Whether you were already planning a holiday at home, or if your Christmas and New Year plans have recently changed, there’s a lot to see and do in Canberra. A Summer staycation is a great excuse to take advantage our restaurants, cafes, cultural institutions, cinemas, shops, walks and activities. You could start by visiting Canberra and Region Visitors Centre at Regatta Point for tips on things to see and do.
The city’s tourist information centre not only provides information about what’s on in Canberra and its region, it also manages accommodation bookings, hires out bikes and is currently hosting local gin and cocktail making masterclasses overlooking Lake Burley Griffin
I urge Canberrans to support our recovery this summer and explore our region, from trying something new or engaging with an old favourite. Some ideas include:
- A staycation. Book a night in your own backyard at one of Canberra’s many great hotels
- Chilling out at a Big Bash League cricket game at Manuka Oval
- A great day out with the kids at family friendly attractions like Cockington Green Gardens, the National Arboretum, National Zoo & Aquarium and the National Dinosaur Museum
- Try out a new cafe, restaurant or bar in a suburb you rarely visit – here is a list of what’s open!
- Grab a brew at one of our local breweries, or visit a Canberra region winery
- See a movie – there are plenty of great cinemas all over Canberra, or catch a Sunset Cinema outdoor movie at the Australian National Botanic Gardens
- Visit a local art gallery or catch the latest art exhibitions – from the inspiring such as Know my name at the National Gallery of Australia showcasing Australian women artists to the quirky ones like the exhibition dedicated to our love of lawns at the Canberra Museum and Gallery
- Jump into the lake at Canberra Aqua Park, Black Mountain Peninsula
- Cycle the extensive mountain bike trail network including Cotter Pines, Majura or Stromlo
- Explore one of our many nature reserves in the suburbs
- Take advantage of the 2020 no entry fee at Tidbinbilla and enjoy a bushwalk or guided activity
From Tuesday 29 to Thursday 31 December celebrate New Year’s Eve across the City, with three nights of music, lights and fabulous food at your favourite local eat streets across Canberra:
- Lathlain Street in Belconnen
- Anketell Street in Tuggeranong
- Bradley Street in Wode
- Hibberson Street in Gungahlin
- Lonsdale Street in Braddon
- Northbourne Avenue in the City
Each night, local performers and musicians will also be providing quality entertainment busker-style across each location from 5:30pm to 9:30pm.
You can find plenty more ideas at visitcanberra.com.au
Wherever you are, continue to be COVID-safe by:
- Maintaining a distance of at least 1.5 metres between yourself and others
- Maintaining personal hygiene by regularly washing and sanitising your hands, and pack your own hand sanitiser
- Looking for markings on the ground and ensure you follow them
- Using cards instead of cash, where possible
- Following hygiene directions posted at business entry points and sign in using the Check In CBR app
- Staying home if you’re unwell and getting tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms.
