The 10 best free things to do in Canberra

Not only are there countless picnic spots at the National Arboretum, but electric barbequing stations too for a bougie lunch that you can bring from home. Drive right up to the picnic table on Dairy Farmers Hill for a picnic with jaw-dropping panoramic views, or go on a little bit of a walk through the Himalayan cedar forest, where you’ll find a bigger picnic area and grills. Once you’re full and content, you can explore the forest sculpture gallery, playground, bonsai collection and more than 20 kilometres of walking and cycle tracks. None of it will cost you a cent. 

One of the big draw cards of Canberra is getting to see where all the big decisions get made in our version of the White House. The good news is that entry to Parliament House is free, and the even better news is that you won’t need to fork out any more if you’d like to go on a proper tour. Even though the 25-minute Heart of the House tour is free, you can reserve your spot here. You’ll get an introduction to the architecture, check out one of the chambers and hear all about Parliament House’s political history. 

Potterheads often find themselves travelling to all corners of the world for Hogwarts-inspired attractions, but one of Australia’s most underrated wizarding hotspots is a humble shopfront in Canberra. You could spend ages at Quizzic Alley browsing Australia’s largest range of licensed Harry Potter merchandise. Don’t worry if you don’t have cash to spare – there are plenty of free immersive experiences, like getting a photo in the flying car from the movie or being sorted into your Hogwarts house.

After finishing up at Canberra’s most sought-after museum (AKA the Australian War Memorial), head to the trailhead of the popular Kokoda Track up Mount Ainslie. It’s a 4.5-kilometre hike to the summit, where you can enjoy spectacular views stretching right down the parade to Parliament House. There’s also the option to drive up to the top, if that’s more your style. 

On Sundays from 11am to 2pm, you can strap in for not just any free live music, but the playing of one of the world’s largest instruments. The towering National Carillon comprises 57 bronze bells, some weighing a couple of kilos and some a mind-blowing few tonnes. Skilled musicians work a set of wooden batons and pedals from down below. Even if there isn’t a concert playing when you’re there, the structure itself is pretty awe-inspiring and so are the views from the island. 

Foodies rejoice, for this weekly market has all the secret ingredients for your next mind-blowing feed. The Haig Park Village Market offers an array of pastries, artisan breads, fresh produce, beautiful buds, and gourmet deli goods. Let’s be real though, this type of stuff can add up. So take advantage of those free samples, while the kids delight in free arts and crafts activities. The market is also frequently graced by the talent of many talented musicians and cultural groups, so keep an eye out on their website for any free entertainment.

It wouldn’t be a visit to the nation’s capital without a pit stop for some arts and culture. Luckily, most of Canberra's incredible galleries are completely free to explore. Get artsy at the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery, travel back in time at the National Museum of Australia, or ball out at the Royal Australian Mint. You can also listen to the humbling sounds of the Last Post at the Australian War Memorial – but don’t forget to reserve your spot online. 

Australia’s most famous artificial lake stretches nine kilometres long and varies from 300 to 1,200 metres wide. Stretch those legs with a leisurely stroll around the five-kilometre bridge-to-bridge walk, which starts at Commonwealth Bridge and steers you around the lake, taking in sights like the Captain Cook Memorial Jet and the National Carillon, and finishing at Kings Avenue Bridge. If you have a bike, you can also cycle around the flat 40km shoreline.

A lot of the architecture bordering Lake Burley Griffin tends to be quite modern and avant-garde. However, in one little nook, you’ll find the heritage-listed Blundells Cottage. While the historical aspect of this 1860s building is interesting enough, one of its early residents is said to haunt the joint. Young Flora Blundell was ironing by the fire when her nightgown set alight, burning her whole. Today, guests are said to smell burning, see dark shadows and catch objects moving. Dare to explore? The cottage is free to visit on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 2pm.

Day or night, the waterfront promenade in Kingston has lots to see and do. Not only is it super scenic and a great base for walks and cycles along Lake Burley Griffin, but there are lots of little gorgeous shops and boutiques, prime for window shopping. At Canberra Glassworks, you can watch professional glass blowers perfect their craft and admire masterpieces by local artists. Every Sunday, you can also explore the Old Bus Depot Markets, where more than 200 stalls are peddling their beautiful knick knacks.