Canberra With Kids: Family-Friendly Things to Do

Canberra is an easy city to explore with kids, thanks to a generous spread of parks, nature reserves and hands-on attractions that are largely outdoors and stress-free for families. From wildlife encounters to wide-open green spaces for a run-around, the options cover a range of ages and energy levels across suburbs like Woden, Civic, Gungahlin and beyond.

Why Canberra delivers

A family day out in Canberra can mix close-up animal experiences with plenty of room to roam. The city's parks and nature reserves give you space for picnics, walks and play, while attractions such as the National Zoo & Aquarium and Canberra Reptile Zoo offer a more structured outing when you need it. With venues dotted across several suburbs, it's straightforward to build a day that suits younger and older kids alike.

Highlights

• Animal lovers: National Zoo & Aquarium in Woden and the Canberra Reptile Zoo in Gungahlin for close-up wildlife encounters
• Outdoor play and picnics: Weston Park, Commonwealth Park and Yerrabi Pond District Park for open space and time outdoors
• Nature and walks: Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Mount Taylor Nature Reserve in Tuggeranong for getting out into the bush
• Gardens and discovery: National Arboretum Canberra and the Australian National Botanic Gardens for a gentler, scenic outing
• Something a bit different: Cockington Green Gardens in Dickson and Escape Rooms Canberra in Woden for an activity-led day

Our top picks

Hand-picked from our highest-scoring listings:

• Escape Rooms Canberra — Woden
• National Arboretum Canberra — Manuka
• National Zoo & Aquarium — Woden
• Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve — Fyshwick
• Australian National Botanic Gardens — Braddon
• Weston Park — Civic
• Yerrabi Pond District Park — Civic
• Commonwealth Park — Kingston
• Canberra Reptile Zoo — Gungahlin
• Canberra Nara Peace Park — Civic

Explore more

Browse all family activities, kids activities, parks, beaches, family friendly restaurants in Canberra.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best places to see animals in Canberra with kids?

The National Zoo & Aquarium in Woden and the Canberra Reptile Zoo in Gungahlin are both dedicated wildlife attractions worth considering. For native wildlife in a natural setting, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is also an option.

Where can families find parks and open space in Canberra?

There's a wide choice, including Weston Park, Commonwealth Park, Yerrabi Pond District Park, Lennox Gardens, Canberra Nara Peace Park and John Knight Memorial Park. These give kids room to play and space for a picnic.

Are there indoor or activity-based options for kids in Canberra?

Escape Rooms Canberra in Woden offers a structured, activity-led outing that may suit older kids. Cockington Green Gardens in Dickson is another attraction-style option to consider.

What are good options for a nature day out near Canberra?

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Mount Taylor Nature Reserve in Tuggeranong are good choices for walks and time in the bush, while the National Arboretum Canberra and the Australian National Botanic Gardens offer a more relaxed, garden-focused outing.