Visit Canberra

In 1908, city planners strategically placed Australia's capital city, Canberra, between two thriving and competitive cities on the country's south-eastern coast.

Through a global contest, Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin of Chicago won the privilege to use their city planning design for this new city.
Today, the lake in Canberra is called Lake Burley Griffin. The urban garden organization influenced the reserving of lands for natural areas. Because of the surrounding forests, one of the city's nicknames is "Bush Capital." While the Depression, and World War I and II slowed the building of the city, development and growth rapidly increased from the mid 1900s and onward, making the city what it is today, a thriving government and urban area with much to offer both residents and visitors.

Culture

The metropolis is much inspired by it being the capital and government headquarters, and many government workers and public servants make up a major portion of the city's population. The National Gallery, Library and Museum are located here, as well as the Australian War Museum. Some of the educational institutions include the Australian Defense Force Academy, the Australian National University, the Australian Institute of Sport and the Royal Military College.

Canberra has many museums like the National Dinosaur Museum and the Questacon, a center for technology and science. Live plays and music have several venues in the city as well. Rugby and football are two of the most popular sports, but many sports teams make their home in the nation's capital. Golf, other leisure and outdoor sports, and water sports on the lake keep the citizens fit.

Area Attractions

Besides the theatres, museums, and government and historical buildings, Canberra has numerous other area attractions. The National Museum and Aquarium is a great place to take the family. The modern facilities are kept clean and attractive, and the staff are friendly. Many wild animals make their homes here. Hand feeding animals is a favorite feature.

At Lake Burley Griffin, a landscaped trail encircles the entire perimeter for walking and biking. The water fountain is a beautiful sight.
Cockington Green Gardens has lovely gardens with a fascinating miniature village set out in flowerbeds with intertwining walking trails. Children can enjoy the diminutive, steam train ride. Inside the English cottage or in the nearby garden, visitors can enjoy a cup of tea and some light refreshments from the Parsons Nose Garden Cafe'. A walk-in aviary and the Reptile House are nearby.

Accommodation

People planning short and long-term stays in Canberra will enjoy the rich culture and history of the capital. Additionally, they can find Canberra accommodation for any price-range such as budget hostels, camping, bed and breakfasts, resort hotels, self-contained apartments and rural rentals. The discerning planner will find comfortable and luxurious accommodation for the right price. One idea for those visiting the city during school holidays, guests can book rooms in area residential colleges. Those wanting something more upscale will discover that Canberra has several four and five-star luxury options. For those interested in the weather, Canberra, an inland city, has a climate that is mainly continental with dry, moderate to hot summers and mild to cold winters with little snow. This center of government welcomes visitors from all over the country and the world.

For more information, visit the Canberra Tourist Information Centre