the Gallery and Lake Burley Griffin.
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Explore the Australian National Botanic Gardens
Connect yourself with Australian flora at the Australian National Botanic Gardens and appreciate all the beautiful native flowers and plants from all over the country. Walk through the lush rainforest gully or stroll past the Asteraceae Garden and let the beauty of the gardens put your mind at ease. Also be on the lookout for the animals that live amongst the gardens.
Wine tastings at the Wine & Spirits Merchants
The Canberra Wine & Spirits Merchants has a large selection of wine, beer and spirits from the Canberra Region. Hosting free wine tastings every Thursday night, championing a different local wine each week, explore more of our incredible wine district!
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Volunteer at the Acton Community Garden
Get your hands dirty and learn about growing food at Canberra Environment Centre’s Acton Community Garden. Welcoming everyone of all skill levels to join in creating and maintaining a flourishing garden, join them on the weekly volunteer day or in one of the garden project groups.
Sew pouches for sick animals with ACT Wildlife
If you’re a regular knitter, want to start a new hobby or have a love for cute animals, join ACT Wildlife’s monthly sewing group and create adorable pouches, bags and jumpers for injured and orphaned wildlife. All skill levels are welcome to come along with material and tools to sew, knit or crochet, while the skilled instructors will be available with project patterns and guidance.
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Discover the free collection of works at the National Library
The National Library of Australia holds the largest collection in the world of material relating to Australia and the Australian people. Once applying for a free library card, search their huge range of books, newspapers, maps, audio and pictures, and find a quiet place to sit in the Library’s Reading Rooms.
Swim at Gibraltar Falls
50 minutes from the CBD, Gibraltar Falls is well worth the visit on a hot day. With picnic tables, a BBQ and plenty of cool flowing water, it’s the perfect day out. There is also a short walking track that takes you to a lookout with views over the falls and the valley beneath.
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Join a tour of the Royal Australian Mint
Creating the coins you find in your wallet and ones you collect and cherish, the Royal Australian Mint has a fascinating collection to explore, as well as new coins being made. To understand more about the captivating world of coins, there are free public tours running every day where you can see the ins and outs of production, hear stories of historical and cultural coins and check out collectables available to purchase.
Explore the Gallery of Small Things
The Gallery of Small Things is Canberra’s tiniest walk-in gallery showcasing emerging through to established artists who love texture, form and all things really small. Expect works in textiles, ceramics, paintings, photography, jewellery and print media.
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Get the kids busy with arts & crafts at the Haig Park Markets
Each Sunday in Canberra, Haig Park Village Markets comes alive with an incredible array of local fresh produce, handmade goods and delicious foods. Entertaining kids for free, the Markets have an arts and craft table set up with different workshops for them to get their hands dirty.
Walk around Lake Burley Griffin
Lake Burley Griffin is Canberra’s biggest free attraction. If you’re a traveller, a walk around the picturesque lake is a must, an everyday activity for many locals. Walk bridge to bridge and enjoy the outdoors while walking past other popular attractions like Bundles Cottage, the Sculpture Garden and the National Library.
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Want to explore more of Canberra’s great outdoors, check out our 10 best nature walks.
