Visiting Canberra

A short, walk along  the shores of stunning Lake Burley Griffin will take you into the heart of Floriade and the main event. Wander amongst one million beautiful blooms, then enjoy a slice of the unique offerings, including: 

• Cooking demonstrations and workshops at The Garden House by Bunnings Warehouse, where chefs, growers and makers share their skills and a taste of their creations 

• Garden talks and hands-on sessions covering everything from kitchen gardens to landscape design 

• Market stalls brimming with local produce, artisan goods and seasonal treats 

• Garden beds inspired by iconic Australian food moments. Hunt down the shared platter, the picnic rug and the backyard barbecue created by beautiful blooms 

• Live music and roving entertainment throughout the park 

Spend the morning at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, home to the country’s most comprehensive collection of native plants. Explore spring wildflowers, rainforest walks and tranquil bushland trails while keeping an eye out for native birds and wildlife. 

Stop for lunch or coffee at Pollen Café, then browse the bookshop or unwind with a treatment at Jindii Eco Day Spa. 

Continue your nature-filled day at the National Arboretum Canberra, home to one of the world’s largest living collections of rare and endangered trees. 

With sweeping views, flowering landscapes, edible garden installations and walking trails throughout the 250-hectare site, it’s the perfect place to slow down and immerse yourself in the season. 

Return to Commonwealth Park for seconds at NightFest, Floriade’s spectacular after-dark experience. 

For four nights only from 1-4 October, the gardens transform with immersive lighting displays, illuminated flower beds, live entertainment, fire performances and a diverse range of food and drink offerings.  

Each night features a headline live music act, with The Temper Trap, Tim Finn, Pacific Avenue, Busby Marou and Christine Anu across the four nights, supported by some of Canberra’s best local musicians. NightFest is a ticketed event with limited capacity so book now to secure your night. 

Begin with a pitstop at the top of Mount Ainslie to take in sweeping views of the city, Lake Burley Griffin and Brindabella mountain range.

Then take the short trip to see Floriade’s Satellite Site at Historic Lanyon Homestead. Just a thirty-minute drive from Canberra’s city centre and nestled at the foot of the Brindabella Ranges along the magnificent Murrumbidgee River, Lanyon offers breathtaking views of the Australian countryside. 

Spend the afternoon discovering the Canberra Wine Region, where cool-climate wines pair beautifully with seasonal local produce. 

Visit cellar doors such as Mount Majura Vineyard or Nick O’Leary’s Heywood, both offering exceptional wines and beautiful rural views. 

Canberra’s cultural institutions are designed with families in mind, making it easy for children to learn through play and discovery. 

Start at Canberra Museum and Gallery, where Hop In! An Immersive World of Play featuring Beci Orpin’s Bunny Dearest transforms everyday spaces into imaginative environments where kids can crawl, build and explore. 

LEGO® fans won’t want to miss RELICS: A New World Rises, created by LEGO® Masters champions Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler. Here, forgotten objects are transformed into extraordinary miniature worlds. 

Continue to the Royal Australian Mint and explore Floral Impression: Coins in Bloom, an exhibition showcasing the beautiful floral designs that have featured on Australian coins and commemorative pieces. 

For lunch, head to Kingston and visit Canberra Glassworks, where families can watch artists at work in Australia’s largest glass-making facility. While you’re there, grab a famous burger from Brodburger, one of Canberra’s most loved local institutions. 

After a morning of culture and creativity, burn off some energy at Treetops Adventure Canberra. 

Set among towering pines, the aerial courses invite families to climb, swing and zip their way through the forest. It’s a fun and confidence-building experience for older children and adventurous adults alike. 

Younger visitors will love the new Networld experience, featuring giant suspended play nets where kids can bounce, climb and explore without needing a harness. It’s an inclusive and active experience the whole family can enjoy together.

As the sun sets, return to Floriade for NightFest, when the gardens transform into a dazzling display of lights, colour and entertainment. 

Wander beneath illuminated installations, enjoy live music and street performances, and sample dishes from a variety of food vendors. For families with older children, NightFest offers a completely different perspective of Floriade and creates a memorable conclusion to the day.

Get your NightFest tickets here.

Take a scenic drive south to Lanyon Homestead, Floriade’s satellite site and one of Canberra’s most beautiful heritage properties. 

Surrounded by sweeping countryside, the homestead’s blooming gardens provide a stunning backdrop for a relaxed morning. Throughout the season, visitors can enjoy guided tours, special events, long lunches and the popular Kids’ Day Out, offering families a quieter way to experience the spirit of Floriade beyond Commonwealth Park.

Spend your final afternoon exploring some of Canberra’s other family favourites. 

Animal lovers can visit the National Zoo & Aquarium, where close-up encounters, keeper talks and interactive experiences bring wildlife from around the world within reach. 

Alternatively, head to the National Arboretum Canberra, home to breathtaking views, unique forests and wide-open spaces perfect for children to explore. The much-loved POD Playground is a standout attraction, featuring giant acorn cubbies, climbing structures and imaginative play spaces set among rolling hills. 

As your Canberra getaway comes to an end, you’ll leave with colourful memories of spring blooms, family adventures and plenty of reasons to return next season.