Save 10% when you book direct
Plus enjoy complimentary parking and flexible cancellation
Plus enjoy complimentary parking and flexible cancellation
Canberra is home to some of Australia’s most significant museums, galleries and cultural institutions, making it an ideal destination for a culture-filled weekend.
Across two or three days, you can discover Australian art, First Nations stories, military history, democracy and hands-on science. Many of the city’s leading attractions are located around Lake Burley Griffin, Parkes and the Parliamentary Triangle, with Barton also close by. From your base at Deco Hotel in Braddon, most of these museums and galleries are around a 10-minute drive away.
Whether you’re visiting Canberra for the first time or returning to rediscover its cultural highlights, here’s how to experience some of the city’s best museums and galleries over three days.
Image: Lake Burley Griffin
6-10 minute drive from Deco Hotel
Begin at the National Gallery of Australia in Parkes, close to Barton and the Parliamentary Triangle. Home to Australia's national art collection, the gallery is renowned for its Australian and First Nations art, alongside significant international works and regularly changing exhibitions.
Until 18 October, visitors can experience Arthur Boyd: Tapestries, a world-first presentation bringing together all 20 monumental tapestries inspired by the work of one of Australia’s most influential artists.
Allow at least two hours to explore the gallery, followed by a stroll through the iconic Sculpture Garden overlooking Lake Burley Griffin. General admission is free, although tickets may be required for selected exhibitions.
Image: National Gallery of Australia
7-10 minute drive from Deco Hotel
Located next door to the National Gallery of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery offers a fascinating way to explore Australian history through the people who have shaped it.
Its collection features portraits of artists, athletes, scientists, political leaders and other influential Australians, making it well worth a visit even if you would not usually consider yourself an art enthusiast. Entry to the Gallery is free, although some exhibitions are ticketed.
8-10 minute drive from Deco Hotel
From the National Portrait Gallery, take a short walk to the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.
Rather than simply reading about Australia’s political history, you can explore the rooms where it unfolded. Step inside the former Senate and House of Representatives chambers and discover the people, debates and events that have helped shape modern Australia.
Entry is free, making MoAD an easy addition to your afternoon in the Parliamentary Triangle. View current exhibitions and experiences before your visit.
6-12 minute drive from Deco Hotel
Begin your second day at the National Museum of Australia in Acton. Overlooking Lake Burley Griffin, the museum brings Australia’s rich and diverse history to life through significant objects, ideas and stories. Its collection explores First Nations histories and cultures alongside the people and events that have shaped the country.
On display until 11 October, Antarctica brings together more than 200 objects and stories exploring over a century of Australian discovery, science and survival on the frozen continent.
General admission is free, although some exhibitions and experiences are ticketed. Discover what's on at the National Museum of Australia.
Image: National Museum of Australia
4-6 minute drive from Deco Hotel
Spend the afternoon at the Australian War Memorial. Through its galleries, collections and commemorative spaces, the Memorial shares the stories of Australians who have served during war and conflict.
General admission is free, however some galleries may be temporarily closed as the Memorial is undergoing redevelopment. Check the latest visitor information before setting out. If time allows, stay for the daily Last Post Ceremony at 4.30 pm in the Commemorative Area, a moving way to conclude a day exploring Australia’s history.
Image: Australian War Memorial. Source: Neon Wang via Unsplash.
8-10 minute drive from Deco Hotel
Travelling with children or simply curious about science? Make Questacon: The National Science and Technology Centre your main destination on day three.
Questacon transforms science and technology into interactive, hands-on experiences, making it particularly popular with families. Timed entry applies and visitor numbers are limited, so booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
Allow at least two hours to explore the exhibitions, or longer if you would like to enjoy the complete Questacon experience. Afterwards, spend your final afternoon exploring the surrounding Parliamentary Triangle, revisiting a favourite gallery or taking a leisurely walk beside Lake Burley Griffin.
Choosing centrally located accommodation makes exploring Canberra’s museums and galleries much easier.
Located in Braddon, Deco Hotel provides convenient access to Canberra’s city centre, Barton, Parkes, Acton and the Parliamentary Triangle. Barton is approximately an 11-minute drive from the hotel, while the attractions featured in this itinerary are generally around 4–12 minutes away by car, depending on traffic.
With Canberra’s leading cultural attractions within easy reach, you can spend less time travelling and more time exploring.
After a day of museums and galleries, return to Deco Hotel for spacious, contemporary accommodation and authentic Italian dining at Restaurant Two14. Guests who book directly can also receive 10% off the best available rate, complimentary parking and other exclusive benefits.
Image: Gnocchi with Beef Chek Ragu at Restaurant Two14
For a first visit, allow three days to experience Canberra’s leading museums and galleries at a comfortable pace.
Visit the National Gallery of Australia, National Portrait Gallery and Museum of Australian Democracy on the same day, as they are all located close together. Dedicate your second day to the National Museum of Australia and Australian War Memorial, before making Questacon and the lakeside precinct the focus of your final day.
Always check each attraction’s opening hours, exhibition dates, ticket requirements and planned closures before setting out, particularly during school holidays and long weekends.
With Barton, Parkes, Acton and the Parliamentary Triangle all within easy driving distance, Deco Hotel in Braddon is a stylish and convenient base for a culture-filled Canberra escape. You will have more time to discover the art, history, science and stories that make the capital one of Australia’s most rewarding cultural destinations.
Image: Accommodation at Deco Hotel
