CULTURE AND EXPERIENCES

Canberra’s museums, galleries and institutions showcase diverse aspects of our story through architecture, exhibitions, and collections.

Australian Parliament House

Capital Hill, Canberra

Architecturally acclaimed throughout the world, Australian Parliament House tells Australia’s story through its interiors, architecture, and commissioned works of art. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy the contemporary art collection or take part in a guided tour. Watch Parliament live during sitting weeks and visit public galleries during Question Time. Free admission. Costs apply to select tours.

Australian War Memorial

Treloar Crescent, Campbell

Visitors, continue to be welcomed at the Australian War Memorial while works are underway to modernise and expand its galleries. Learn about Australia’s wartime and peacekeeping involvement over the last two centuries. See significant military objects and explore the many permanent exhibitions. Visit the Commemorative Area including the Hall of Memory and place a poppy on the Roll of Honour. Stay for the moving Last Post closing ceremony held each evening and learn the story behind one of the names on the Roll of Honour.

Free admission (bookings required)

MOAD – MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIAN DEMOCRACY

Old Parliament House, Canberra

Be surprised at what’s inside.

MoAD tells the story of Australia’s journey to become a democratic nation and how we can all shape its future. Step back in time in the restored Prime Minister’s Suite or sit in the House of Representatives Chamber. Learn about the activists, icons, and allies behind 120 years of women’s rights in Australia in our Changemakers exhibition or wander the halls enjoying the humorous side of politics in our exhibition Behind the Lines: the year in political cartoons

Free admission.

National Arboretum Canberra

Forest Drive, Weston Creek

For an experience hard to find anywhere else, take in the stunning panoramic views of the city and region from the Arboretum. Enjoy 94 forests of rare, endangered, and symbolic trees from Australia and the world. Walk, drive or cycle around the 250-hectare site. Take a free guided or self-guided tour, visit the National Bonsai and Penjing collection, take part in an immersive Indigenous tour or experience with Ngala Tours, and enjoy lunch from the Village Centre with views stretching over Canberra.

Free admission

National Archives Of Australia

King George Terrace, Parkes

Permanently housed in the beautiful heritage building that was Canberra’s original General Post Office, National Archives provides access to the archival collection through exhibitions and programs exploring Australia’s many stories. With over 40 million records in the collection, it is the repository of key events and decisions that have shaped Australian history. From the Australian Constitution to lighthouses and pigeons, discover stories about the history of Australia and the important and surprising connections between Australians and their government.

Free admission

National Film And Sound Archive Of Australia

McCoy Circuit, Acton

The National Film & Sound Archive is located in one of Canberra’s most beautiful art deco buildings.

Take in its blockbuster Australians & Hollywood exhibition or enjoy a movie in the stunning Arc Cinema. Free displays include the Framed by Fame classic movie posters, The Marvellous Corricks, the Vintage Australia daily program, and the interactive experience Hive. The award-winning Curators Café Bar is open daily for coffee and snacks, and you can enjoy late night events and drinks each Friday until 8pm.

Free admission

NATIONAL GALLERY OF AUSTRALIA Parkes Place, Parkes

Visit the home of Australia’s National Art Collection, with more than 165,000 works that include the largest collection of First Nations art. Art lovers will enjoy meandering through the galleries and admiring the collection, which includes the famous Blue poles by Jackson Pollock and the Ned Kelly series by Sidney Nolan.

Visit the 2023 exhibitions:

• Ngura Pulka (Epic Country) – June 2023

• Emily Kame Kngwarreye – December 2023

Free general admission

National Library Of Australia

Parkes Place, Parkes

Visit the Treasures Gallery and see beautiful and rare gems from the Library’s extensive collection. Enjoy the calendar of new exhibitions exploring an aspect of the Australian story or join one of the engaging programs of events or free behind-the-scenes guided tours.

Free admission

National Museum Of Australia

Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula

The National Museum of Australia explores the country’s rich history and culture, and the land and people who have shaped our stories. See the nation’s most popular and significant objects, including Indigenous artefacts dating back 65,000 years. Visit the new Great Southern Land gallery and explore Australia’s fundamental deep connections to the land.

From the British Museum, don’t miss Feared and Revered: Feminine Power through the Ages which celebrates the power and diversity of female spiritual beings. Until 27 August 2023.

Free general admission

National Portrait Gallery

King Edward Terrace, Parkes

The National Portrait Gallery reflects the face of Australia. It is the place we go to know who we are as a nation and as individuals. Look into the eyes of artists, musicians, entertainers, politicians, athletes, and royalty who have shaped our national identity. In addition to its burgeoning permanent collection, the Gallery hosts a suite of interactive learning programs, workshops, and exciting temporary exhibitions.

Visit Portrait23: Identity, a major exhibition of new work from multi-award winning contemporary Australian artists and collectives. Until June 2023. Free general admission.